Rabid: A Cultural History of the World's Most Diabolical Virus

Rabid: A Cultural History of the World's Most Diabolical Virus is by Bill Wasik and Monica Murphy.

An engrossing, lively history of a fearsome and misunderstood virus that binds man and dog. The most fatal virus known to science, rabies — a disease that spreads avidly from animals to humans — kills nearly one hundred percent of its victims once the infection takes root in the brain. In this critically acclaimed exploration, journalist Bill Wasik and veterinarian Monica Murphy chart four thousand years of the history, science, and cultural mythology of rabies. From Greek myths to zombie flicks, from the laboratory heroics of Louis Pasteur to the contemporary search for a lifesaving treatment, Rabid is a fresh and often wildly entertaining look at one of humankind’s oldest and most fearsome foes.

The Breakdown:
1. I know this a departure from the usual books I read.  I am doing a Summer Reading Challenge from my favorite bookstore, Little Shoppe of Stories in Decatur, GA.  I chose this book for the non-fiction science read.  I have actually read quite a few books like this in the past, and it was nice to read a new book on the epidemiology of a disease.

2.  There is some interesting history behind Rabies as a disease.  It really is the first identified zoonotic disease.  Even before germ theory was ever created, people realized that this disease was passed from rabid dogs. 

3.  I loved learning about Pasteur's processes for developing the vaccine and what it meant to the world as a whole. Plus, it was interesting to read about how modern doctors are attempting to treat those with clinical cases and the theories behind why the few have survived did it.

4. I will say one of the most interesting things to me was the idea that Rabies gave rise to some horror legends, like vampires and werewolves.  Plus the idea that it is partially responsible for the idea of zombies.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: Anansi Boys

 

Anansi Boys is written by Neil Gaiman and is narrated by Lenny Henry and is the second novel of the American Gods series.

God is dead. Meet the kids.

Fat Charlie Nancy's normal life ended the moment his father dropped dead on a Florida karaoke stage. Charlie didn't know his dad was a god. And he never knew he had a brother. 

Now brother Spider's on his doorstep -- about to make Fat Charlie's life more interesting... and a lot more dangerous.

The Breakdown:
1. This book is a follow up to American Gods, and deals with the family of my favorite character from that series, Mr. Nancy.  I love Gaiman's characters so much.  They are always interesting, and the story is so beautifully written.

2. I loved the dichotomy between Charlie and Spider. Charlie so straight laced, and Spider is all the rules were made to be broken kind of guy . It was interesting to learn about their past and why Charlie could not remember Spider being his brother. Plus, I loved seeing them really start working together

3.  I enjoyed who Gaiman is able to bring all the story lines together.  He sets so many in motion and it is amazing to see how it all ends up coming together.  Even bringing in Anansi's past and tales of old just make sense with the whole story.

4. I just want to take a minute to talk about how wonderful the Lenny Henry was a a narrator.  He breaths so much life into every character.  He does such a beautiful job with the reading that I really did not want it to end.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

To Kill a Kingdom

To Kill a Kingdom is by Alexandra Christo.

Princess Lira is siren royalty and the most lethal of them all. With the hearts of seventeen princes in her collection, she is revered across the sea. Until a twist of fate forces her to kill one of her own. To punish her daughter, the Sea Queen transforms Lira into the one thing they loathe most—a human. Robbed of her song, Lira has until the winter solstice to deliver Prince Elian’s heart to the Sea Queen or remain a human forever.

The ocean is the only place Prince Elian calls home, even though he is heir to the most powerful kingdom in the world. Hunting sirens is more than an unsavory hobby—it’s his calling. When he rescues a drowning woman in the ocean, she’s more than what she appears. She promises to help him find the key to destroying all of sirenkind for good—But can he trust her? And just how many deals will Elian have to barter to eliminate mankind’s greatest enemy?

The Breakdown:
1. I am sorry that I am so very behind on updating my reviews.  I will endevour to do better, but no promises.  That being said on the To Kill a Kingdom review.  This book is a little bit of a dark re-imagined version of the Little Mermaid.   To be clear, Lira is a siren, not a mermaid, which Christo makes a definitive separation between the do.  Mermaids are much more fish like than sirens.  In this story, there is an ages old war between humans and sirens, and both the main characters are at the forefront of this struggle.

2.  I find Lira an interesting character.  While is not an entirely likable character, especially in the beginning.  She is fiercely loyal to her cousin, and is trying her best to survive her mother, the Sea Queen's reign, until she inherits the throne. She shows to be very smart on when thinking on her feet.  She also learns what it means to have true friends with Elian and his crew.  I really ended up liking her at the end.

3. Elian is a crown prince who has no desire to rule.  He is a sailor and a warrior.  He is deadly when it comes to sirens, and is quite good at strategy.  I also found the banter between him and Lira to entertaining.  I am a little bothered by his name because my brain keeps wanting to see it as Elain, which is a female name.

4.  This book definitely kept me on my toes.  It had lots of twist and turns, crosses and double-crosses.  Plus, I really liked the ending, and found a stand alone fantasy novel refreshing.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: The Beauty of Darkness

The Beauty of Darkness is written by Mary E. Pearson and narrated by Emily Rankin, Ryan Gesell, Kirby Heyborn, Kim Mai Guest and Ann Marie Lee and is the the last book of The Remnant Chronicles.

Lia has survived Venda—but so has a great evil bent on the destruction of Morrighan. And only Lia can stop it.

With war on the horizon, Lia has no choice but to assume her role as First Daughter, as soldier—as leader. While she struggles to reach Morrighan and warn them, she finds herself at cross-purposes with Rafe and suspicious of Kaden, who has hunted her down.

In this conclusion to the Remnant Chronicles trilogy, traitors must be rooted out, sacrifices must be made, and impossible odds must be overcome as the future of every kingdom hangs in the balance.

The Breakdown:
1.  I put off reading this book for a long time due worry that I would be disappointed in the ending because of some of the reviews I read of the book.  I am happy to announce that I was not disappointed with it.   I thought the ending made sense with where Pearson was going with the story.

2.  I rather liked Lia's character development in the story.  She begins begins to really accept a leadership role and take steps to stop the Komizar's plans.   She proves herself to be an effective leader.  Although I am disappointed by the turn that her and Rafe's relationship takes.

3.   I get irrationally angry at Rafe for a most of the middle of the book.  He just does not get were Lia is coming from and belittles her fears.  I know that he is trying to do what is right for his country, but he should respect her more.  He does redeem himself at the end.

4.  I really loved Kaden in this book.  He really grows into his role and accepts who he is and where he has come from.  Plus, I liked the growing relationship between him and Pauline.  Plus, learning more about his father was quite enlightening.

5.  I was pleased with this book overall.  It did drag a bit in the middle,  but I enjoyed the ending. 

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

The Cruel Prince

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is the first of The Folk of the Air series.

Of course I want to be like them. They’re beautiful as blades forged in some divine fire. They will live forever.

And Cardan is even more beautiful than the rest. I hate him more than all the others. I hate him so much that sometimes when I look at him, I can hardly breathe.

Jude was seven when her parents were murdered and she and her two sisters were stolen away to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie. Ten years later, Jude wants nothing more than to belong there, despite her mortality. But many of the fey despise humans. Especially Prince Cardan, the youngest and wickedest son of the High King.

To win a place at the Court, she must defy him–and face the consequences.

As Jude becomes more deeply embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions, she discovers her own capacity for trickery and bloodshed. But as betrayal threatens to drown the Courts of Faerie in violence, Jude will need to risk her life in a dangerous alliance to save her sisters, and Faerie itself.

The Breakdown:
1. It is has been some time since I read a good deceptive Faerie novel.  This is an excellent example novel of why not to trust the Faeries. There are so many schemes going on in this novel, it is hard to keep up with who is with who and who is backstabbing who. 

2. Speaking of which, Jude is a human who has spent most of her life in the realm of the Fae.  She has had to learn to be smart and brutal in order to make her way.  She also shows that maybe you should not trust humans raised by Fae either.

3.  So interestingly to me, is that it is inferred that Cruel Prince refers to Cardan, but as the book progress he does not seem nearly as cruel as his brothers.  He is not a nice guy but, he, also, does not seem to have this great hidden agenda.  Plus,  he has had a very rough life, so it is no surprise he has some issues.

4. Holy Moley, that ending!  There was so much craziness happening and so much backstabbing.  It was amazing the plan that Jude brought together and cannot wait to see how things play out in the next book.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

The Belles

The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton and is the first of the series of the same name.

Camellia Beauregard is a Belle. In the opulent world of Orléans, Belles are revered, for they control Beauty, and Beauty is a commodity coveted above all else. In Orléans, the people are born gray, they are born damned, and only with the help of a Belle and her talents can they transform and be made beautiful.

