Review : Ink and Bone by Rachel Caine

Title: Ink and Bone (The Great Library #1)

Author: Rachel Caine

Publisher: NAL

Release date: July 7th 2015

Goodreads summary: In an exhilarating new series, New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine rewrites history, creating a dangerous world where the Great Library of Alexandria has survived the test of time.…

Ruthless and supremely powerful, the Great Library is now a presence in every major city, governing the flow of knowledge to the masses. Alchemy allows the Library to deliver the content of the greatest works of history instantly—but the personal ownership of books is expressly forbidden.

Jess Brightwell believes in the value of the Library, but the majority of his knowledge comes from illegal books obtained by his family, who are involved in the thriving black market. Jess has been sent to be his family’s spy, but his loyalties are tested in the final months of his training to enter the Library’s service.

When he inadvertently commits heresy by creating a device that could change the world, Jess discovers that those who control the Great Library believe that knowledge is more valuable than any human life—and soon both heretics and books will burn...

REVIEW

"You're clever, Jess, but Da's wrong about one thing: you don't just have ink in your blood. It's in your bones. Your skeleton's black with it. You go there, to them, and we'll lose you forever."

This book came to me as a wonderful surprise, and will probably be in my top books of the year. 

We meet Jess as he's a ten years old boy stealing books in order for his father to sell them illegally. Yes, that's the most important thing that we learn in the prologue: owning books is forbidden and you're punished for it.

Owning it carried a death penalty. When you steal a book, you steal from the world, the Library propaganda said, and Jess supposed it might be true. Especially for this book.

Behind this black market ran by Jess' family for London, there are ideas considered heresies by the Great Library. For example, Gutenberg, because he created a print who would have unsettled the Library and was destroyed for it. In the book, we see that other characters have these ideas, but their work is always destroyed. Of course, the Library controls every access to book. Everybody has a Codex who can reminds us of an e-reader, with access to books as long as the Library wants it. You also have Burner, like the French revolutionary Danton (one of the characters is related to him), who burns books in order to protect them from the Library.

To be part of the Library, you have to pass a test. At age sixteen, Jess successfully passes it and is sent to a marvelous setting with twenty-nine other teenagers, Alexandria. From that point starts a competition to win one of the six posts available in the Great Library, learning from a suspicious character, Scholar Christopher Wolfe (such an interesting character, with an amazing backstory). Soon, Jess and his fellow students learns that no one is safe, even when you're part of the Library.

This academic part of the plot was amazing, it's something I usually really like in a book. Despite that competition, the students forms friendships, as much as they can. There is romance in this book, but it wasn't too heavy and it was mostly at the end, if you're not a fan of romance as a big part in YA books, you can read this one, you won't be bothered by it this way.

The plot was beautifully done, it was a little slow paced, but not in the bad way, it was also because the chapters were rather long, compared to other books. There was tension during the whole book who made me want to turn pages and never stop, this story was really addictive.

Overall, this book was really entertaining and the idea around it was unique: I liked to read about the Great Library, where nothing and no one can be trusted (in the end, the postulants are even afraid to work there, because it's so dangerous). Moreover, this book is set in 2025, so close to us, which is even more terrifying, because everything could happened (like the war between Welsh and British people).

Rating: 5/5

Review : Seraphina by Rachel Hartman

Title: Seraphina (Seraphina #1)

Author: Rachel Hartman

Publisher: Random House for Young Readers

Release date: July 10th 2012

Goodreads summary: In her New York Times bestselling and Morris Award-winning debut, Rachel Hartman introduces mathematical dragons in an alternative-medieval world to fantasy and science-fiction readers of all ages. Eragon-author Christopher Paolini calls them, "Some of the most interesting dragons I've read in fantasy."

Four decades of peace have done little to ease the mistrust between humans and dragons in the kingdom of Goredd. Folding themselves into human shape, dragons attend court as ambassadors, and lend their rational, mathematical minds to universities as scholars and teachers. As the treaty's anniversary draws near, however, tensions are high.

Seraphina Dombegh has reason to fear both sides. An unusually gifted musician, she joins the court just as a member of the royal family is murdered—in suspiciously draconian fashion. Seraphina is drawn into the investigation, partnering with the captain of the Queen's Guard, the dangerously perceptive Prince Lucian Kiggs. While they begin to uncover hints of a sinister plot to destroy the peace, Seraphina struggles to protect her own secret, the secret behind her musical gift, one so terrible that its discovery could mean her very life.

REVIEW

In this debut, Rachel Hartman creates a rich fantasy world set in an alternate Middle Ages period, and I really liked that aspect of the book. The atmosphere was realistic, with the music part that was so important for the treaty anniversary, or the way characters lived. The dragons here were genuine, such logical minds that for example, they can play music perfectly (technically speaking), but it won't move anyone's emotions, so human music is still better. For me, this world was near perfect and would be hard to improve. Nothing is sugar-coated here, which was a good thing.

