Solstice by P.J. Hoover Review

Name: Solstice
Author: P.J. Hoover 
Publisher: Tor Teen/Macmillian
Release Date: June 18th, 2013
Format: E-Book
384 pages

Summary:
Piper's world is dying. 

Each day brings hotter temperatures and heat bubbles that threaten to destroy the earth. Amid this global heating crisis, Piper lives under the oppressive rule of her mother, who suffocates her even more than the weather does. Everything changes on her eighteenth birthday, when her mother is called away on a mysterious errand and Piper seizes her first opportunity for freedom.

Piper discovers a universe she never knew existed—a sphere of gods and monsters—and realizes that her world is not the only one in crisis. While gods battle for control of the Underworld, Piper’s life spirals out of control as she struggles to find the answer to the secret that has been kept from her since birth.

An imaginative melding of mythology and dystopia, Solstice is the first YA novel by talented newcomer P. J. Hoover.

Goodreads

My Review:
I've had this book on my kindle for awhile now but I never got around to reading it. I'm so glad I ended up picking this book to read! It had everything I needed to get out of my reading slump..action, mythology, dystopia, and romance!

What I really liked about this book was how original the plot was. I absolutely loved how P.J. was able to tie in the greek mythology aspect to this dystopian setting. I'm a huge fan of greek mythology and I really liked how well it fit in with this story. I do wish we got a little bit more background on some of the characters in this book--especially a little bit more about Piper. I thought Piper was a really great main character and I liked how she cared so much about others instead of herself.

I also really enjoyed the world building that P.J. used! We really got to see what the underworld looked like and I really appreciated that. The only compliant that I have would be that we didn't get to learn more about the global heating crisis...I know the main plot is based in Texas but it would have been nice to have a little bit of background info about what is going on in the rest of the world.

Overall, I really enjoyed Solstice! It was a great blend of dystopian and mythology, and I highly recommend checking it out this summer!

My Rating:

Antigoddess (Goddess War #1) by Kendare Blake Review

Name: Antigoddess (Goddess War #1)
Author: Kendare Blake
Publisher: Tor Teen
 Release Date: September 10th, 2013
Format: E-Book
Buy the book on Amazon
333 pages

Summary: The Goddess War begins in Antigoddess, the first installment of the new series by acclaimed author of Anna Dressed in Blood, Kendare Blake.
 
Old Gods never die…

Or so Athena thought. But then the feathers started sprouting beneath her skin, invading her lungs like a strange cancer, and Hermes showed up with a fever eating away his flesh. So much for living a quiet eternity in perpetual health.

Desperately seeking the cause of their slow, miserable deaths, Athena and Hermes travel the world, gathering allies and discovering enemies both new and old. Their search leads them to Cassandra—an ordinary girl who was once an extraordinary prophetess, protected and loved by a god. 

These days, Cassandra doesn’t involve herself in the business of gods—in fact, she doesn’t even know they exist. But she could be the key in a war that is only just beginning. 

Because Hera, the queen of the gods, has aligned herself with other of the ancient Olympians, who are killing off rivals in an attempt to prolong their own lives. But these anti-gods have become corrupted in their desperation to survive, horrific caricatures of their former glory. Athena will need every advantage she can get, because immortals don’t just flicker out. 

Every one of them dies in their own way. Some choke on feathers. Others become monsters. All of them rage against their last breath.

The Goddess War is about to begin.

Goodreads

My Review:
A really great start to a series that I definitely see myself loving as it progresses! I haven't read any other books by Kendare Blake but I know many people who love her writing style..and I gotta say I really enjoyed it too!

As most of you may know, I seriously LOVE LOVE mythology books..so when I heard about this book I knew that I had to pick it up! What I liked about this book was that it was very original..I haven't heard of any mythology books where the gods are dying/fighting for their lives, which I thought was very interesting to read about. I also really liked how Kendare Blake added in Cassandra and other characters from the Trojan war. I thought that really was a great twist to add in to this book.

Another aspect of this book that I really liked was the characters! I definitely thought that they were relatable and I could see myself being friends with them in real life. I thought it was interesting to see the gods in sort of a humbled state-especially since they are very limited in their powers and have to rely on others for help. It was different to see them in this state and I really liked seeing them limited in their powers.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! After the cliffhanger ending, I seriously can't wait for the next book! If you are a mythology fan, definitely definitely check this book out! You won't regret it!

My Rating:

Goddess by Josephine Angelini Review

Name: Goddess (Starcrossed # 3)
Author: Josephine Angelini
Publisher: Harper Teen
Release Date: May 28th, 2013
Format: Hardcover
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421 pages

Summary:

After accidentally unleashing the gods from their captivity on Olympus, Helen must find a way to re-imprison them without starting a devastating war. But the gods are angry, and their thirst for blood already has a body count.

To make matters worse, the Oracle reveals that a diabolical Tyrant is lurking among them, which drives a wedge between the once-solid group of friends. As the gods use the Scions against one another, Lucas’s life hangs in the balance. Still unsure whether she loves him or Orion, Helen is forced to make a terrifying decision, for war is coming to her shores.