But it’s not enough for Camellia to be just a Belle. She wants to be the favorite—the Belle chosen by the Queen of Orléans to live in the royal palace, to tend to the royal family and their court, to be recognized as the most talented Belle in the land. But once Camellia and her Belle sisters arrive at court, it becomes clear that being the favorite is not everything she always dreamed it would be. Behind the gilded palace walls live dark secrets, and Camellia soon learns that the very essence of her existence is a lie—that her powers are far greater, and could be more dangerous, than she ever imagined. And when the queen asks Camellia to risk her own life and help the ailing princess by using Belle powers in unintended ways, Camellia now faces an impossible decision. 

With the future of Orléans and its people at stake, Camellia must decide—save herself and her sisters and the way of the Belles—or resuscitate the princess, risk her own life, and change the ways of her world forever. 

The Breakdown:
1. I was excited about this book.  There is so much potential in the summary, but in the end, it just did not live up to all the hype.   The world building felt a lot previous books' world smashed together, like Amy Ewing's The Lone City and the Capital from Hunger Games.   

2. Clayton has such a wonderful idea with showcasing how societies try to hide the evils of slavery with beauty.  She had a lot of interesting points made during the story, but did not take the time to flesh them out.  It felt like she was trying to nail down every little detail instead of really developing the important details.

3.  I honestly was not a big fan of Camellia.  She is all like Amber is my bestie but as soon as she gets what I wanted, even though I broke the rules, I am angry at her.  Plus, no big deal when I steal her job.   I did respect the way she treated the servants, and I did want more of her pushing  people to be a little more natural in their looks.

4. I disliked Auguste, the "love" interest from the very start.  He always just seemed a little off, a little too much like he was running a con on Camellia than really interested in her affections.  I was really cheering for her personal guard and her to have a thing. 

5.  I will say this, that Clayton has come up with an absolutely terrifying antagonist in Princess Sophie.  She is definitely a psychopath, and her mood swings are beyond frightening.

6.   I will say that I am intrigued enough by the ending to continue with the series at least into the second book.  I am hoping that Clayton can fix some of the problems from this book and make a great series.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read, because I think there is still potential here.

Audiobook: Carry On

Carry On is written by Rainbow Rowell and narrated by Euan Morton.

Simon Snow is the worst Chosen One who's ever been chosen.

That's what his roommate, Baz, says. And Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he's probably right.

Half the time, Simon can't even make his wand work, and the other half, he starts something on fire. His mentor's avoiding him, his girlfriend broke up with him, and there's a magic-eating monster running around, wearing Simon's face. Baz would be having a field day with all this, if he were here — it's their last year at the Watford School of Magicks, and Simon's infuriating nemesis didn't even bother to show up.

The Breakdown:
1. I decided on this book because my favorite Harry Potter podcast, Witch Please, does an episode on the book. Full disclaimer, I did not read Fangirl before reading this book.   Okay, now with those out of the way on to the meat of the review.

2. While I did enjoy the book, it does strongly feel like a Drarry (Draco-Harry) fanfiction, only the names changed to protect the innocent.  I do like that it is written from several characters perspectives and not just Simon's.   I, also, very much enjoyed Morton as the narrated.  He did a fantastic job of giving each character their own voice.

3. I just want to talk about how amazing Simon and Penny's friendship is.  There is absolutely no romantic undertones, yea!, and the lengths they go to to help each other is amazing.  I love that Penny wants nothing more than to save Simon, and is willing to uproot her life to make sure he is okay.

4.  Baz is probably my favorite character.  I kind of love his sarcasm and that boy definitely has style. I am sad there was not more Baz-Simon kissing scenes.

5. It does bother me that as the reader we know who Simon's parents are and why he is so powerful, but Simon never discovers this.  He never learns that he has a mother that loved him, and others never learn of Lucy and her fate. Oh, and for the record, I disliked The Mage from the beginning.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Legion

Legion by Julie Kagawa is the third book in the Talon Saga.

The legions are about to be unleashed, and no human, rogue dragon or former dragon slayer can stand against the coming horde.

Dragon hatchling Ember Hill was never prepared to find love at all--dragons do not suffer human emotions--let alone the love of a human and a former dragonslayer, at that. With ex-soldier Garret dying at her feet after sacrificing his freedom and his life to expose the deepest of betrayals, Ember knows only that nothing she was taught by dragon organization Talon is true. About humans, about rogue dragons, about herself and what she's capable of doing and feeling.

In the face of great loss, Ember vows to stand with rogue dragon Riley against the dragon-slaying Order of St. George and her own twin brother Dante--the heir apparent to all of Talon, and the boy who will soon unleash the greatest threat and terror dragonkind has ever known.

Talon is poised to take over the world, and the abominations they have created will soon take to the skies, darkening the world with the promise of blood and death to those who refuse to yield.

The Breakdown:
1. I put off reading this book for almost a year.  It really has been sitting on my shelf since it came out.  I as just worried about the fate of Garret, but quick spoiler that happens in the first chapter, Garret lives.   So this book picks up right where Soldier  ended.  This book also gives more Dante chapters than the previous books.

2.  Kagawa uses is book to set up for the ending of the series.  In this book, Kagawa reveals not only Talon's plans in this book, but why the Elder Wyrm wants Ember so badly.

3. So, I just need a minute to talk about Garrett's near death at the beginning.  I was dying a little on the inside as Ember held him crying.  Then, when Riley stepped in to save him, wow, I was a little amazed.  That leads to so interesting results with Garrett as the book progresses.

4.  Ember has some interesting developments in this story.  She finally comes to terms with her dragon.  Both the girl and the dragon declaring their loved for Garrett. And now, they are not fighting each other for control. 

5.   I interested to see where Kagawa is going to take the series finale.  One thing is I wonder what side Dante will landed on in the end.  There is so much going on that he still does not understand about Talon.  Plus there are hints of a war possibly brewing within Talon itself.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

A Court of Frost and Starlight

A Court of Frost and Starligh by Sarah J. Maas is the newest story from the A Court of Thorns and Roses series.

The Winter Solstice. In a week. I was still new enough to being High Lady that I had no idea what my formal role was to be. If we'd have a High Priestess do some odious ceremony, as lanthe had done the year before. A year. Gods, nearly a year since Rhys had called in his bargain, desperate to get me away from the poison of the Spring Court to save me from my despair. Had he been only a minute later, the Mother knew what would have happened. Where I'd now be. Snow swirled and eddied in the garden, catching in the brown fibers of the burlap covering the shrubs My mate who had worked so hard and so selflessly, all without hope that I would ever be with him We had both fought for that love, bled for it. Rhys had died for it. 

The Breakdown:
1. Anyone who reads this blog knows I am a huge SJM fan, and this is my favorite series.  This story, not quite a novel but a little long to be a novella,  not only gives a glimpse of our favorite Court of Dreams post Hybern war, but also is setting up for the next part of the series that is going to focus on the Court members other than Feyre and Rhysand.

2.  I may have squealed with excitement to see Cassian get his own chapters.  I loved getting more of him and his back story about his mom.  I love him so much, I named my Bassett Hound after him, and this book proved I named my dog after the right character.  There is a section of a chapter were he brings pine boughs and leaves them on the floor of Feyre and Rhys's home, and my dog loves to bring in pine branches to my living room.

3.   I love that this story shows just because the war is over does not mean everything is perfect.  There are still struggles to deal with, and that people have wounds that still need to heal even if they are not visible.

4.  There is so much to love about this story.  The start of healing.  The hints on the next stories.  And more importantly, SJM finally gives us the much promised wall scene, so hot!

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

Midnight at the Electric

Midnight at the Electric is by Jodi Lynn Anderson.

Kansas, 2065. Adri has secured a slot as a Colonist—one of the lucky few handpicked to live on Mars. But weeks before launch, she discovers the journal of a girl who lived in her house over a hundred years ago, and is immediately drawn into the mystery surrounding her fate. While Adri knows she must focus on the mission ahead, she becomes captivated by a life that’s been lost in time…and how it might be inextricably tied to her own. 

Oklahoma, 1934. Amidst the fear and uncertainty of the Dust Bowl, Catherine fantasizes about her family’s farmhand, and longs for the immortality promised by a professor at a traveling show called the Electric. But as her family’s situation becomes more dire—and the suffocating dust threatens her sister’s life—Catherine must find the courage to sacrifice everything she loves in order to save the one person she loves most. 

England, 1919. In the recovery following the First World War, Lenore struggles with her grief for her brother, a fallen British soldier, and plans to sail to America in pursuit of a childhood friend. But even if she makes it that far, will her friend be the person she remembers, and the one who can bring her back to herself? 

While their stories spans thousands of miles and multiple generations, Lenore, Catherine, and Adri’s fates are entwined.

The Breakdown:
1. I was fascinated with the concept of this book.  Multiple generations of women linked together.  In the end the story fell a little short to me.  By time the book was finished, I felt that overall the Anderson was grasping to tie the characters fate together.

2.  I did like that each of the women was very distinct in their personality, and I liked each of their stories individually.  I think that I liked Lenore's story the best.  Plus, her tie to Catherine was much stronger than Catherine or her tie to Adri's. 