Moving on to the plot, I had a hard time keeping on. In the beginning, we attend Prince Rufus' funeral, and dragons are suspected for this death. Our main character, Seraphina, has to help Prince Lucian Kiggs' investigation, while organized festivities and teaching the harpsichord to his fiancée, Princess Glisselda. But Seraphina seems to know a little too much about dragons, because she has secrets of her own. In theory, this plot is intriguing, and I was eager to read it. However, this book is set during only a few weeks, but the book was pretty thick. I think somewhere in the middle, I got lost. Then, I continued my reading, but I couldn't keep up. In fact, unravelling the mystery around Prince Rufus' death didn't appeal to me anymore, sadly. For this reason, I don't know if I'll read the second book, because it's apparently bigger, and I don't want to be bored.

The characters were fine, but none really stood out to me, even though Seraphina was really interesting. I liked how her garden of grotesques - who seemed really weird in the beginning - was really important and still will be in the next book. I didn't get attached to any of these characters , unfortunately. What I really liked is that the romance wasn't a big part of the plot. Of course, you guess who Seraphina will develop feelings for, but it's not her priority. The peace is.

"She needs us both," he said, "and she needs us not to be so distracted by each other that we are unable to do our parts in this war."

I nodded. "Crisis first, love later. The day will come. I believe that."

Overall, I got bored pretty fast by this book and probably won't read the next one, because it was too big for what it was. I wanted to read about dragons because it's not a supernatural specie I got to read about a lot. Still, I started the Talon series last month, it was set in our contemporary world, and I loved it so much, I think it would be better to read it than Seraphina, if you want to read about dragons.

Rating: 3/5

Chris Pratt Book Tag

Today, I wanted to do a little something different, because I only wrote book reviews since I started this blog. I was watching Booktube videos this morning (like all the time, let's be honest!) and Riley's new video, Chris Pratt Book Tag, particularily stood out to me, and I wanted to do it. Go watch her video (and every other she made, she's amazing). So, let's jump into this tag!

Guardians of the Galaxy: Your favourite character ensemble

Mentionning the Percy Jackson's or Harry Potter's cast of character would be a little too easy, even if the characters are amazing together. But, in The Raven Boys, I love to see the four boys and Blue interacting together, in order to find Glendower. Moreover, these main characters also interact with Blue's family (who are psychics) and it's alwways so fun to see! Persephone and Adam interacted a lot in Blue Lily, Lily Blue, and I loooooved it. Great characters. Great book. Go read it.

Andy Dwyer: A character or book you can’t help but love despite their flaws 

The first character that came to my mind was Draco Malfoy, just like Riley in the original tag. But, I wanted to change a little, so I thought about Jessamine Lovelace from the Infernal Devices. This is one of my favourite trilogies, I remembered loving her, even if she was a little selfish and wanted a mundane fate, in the middle of all these Shadowhunters. She was manipulative and mean sometimes, but I loved her, and I always will. It was my little baby in this trilogy.

Anna Faris: Your OTP (Favorite romantic relationship) 

Without a doubt, Will Herondale and Tessa Gray from The Infernal Devices! When I first read Clockwork Angel, I still read in French, but I loved them so much and wanted to know what happened in the next book so badly that I bought Clockwork Prince in English. Since then, I read in English all the time. I don't regret anything. So really, I thank my OTP for that. BTW, if Tessa is with Will, it's because I keep Jem for me. 

Chris Evans: Your BrOTP (Favorite friendship) 

Chris Evans is my bae <3 

I don't know why, but it was the hardest question for me to answer. I wanted to focus on female friendships here, that's why I chose Ruby and Zu from The Darkest Minds. I loved the bond these two characters created during the first book. For both of them, their world isn't easy to live in, and honestly, they're just kids! Zu is one of the reasons Ruby met the others in the first place, and I liked how she always wanted to protect Zu (even if she didn't need protection all the time), it was a cute sisterly relationship. 

Jurassic World: A badass character 

I'm obsessed with Marie Lu again, because the Young Elites was finally published in French and my boyfriend read it and love it (guess who recommended it to him?). There were a lot of characters that could fit into this tag. However, I remembered June from the Legend Trilogy, how she had been trained to be a soldier all her life (she was the Republic's jewel, remember?) and impressed Day in a street fight, in the first book. I think I want to reread this trilogy now, ugh! Same that for the Infernal Devices, I read the first two books in French, then the third in English, because I wanted to know how it ended.

The Lego Movie: A book that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves 

A few years ago, the Unearthly trilogy had a little success, but not enough for my tastes, because it was such a good paranormal book about angels. So if you haven't read it yet, I would suggest you to pick it up. But, I'd like to talk about her last release, The Last Time We Say Goodbye. This year, I've a feeling a lot of books about suicide have been released: I was here, My heart and other black holes, All the bright places... But this book really stood out to me, I read it before I was here, who was the most popular of these books, and I loved it so much more. This book felt so true, because the author dealt with these issues, considering her brother committed suicide sixteen years ago. I was already crying because of this book, but when I read the acknowledgments, it broke my heart. So please, I know there are so many books on the subject out there, but this one is the best for me. I already loved Unearthly, but with this one, Cynthia Hand found a special place in my heart.