In Josephine Angelini’s compelling conclusion to the masterfully woven Starcrossed trilogy, a goddess must rise above it all to change a destiny that’s been written in the stars. With worlds built just as fast as they crumble, love and war collide in an all-out battle that will leave no question unanswered and no heart untouched.

Goodreads

My Review:
Wow...I can't believe this series is actually over! I seriously was blown away by the finale to this epic series...it was well written, had tons of action, and of course romance :)

What I really liked about Goddess is that we really got to see how much Helen has grown over the series. No longer do we see the shy girl who is unsure of herself, but now we see Helen as someone who will do anything to protect her loved ones and is willing to do anything to protect them. I also thought it was interesting to read about the new powers that Helen gains..I don't want to give away any spoilers but Helen becomes very powerful in this book and I liked seeing the new talents she gained. The plot of Goddess definitely was a great pace..not to slow or fast! Josephine Angelini did a fantastic job of explaining the mythology and new characters that she introduced into this novel which I really liked.

Now onto Lucas..oh Lucas. This book just made me love him even more. You can see his dedication to Helen and how he is willing to do anything for her. He really is such a sweet guy and I loved reading scenes with him in it. Again, I don't want to give anything away but if you are a big Helen and Lucas fan then you will love the ending of this book.

In the end, I LOVED Goddess! It was a fantastic ending to a truly wonderful series. The only thing that I am disappointed about is that there are a couple loose ends that the author didn't really tie up..I'm hoping she writes another book in the future with all of our favorite characters. I definitely will be rereading this series again in the future because I loved this amazing journey that this series took me on.

My Rating:

Apollyon (Convenant # 4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout Review

Name: Apollyon 
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout 
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press 
Release Date: April 9th, 2013 
Format: ARC Copy
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360 pages

Thank you Spencer Hill Press for sending me a copy of this book for review!

Summary:
Fate isn’t something to mess with… and now, neither is Alex.

Alex has always feared two things: losing herself in the Awakening and being placed on the Elixir. But love has always been stronger than Fate, and Aiden St. Delphi is willing to make war on the gods—and Alex herself—to bring her back.

The gods have killed thousands and could destroy entire cities in their quest to stop Seth from taking Alex’s power and becoming the all-powerful God Killer. But breaking Alex’s connection to Seth isn’t the only problem. There are a few pesky little loopholes in the whole “an Apollyon can’t be killed” theory, and the only person who might know how to stop the destruction has been dead for centuries.

Finding their way past the barriers that guard the Underworld, searching for one soul among countless millions, and then somehow returning will be hard enough. Alex might be able to keep Seth from becoming the God Killer… or she might become the God Killer herself.

Goodreads

My Review:
Jennifer L. Armentrout has done it again! I didn't think anything could top Deity but I was so wrong..this book was FANTASTIC. This book has action, romance, and lots of awesome revelations!

I LOVED the romance in this book! My love for team Aiden was affirmed in this novel..he never gives up on her. He is so loving towards Alex, he really cares for her and he will do anything to protect Alex. Alex and Aiden both really compliment each other as well. Alex with her strong will and passion and Aiden with his protectiveness and how he is willing to give Alex his whole heart. Even though the the time they have is brief-what they have makes me hope in the end of this series that love will conquer all.

The plot of this book is so awesome! Every scene is action packed and no scene should be overlooked. I’m really glad Jennifer gives us all of these important details and sets up the stage for the next book. I loved seeing the progression of Alex throughout this book as well. No longer do we see the angry girl that we met in the first book but instead we see a girl with a passion to protect those around her and will do anything to help others. I loved how this book sets things up for the final book in the series. Of course this book ended with a cliffhanger..but I am so excited to see what happens next!

Overall, this book literally was so brilliantly written, so earth shattering, that I still can't stop thinking about it. Jennifer L. Armentrout is a fabulous writer, and probably one of the best YA authors out there. If you haven't read this series yet GO READ IT. It literally is such an amazing series and you won't regret it.


My Rating:

Crimson Frost (Mythos Academy # 4) by Jennifer Estep

Name: Crimson Frost (Mythos Academy # 4)

Author: Jennifer Estep
Publisher:  Kensington
Release Date: December 24th, 2012
Format: Ebook
Buy the book on Amazon
384 pages
Thanks Netgalley and Kensington for giving me an ARC copy of this book!

Summary:
For a moment, a face flashed before my eyes—the most hideous face I’d ever seen. No matter how hard I tried to forget what had happened, I saw him everywhere I went. It was Loki—the evil god that I’d helped set free against my will.

I should have known that my first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. If we’d gotten into a swordfight, or been ambushed by Reapers, I’d have been more prepared. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? I didn’t see that one coming.
I’ve been accused of purposely helping the Reapers free Loki from his prison—and the person leading the charge against me is Linus Quinn, Logan’s dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks I’m guilty. If I’m going to get out of this mess alive, I’ll have to do it myself…

Goodreads

My Review:
After reading all three of the Mythos Academy books..I've been hooked on this series since I started it last year! Crimson Frost is another awesome book to a great series, and I keep liking this series as I read more!
 