3.  I think my favorite part of Adri's story is her developing relationship with her long lost cousin, Lily.  Despite large age difference, they work out a nice relationship.  I like that Lily accepts Adri for who she is and does not try to change her, but still calls her out when she is being harsh.

4.  While I enjoyed the individual stories of the characters, I felt the overall tie between them was very weak.  When described as fates entwined, I want it to be a very strong connection.

To Read or Not to Read:
Skip

The Hazel Wood

The Hazel Wood is by Melissa Albert and is the first book of a series of the same name.

Seventeen-year-old Alice and her mother have spent most of Alice’s life on the road, always a step ahead of the uncanny bad luck biting at their heels. But when Alice’s grandmother, the reclusive author of a cult-classic book of pitch-dark fairy tales, dies alone on her estate, the Hazel Wood, Alice learns how bad her luck can really get: her mother is stolen away―by a figure who claims to come from the Hinterland, the cruel supernatural world where her grandmother's stories are set. Alice's only lead is the message her mother left behind: “Stay away from the Hazel Wood.”

Alice has long steered clear of her grandmother’s cultish fans. But now she has no choice but to ally with classmate Ellery Finch, a Hinterland superfan who may have his own reasons for wanting to help her. To retrieve her mother, Alice must venture first to the Hazel Wood, then into the world where her grandmother's tales began―and where she might find out how her own story went so wrong.

The Breakdown:
1. I was apparently on a creepy book kick because this was the book I picked after Before the Devil Breaks You.  There are some very creepy happenings in this book, and some seriously disturbing characters.

2. I have to be honest, I was not crazy about Alice.  I found her to be very abrasive and at times a little unstable.  I get that as the story progresses, it better explains why she can be like that, but it made it very hard to connect with her as a character.

3. I found Alice and Ellery's relationship to be strange.  At times it felt like Albert was trying to set a romance between them, but they did not seem to have much chemistry.  Other times it felt like a friendship or just two people who needed each other without really liking each other.  I just could not decide where that relationship was suppose to be going.

4. I did like the stories from Hinterland, despite how dark and creepy they are.  It reminded me of the original fairy tales before made kid friendly.  I would love to read a whole book of just those tales.  I also enjoyed the time in Hazel Wood and the secrets that Alice learns about herself and the stories.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read- because I have hopes that as the series continues it will get better.

Before the Devil Breaks You

Before the Devil Breaks You by Libba Bray is the third Diviners novel.

New York City.
1927.
Lights are bright.
Jazz is king.
Parties are wild.
And the dead are coming...

After battling a supernatural sleeping sickness that early claimed two of their own, the Diviners have had enough of lies. They're more determined than ever to uncover the mystery behind their extraordinary powers, even as they face off against an all-new terror. Out on Ward's Island, far from the city's bustle, sits a mental hospital haunted by the lost souls of people long forgotten--ghosts who have unusual and dangerous ties to the man in the stovepipe hat, also known as the King of Crows.

With terrible accounts of murder and possession flooding in from all over, and New York City on the verge of panic, the Diviners must band together and brave the sinister ghosts invading the asylum, a fight that will bring them fact-to-face with the King of Crows. But as the explosive secrets of the past come to light, loyalties and friendships will be tested, love will hang in the balance, and the Diviners will question all that they've ever known. All the while, malevolent forces gather from every corner in a battle for the very soul of a nation--a fight that could claim the Diviners themselves.

The Breakdown:
1. Bray gave me so many feelings in this book.  I went from laughing to crying, and so many, many times, totally creeped out by things in this book.  This definitely has some serious sleep with the lights on moments in this book.  And honestly, the ghost where not the scariest parts of this book, it was often the humans and their deeds that frightened me the most.

2. I love that this book gets deeper in the main characters back stories like Theta and Sam, along with Evie's dreams coming together.  I was especially intrigued by Theta's story.  Her life before New York, and her past coming back to haunt her.

3. I want to take a minute to talk about Jake Marlow, and how much I despise him.  He treats others horribly.  He discredits the Diviners, but also wants to use them for his own nefarious plans.  Oh, and it is definitely a "Make America Great Again" guy who basically whats to get rid of anyone who is not WASP in heritage.

4. I will admit that I find the King of Crows extremely creepy.  It makes it worse when it is revealed early in the book that he is created from humanities worse traits. 

5. There are some serious feels in this book.  I am not ashamed to admit that I cried at least once during my reading.  Also, when I started the book, I did not realize this was not the last book in the series.  I was getting stressed the closer I got to the end and the more I realize that there were not enough pages to wrap up the story.  I am now jonesing (is that still a term people use, or did I really date myself) for the next book.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

Starfish

Starfish is by Akemi Dawn Bowman.

Kiko Himura has always had a hard time saying exactly what she’s thinking. With a mother who makes her feel unremarkable and a half-Japanese heritage she doesn’t quite understand, Kiko prefers to keep her head down, certain that once she makes it into her dream art school, Prism, her real life will begin.

But then Kiko doesn’t get into Prism, at the same time her abusive uncle moves back in with her family. So when she receives an invitation from her childhood friend to leave her small town and tour art schools on the west coast, Kiko jumps at the opportunity in spite of the anxieties and fears that attempt to hold her back. And now that she is finally free to be her own person outside the constricting walls of her home life, Kiko learns life-changing truths about herself, her past, and how to be brave.

The Breakdown:
1. This book deals with some very heavy subject matters including sexual assault and an emotionally abusive parent.   If you can deal with the heavy subject matter, this is a beautifully written book.  I liked the story and the character development amazing.

2.   Kiko has one best character journeys.  She is the target of much of her mother's abuse and as a young girl was sexually assaulted by her uncle, which her mother refuses to believe.   I am so proud of her when she gets herself free from her mother.  I also like that while she likes a boy, she is determined to make  her own life without him to know that she can rely on herself.

3.   I pretty much adore Kiko's mentor in California.  He is what her parents should have been for her. 

4. I know this has nothing to do with the story, but I am disturbed by the fact that the book is Starfish, and the cover has a jellyfish.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: The Bear and the Nightingale

The Bear and the Nightingale is written by Katherine Arden and narrated by Kathleen Gati and is the first book of the Winternight trilogy.

At the edge of the Russian wilderness, winter lasts most of the year and the snowdrifts grow taller than houses. But Vasilisa doesn't mind--she spends the winter nights huddled around the embers of a fire with her beloved siblings, listening to her nurse's fairy tales. Above all, she loves the chilling story of Frost, the blue-eyed winter demon, who appears in the frigid night to claim unwary souls. Wise Russians fear him, her nurse says, and honor the spirits of house and yard and forest that protect their homes from evil.

After Vasilisa's mother dies, her father goes to Moscow and brings home a new wife. Fiercely devout, city-bred, Vasilisa's new stepmother forbids her family from honoring the household spirits. The family acquiesces, but Vasilisa is frightened, sensing that more hinges upon their rituals than anyone knows.

And indeed, crops begin to fail, evil creatures of the forest creep nearer, and misfortune stalks the village. All the while, Vasilisa's stepmother grows ever harsher in her determination to groom her rebellious stepdaughter for either marriage or confinement in a convent.

As danger circles, Vasilisa must defy even the people she loves and call on dangerous gifts she has long concealed--this, in order to protect her family from a threat that seems to have stepped from her nurse's most frightening tales.

The Breakdown:
1. So this book has a lot of critical acclaim, and I kind of have a love of Russian based or Russian influenced books.  I was disappointed with the book in general.  I book is very slow in building the story.   Plus, I listening on audiobook, I was not impressed with Gati as the narrator.   I found her reading when not doing the characters speaking to be very monotone.

2.  I found the character of Vasilisa to be a little meh.  I had no strong feelings for her either way.  I liked her the most with her interactions with the Winter King.

3. The thing I liked the best about this book is the household spirits and old gods, and the struggle between them and encroaching Christianity into the lives of the people.  I find the old traditions fascinating and the idea that things are lost when a new religion stamps them out.

4. I did enjoy the Winter King the most as a character.  I found him interesting and wished that he was in more of the book.  I especially liked his strange relationship with his horse, and how she seemed to part adviser to him.

5. In the end, I found the book overall boring.  I could not bring myself to really care about the characters and their fates.  I am not even bothering with the rest of the trilogy.

To Read or Not to Read:
Skip this one.

The Language of Thorns

The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic is by Leigh Bardugo and is a set of Grishaverse short stories.

Love speaks in flowers. Truth requires thorns.

Travel to a world of dark bargains struck by moonlight, of haunted towns and hungry woods, of talking beasts and gingerbread golems, where a young mermaid's voice can summon deadly storms and where a river might do a lovestruck boy's bidding but only for a terrible price.

Inspired by myth, fairy tale, and folklore, #1 New York Times–bestselling author Leigh Bardugo has crafted a deliciously atmospheric collection of short stories filled with betrayals, revenge, sacrifice, and love.

The Breakdown:
1. So this is actually going to be a fairly short review.  This book is a collection of stories/legends set in the Grisha-verse.  Some of the stories are recognizable in they are tells we have heard a version of before.