Transformation: Best character development 

For this one, it was pretty easy: Juliette from Shatter Me. In the first book, she's just a scared little girl who've been locked away because of her powers. She is terrified of her powers and doesn't want to use them when Warner asks her to. But during the last two books, she overcomes her weaknesses to become a strong character. In the first book, I didn't like her very much, but she's been through so much character development... Tahereh Mafi did really good!

Everwood: A book you read before it was popular 

It was a tough one, because I read books when they're released, it doesn't really work, except for books that I read before they were turn into movies, like Divergent. So, I had to look into my childhood, and the most logical answer was The Spiderwick Chronicles, because it was turn into a movie, long after I've read it. Moreover, it was the first books I've read by Holly Black. 

I don't tag anyone in particular, but feel free to do it, I really liked this one!

Review : Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover

Title: Maybe Someday (Maybe Someday #1)

Author: Colleen Hoover

Publisher: Atria Books

Release date: March 18th 2014

Goodreads summary: At twenty-two years old, Sydney is enjoying a great life: She’s in college, working a steady job, in love with her wonderful boyfriend, Hunter, and rooming with her best friend, Tori. But everything changes when she discovers that Hunter is cheating on her—and she’s forced to decide what her next move should be.

Soon, Sydney finds herself captivated by her mysterious and attractive neighbor, Ridge. She can't take her eyes off him or stop listening to the passionate way he plays his guitar every evening out on his balcony. And there’s something about Sydney that Ridge can’t ignore, either. They soon find themselves needing each other in more ways than one.

A passionate tale of friendship, betrayal, and romance, Maybe Someday will immerse readers in Sydney’s tumultuous world from the very first page.

REVIEW

I'm listening to this book's soundtrack, and I would advise you to check it out! I loved this book so much, it made me feel so many things, and that's what I was looking for. So far, it's the third book of Colleen Hoover I've read, and I've never been disappointed. This review won't be long, because I would mostly suggest you to read this, without knowing too much about it.

First, I'd like to say that there is always a special touch to Colleen's books: there is always art in it, and it's so interesting, it allows the reader to experience more than the actual book. For Slammed, it was in the title, full of poetry, for Confess, it was the paintings, here, it was music. I don't know if it's the case for every book she has out there, but I'd gladly advise her to go on with these ideas. I liked how the characters met each other through music, and how their relationship was linked with it.

As always, the characters were realistic and some of them had issues we don't see much in YA or NA (even if I'm not a specialist of the latest), for Ridge, one of our main characters, just like Maggie.

Ridge: Better. I can't hear my own farts, so sometimes I'll forget that other people can hear them.

Everything was dealt with really maturely, which I also liked. However, I don't recommend you to read this book if you have big issues with adultery/cheating. Personally, I've been confronted to similar issues in the past, on both sides of the barrier, I thought Colleen treated the subject beautifully and could make doubt everyone on this subject. Because no matter how bad cheating is, we don't have to forget that there is two sides to every story, even three. However, the author didn't go too far on this subject, and I was glad about that. 

However, now that Maggie is in the picture, I realie there can't be a maybe someday between us. There will never be a maybe someday. 

Overall, this book was really addicting and I regretted I had to go to bed last night, because I just wanted to read in one setting all night. The romance is really swoony and I just wanted the characters to be together, because they had so much chemistry. It's my favourite book of her with Confess!

Rating: 5/5

Review : Crimson Bound by Rosamund Hodge

Title: Crimson Bound

Author: Rosamund Hodge

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Release Date: May 5th 2015

Goodreads summary: When Rachelle was fifteen she was good—apprenticed to her aunt and in training to protect her village from dark magic. But she was also reckless— straying from the forest path in search of a way to free her world from the threat of eternal darkness. After an illicit meeting goes dreadfully wrong, Rachelle is forced to make a terrible choice that binds her to the very evil she had hoped to defeat.

Three years later, Rachelle has given her life to serving the realm, fighting deadly creatures in an effort to atone. When the king orders her to guard his son Armand—the man she hates most—Rachelle forces Armand to help her find the legendary sword that might save their world. As the two become unexpected allies, they uncover far-reaching conspiracies, hidden magic, and a love that may be their undoing. In a palace built on unbelievable wealth and dangerous secrets, can Rachelle discover the truth and stop the fall of endless night? Inspired by the classic fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood, Crimson Bound is an exhilarating tale of darkness, love, and redemption.

REVIEW

I was more excited about Crimson Bound than for Cruel Beauty, but I enjoyed the latest more, unfortunately. 

For me, Crimson Bound was a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. I was disappointed because it was only inspired, so I didn't really see the point to relate this book to this fairy tale. This book is more about how she tries to fight back. Of course, the Devourer can be seen as the wolf, which would make more sense, but still… However, I liked the world at first. It was well done to focus this story about the Great Forest, because it reminded us of the original fairy tale. The idea of the bloodbound then the forestborn was also really interesting.