One of my favorite parts of this book was the plot!! Jennifer Estep does a really great job of weaving an amazing story..with new characters and lots of intrigue! I was on the edge of my seat reading this book..not knowing what would happen next. I really like how Jennifer is able to make aspects of the book, that don't seem important at all the reader, become SO important. Definitely make sure you pay close attention to every scene in this book! They will become very important later on. I really liked that this book was action packed and didn't spend a whole lot of time explaining different mythologies and details, and instead really showed what was going on. The action and fight scenes in this book were awesome!

I also really liked the progression of the main character Gwen! Of course she's still her sarcastic, determined self, but she really becomes a strong person. I really liked seeing her growth as a character and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!! I was a little bit sad to see Logan and Gwen spend less time together in this book, but the introduction to new characters were a really great addition to the series.

Overall, this was a great third book to a really enjoyable series!! After leaving us on a cliffhanger at the end of this book, I can't wait to see what's in store next!!

My Rating:

The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

Name: The Mark of Athena

Author: Rick Riordan

Publisher: Hyperion Books

Release Date: October 2, 2012

Format: Hardcover

pages: 608

Summary: Annabeth is terrified. Just when she’s about to be reunited with Percy—after six months of being apart, thanks to Hera—it looks like Camp Jupiter is preparing for war. As Annabeth and her friends Jason, Piper, and Leo fly in on the Argo II, she can’t blame the Roman demigods for thinking the ship is a Greek weapon. With its steaming bronze dragon masthead, Leo’s fantastical creation doesn’t appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of their praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace.

And that’s only one of her worries. In her pocket Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving demand: Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me. Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods on a quest to find—and close— the Doors of Death. What more does Athena want from her?

Annabeth’s biggest fear, though, is that Percy might have changed. What if he’s now attached to Roman ways? Does he still need his old friends? As the daughter of the goddess of war and wisdom, Annabeth knows she was born to be a leader, but never again does she want to be without Seaweed Brain by her side.

Narrated by four different demigods, The Mark of Athena is an unforgettable journey across land and sea to Rome, where important discoveries, surprising sacrifices, and unspeakable horrors await. Climb aboard the Argo II, if you dare. . . .

In The Son of Neptune, Percy, Hazel, and Frank met in Camp Jupiter, the Roman equivalent of Camp Halfblood, and traveled to the land beyond the gods to complete a dangerous quest. The third book in the Heroes of Olympus series will unite them with Jason, Piper, and Leo. But they number only six--who will complete the Prophecy of Seven? 

Goodreads

My Review:

I was first introduced to Rick Riordan's books when I was twelve. I picked up a copy of The Lightning Thief at a book fair, started reading it, and was instantly hooked. Six years and eight books about demigods later, I am still a huge fan. Both Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians quintet and the sequel series, Heroes of Olympus, have more than their fair share of humor, character development, and smart, quick writing that both reluctant and avid readers enjoy. The Mark of Athena wasn't just up to standard - it went above and beyond, crafting a complex story with familiar characters and easily becoming my favorite book so far in the Heroes of Olympus series. 

One of the things I loved the most about this book was how well Rick Riordan balanced multiple plot threads. The novel is split up into four different characters' points of view, which in most authors' hands would be a complete mess. Riordan, however, handles it remarkably well, juggling Piper, Leo, Percy, and Annabeth's individual thoughts with the story's overall plot. In a novel with seven main characters, that's not an easy thing to do. 

The story picks up where the last one left off and moves quickly, taking our pack of demigods - some of whom are more experienced than others - on a madcap quest through the United States and, eventually, across the Atlantic Ocean. The stakes, as always, are high: if they don't succeed, Romans and Greeks will never be able to settle their differences, allowing the evil Gaia to take over the world without a fight. The only clues they have come from something in Annabeth's possession: the Mark of Athena.

As a reader who watched Annabeth grow and change over the course of a series and a half, it was awesome to finally get inside her head. I've always loved Annabeth's character, but I feel like I just got to know her all over again. Although the other main characters are still important, this is really her story - something that will be a huge treat for fans that have been reading Riordan's books for years. Seeing the enormous sacrifices she's willing to make for her friends and the future only solidifies her as a strong, amazing character. 

I don't want to spoil any of the plot, but let's just say the book ends on a typical Rick Riordan cliffhanger that will leave readers waiting eagerly for The House of Hades, the next installment in the series. Too bad it won't be released until next fall...

My Rating:

Deity by Jennifer L. Armentrout Review

Name: Deity
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Release Date: November 6th, 2012
Format: ARC
360 pages 
Pre-Order the book on Amazon

Thank you Spencer Hill Press for sending me a copy of this book for review!

Summary:
"History is on repeat, and things didn't go so well the last time. "Alexandria isn't sure she's going to make it to her eighteenth birthday--to her Awakening. A long-forgotten, fanatical order is out to kill her, and if the Council ever discovers what she did in the Catskills, she's a goner... and so is Aiden.

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

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

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

Goodreads

My Review:
Jennifer L. Armentrout has done it again! Deity has to be my favorite book in the half blood series and one of my favorites this year! This book has action, romance, and lots of awesome revelations!