2. I think my favorite tale was The Soldier Prince.  It had deep ties to the Nutcracker story, but it did its own thing.  It was a far more interesting progression of the characters that the actually story of the Nutcracker.   I also really enjoyed When Water Sang Fire, which was basically Ursula from The Little Mermaid origin story.

3. One on the best things about this book was the gorgeous artwork that accompanied each story. The artwork starts in the margins of each story, and becomes more elaborate as it progresses and at the end of story has a full spread of the artwork.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Batman: Nightwalker

Batman: Nightwalker is by Marie Lu and is the second book of the DC icons series.

Before he was Batman, he was Bruce Wayne. A reckless boy willing to break the rules for a girl who may be his worst enemy.is b

The Nightwalkers are terrorizing Gotham City, and Bruce Wayne is next on their list.

One by one, the city's elites are being executed as their mansions' security systems turn against them, trapping them like prey. Meanwhile, Bruce is turning eighteen and about to inherit his family's fortune, not to mention the keys to Wayne Enterprises and all the tech gadgetry his heart could ever desire. But after a run-in with the police, he's forced to do community service at Arkham Asylum, the infamous prison that holds the city's most brutal criminals.

Madeleine Wallace is a brilliant killer . . . and Bruce's only hope.

In Arkham, Bruce meets Madeleine, a brilliant girl with ties to the Nightwalkers. What is she hiding? And why will she speak only to Bruce? Madeleine is the mystery Bruce must unravel. But is he getting her to divulge her secrets, or is he feeding her the information she needs to bring Gotham City to its knees? Bruce will walk the dark line between trust and betrayal as the Nightwalkers circle closer.

The Breakdown:
1. I promise I am trying to catch up in my reviews.  This is the second book of DC icons series.  Lu takes Bruce Wayne before he ever becomes The Batman.  She images his introduction to crime fighting in this book.   I love that there are many characters that we have met through the various Batman series that are seen in this book, even if it is not the way we know them in the series.

2.  In this book, Lu proves that Bruce has had a thing for the bad-girls from a young age.  His crush on Madeleine Wallace, one learns, is the first in a long line of bad girls that any fan of Batman knows.  It is interesting to see him shaping his moral compass and drawing lines about which to cross and which to not at his age.  Lu definitely does a great job of showing the Batman that will Bruce will become.

3.  Speaking of Madeleine, she is an intriguing character.  A definite bad girls as she is locked in Arkham for her crimes at a young age.  She is a girl with many secrets, and in a way like Bruce, with her own strange moral compass.

4. There is an interesting story line about the lines between the classes in Gotham and the hypocrites that make them.   I liked the story line and the characters, but I enjoyed first DC icons book, Wonderwoman: Warbringer  by Leigh Bardugo a little more.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: The Dark Calling

The Dark Calling is written by Kresely Cole and narrated by Emma Gavin and is the fifth book in The Arcana Chronicles.

In a world teetering on the edge . . .
When Evie receives life-changing—and possibly game-changing—news, she has trouble believing it. Why doesn’t she feel any different? Is it possible someone she trusts might be lying?

With enemies at every turn . . .
Tensions seethe inside the castle of lost time as Evie starts to doubt her own sanity. Answers can be found outside their stronghold, but will Death help her find them—or prevent her from learning the truth about her future and Jack’s possible survival?

Darkness beckons. 
A mysterious, sinister power begins to affect the Arcana in its path. Forced out into the wasteland alone, Evie must depend on unexpected allies. But as a battle with Richter looms, can her new alliance defeat the Dark Calling before hell reigns on earth?

The Breakdown:
1. First, apologies for being so behind in my reviews.  Next is a little warning about this review.  There are definitely major spoilers for the last book, and there will be a minor spoiler at the end for this book.  Also, at the very bottom, I will included a updated list of the Arcana, who is who and who is dead, so don't read if you don't want to know.  It will be below my to read or not to read section.

2.  I am so glad that Cole gets to the point of proving that Evie is not crazy.  She is definitely pregnant with Death's child.  It is amazing this things she goes through during this pregnancy during the book.  And her powers are still unpredictable during this book. 

3. I just want to do a little happy dance for Jack's return.   The way his cares for Evie and does everything to ensure her and the baby will provided for is so heart warming.  Plus the charisma he has is amazing, especially at winning other Arcana to his side despite being human.

4.   Speaking of other Arcana, we finally meet Kentarch in person.  He definitely has some serious issues with finding his missing wife.  Also loved getting to know Joules better in this book.  He maybe my favorite supporting character of the Arcana.  In other news in that world, Cole introduces the first suit of Minor Arcana in this book.  They are every bit as crazy as some of the Majors, with a little less power.

5.   You may have noticed not much mention of Death/Aric.  He gets his crazy flipped for much of this book due to The Hanged Man.  A card that reverses other cards.  While under his influence, he tries to kill Evie, and chases her out of the castle.

6. Okay, here is the spoiler for this book.  I was surprised with the Hanged Man was revealed.  I was not expecting to be Paul, the medic.  I thought he would be a Minor, but no idea that he was the hidden card.  Just blew my theories out of the water.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read



List of Arcana:
0. The Fool, Gamekeeper of Old- Matthew
I. The Magician, Master of Illusions- Finneas
II. The Priestess, Ruler of the Deep- Circe
III. The Empress, Our Lady of Thorns- Evie
IV. The Emperor, Stone Overlord- Richter
V. The Hierophant, He of the Dark Rites- Guthrie 
VI. The Lovers, Duke & Duchess Most Perverse- Vincent and Violet
VII. The Centurion, Wicked Champion- Kentarch
VIiI. Strength, Mistress of Fauna- Lark
IX. The Hermit, Master of Alchemy- Arthur
X. Fortune, Lady of Chance- Zara
XI. The Fury, She Who Harrows- Spite
XII. The Hanged Man, Our Lord Uncanny- Paul
XIII. Death, the Endless Knight- Aric
XIV. Temperance, Collectress of Sins- Calanthe
XV. The Devil, Foul Desecrator- Ogen
XVI. The Tower, Lord of Lightning- Joules
XVII. The Star, Arcane Navigator- Stellan
XVII. The Moon, Bringer of Doubt- Selena
XIX. The Sun, Hail the Glorious Illuminator-Sol
XX. Judgement, the Archangel- Gabriel
XXI. The World, The Unearthly One- Tess

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a play by J.K Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne.

It was always difficult being Harry Potter and it isn’t much easier now that he is an overworked employee of the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children.

While Harry grapples with a past that refuses to stay where it belongs, his youngest son Albus must struggle with the weight of a family legacy he never wanted. As past and present fuse ominously, both father and son learn the uncomfortable truth: sometimes, darkness comes from unexpected places.

The Breakdown:
1. First, this is a play, and it is written as a script for a play.  I have read many of complaints that it was not a novel, which it is never intended to be.  If you have the money and the time, you can even see the live play in London. That being said, it mostly composed of dialogue and some stage directions.   It does not give the reader descriptive settings or nuanced reactions because that would be up to the set and the actors to convey.   Although, I feel like the description is misleading.  This is far more about Albus than it is Harry.

2. I love the fact that Albus and Scorpius, Draco's son, are best friends in this.   It is interesting to see how different they are from their fathers, and somethings they are very much alike.  They definitely have a quirky and wonderful friendship.

3.  I just want to take a moment to talk about that Scorpius is the most amazing character.  He is funny and awkward at the same time.  Plus, his eternal hope that he will one day gain Rose Granger-Weasley's friendship and love. 

4. Then there is the character if Delphi.  She is strange and is definitely keeping some big secrets.  For me, there was just something sketchy about her from the beginning, the way she deflected questions, and no one else talked to her.

5. This play is proof that terrible things happen when wizards mess with time.  Albus and Scorpius reset the timeline several times, and they do some pretty big damage to it.

6.  I have to say now having read the play, I would really love to be able to see it in person.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: The Midnight Star

.The Midnight Star is written by Marie Lu and narrated by Lannon Killea and Carla Corvo and is the final book of the Young Elites series.

There was once a time when darkness shrouded the world, and the darkness had a queen.

Adelina Amouteru is done suffering. She’s turned her back on those who have betrayed her and achieved the ultimate revenge: victory. Her reign as the White Wolf has been a triumphant one, but with each conquest her cruelty only grows. The darkness within her has begun to spiral out of control, threatening to destroy all she’s gained.

When a new danger appears, Adelina’s forced to revisit old wounds, putting not only herself at risk, but every Elite. In order to preserve her empire, Adelina and her Roses must join the Daggers on a perilous quest—though this uneasy alliance may prove to be the real danger.

The Breakdown:
1.  This book opens about a year after the previous book ended.  Raffaele's predictions of what is happening to the Elites power is becoming more and more apparent in this book.   It is a little frightening what is happening to them and the world as the rift between the mortal realm and gods realm is opening.