But, here comes the main problem of this book: it was alternate history, but so confusing I wanted to scream. I know I'm a little harsh on American/English authors that set their books in France, but I want to be honest. In my opinion, a lot of people see my country through clichés (still, I liked that it took place in Rocamadour and not Paris). Here, I didn't know when the book was happening. Then, we learn that the actual king is Auguste-Philippe (btw, if you want to be true to French history, say Philippe Auguste, you were already right about last names, doing d'Anjou instead of of Anjou, go on Rosamund Hodge please!), who reigned from 1180 to 1223. I know, of course, that every reader can't know that, but the author should. So, if you think about it, this book takes place in the Middle Ages. But, in the acknowledgments, Hodge explains that she read books about Versailles for the castles, and when was Versailles built? In the 17th century, under the rule of Louis XIV. So, Rosamund Hodge is illogical herself, and my grade for this book dropped because of that. Another thing that disturbs me: Rachel and Eric are french first names, not Rachelle and Erec. For main characters, it showed lack of research. I'm not saying the author didn't do her job, but it seems pretty shallow. 

As a main character, I enjoyed Rachelle, but Erec and Armand were so annoying. They lacked of charisma and made me want to roll my eyes all the time.

"Well, then I should probably be leaving as well," said Erec. "Because I'm Erec d'Anjou, captain of the King's bloodbound, and you would not believe the blood on my hands."

This character had been introduced a few pages before, but I couldn't stand him anymore, do you see the problem? I just wanted him to shut up and die. Anyway, this leads to the awful love triangle Rosamund Hodge puts us through. I didn't care or stand for any of this guys, it was a little insta-love with Armand, so no thanks…

Rating: 2/5

Review: The Heart of Betrayal by Mary E. Pearson

Title: The Heart of Betrayal (The Remnant Chronicles #2)

Author: Mary E. Pearson

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Release Date: July 7th 2015

Goodreads summary: Intrigue abounds in this hotly anticipated sequel to The Kiss of Deception!

Held captive in the barbarian kingdom of Venda, Lia and Rafe have little chance of escape. Desperate to save her life, Lia's erstwhile assassin, Kaden, has told the Vendan Komizar that she has the gift, and the Komizar's interest in Lia is greater than anyone could have foreseen.

Meanwhile, nothing is straightforward: there's Rafe, who lied to Lia, but has sacrificed his freedom to protect her; Kaden, who meant to assassinate her but has now saved her life; and the Vendans, whom Lia always believed to be barbarians. Now that she lives amongst them, however, she realizes that may be far from the truth. Wrestling with her upbringing, her gift, and her sense of self, Lia must make powerful choices that will affect her country... and her own destiny.

REVIEW

Major spoilers for the Kiss of Deception

This book was better than the first book, but not by much. It took me a week to read this because I had work non-stop, which made me sad, but I still enjoyed my reading experience.

First, the setting was really interesting, I was eager to learn more about Venda and I wasn't disappointed, the costumes and history were well developed. I liked the language, for example when Lia responded to the Komizar, haha. Speaking of which, this government system is fascinating, and I can't wait to see how it turns out in the next book, because of this ending. I'm looking forward to see what impact the Song of Venda has on the next book, because I'm hooked. Maybe it's about Kaden and Lia? We'll see. Nevertheless, I'm still confused about the gift, it seems that Lia can foresee glimpses of the future, but I want to know more, it's not enough for now.

"Jezelia", she said, as if she had said my name a hundred times, as if she had known me from the time I was an infant and the priests lifted me up to the gods.

My eyes stung. "Did you name me?" I asked.

She shook her head. "The universe sang your name to me. I simply sang it back." She walked around the table until she was just an arm's length from me. "Every note hit me here," she said, and she put her fist to her breastbone.

"Did you sing the name to my mother?"

She nodded.

"You sang it to the wrong person. I'm not-"

"It is a way of trust, Jezelia. Do you trust the voice within you?"

It was as if she could read my thoughts. Why me?

She smiled. "It had to be someone. Why not you?"

"For a hundred good reasons. A thousand."

There was a lot of character development in this book, and I loved it so much. Several characters revealed themselves interesting: Calantha, Gwyneth, and oh, Kaden. I liked how we now know more about his past, and I hope we'll found out who his father is in the next book. As a main character, I really love Lia, the author shows us little weaknesses of her, like her fear of spiders, or how good she's in hiding her emotions, like when she was playing cards, acted as if she was losing, and had finally a perfect hand. Of course, she's a princess and thinks that a lot of people cares about what she does, because she represents a kingdom, but she also knows that her people have other things to do, because seriously.

I pictured those who would curse me-the cabinet, the Royal Guard, my mother and father. I closed my eyes trying to hold back tears. But certainly not my own brothers or Pauline. A sob jumped to my throat. […] With Pauline's image still looming in my thoughts, a more horrible worry overtook me-no one in Morrighan would be considering my traitorous act for long because they would either be on this side of hell scrabbling for roaches and rats to fill their bellies or they would be dead.

About the love triangle, I'm totally on team Rafe. Rafe always put Lia first, whereas Kaden always put his kingdom, which is understandable, but still.

He laughed mid-kiss and leaned back to look at me. "You were never a proper princess." His hands cradled my face, and his smile faded. "But you're everything I want. Remember that. I love you, Lia. Not a title. And not because a piece of paper says I should. Because I do."