I LOVED the romance in this book! Once again, I am back on team Aiden! After reading Pure, I actually sort of started to like Seth-but after reading Deity I am back on Aiden’s team! Aiden is so loving towards Alex, he really cares for her and he will do anything to protect Alex. I really love how he loves her for who she is-no matter that she’s a half-blood or will become the apollyon. Alex and Aiden both really compliment each other as well. Alex with her strong will and passion and Aiden with his protectiveness and how he is willing to give Alex his whole heart. Even though the the time they have is brief-what they have makes me hope in the end of this series that love will conquer all.

The plot of Deity is so awesome! Every scene is action packed and no scene should be overlooked. I don’t want to give away any spoilers but we really learn SO MUCH important information in this book. From the council, Seth, the underworld and Aiden-so many questions are answered but so many more formed. I’m really glad Jennifer gives us all of these important details and sets up the stage for the next book. I loved seeing the progression of Alex throughout this book as well. No longer do we see the angry girl that we met in the first book but instead we see a girl with a passion to protect those around her and will do anything to help others.

Overall, Deity is another phenomenal book to an AMAZING series. I highly recommend that you check this book out and if you haven’t read this series..please do!


My Rating:

The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus #2) by Rick Riordan Review

Name: The Son of Neptune (Heroes of Olympus # 2)
Author: Rick Riordan
Publisher: Hyperion
Release Date: October 4th, 2011
Format: Hardcover Copy
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Seven half-bloods shall answer the call, To storm or fire the world must fall. An oath to keep with a final breath, And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death. 

Percy is confused. When he awoke from his long sleep, he didn't know much more than his name. His brain fuzz is lingering, even after the wolf Lupa told him he is a demigod and trained him to fight with the pen/sword in his pocket. Somehow Percy manages to make it to a camp for half-bloods, despite the fact that he has to keep killing monsters along the way. But the camp doesn't ring any bells with him. The only thing he can recall from his past is another name: Annabeth 

Hazel is supposed to be dead. When she lived before, she didn't do a very good job of it. Sure, she was an obedient daughter, even when her mother was possessed by greed. But that was the problem - when the Voice took over her mother and commanded Hazel to use her "gift" for and evil purpose, Hazel couldn't say no. Now because of her mistake, the future of the world is at risk. Hazel wished she could ride away from it all on the stallion that appears in her dreams. 

Frank is a klutz. His grandmother says he is descended from heroes and can be anything he wants to be, but he doesn't see it. He doesn't even know who his father is. He keeps hoping Apollo will claim him, because the only thing he is good at is archery - although not good enough to win camp war games. His bulky physique makes him feel like an ox, especially infront of Hazel, his closest friend at camp. He trusts her completely - enough to share the secret he holds close to his heart. Beginning at the "other" camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods, this breathtaking second installment of the Heroes of Olympus series introduces new demigods, revives fearsome monsters, and features other remarkable creatures, all destined to play a part in the Prophesy of Seven.-Goodreads

My Review:
I've been a huge fan of anything written by Rick Riordan for the longest time, so I was so happy that he decided to write more stories about Percy and his friends! This second book in the heroes of Olympus series definitely was action packed, and I really enjoyed it!

One of the best parts about this book has to be the plot. It had a lot of action and suspense, but it also had some very nice sweet moments. After not seeing Percy at all during the first book in the series, I was SO happy to have him back in this one! It was really interesting to see him without his memories of his life and it kind of reminded me of The Lightening Thief where he had no idea what was going on. I especially liked when he started to remember again because it really brought back memories of previous books from the series. Of course, Percy still knows how to fight and he such an amazing fighter!

I really liked the two new characters we meet in the series: Frank and Hazel! At first, I wasn't sure how much I would like both of these characters, because I really loved all the characters from camp half-blood. As the story progressed, I really started liking them more and how much they cared for Percy. It was really interesting to see the type of powers that they had and they were a really great addition to this book! I will also say that it was really nice to see Juno (Hera) and Mars (Ares) in this book and how they interact with Percy (who doesn't have any memories).

Overall, I really liked this book and I was SO glad to see Percy again! I am really looking forward to the next book in the series, The Mark of Athena, which comes out this fall.

My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

The Enchantress (The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel # 6) by Michael Scott Review

Name: The Enchantress (The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel # 6)
Author: Michael Scott
Publisher: Random House
Release Date: May 22nd, 2012
Format: E-Book ARC
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Thank you Netgalley and Random House for sending me a copy of this book for review!

The sixth and final book in the New York Times bestselling series The Secrets of the Nicholas Flamel—The Enchantress The two that are one must become the one that is all. One to save the world, one to destroy it. San Francisco: Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel have one day left to live, and one job left to do. They must defend San Francisco. The monsters gathered on Alcatraz Island have been released and are heading toward the city. If they are not stopped, they will destroy everyone and everything in their path. But even with the help of two of the greatest warriors from history and myth, will the Sorceress and the legendary Alchemyst be able to defend the city? Or is it the beginning of the end of the human race? Danu Talis: Sophie and Josh Newman traveled ten thousand years into the past to Danu Talis when they followed Dr. John Dee and Virginia Dare. And it’s on this legendary island that the battle for the world begins and ends. Scathach, Prometheus, Palamedes, Shakespeare, Saint-Germain, and Joan of Arc are also on the island. And no one is sure what—or who—the twins will be fighting for. Today the battle for Danu Talis will be won or lost. But will the twins of legend stand together? Or will they stand apart— one to save the world and one to destroy it?-Goodreads

My Review:
What a great conclusion to an awesome series! I started reading The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel six years ago, and I have to say that this one was the best of all!