2.  I just want to take a minute to talk about how horrible a queen Adelina is. She lets her resentment and rage rule her actions.  Instead promoting tolerance between the marked and unmarked, she instead begins punishing those who are not marked, fostering more resentment between the marked and unmarked.   She is always losing control of her illusions more and more.   I will say she does redeem herself at the end in a big way.

3.  I felt that the ending of this book was perfect for the series.  With Elites that have been enemies banding together to save the world. 

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

A Wrinkle in Time

A Wrinkle in Time is by Madeleine L'Engle and is the first her Time Quintet.

It was a dark and stormy night; Meg Murry, her small brother Charles Wallace, and her mother had come down to the kitchen for a midnight snack when they were upset by the arrival of a most disturbing stranger. 

"Wild nights are my glory," the unearthly stranger told them. "I just got caught in a downdraft and blown off course. Let me be on my way. Speaking of way, by the way, there is such a thing as a tesseract".

Meg's father had been experimenting with this fifth dimension of time travel when he mysteriously disappeared. Now the time has come for Meg, her friend Calvin, and Charles Wallace to rescue him. But can they outwit the forces of evil they will encounter on their heart-stopping journey through space?

The Breakdown:
1.  Many, many years ago I read this as a child in middle school.  I remember enjoying the book then.  It is always nice to re-visit old friends, even if you see things a little differently as an adult.  I do vividly remember the scene of the scene of the children bouncing the balls in sync on the planet they travel to from my first read of this book.

2.  I will say, reading this as an adult, I found that Meg had some super bratty moments.  She also is very stubborn, but that stubbornness really works for her.  One of the other things I picked up with her that is her realization that her father is human.   It is an important moment that every child has at some point.

3. Can I talk about my love of the Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which, and Aunt Beast?  I loved the uniqueness of each these characters.   The Mrs. have a brief but interesting origin story.   And Aunt Beast is just awesome.

4.  Then there is the IT which is super creepy.  A being that can override free will and force all things to conform to a certain way.  Nothing is scarier than that.

5.  I will say that I feel the ending happened very quickly, but I think that is partly due to this being the beginning of a series. But it is a great, quick read, and a wonderful way to introduce a child to the world of fantasy.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Goodbye Days

Goodbye Days is by Jeff Zentner.

What if you could spend one last day with someone you lost?

One day Carver Briggs had it all—three best friends, a supportive family, and a reputation as a talented writer at his high school, Nashville Academy for the Arts.

The next day he lost it all when he sent a simple text to his friend Mars, right before Mars, Eli, and Blake were killed in a car crash.

Now Carver can’t stop blaming himself for the accident, and he’s not the only one. Eli’s twin sister is trying to freeze him out of school with her death-ray stare. And Mars’s father, a powerful judge, is pressuring the district attorney to open a criminal investigation into Carver’s actions.

Luckily, Carver has some unexpected allies: Eli’s girlfriend, the only person to stand by him at school; Dr. Mendez, his new therapist; and Blake’s grandmother, who asks Carver to spend a Goodbye Day with her to share their memories and say a proper goodbye to his friend.

Soon the other families are asking for a Goodbye Day with Carver, but he’s unsure of their motives. Will they all be able to make peace with their losses, or will these Goodbye Days bring Carver one step closer to a complete breakdown or—even worse—prison? 

The Breakdown:
1.  I feel that I should start with a warning.  This book deals with a very heavy subject, and was very emotional for me.  On multiple occasions I found myself tearing up as I read.  That being said, Zentener is a fantastic writer with engaging characters and a story that makes the reader think.

2. Carver is a character laced with guilt and mourning for his best friends deaths.  He is amazingly talented character that is going thru the most difficult time in his life.   As he deals with his loses, he develops panic attacks, which is understandable since others and himself are blaming him as partially responsible for his friends' deaths.

3.  I think this book brings up an interesting point in the legal system.   Where does the blame fall in accident as a result of texting while driving?  Is it squarely on the driver, or  is there blame to the person texting if they know the person their texting is driving?  I think that Zentener brings up interesting points that I could see future ramifications in our legal system with.

4.  I loved the concept of Goodbye Days.  A last day doing things that you enjoyed doing with your deceased loved one to tell them goodbye.  It is both a little heartbreaking and a little healing.  It was interesting to see how each of Carver's friend's families treated these days and what their aims were.

5. One last thing, loved that Zentener had Dearly make a brief appearance in this book.  Very much enjoyed seeing Dill show up in this book, and how is music career has taken off.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

The Glass Spare

The Glass Spare by Lauren DeStefano is the first book of the series of the same name.

A banished princess.
A deadly curse.
A kingdom at war.

Wil Heidle, the only daughter of the king of the world’s wealthiest nation, has grown up in the shadows. Kept hidden from the world in order to serve as a spy for her father—whose obsession with building his empire is causing a war—Wil wants nothing more than to explore the world beyond her kingdom, if only her father would give her the chance.

Until one night Wil is attacked, and she discovers a dangerous secret. Her touch turns people into gemstone. At first Wil is horrified—but as she tests its limits, she’s drawn more and more to the strange and volatile ability. When it leads to tragedy, Wil is forced to face the destructive power within her and finally leave her home to seek the truth and a cure.

But finding the key to her redemption puts her in the path of a cursed prince who has his own ideas for what to do with her power.

With a world on the brink of war and a power of ultimate destruction, can Wil find a way to help the kingdom that’s turned its back on her, or will she betray her past and her family forever?

The Breakdown:
1. I am fascinated by the world that DeStefano has created in this series.   It is a strange mix of technology and magic.  There are curses placed on people and then there are things like computer navigation systems on the boats.  One of Wil's brother is a practitioner of Alchemy, but it seems to be a more scientific approach to change materials into armor and weapons.   I definitely enjoyed the world building in this book.

2.  As much as I loved the world building, I was not in love with the characters in general.  There were things I liked about them, but overall I did not find them that memorable.  In fact, I had to go back to the book again to remember the cursed princes name, Loom and his friend Zay.   I felt like the characters were mostly very one dimensional.

3. I did find Wil's story very intriguing from the circumstances of her birth to the strange power she has to change living things into gems.  I want to know more about the reasons for this power and why it manifested when it did. I did feel like DeStefano did a lot of building for character but gave very few answers about her in general.

4. While I felt like much of the book was more about world building than character and plot building, the last third of the book really picks up in the plot.  The introduction of Loom's family and details of his curse along with the hints of the reason Wil has this strange and terrible power.  It is because of the last part of the book that I am interested to see where the next book goes.

To Read or Not to Read;
Read, because I think there is potential to this story.

Audiobook: Wayfarer

Wayfarer is written by Alexandra Bracken and narrated by Saskia Maarleveid and is the second book of the Passenger duology.

All Etta Spencer wanted was to make her violin debut when she was thrust into a treacherous world where the struggle for power could alter history. After losing the one thing that would have allowed her to protect the Timeline, and the one person worth fighting for, Etta awakens alone in an unknown place and time, exposed to the threat of the two groups who would rather see her dead than succeed. When help arrives, it comes from the last person Etta ever expected—Julian Ironwood, the Grand Master’s heir who has long been presumed dead, and whose dangerous alliance with a man from Etta’s past could put them both at risk. 

Meanwhile, Nicholas and Sophia are racing through time in order to locate Etta and the missing astrolabe with Ironwood travelers hot on their trail. They cross paths with a mercenary-for-hire, a cheeky girl named Li Min who quickly develops a flirtation with Sophia. But as the three of them attempt to evade their pursuers, Nicholas soon realizes that one of his companions may have ulterior motives. 

As Etta and Nicholas fight to make their way back to one another, from Imperial Russia to the Vatican catacombs, time is rapidly shifting and changing into something unrecognizable… and might just run out on both of them.

The Breakdown:
1.   Bracken takes the reader on an adventure from beginning to end.  Across several time periods, and even some alternate timelines that have been reset to the original timeline mentioned in the story or changed in other ways.  Plus, she brings in even more wonderfully fascinating characters.   Although, I have to say I am not sure I loved it as much as the first book.

2.  I must take a minute to correct my previous statement about loving to hate Sophia.  After this book, I really like her.  Bracken expands on Sophia history and her goals so I now understand her motives in the first book.  Plus, she shows that when she cares for someone, she becomes furiously loyal to them.  She proves herself to be wonderful ally to Nicholas throughout this book.

3.  I am sure you are wondering about Etta and Nicholas, since they are the main characters.  I loved their journeys during this book.  While separated for much of the book, Bracken does a great job of both expanding on their characters individually and showing how much they care for each other despite their distance. 

4.  I am loving many of the new characters in this book.  First, Henry Hemlock, who Bracken revealed at the end of the first book is Etta's father.  He is wonderful.  I feel that he was a much better parent to Etta in their short time together in this book that Rose was to her in the rest of her life.  I really feel like he wants change for the greater good.  The Li Men, a girl was quite a few secrets and is quite handy on numerous occasions for Nicholas and Sophia.  Plus, the interesting chemistry between her and Sophia has me wanting a story featuring just them.  Then Julian Ironwood, Nicholas's supposedly dead half-brother, is not so dead.  He has some great character development from lazy party boy to a young man inspired to make a change.  The possibly the most interesting of characters, the Belladonna, aka the Witch of Prague.   She has some interesting motives that are not quite clear until the end.   