Moreover, even if Kaden had a vision, Lia basically admitted that she cared about Kaden, but didn't love him. She also said that she loved Rafe at the end, even if her thoughts weren't clear.

Anyway, I can't wait to read the Beauty of Darkness, I love this title and can't wait to see the cover, because the first two were gorgeous. 

Rating: 4.5/5

Review : I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

Title: I'll Give You the Sun

Author: Jandy Nelson

Publisher: Dial Books

Release Date: September 16th 2014

Goodreads Summary: A brilliant, luminous story of first love, family, loss, and betrayal for fans of John Green, David Levithan, and Rainbow Rowell 

Jude and her twin brother, Noah, are incredibly close. At thirteen, isolated Noah draws constantly and is falling in love with the charismatic boy next door, while daredevil Jude cliff-dives and wears red-red lipstick and does the talking for both of them. But three years later, Jude and Noah are barely speaking. Something has happened to wreck the twins in different and dramatic ways . . . until Jude meets a cocky, broken, beautiful boy, as well as someone else—an even more unpredictable new force in her life. The early years are Noah's story to tell. The later years are Jude's. What the twins don't realize is that they each have only half the story, and if they could just find their way back to one another, they’d have a chance to remake their world.

This radiant novel from the acclaimed, award-winning author of The Sky Is Everywhere will leave you breathless and teary and laughing—often all at once

REVIEW

"Hmm. Well, unfortunately, it's been said very recently I stay away from you or I get castrated." He sits up and spins his hands in the air like Guillermo. "Castration, Oscore! Understand? You have seen me use the circular saw, yes?"

I know I'm minority here, but I didn't love this book, mostly because of the writing. It was a little too metaphorical for my tastes, and the chapters were way too long. At first, I liked the chapter, and then I was wondering when it would end-not a really good way to read.

I still enjoyed the characters, so different but so true, I couldn't relate to them, though. It was interesting to have Jude's POV when she was 16 and Noah's when he was 13 then 14, it  made me hate one character, but then with the next chapter I couldn't anymore. It conflicted me over everyone, but when I saw the end, I knew I still had to dislike Jude and the Mom, because I didn't like their choices, even if the boycott was a good idea. I liked the twins dynamic, and how they divided the world, which is the title of the novel, I'll give you the sun, something one of them says.

I liked the art aspect of this book, I kept picturing Noah's art, it was really fun! The story was enjoyable, it was a coming of age story, with every discovering and mistakes. I particularly loved when Brian and Noah were figuring everything out in his room.

Sadly, I don't have much to say on this book because you'll love it if you love the writing style. Unfortunately, I didn't, but it was still a good story. Moreover, I liked that we could only understand everything because of two different points of view and timelines, it was a nice way to wrap up this story.

Rating: 3/5

Review : Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge

Title: Cruel Beauty

Author: Rosamund Hodge

Publisher: Balzer + Bray

Release Date: January 28th 2014

Goodreads Summary: Graceling meets Beauty and the Beast in this sweeping fantasy about one girl's journey to fulfill her destiny and the monster who gets in her way-by stealing her heart.

Based on the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, Cruel Beauty is a dazzling love story about our deepest desires and their power to change our destiny.

Since birth, Nyx has been betrothed to the evil ruler of her kingdom-all because of a foolish bargain struck by her father. And since birth, she has been in training to kill him.

With no choice but to fulfill her duty, Nyx resents her family for never trying to save her and hates herself for wanting to escape her fate. Still, on her seventeenth birthday, Nyx abandons everything she's ever known to marry the all-powerful, immortal Ignifex. Her plan? Seduce him, destroy his enchanted castle, and break the nine-hundred-year-old curse he put on her people.

But Ignifex is not at all what Nyx expected. The strangely charming lord beguiles her, and his castle—a shifting maze of magical rooms—enthralls her.

As Nyx searches for a way to free her homeland by uncovering Ignifex's secrets, she finds herself unwillingly drawn to him. Even if she could bring herself to love her sworn enemy, how can she refuse her duty to kill him? With time running out, Nyx must decide what is more important: the future of her kingdom, or the man she was never supposed to love.

REVIEW

"If you start wondering how this house works, you'll likely go mad. That could be amusing, I suppose. Especially if it's the kind of madness that causes you to run naked through the hallways. Do feel free to indulge in that anytime."

This book was quite entertaining, and I look forward to read another book by this author. But, this didn't blow me away or anything, and I have quite a few issues with this book.

At first, I found the world to be really interesting, and I was eager to learn more about it. But as it turns out, it was really complicated and sometimes, it didn't make much sense, mostly for the magic system. Anyway, it was hard to wrap my mind around it, and I know some people had similar issues. I loved the castle though, it was a good setting.

For the retelling part of the book  I think it was well done, how Ignifex was more a beast because of his actions. He was really flirty and made me laugh quite a few times.   Moreover, this book was like Beauty and the Beast meets Hades and Persephone meets Bluebeard. Yes, yes, yes. It's not a secret, I loooove retellings.