One of my favorite parts about this book was the plot! Michael Scott does a fabulous job of really wrapping things up and answering all the questions that were previously unsolved in earlier books! I also love how he was able to blend different types of mythologies together to make them all work. This book definitely has a lot of action and suspense! Also, I love how the author was able to keep the reader on his/her toes and not know what was going to happen next! I will say that at times this book was a little bit confusing because their were so many different characters it was hard to keep track of them all! The twist at the end of the book I didn't see coming at all which was great because I love when unexpected things happen in books!

The two main characters, Josh and Sophie, really progress so much throughout this novel. They really balance each other out and you can see how much they care for each other. I do wish that we got to see a little bit more about what happens to both in the future (because this is the last book) and I was a little bit unsatisfied with the ending. Michael Scott also does a really great job of showing the progression of the other minor characters such as Scathach, Joan of Arc, Shakespeare and Saint-Germain. I really liked seeing how each character was able to grow from book to book. The other two main characters, Nicholas Flamel and his wife, Perenelle also were great in this book! I feel like I know them so well as characters because I have seen them grow throughout the series.

Overall, Michael Scott does a really great job of wrapping up this series! I am sad to say goodbye to The Secrets of The Immortal Nicholas Flamel series, but I am glad that this book ended with a bang! If you love different types of mythology, and action, this series is for you and I highly recommend that you check it out!!

My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

Dark Frost (Mythos Academy # 3) by Jennifer Estep

Name: Dark Frost (Mythos Academy # 3)
Author: Jennifer Estep
Publisher: Kensington
Release Date: May 29th, 2012
Format: E-Book ARC
Pre-Order the book on Amazon

Thank you Netgalley and Kensington for sending me a copy of this book for review!!

I’ve seen so many freaky things since I started attending Mythos Academy last fall. I know I’m supposed to be a fearless warrior, but most of the time, I feel like I’m just waiting for the next Bad, Bad Thing to happen. Like someone trying to kill me—again.
Everyone at Mythos Academy knows me as Gwen Frost, the Gypsy girl who uses her psychometry magic to find lost objects—and who just may be dating Logan Quinn, the hottest guy in school. But I’m also the girl the Reapers of Chaos want dead in the worst way. The Reapers are the baddest of the bad, the people who murdered my mom. So why do they have it in for me? 
It turns out my mom hid a powerful artifact called the Helheim Dagger before she died. Now, the Reapers will do anything to get it back. They think I know where the dagger is hidden, but this is one thing I can’t use my magic to find. All I do know is that the Reapers are coming for me—and I’m in for the fight of my life.-Goodreads

My Review:
After reading a Kiss of Frost and getting totally hooked on this series a few weeks ago..I knew that I had to read the third book! Definitely a great addition to an already awesome series!

One of my favorite parts of this book was the plot!! Jennifer Estep does a really great job of weaving an amazing story..with new characters and lots of intrigue! I was on the edge of my seat reading this book..not knowing what would happen next. I really liked that this book was action packed and didn't spend a whole lot of time explaining different mythologies and details, and instead really showed what was going on. The action and fight scenes in this book were awesome! I really liked reading also about the development of Gwen's powers as well.

I also really liked the progression of the main character Gwen! Of course she's still her sarcastic, determined self, but she really becomes a strong person. I really liked seeing her growth as a character and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!! I also loved the development of her relationship with Logan!! The romance in this book definitely heats up..and I really like how Jennifer Estep incorporated it into Dark Frost! It was the perfect amount.

Overall, this was a great third book to a really enjoyable series!! After leaving us on a cliffhanger at the end of this book, I can't wait to see what's in store next!!


My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

Dreamless (Starcrossed # 2) by Josephine Angelini Review

Name: Dreamless (Starcrossed # 2)
Author: Josephine Angelini
Publisher: HarperTeen
Format: ARC
Release Date: May 29th, 2012
Pre-Order the book on Amazon

Thank you HarperTeen for sending me a copy of Dreamless for review!!

Helen needs to get through hell in two ways: by night they reflected the underworld, even worse torments her day that Lucas and they may possibly love. In the underworld, Helen meets Orion. The more time they spend together, the closer they come to. Then something totally unexpected happens, the forces calculated for holding and Lucas Orion: The four houses are combined and Scion, a new Trojan war seems inevitable!-Goodreads

My Review:
After falling in love with this series after reading the first book, I was super excited to get my hands on a copy of Dreamless! Once this book arrived, I could not put it down, and I found myself staying up so late at night, because I had to know what happened next! Needless to say, this book definitely didn't disappoint and was a fabulous followup to an awesome series!