5. Even after learning Rose's reasons for treating Etta the way she has, I am still ambivalent toward her.  I feel that she redeems herself some toward the end of the book, but I am not sure that makes up for everything that Etta has been through.

6.   I loved the ending in this book.  It was perfect for the characters, and an interesting twist on what happened to the astrolabe.  I am a little sad that Etta and Nicholas's story has finished.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

A Taxonomy of Love

A Taxonomy of Love is by Rachael Allen.

The moment Spencer meets Hope the summer before seventh grade, it’s . . . something at first sight. He knows she’s special, possibly even magical. The pair become fast friends, climbing trees and planning world travels. After years of being outshone by his older brother and teased because of his Tourette syndrome, Spencer finally feels like he belongs. But as Hope and Spencer get older and life gets messier, the clear label of “friend” gets messier, too.

Through sibling feuds and family tragedies, new relationships and broken hearts, the two grow together and apart, and Spencer, an aspiring scientist, tries to map it all out using his trusty system of taxonomy. He wants to identify and classify their relationship, but in the end, he finds that life doesn’t always fit into easy-to-manage boxes, and it’s this messy complexity that makes life so rich and beautiful.

The Breakdown:
1. First of all, many amazing props to Allen for having a main character with a disability.  I recently went to an author event with her, and she talked about all the research she did on Tourette syndrome to make sure she got it right.  I loved that while Tourette syndrome was a part of Spencer, she did not let it define his character.  Plus, I love that Spencer is into science.  The science geek in me always loves a character that enjoys the subject as much as I do.

2.  I thought the progression of Spencer and Hope's relationship was very natural.  From best friends, then a falling out to friends again and eventually to romance.   I love that Allen is not afraid to for her characters to have messy, complicated emotions because that is the way life is.

3. There are some serious feels and dark times in the middle of this book.  You will definitely need a tissue handy for it. 

4. Also this book may have one of my favorite book lines ever.  When Spencer and Paul are discussing the new kid and being different and not fitting in. Paul says, "Maybe it's about finding the other people who don't fit the same way you don't fit."  I adore this line and there is so much truth in.  If only I had believed that more in high school.

5.  I liked this book from beginning to end.  The characters were all wonderfully complex and Allen captures small town Georgia setting beautifully.  And the ending was just perfect.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling is the final book of the Harry Potter series.

It's no longer safe for Harry at Hogwarts, so he and his best friends, Ron and Hermione, are on the run. Professor Dumbledore has given them clues about what they need to do to defeat the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, once and for all, but it's up to them to figure out what these hints and suggestions really mean.

Their cross-country odyssey has them searching desperately for the answers, while evading capture or death at every turn. At the same time, their friendship, fortitude, and sense of right and wrong are tested in ways they never could have imagined.

The ultimate battle between good and evil that closes out this final chapter of the epic series takes place where Harry's Wizarding life began: at Hogwarts. The satisfying conclusion offers shocking last-minute twists, incredible acts of courage, powerful new forms of magic, and the resolution of many mysteries.

The Breakdown:
Now, I will open at the close. (See, what I did there.)  I think this is  my first ever re-read of the Deathly Hallows.  As always, Spoilers! (You know that you just read that in River Song's voice.)

I am going to start the the heavy amount of feels in this book.   Rowling gut punches me from almost beginning to end.  From Hedwig to Lupin and Tonks, this books should have come with a box of tissues.    For the saddest death is a toss up between Dobby and Fred.  Dobby went back into the house he hated and did everything he could to be free of to save Harry and his friends, which result in his death.  Totally cried, again, when I read this, especially when Luna gives her eulogy. Then Fred, who died laughing, which is what he loved to do and make others do.

I really enjoyed getting both Dumbledore and Lily's stories more in this book.  For Dumbledore, Rowling shows for all his greatness as a wizard, he also had some glaring faults.   His being drawn to the dark arts,  but also more on his family life.  I am left to wonder based on what was described about his sister whether she was an Obscurous. (Which to my recollection is never specifically mentioned in any of the books, but is shown in the Fantastic Beast movie.)  The with Lily, first the letter that Harry finds as Grimmauld Place in Sirius's room, and then with Snape's memories of her.  While everyone compares Harry to his father, at one point Dumbledore states that personality wise he really is more like his mother, and I feel that Rowling gives us more of a sense of that in this book.

I want to take a moment to appreciate the friendship between Harry and Hermione.  I love that Rowling proves that guys and gals can be friends without any romantic attraction.  I enjoy that they really support each other, and understand that neither is perfect.  Although, Hermione is pretty damn close.

I am about to give an unpopular opinion, but here goes.  After this re-reading, I don't find Snape a romantic hero.  I feel that, yes he had an obsessive love of Lily, but I don't know that I would call it a true love.  He is very cruel to her at times, and despite knowing she is muggle born, he still throws in with Death Eaters who are very much anti-muggle born.  She even points these out to him, and he basically blows her off.   It is not until her life is in danger that he even tries to change.

So strangely, probably my favorite scene in this book is when Harry is "dead" and meeting Dumbledore in his mind.  I found the concept of afterlife presented here interesting.  Plus, I love the quote, "Just because it is in your head, does not mean it isn't real."

One last thing before moving to the epilogue.  How amazingly epic was Neville in this book?  Talk about progression as a character.  Leading the rebellion at Hogwarts against Snape.  Squaring off against Voldemort and then killing Nagini.  He is a real hero.

I am just going to briefly touch on the epilogue. I feel like this was a very polarizing thing in the fandom.   People either loved it or hated it.  I personally loved it.  I like the idea of know where everyone ended up.  Although, I am sad there is no mention of Luna during it.  Also brought to mind a question for me, does the Daily Prophet have birth announcements?  At Platform 9 3/4 Harry mentions when seeing Draco that must be Scorpius his son.  I get the feeling they did not keep in touch, so how does he know Draco's son's name? Birth announcements or by word of mouth?

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

Audiobook: Passenger

Passenger is written by Alexandra Bracken and narrated by Saskia Maarleveld and is the first book of a duology of the same name.

Passage, n.
i. A brief section of music composed of a series of notes and flourishes.
ii. A journey by water; a voyage.
iii. The transition from one place to another, across space and time.

In one devastating night, violin prodigy Etta Spencer loses everything she knows and loves. Thrust into an unfamiliar world by a stranger with a dangerous agenda, Etta is certain of only one thing: she has traveled not just miles but years from home. And she’s inherited a legacy she knows nothing about from a family whose existence she’s never heard of. Until now.

Nicholas Carter is content with his life at sea, free from the Ironwoods—a powerful family in the colonies—and the servitude he’s known at their hands. But with the arrival of an unusual passenger on his ship comes the insistent pull of the past that he can’t escape and the family that won’t let him go so easily. Now the Ironwoods are searching for a stolen object of untold value, one they believe only Etta, Nicholas’ passenger, can find. In order to protect her, he must ensure she brings it back to them—whether she wants to or not.

Together, Etta and Nicholas embark on a perilous journey across centuries and continents, piecing together clues left behind by the traveler who will do anything to keep the object out of the Ironwoods’ grasp. But as they get closer to the truth of their search, and the deadly game the Ironwoods are playing, treacherous forces threaten to separate Etta not only from Nicholas but from her path home... forever.

The Breakdown:
1.  Time traveling adventure, I was like, yes please.  Bracken did not disappoint me with this novel.  There plenty of adventure, from the Revolution to the London Blitz.  Plus, as usual, her characters are amazing.

2. Absolutely adore Etta.  She is talented and smart.  She learns so quickly to adapted to the world she has been thrust into. Most her like she has no clue about Travelers, and has no training, but she takes all in and adjust to her circumstances so quickly.  Plus, I adore her interactions with Nicholas.

3.  Speaking of Nicholas, he is my new book boyfriend.  He is such the gentleman.  I am amazed how kind he can be despite how the world has treated him for the most part.  I personally love his amazement of the cars and planes when he and Etta arrive in Blitz London.   The chemistry between he and Etta is probably some of the best between the pages of a novel.

4. I want to take a minute to talk about the narrated, Saskia Maarleveld.  She is amazing at giving each character their own voice.  She really brings the characters to life, and she is definitely a narrated you never have to question which character is speaking when she does their voices.

5. Like her The Darkest Minds trilogy, Bracken brings in some characters I love to hate.  First, there is Sophia who under the guise of helping Etta, basically kidnaps her and forces her to do her families bidding.  On the topic of her family, Grandfather, Cyrus Ironwood, is the worst.  He expects the world to bend to his will, and will do anything to insure that happens. A man with no morals is super scary to me.   Then there is Rose, Etta's mother,  I am not sure how I feel about her, yet.  She obviously has manipulated Etta in some way, but I can't decided if I hate her for it, yet, but she has definitely done some terrible things to achieve her end goals.