Nyx's character was really interesting, how she wasn't powerless and everything. She has darkness in her heart, because she resents her father for her fate, and she's right to. Still, I didn't like that she was the One just like that. I won't start on the ending because it was too easy: she just remembers and finds him again, when it has never happened and everything, but well, I think it's the saying "Love is the most powerful thing of them all" or something.

The romance was enjoyable, yes. Still, it was a little insta-love and the love triangle was unnecessary because come on, it's already a Beauty and the Beast retelling. We already knew who she would end up with, so I didn't really  like it. However, I liked how no matter how much Nyx loved Ignifex, she chose to save her world, even if she regrets it after because the lords of bargain (I don't remember how they're called) tricked her, like everyone.

The atmosphere of this book was deliciously creepy and I really liked that aspect, just like my experience of this book, because I enjoyed it for most parts. I knew there were mix reviews about this one, I didn't know if I wanted to pick it up, but even if I had issues with it, it is worth the read, and I want to remind everyone that it was a debut novel, so of course it wasn't perfect. I'll read Crimson Bound soon to see how Rosamund Hodge evolves as an author.

Rating: 3/5 

Review : The Conspiracy of Us by Maggie Hall

Title: The Conspiracy of Us (The Conspiracy of Us, #1)

Author: Maggie Hall

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Release Date: January 13th 2015

Goodreads Summary: A fast-paced international escapade, laced with adrenaline, glamour, and romance--perfect for fans of Ally Carter

Avery West's newfound family can shut down Prada when they want to shop in peace, and can just as easily order a bombing when they want to start a war. Part of a powerful and dangerous secret society called the Circle, they believe Avery is the key to an ancient prophecy. Some want to use her as a pawn. Some want her dead.

To unravel the mystery putting her life in danger, Avery must follow a trail of clues from the monuments of Paris to the back alleys of Istanbul with two boys who work for the Circle—beautiful, volatile Stellan and mysterious, magnetic Jack. But as the clues expose a stunning conspiracy that might plunge the world into World War 3, she discovers that both boys are hiding secrets of their own. Now she will have to choose not only between freedom and family--but between the boy who might help her save the world, and the one she's falling in love with.

REVIEW

To be honest, I found the first pages to this book to be a little overwhelming, and I felt so lost. I felt too much pushed into Avery's life, it was really confusing, and I didn't really liked the writing, I was thinking about not reading it. But I told myself that after Saint Anything, I had to read a whole book, because I couldn't get into a reading slump - in reality, I just want The Heart of Betrayal and Ink and Bone!

Anyway, I kept reading, and when Avery went to prom, it started to be interesting. She discovers she's part of one of the twelve families that basically run the world - and have done it since after Alexander the Great died. I liked that idea, but it was really unrealistic. I particularly disliked that Maggie Hall mentioned important politics, but never gave their name. First, she says 'the president of France'. Okay, I get that he isn't the most famous president, but the plot was taking place in Paris at that time, and the author didn't bother to tell his name. For the record, it's François Holland. I know that anyone could tell I'm biased because I'm French, but it was the same for 'the queen of England', oh, you know, Elizabeth II. 

Talking about this, I liked that the book started in America to go in Paris and Istanbul. BUT Paris was just stereotypes, and this made me sad, because I live there. Maggie Hall kind of said that the whole city was beautiful. I'm sorry but no. Just no. Worst, Avery thinks Paris is beautiful because : le Louvre, the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. Right. There is nothing else in this city. It might be my patriotic side, but it was a caricature. Also, funny fact, the Dauphin family is French. However, when the son and heir Luc spoke, it was like an American trying to speak French. It was so ridiculous. Most people mustn't have noticed this but I was so mad. If you want a character speaking in his native language, please do it right. I don't think it was that bad for Istanbul, because the characters are there for one night. Still, I get that Avery wasn't here to visit, but even at the end when she meets Stellan in Montmartre, it was stupid, she must have gone to a place less known, seriously.

Nevertheless, I liked this book because of its plot. Searching for clues that could change everything about the mandate was really interesting, and who doesn't like a good puzzle? The scene in the Louvre when Avery 'fainted' was funny, but it was a little too easy. I can't wait for Avery to find the tomb, because I'm really intrigued about it. It was action-packed and it kept my attention for the whole book.

The characters were fine, nothing extraordinary here. I think my favourite one was Luc, his family is one of the twelve, but he's still of help with Avery in the end. Moreover, I hop he'll have his romance, because he doesn't have it easy: he's gay but his family tried to marry him off. 

The romance was alright, no insta-love or anything, but sadly, the love triangle is here. I felt it in the first pages in this book, and I'll be honest: I hate it. There are books where I love that, but here...

Overall, I think it's one of this books I like but won't die if I don't read the sequel. I'm intrigued about the mystery around Alexander the Great's tomb, but not so much about the characters and the romance. Still, it was enough for a debut novel. 