One of the main things that I loved about Dreamless was that it had a lot more action than the first book in the series. The scenes with the fighting and the battles were awesome! It was great to see Helen actually use her different powers and see her in action a lot more. Of course, I loved seeing Lucas, Hector, Jason and Adriane fight as well..and also Claire and Matt too!! The plot of Dreamless definitely wasn't too slow or too fast and Josephine Angelini does a really great job of keeping the plot moving without the book moving so fast that we have no idea what is going on. I also loved reading about the scenes in the Underworld when Helen is trying to accomplish her mission. Josephine Angelini really creates a place that I can imagine in my head while I'm reading this book.

Now onto my other favorite part about Dreamless...the characters! In this book, I really saw Helen develop so much as a character. She becomes so much more independent and willing to fight. She really is a courageous character and is willing to sacrifice herself for those that she loves. I really love that she is such a caring girl, and just wants to make things better for her friends and her family. Now onto Lucas....one of my favorite boys! We also see a huge change in Lucas from the first book. No longer do we see the outgoing, friendly boy, but we see a shadow of his former self. (Spoiler Alert for those who have not read the first book) Lucas (and Helen!) is crushed after learning that Helen is his cousin and he tries so desperately to stay away from her, no matter what the cost. I will say that I really liked seeing this darker side of Lucas, but it was also nice to see moments where he really came out and shined as a hero.

When I first read the summary of this book, I had no idea who Orion was/what he would be doing in the book. After reading Dreamless, I have to say that Orion easily has become one of my favorite characters! He is really brave, and super strong, but he also has an awesome sense of humor that really balances Helen out. He really is a great partner for Helen to have in the underworld and they really do make a great team! I was really worried about their being a love triangle because I'm not the biggest fans of them, but Josephine Angelini does a great job of straying away from the "typical" love triangle scenarios and makes this one work in a way that I really liked! I really didn't feel that I was rooting for one guy over the other. What I felt was that Helen needs both boys because they both balance her out and I really can see how she is torn between the two!

The introduction of a bunch of new characters including a bunch of minor gods and a few major ones as well! I really liked seeing a whole different group of characters included in this book, especially since I love reading about Greek mythology! These new characters definitely make the plot really stand out, and I found myself keep re-reading scenes with these characters in them because I liked them so much!

Overall, Dreamless is an AMAZING followup to an already awesome series!! This book has action, suspense, and romance, and of course Greek mythology! I can't wait to read the third book in this series and make sure to pick up a copy of Dreamless when it comes out on May 29th!!

My Rating: Five out of Five Stars

Kiss of Frost (Mythos Academy # 2) by Jennifer Estep Review

Name: Kiss of Frost (Mythos Academy # 2)
Author: Jennifer Estep
Publisher: Kensington
Release Date: November 29th, 2011
Format: Book from the Library
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I’m Gwen Frost, a second-year warrior-in-training at Mythos Acad­emy, and I have no idea how I’m going to sur­vive the rest of the semes­ter. One day, I’m get­ting schooled in sword­play by the guy who broke my heart—the drop-dead gor­geous Logan who slays me every time. Then, an invis­i­ble archer in the Library of Antiq­ui­ties decides to use me for tar­get prac­tice. And now, I find out that some­one at the acad­emy is really a Reaper bad guy who wants me dead. I’m afraid if I don’t learn how to live by the sword—with Logan’s help—I just might die by the sword...-Goodreads

My Review:
After reading a Touch of Frost a few weeks ago..I knew that I had to read the second book!! Once I got Kiss of Frost from the library I could not put this book down!! Definitely a great sequel to an awesome series!!

One of my favorite parts of this book was the plot!! Jennifer Estep does a really great job of weaving an amazing story..with new characters and lots of intrigue! I was on the edge of my seat reading this book..not knowing what would happen next. I really liked that this book was action packed and didn't spend a whole lot of time explaining different mythologies and details, and instead really showed what was going on.

I also really liked the progression of the main character Gwen! Of course she's still her sarcastic, determined self, but she really becomes a strong person. I really liked seeing her growth as a character and I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!! I also loved the development of her relationship with Logan!! After not having a lot of romantic encounters in the last book, I really liked that there were a few more in this one and we got to see more of Logan!!

Overall, this was a great second book to a really enjoyable series!! I can't wait to read the next book!!

My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

Touch of Frost (Mythos Academy #1) by Jennifer Estep Review

Name: Touch of Frost
Author: Jennifer Estep
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corp.
Release Date: August 1st, 2011
Source: Local Library
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My name is Gwen Frost, and I go to Mythos Academy—a school of myths, magic and warrior whiz kids, where even the lowliest geek knows how to chop off somebody's head with a sword and Logan Quinn, the hottest Spartan guy in school, also happens to be the deadliest.


But lately, things have been weird, even for Mythos. First, mean girl Jasmine Ashton was murdered in the Library of Antiquities. Then, someone stole the Bowl of Tears, a magical artifact that can be used to bring about the second Chaos War. You know, death, destruction and lots of other bad, bad things. Freaky stuff like this goes on all the time at Mythos, but I'm determined to find out who killed Jasmine and why—especially since I should have been the one who died. . .-Goodreads

My Review:
What a really fun read! I've had my eye on this book for awhile but I never got around to getting it from the library till last week!! I'm so glad I picked this one up to read!