6.  The ending was heartbreaking and amazing at the same time.  Bracken drops some major secrets on you at the end and really setting up for a possible epic conclusion in the second book.  You better believe I downloaded almost as soon as I finished this one to listen to.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling is the sixth book in the series.

When Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince opens, the war against Voldemort has begun. The Wizarding world has split down the middle, and as the casualties mount, the effects even spill over onto the Muggles. Dumbledore is away from Hogwarts for long periods, and the Order of the Phoenix has suffered grievous losses. And yet, as in all wars, life goes on.

Harry, Ron, and Hermione, having passed their O.W.L. level exams, start on their specialist N.E.W.T. courses. Sixth-year students learn to Apparate, losing a few eyebrows in the process. Teenagers flirt and fight and fall in love. Harry becomes captain of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, while Draco Malfoy pursues his own dark ends. And classes are as fascinating and confounding as ever, as Harry receives some extraordinary help in Potions from the mysterious Half-Blood Prince.

Most importantly, Dumbledore and Harry work together to uncover the full and complex story of a boy once named Tom Riddle—the boy who became Lord Voldemort. Like Harry, he was the son of one Muggle-born and one Wizarding parent, raised unloved, and a speaker of Parseltongue. But the similarities end there, as the teenaged Riddle became deeply interested in the Dark objects known as Horcruxes: objects in which a wizard can hide part of his soul, if he dares splinter that soul through murder.

Harry must use all the tools at his disposal to draw a final secret out of one of Riddle’s teachers, the sly Potions professor Horace Slughorn. Finally Harry and Dumbledore hold the key to the Dark Lord’s weaknesses... until a shocking reversal exposes Dumbledore’s own vulnerabilities, and casts Harry’s—and Hogwarts’s—future in shadow.

The Breakdown:
This may be my second favorite of the Harry Potter books, and as always serious spoliers ahead.   I really enjoy learning more about Voldemort's past.  Plus, I kind of love the peak into Snape's life at home when Bellatrix and Narcissa visit.

I find Slugghorn a fascinating character.  He is definitely someone who enjoys his creature comforts, and loves being connected to those with power.  Like that even though he is Slytherin, he does not care about linage, but rather talent. 

I want to take a minute to talk about how bad-ass Ginny has become in this book.  She was definitely getting there in the last book, but this one she kills it.  Her talent as at spells and Quidditch is awesome.  Plus, she does not take any mouth off of Ron for her dating choices.  So glad that Harry finally wakes up to her awesomeness.

More importantly, how about Harry's potions book that steps up his potions game.  It is interesting incites in to the world of potions and a few extra spells.  Interesting to see how is causes rifts between our favorite trio.  Hermione not trusting the Half-blood prince's notations, and Ron becoming jealous of Harry's performance in potions because of it.  Then the shock of learning that the Half-Blood Prince is Snape, Harry's most despised professor, nice giant twist Rowling.

Before, I get into the super heavy revelations of the book.  I just want to talk about my favorite moment when McGonagall is helping Harry, Ron, and Neville plan their class.  When Neville states that his grandmother thinks Charms is a useless subject.  Love McGonagall's come back and ratting her out for hating it because she failed her O.W.L. in Charms.  Pure Gold.

Okay, get your tissues out, because I am jumping into the feels here. First, I want to talk about Malfoy.   He is so obviously up to something during the book, but only Harry seems to really suspect him.  Others are blowing off Harry's concerns.  Then there is the glimpse of Malfoy's struggle.  We know he as been tasked with something by Voldemort given the Unbreakable vow Narcissa and Snape make.  The poor boy is confiding in Moaning Myrtle, so you know he is at a low point. 

Then there is Slugghorn's story about Harry's mother, Lily and the flower she left him.  When he talks about how it dies when she died, it just broke my heart.  This book breaks my heart by getting to know Lily a little better, and seeing she was a kind and talented witch whose life was cut short too soon.

I am still not over the ending of this book.  Dumbledore dying still kills me every time I read it.  Poor Harry who is frozen there and unable to do anything to prevent it from happening.   And the worst is when Harry breaks the news to Hargrid, oh the tears. 

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: The Rose Society

The Rose Society by Marie Lu and is narrated by Carla Corvo and Lannon Killea is the second book of the Young Elites books.

Once upon a time, a girl had a father, a prince, a society of friends. Then they betrayed her, and she destroyed them all.

Adelina Amouteru’s heart has suffered at the hands of both family and friends, turning her down the bitter path of revenge. Now known and feared as the White Wolf, she flees Kenettra with her sister to find other Young Elites in the hopes of building her own army of allies. Her goal: to strike down the Inquisition Axis, the white-cloaked soldiers who nearly killed her.

But Adelina is no heroine. Her powers, fed only by fear and hate, have started to grow beyond her control. She does not trust her newfound Elite friends. Teren Santoro, leader of the Inquisition, wants her dead. And her former friends, Raffaele and the Dagger Society, want to stop her thirst for vengeance. Adelina struggles to cling to the good within her. But how can someone be good when her very existence depends on darkness?

The Breakdown:
1. This book starts several weeks after the end of the first book.  The Daggers have forced Adelina out, and both Adelina and the Daggers have fled Kenettra and are plotting revenge. In Kenetrra, Teren has put into place a plan to rid them of the malfettos.  There are a lot of elements in play in this book which gives a little bit of slow start to bring everything together.

2. I found myself not liking Adelina in this book.  I get her paranoia and bitterness after the way the Daggers treated her, but that she takes most of that out on her sister bothers me.  She is also losing control of her illusions and refuse to admit she needs help. I really disliked her at the end.

3. This book introduces Magiano, Sergio, and Maeve.  I really liked Magiano.  He was a lighter side to a darker book.  It is moments with him that I like Adelina the best.  Plus, I think there is way more chemistry between him and Adelina than there ever was between Adelina and Enzo.  Then Sergio, who we find out, is the elite that Raffaele referenced when warning Adelina about what happens when you cannot control your powers.  He is a lethal mercenary and can control the storms.  Plus, I like what is happening between him and Violetta.   Then there is Maeve, the queen of Beldain, and can raise the dead.  With her, we get to see how other countries see their elites as gifts from the gods, and not abominations.

4.  The bomb Lu drops at the end with the discovery of what the powers are doing to elites was a shocker.  I am excited to see how the story is going to play out with this revelation and where the story goes in the third book.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Harry Potter in the Order of the Phoenix by J.K Rowling is the five book in the series.

"'You are sharing the Dark Lord's thoughts and emotions. The Headmaster thinks it inadvisable for this to continue. He wishes me to teach you how to close your mind to the Dark Lord.'"

Dark times have come to Hogwarts. After the Dementors' attack on his cousin Dudley, Harry Potter knows that Voldemort will stop at nothing to find him. There are many who deny the Dark Lord's return, but Harry is not alone: a secret order gathers at Grimmauld Place to fight against the Dark forces. Harry must allow Professor Snape to teach him how to protect himself from Voldemort's savage assaults on his mind. But they are growing stronger by the day and Harry is running out of time ..

The Breakdown
In this book Harry Potter becomes super shouty, and angry, thus giving this book a darker mood than the previous books.  It really shows that our favorite trio is growing up.

This book introduces one of my most hated literary character in Umbridge.  Possibly the only character that complete with my hate of her is Joffery from Game of Thrones.  She is cruel and horrible.  I find her more despicable than Voldemort.  The punishment she uses for those in detention is down right child abuse.  Plus there is her obvious bigotry to those magical creatures that are not human.   All this and the government is condoning her behavior  is just sickening.

This book also shows the deeper connection between Harry and Voldemort.  From Harry seeing Voldemort's thoughts and emotions to learning the prophecy that caused Voldemort to target Harry to begin with.

Can I take a minute to talk about my love of both Luna and Neville.  Luna is such a strange and unique character, and she does not care what people think of her.  I particularly love her Quidditch hats, #truefan.  Then Neville really starts to shine is this book.  He flourish under Harry's instruction in the D.A.  Also, seeing him with his parents in St. Mungo's was really heartbreaking.  Then Rowling drops the bomb with the prophecy that Neville could have been the boy who lived!

I am so disappointed in Sirius in this book.  The way he treats Kreacher is horrible, especially in the last book he said you can tell a lot about a wizard by how he treats his house elf.   Plus, I really does feel that he is trying to be more a best friend to Harry rather than a guardian.

The fight at the Ministry is one of the most awesome fight sequences in books.  The ruthlessness of the Death Eaters, and innocence of the Hogwarts' students makes for an interesting foil in the fight. Plus the heartbreak that it brings about and the revelations about the prophecy and how the story will have to play out.

To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read

Audiobook: The Young Elites

The Young Elites is written by Marie Lu and narrated by Carla Corvo and Lannon Lillea and is the first book of the series of the same name.

I am tired of being used, hurt, and cast aside.