Rating: 3/5

Review : Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen

Title: Saint Anything

Author: Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Viking Juvenile

Release Date: May 5th 2015

Goodreads Summary: Peyton, Sydney's charismatic older brother, has always been the star of the family, receiving the lion's share of their parents' attention and—lately—concern. When Peyton's increasingly reckless behavior culminates in an accident, a drunk driving conviction, and a jail sentence, Sydney is cast adrift, searching for her place in the family and the world. When everyone else is so worried about Peyton, is she the only one concerned about the victim of the accident?

Enter the Chathams, a warm, chaotic family who run a pizza parlor, play bluegrass on weekends, and pitch in to care for their mother, who has multiple sclerosis. Here Sydney experiences unquestioning acceptance. And here she meets Mac, gentle, watchful, and protective, who makes Sydney feel seen, really seen, for the first time.

The uber-popular Sarah Dessen explores her signature themes of family, self-discovery, and change in her twelfth novel, sure to delight her legions of fans.

REVIEW

I haven't read a Sarah Dessen book before this one, so this review doesn't mean I dislike her books in general. This book involves heavy topics, which I wasn't in the mood for. The plot wasn't the only reason I disliked it. I don't understand what Dessen tried to write, but it didn't work for me. Maybe the book is better in the end, but I didn't finish it 53% in. I've tried for something like three days or so to get into the story, but totally failed. 

This book felt a bit flat for me, I wasn't able to connect with the characters at all. Sydney's brother is in jail, okay, that's a fact, but I didn't understand the way her parents reacted. Well, for the father, I could, but the mother was ridiculous. I get that what happened is a tragedy, but she still acted as if her son was a prodigy or something, and never cared about Sydney. Or her feelings. And then, she complained that Sydney was distant. You bet she was. She's always stuck with a weird guy who looks like if he would rape her, and her mother is just like "Oh Ames, you're the best!". Other thing, she's in a pizzeria with her daughter and not in the best mood, but then her son calls and she's so happy as if he was the golden boy! Okay, she misses him and feels like she messed up with him. But she's making the big mistake to let her daughter down! What do you think could happen? The only time she cares about her is for her curfew. I hated that character with all my soul. 

About the plot, I didn't feel like much was going on. Sydney goes to school, has a normal life, the end. I think at the end of the book she'll date Mac and her mother will calm down, but I don't want to see it happen. 

This book is more about everyday life, with your own struggles, centered about family, and that's great. Unfortunatly, it wasn't something I wanted to read, and it could have been better. The characters were a big problem here. So was the ordinary life she had. It's a book about her coming of age, but I didn't care for that. Sorry, Sarah Dessen. 

I'm sorry but I can't think straight because of how much I was pissed at this book. I might try to read other books by Sarah Dessen in the future, but only if someone recommends them to me because right now... 

Rating: 1/5 

Review : Dream a little dream by Kerstin Gier

Title: Dream a Little Dream

Author: Kerstin Gier

Translator (from German): Anthea Bell

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.

Release Date: April 14th 2015 (originally published March 8th 2013)

Goodreads Summary: Mysterious doors with lizard-head knobs. Talking stone statues. A crazy girl with a hatchet. Yes, Liv's dreams have been pretty weird lately. Especially the one where she's in a graveyard at night, watching four boys conduct dark magic rituals.

The strangest part is that Liv recognizes the boys in her dream. They're classmates from her new school in London, the school where she's starting over because her mom has moved them to a new country (again). But what's really scaring Liv is that the dream boys seem to know things about her in real life, things they couldn't possibly know--unless they actually are in her dreams? Luckily, Liv never could resist a good mystery, and all four of those boys are pretty cute...

REVIEW

I'm not surprised by how much I've loved this book, considered how the Ruby Red trilogy was amazing. Gier's writing is fantastic (I've read her books both in French and English, so I don't know if I can really say that). The plot was unique, if I could compare it to another book it would be The Raven Boys, because there are four guys and dreams are involved, but let's stop here for that. 

I can't say much about the plot, because spoiler. It's kind of slow-paced, because Liv has a new life, so the world-building is necessary, and she couldn't be thrown away with the boys like that. The paranormal stuffs were unique, but I wish to know more about it, but I'm not worried about that.

He smiled sympathetically. "It's over, Anabel." Anabel's lips twitched, and for a moment it looked as if she would burst into tears. But then she threw back her head and laughed. "Oh, you're so wrong, Henry," she said. "In fact, it's only just begun." 

I hadn't seen the plot twist coming at first, but it makes a lot of sense. I like how Kerstin Gier always takes her readers to unexpected adventures, she's one of my favourite authors I think. 

The main character was amazing. Liv Silver has travelled all around the world, takes kung fu lessons, loves puzzles and mystery and doesn't want boy trouble.

"Liv, stop it!" hissed Mia. "You look like a lovelorn sheep!" I gave a start. "As bad as that? Oh, that's terrible." I added-and was to regret it in the course of the day-"If you see me looking like that again, give me a nudge or throw something at me. Promise?"

I loved her, because of course she doesn't want to be like anyone else, and she's thrown into the problems of the four popular guys in her new school. I liked that she was thrown into it because Grayson, on of them, was supposed to be her new "brother". Her little sister, Mia, was one of my favourite too, like the scene with the "I'm seventy percent sure the bus is heading in the right direction", but obviously noooot. Both of them are so into Sherlock Holmes, it's so cool. And now they're in London so that's amazing. I hope they will do a Sherlock Holmes tour or something!