One of my favorite parts about this book was the plot/mythology! I really liked how Jennifer Estep blended different mythologies together and made them all important instead of just focusing on one. I also really enjoyed how the plot wasn't too slow or too fast..and it kept me on my toes! I never knew what to expect and when I thought something might be happening something else happened instead which made me really like this book even more!! Also, I'm glad that this first book didn't really focus a lot on romance and instead gave the reader a better background of the different mythologies and mythos academy school.

I also really liked the main character, Gwen (otherwise known as Gypsy Girl)! She was a really great heroine in the story and I really liked her progression throughout the novel. She definitely is a relatable character which I really liked and I liked how she never changed who she was for anyone!

Overall, I really liked Touch of Frost and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!! If you like mythologies/boarding schools with paranormal aspects to it then you should definitely check this one out!!


My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

Pure by Jennifer L. Armentrout Review (Blog Tour Stop!!)

Hi everyone!! Today I am a part of the Pure Blog Tour Stop hosted by Stuck In Books!!
Check out my review below and don't forget to enter to win a copy of Pure (see giveaway on bottom)!!

Name: Pure
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Release Date: April 3rd, 2012
Pre-Order it on Amazon
Thank you Spencer Hill Press for sending me an ARC copy of this book!!

There is need. And then there is Fate...

Being destined to become some kind of supernatural electrical outlet isn't exactly awesome--especially when Alexandria's "other half" is everywhere she goes. Seth's in her training room, outside her classes, and keeps showing up in her bedroom--so not cool. Their connection does have some benefits, like staving off her nightmares of the tragic showdown with her mother, but it has no effect on what Alex feels for the forbidden, pure-blooded Aiden. Or what he will do--and sacrifice--for her.

When daimons infiltrate the Covenants and attack students, the gods send furies--lesser gods determined to eradicate any threat to the Covenants and to the gods, and that includes the Apollyon... and Alex. And if that and hordes of aether-sucking monsters didn't blow bad enough, a mysterious threat seems willing to do anything to neutralize Seth, even if that means forcing Alex into servitude... or killing her.

When the gods are involved, some decisions can never, ever be undone.-Goodreads

My Review:
When thinking about a word that came to mind to describe how I felt once I finished Pure, I would have to go with AMAZING. I was a little bit unsure at first how much I would like Pure, especially since sometimes the second book in some series have been disappointing to me..but this book definitely didn't disappoint!!

Of course, one of my favorite parts about this book was the plot!! I was immediately swept back into the world of Alex, Seth, and Aiden, and I couldn't put this book down! It was really fun to read about Alex training more at the covenant and seeing her progress with her skills! I also liked learning a little bit more about the daimons and also learning about new mythology in this book. I also liked how Jennifer L. Armentrout was able to make the mythology her own, and take a new spin on greek mythology instead of following the original formula and I like seeing different twists on classic myths.

Another aspect of this book which I loved was the romance!! Usually I'm not a huge fan of love triangles/forbidden romances but Jennifer L. Armentrout really made it work so it didn't seem like a love triangle at all. (spoiler alert if you haven't read the first book) I really loved both of Alex's relationship's with Aiden and Seth. With Seth, it's a lot more unpredictable and wild, but with Aiden it feels very passionate and caring. I know that I can't decide which boy I like more..both are great guys in their own way!!

Their were definitely many moments in this book that I didn't see coming at all which was really nice. I like to be kept on my toes when I'm reading a book and I really liked how Jennifer L. Armentrout was able to keep the plot suspenseful. Pure definitely was an emotional ride, some moments I was laughing and other moments I was about to cry. These are the books that I really love and feel that I can really get into and enjoy.

Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was the main character Alex! She is a really great, strong willed character. I like how she is able to stand up for herself but is also really real and relatable to a regular teenage girl.


Overall, I really enjoyed Pure, just as much as I loved Half-Blood!! I highly recommend this book to fans of Greek Mythology, and people who want a great paranormal read! I can't wait to read the next book in the series, Deity, which will be published in the fall.

My Rating: Five out of Five Stars


Giveaway Time!
To gain an entry in either or both of the tour giveaways for Pure, leave a comment here letting me know whether you are Team Aiden or Team Seth and why (I gotta say that I love both of them equally :)). Then go to StuckInBooks and/or A Cupcake and a Latte with this link to complete you entry.
Make sure to check out the rest of the tour stops at this link and use the hashtag #PureTourJLA on twitter.