Adelina Amouteru is a survivor of the blood fever. A decade ago, the deadly illness swept through her nation. Most of the infected perished, while many of the children who survived were left with strange markings. Adelina’s black hair turned silver, her lashes went pale, and now she has only a jagged scar where her left eye once was. Her cruel father believes she is a malfetto, an abomination, ruining their family’s good name and standing in the way of their fortune. But some of the fever’s survivors are rumored to possess more than just scars—they are believed to have mysterious and powerful gifts, and though their identities remain secret, they have come to be called the Young Elites.

Teren Santoro works for the king. As Leader of the Inquisition Axis, it is his job to seek out the Young Elites, to destroy them before they destroy the nation. He believes the Young Elites to be dangerous and vengeful, but it’s Teren who may possess the darkest secret of all. 

Enzo Valenciano is a member of the Dagger Society. This secret sect of Young Elites seeks out others like them before the Inquisition Axis can. But when the Daggers find Adelina, they discover someone with powers like they’ve never seen. 

Adelina wants to believe Enzo is on her side, and that Teren is the true enemy. But the lives of these three will collide in unexpected ways, as each fights a very different and personal battle. But of one thing they are all certain: Adelina has abilities that shouldn’t belong in this world. A vengeful blackness in her heart. And a desire to destroy all who dare to cross her.

The Breakdown:
1. I am so terribly behind in my reviews, so to my 2 loyal readers, sorry.  So on to the review, I find the world that Lu has created so fascinating in this book.  It is a combination of an alien planet and a culture very similar to that of the Italian Renaissance.  Then there is the disease that has marked the survivors, some of who have developed strange powers from it.

2. I loved the style of the audiobook.  The book alternates from the first person perspective of Adelina and several chapters from male characters perspective.  Corvo does Adelina's chapters and is very engaging in them.  She captures the turbulent emotions of Adelina through this journey very well.  Lillea does all the male characters' chapters, and does an amazing job of giving them each their own unique voice.

3. Adelina is certainly an interesting character.  She goes from a very scared girl to a powerful elite.  I feel that she has quite the struggle of loyalty in this book between her sister and the elites that saved her.  I have to say one of my least favorite things is the romance between Adelina and Enzo.  It felt very one-sided and forced.

4. The male character chapters alternate between Enzo, Raffaele, and Teren.  I like that Lu gives both the Daggers perspective and that of their enemy.   So I find both Raffeale and Teren scary in their own way.  Raffeale for how he is very determined for the Daggers to accomplish their goals, and how he is willing to use others as he sees fit.  Teren for his fanatical beliefs that the malfettos must be destroyed and his obsession with the queen.

5.  Lu absolutely killed me with this ending.  I was so shocked by it, and honestly still have a lot of feels about it. It will definitely keep me reading this series.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Renegades

Renegades is by Marissa Meyer and is the first book of a new series by the same name.

Secret Identities. Extraordinary Powers. She wants vengeance. He wants justice.

The Renegades are a syndicate of prodigies—humans with extraordinary abilities—who emerged from the ruins of a crumbled society and established peace and order where chaos reigned. As champions of justice, they remain a symbol of hope and courage to everyone...except the villains they once overthrew.

Nova has a reason to hate the Renegades, and she is on a mission for vengeance. As she gets closer to her target, she meets Adrian, a Renegade boy who believes in justice—and in Nova. But Nova's allegiance is to a villain who has the power to end them both.

The Breakdown:
1. I feel like I finished this book ages ago, but I have taken forever to get around to reviewing.  I had a lot of feelings about this book, both good and bad.  First I will start by saying I found the world that Meyer has created fascinating.  There are these prodigies, most of whom develop powers in stressful/dangerous situations, but there are those born with them.    In the beginning they were hunted and persecuted, but then there was a revolution.  At first chaos of individual gangs of them ruled and then there were the Renegades, aka superheroes, that now are restoring order.  It is definitely a complex world and back story.

2. Nova considers herself a villain, but she is a lot more complicated that just clear cut bad.  She has her reasons for hating the Renegades, but honestly, she seems to be a good person at heart.   For someone who considers herself a villain, she does some pretty heroic things at times.

3. Adrian is a interesting foil and love interest for Nova.  He is the biological son of a slain Renegade and the adopted son of  two other Renegades.  Kind of love that he is raised by a gay couple, on that note.   He has the amazing ability to bring whatever he draws into the real world.  He is keeping some major secrets from his dads and the his Renegades team.

4.  One of the things I like most about this book is the supporting characters. I really liked Ruby and Oliver, and actually want more of them and their awkward flirts.  There are some interesting villains, both of the Anarchist and in the Renegades.  I think they help to prove that good and bad are not always black and white.  But my absolute favorite is Max.  I want so much more of him and how his powers work.

5.  I did have some problems in this book.  I felt that Meyer got a little too wordy at times.  The book did seem to drag in some places. I was also confused why all the heroes and villains had code names/secret identities, but they all seemed to know each others real life names. What is the point of the secret identity if everyone knows who you really are.  Then there is Nova-Adrain romance.  At times it works well, but sometimes it feels too forces.

6. Last thing, I promise, that ending was fantastic!  OMG, the big secret at the end blew me away.  It definitely has me hooked for the next book.  Plus, I feel like there is more to the story to Nova's parents' death than she has been told, and it could really connect her to Adrian.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Audiobook: Ignite Me

Ignite Me is written by Tahereh Mafi and narrated by Kate Simses and is the third book of the Shatter Me Series.

With Omega Point destroyed, Juliette doesn’t know if the rebels, her friends, or even Adam are alive. But that won’t keep her from trying to take down The Reestablishment once and for all. Now she must rely on Warner, the handsome commander of Sector 45. The one person she never thought she could trust. The same person who saved her life. He promises to help Juliette master her powers and save their dying world . . . but that’s not all he wants with her.

The Breakdown:
1.  I just want to start by saying this was by far my favorite book of the series.  I enjoyed the story so much, and thought the character development in this book was wonderful.   Plus Juliette-Warner is way more awesome that Juliette-Adam.

2.  Mafi has a big win with Juliette's character development in this book.   She is way less ansty and less crying in this book compared to the second book.  She really starts to embrace her powers and is motivated to change her world in this book. 

3. I just want to take minute to talk about how much more I love Juliette-Warner coupling than her with Adam.  She and Warner are more of equals in the relationship.  He sees that she has so much potential and power, and wants to make her better.  Where as Adam saw her as something fragile that needed protecting.

4. Speaking of Adam, he turned into a real tool in this book.  He was constantly rude and mean to Juliette when she told him she wanted to fight and had allied with Warner.  At one point he says that he would rather he dead than with Warner. You would think that someone who claimed to love you would want you happy which he obviously does not care about that for Juliette.

5.  I thought the ending was perfect for this book.  It is just want I expected from this story.  Mafi recently announced another book in this series.  I am concerned where she will go with it after that ending.

To Read or Not to Read:
Read

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling is the fourth book in the Harry Potter series.

"'There will be three tasks, spaced throughout the school year, and they will test the champions in many different ways … their magical prowess - their daring - their powers of deduction - and, of course, their ability to cope with danger.'"

The Triwizard Tournament is to abe held at Hogwarts. Only wizards who are over seventeen are allowed to enter - but that doesn't stop Harry dreaming that he will win the competition. Then at Hallowe'en, when the Goblet of Fire makes its selection, Harry is amazed to find his name is one of those that the magical cup picks out. He will face death-defying tasks, dragons and Dark wizards, but with the help of his best friends, Ron and Hermione, he might just make it through - alive!

The Breakdown:
When I began reading this series the first three books had already been published.  This was the first book I had to wait for to read, which I, of course, had pre-ordered it.  It came out between by senior year of high school and my freshmen year of college.  It was naturally released the week I was at college orientation.  So I had to wait to get home before I could start reading it.

My poor copy of this book has taken quite the beating over the years.  Multiple readings by me, readings by my family, and several moves has caused the book book to fall to pieces not to mention the food stains on the pages.

One of my favorite things about this book is getting to see a larger wizarding community with both the Quidditch World Cup and the Tri-Wizards tournament.  Loved the arrivals of Beauxbatons and Drumstrangs to Hogwarts for the tournament.

In this book, I really began to love Fred and George and appreciate their comic genius.  I feel that others don't realize how smart they are just because they don't apply themselves in the traditional way.  Their canary creams and fake wands are fantastic.

Interesting to see the trio in this book start to have some love interest.  Hermione and Krum are a little of a strange couple.  Plus, Ron's jealousy over them together is entertaining at times.  Then there is Ron doing stupid things when Fleur is around.  And Harry's crush on Cho.  They just grow up so quickly.

I would like to take a moment of silence to mourn Cedric Diggory.

He appears to be an all around nice guy.  His death was definitely shocking.  I still get teary when he appears from the Voldermort's wand and ask Harry to take his body back to his parents.

Then I get angry as the ministry for the outright denial that Voldemort could be back.  I totally blame Fudge for many of the upcoming tragedies.  If he had faced the problem instead of denying it exist, he could have saved lives.


To Read or Not to Read:
Must Read