I really liked the romance, Henry is so cute, but I'm scared because in the acknowledgments, Gier wondered if he would stay with Liv or they would split up because of secrets. Sadly, it happened in Sapphire Blue because Gideon didn't trust Gwen anymore, so I'm scared for book 2. 

"Do you know why I began believing in that demon?" he asked quietly. I shook my head. "Because my wish came true the moment I met you." "You'd wished to meet someone with a stinking cheese in her bag?" 

He didn't laugh at my joke, which admittedly wasn't very funny, but ran his forefinger around my lips. "You're like me," he said seriously. "You love puzzles. You like to play. You're happy to take risks. It's when things look like they're getting dangerous that you feel really excited." He leaned a little closer to me, and I could feel the warmth of his breath. "That's what I wished for. To meet someone I could fall in love with. You're my heart's desire, Liv Silver."

Anyway, I can't say much besides I loved it and it's definitely one of my favourite books of the year so far and I'm looking forward to the next one! 

Rating: 5/5

Review : A Book of Spirits and Thieves by Morgan Rhodes

A Book of Spirits and Thieves (Spirits and Thieves #1) by Morgan Rhodes

Published: June 23rd 2015 by Razorbill
Genre: young adult, fantasy

Goodreads Summary: Modern-day sisters discover deadly ancient magic in book 1 of this Falling Kingdoms spin-off series! Worlds collide in this suspenseful, page-turning Falling Kingdoms spin-off series, which explores a whole new side of Mytica—and an even darker version of its magic.

Crystal Hatcher, Modern-day Toronto: It’s a normal afternoon in her mother’s antique bookshop when Crys witnesses the unthinkable: her little sister Becca collapses into a coma after becoming mesmerized by a mysterious book written in an unrecognizable language.

Maddox Corso, Ancient Mytica: Maddox Corso doesn’t think much of it when he spots an unfamiliar girl in his small village. Until, that is, he realizes that she is a spirit, and he is the only one who can see or hear her. Her name is Becca Hatcher, and she needs Maddox to help get her home.

Farrell Grayson, Modern-day Toronto: Rich and aimless Farrell Grayson is thrilled when the mysterious leader of the ultra-secret Hawkspear Society invites him into the fold. But when he learns exactly what he has to do to prove himself, Farrell starts to question everything he thought he knew about family, loyalty, and himself. Fate has brought these young people together, but ancient magic threatens to rip them apart.

REVIEW

I'm still not a fan of the cover but this book was amazing! I'm not really surprised, because I love the Falling Kingdoms series. It was really interesting to mix modern world and Mytica, especially with the link between the two, Becca - mostly because she is more the link between the two worlds that I thought, in the end! I would have liked to read more about Toronto, though, because we saw everyday life's buildings, but that's pretty much all. During my reading, I had the feeling we were seeing less of Mytica (and proportionally, we were), but I don't think it's a big deal, because discovering everything people of our world knew about Mytica was so interesting!

The plot focuses around Valoria's reign in Mytica (for this part of the story), it was like a prequel to Falling Kingdoms on that point, but modern world so it was kind of disturbing. Still, it means that time doesn't work the same between the two worlds, maybe even reverse? It's a big spoiler but here is the thing : Markus is sent to our world sixty years before the story starts, but Becca witnesses that the book is sent in Toronto. Then, maybe Valoria could sent the book back in time, but had sent Markus before? I don't know, we'll in the next book. What I loved about this plot was the plot twists I didn't see coming. I liked how everything was connected somehow between the two worlds, even if I knew it was.

For the most part, the characters were enjoyable. From the three points of view, I liked Crystal's character the best, because of who she was, and how she wants to know. Farrell's was really good, but he was a total sexist asshole - he thought he could won every girl over. He liked Crystal, but for a part it was because she resisted him, I'm not sure I like that. Still, she'll be on guard with him for now on. I liked the characters from the beginning, because of Becca.

"Becca Hatcher-making dreams come true, one book at a time,"

She's a book lover and her mom owns a bookshop, where she works to help her. Their aunt Jackie was also really interesting. So was Adam, I think we'll see him more in the next book, but I hope there won't be a love triangle between him, Becca and Maddox (maybe I see them everywhere, but I'm on guard). About the romance, I liked that mostly, the characters were drown to each other, it wasn't really love, but the beginning.

Maddox rubbed his eyes. "Have you ever been in love, Barnabas?" Barnabas paused, as if in solemn thought. "Is that what this is with the spirit girl?" "I don't know what it is. I'm just asking you a question."

Of course it's suspicious, but still - not romance driven, like Falling Kingdoms. I love that about Morgan Rhodes, really. 

The book didn't finish on a big cliff-hanger (there were big revelations before, though), which is a good thing, because sometimes I forget what it was, but there are so many questions hanging in the air, mainly : Markus? What happened with Valoria, really? I can't wait to read the next book, and now I want Frozen Tides so much.