Oppression (Children of the Gods # 1) by Jessica Therrien Review

Name: Oppression
Author: Jessica Therrien
Publisher: ZOVA books
Release Date: February 28th, 2012
Buy the Book on Amazon

Elyse knows what it means to keep a secret. She's been keeping secrets her whole life. Two, actually. First, that she ages five times slower than the average person, so that while she looks eighteen years old, she's closer to eighty. Second, that her blood has a mysterious power to heal. For Elyse, these things don't make her special. They make life dangerous. After the death of her parents, she's been careful to keep her secret as closely guarded as possible. Now, only one other person in the world knows about her age and ability. Or so she thinks. Elyse is not the only one keeping secrets. There are others like her all over the world, descendants of the very people the Greeks considered gods. She is one of them, and they have been waiting for her for a long time. Among so many of her kind, she should not be very remarkable--except for the prophecy. Some believe she will put an end to traditions, safeguarded by violence, which have oppressed her people for centuries. Others are determined to keep her from doing just that. But for Elyse, the game is just beginning--and she's not entirely willing to play by their rules.-Goodreads

My Review:
Overall, I really enjoyed Oppression!! I wasn't sure what to expect when I first picked it up. I am a huge fan of Greek mythology books so that definitely caught my eye when I first heard about this book.

One of my favorite parts about this book was the plot! I really liked this new take on Greek mythology..it is very original and I really enjoyed seeing it in a different light! The plot also was the perfect pace for me, not too fast and not too slow. It was easy to follow along with and I found myself really enjoying the different plot twists that came along with this book!

I also really liked the main character in this book, Elyse! She is a very likable character and she is willing to do anything to help her friends which I really liked seeing. I also liked that she didn't really know who she was at the beginning of the book and it was interesting to see her learn about herself as the reader learned as well!

In the end, I really enjoyed this book and I definitely would recommend it to Greek mythology fans out there or people who are looking for a new read! I can't wait for the next book in the series!

My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

Goddess Interrupted (Goddess Test #2) by Aimee Carter Review

Thank you Harlequin Teen and Netgalley for giving me an ARC copy of Goddess Interrupted!!

Name: Goddess Interrupted
Author: Aimee Carter
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Release Date: March 27th, 2012
Pre-Order it on Amazon

Kate Winters has won immortality.
But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.

Henry’s first wife, Persephone.-Goodreads

My Review:
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I picked up Goddess Interrupted. After being blown away by The Goddess Test, I was really excited about reading this one..but I was a little bit nervous about not loving it as much as the first! Of course this book definitely didn't disappoint and immediately I was drawn into the story!

One of my favorite parts of Goddess Interrupted was the plot! It was very action packed and there were definitely no dull moments for sure! The introduction of Persephone was also fun to read about as well. After learning so much about her from the previous book, I was hoping we would finally be able to meet her! I really liked reading the scenes that Persephone was in and seeing her interact with Kate also was really fun to read about!

Of course this book made me like the main character, Kate, even more! She really shined as a character for me and I really enjoyed seeing her progress as a character throughout this book (and through the first one!). She is really willing to fight for what she believes in and is never willing to give up!

The only part of this book that disappointed me was Kate's relationship with Henry. I really thought that they would have more scenes together and we would be able to see their relationship grow, but sadly that didn't really happen towards the end of the book. I really wished that we could have seen more of Henry in this book..especially with Kate! There were definitely some moments where I was really frustrated with Henry..especially for the lack of relationship he had with Kate..but by the end things had turned around and my feelings of frustration drifted away :)

Overall, I HIGHLY recommend The Goddess Test series..especially if you love greek mythology!! I can't wait for the next book in the series..especially with the awesome cliffhanger we were left with at the end!


My Rating: Four out of Five Stars

The Dig (Zoe and Zeus Trilogy #1) by Audrey Hart Review

Name: The Dig (Zoe and Zeus Trilogy #1)
Publisher: Backlit Fiction
Release Date: November 7th, 2011

Thanks to Backlit Fiction and Audrey Hart for giving  me review this book in exchange for an honest review!

Zoe Calder has always been an outsider. Stashed away in boarding schools since her parents died, Zoe buries herself in the study of ancient worlds. Her greatest thrill is spending her summers with her archeologist aunt and uncle on digs around the world. And one day, while investigating a newly unearthed temple in Crete, Zoe discovers a luminous artifact that transports her to ancient Greece.

As Zoe quickly learns, the Olympian Gods are real, living people—humans with mysterious powers… Powers that Zoe quickly realizes she has come to possess, as well. However, when the people of ancient Greece mistake Zoe for an Olympian, the Gods must restore the balance of the ancient world… No matter what.

Zoe is forced to play a confusing and dangerous game as Hera rallies the gods against her—all except for Zeus, the beautiful, winged young god who risks everything to save her.

Out of time and out of her element, teenager Zoe Calder finds herself in ancient Greece, battling against the power of the Olympians and the vengeance of a scorned goddess—all for the strange and mysterious boy she has come to love.-Goodreads

My Review:
What an awesome interpretation of Greek mythology!! As it is already known, one my favorite subjects to read is Greek mythology! This novel definitely stands out in the many Greek mythology books that I have read and I highly recommend!

One of my favorite parts of this book was the plot! It was very unique and It was fun to read about Zoe, a strong willed character, and see how she reacts when she goes back in time! I also really liked the archaeological component to this book! It was really fun to read about digs and uncovering artifacts!

Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was Zoe interacted with the different Greek g-ds! I really liked Ms. Hart's take on the g-ds and show them in a different light then they are normally seen!

Overall, this book was a really fun read and I am looking forward to the second book in this series!

My Rating: Five out of Five Stars