Untitled
A very satisfying conclusion to the Hollows series.
Bibliofiend's Bookbag
I am a reference librarian with a specialty in teen services. My primary reading interests include YA but also adult romance, mystery, and sci-fi fantasy. Read my reviews and general thoughts about what I'm reading and experiencing on and off the clock.
The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender
The plot: Foolish love and heartbreak has followed the descendants of the Roux family for four generations. This novel shares the tale of Ava Lavender, born with wings, as well as the intricate, strange, and forlorn tales of her mother and grandmother. As her desire to learn more about herself and her unique condition grows, Ava explores the stories of her family history and the other in her little town, all leading up to a cataclysmic event that will change the lives of the Lavender family.The characters: This novel is filled with rich, unique and deeply interesting characters. Readers will enjoy the narrative, as if they are sitting with the characters and listening to stories passed down through generations. Ava is a dynamic heroine. I enjoyed the fact that the novel includes many strong female protagonists. The 'villains' are also deliciously strange and artfully written.
Overall evaluation: Walton's debut is certainly a standout of 2014 in YA fiction. The elevated characters, style, and writing make for an intriguing read that will appeal to readers looking for something just a little different from other popular genres. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the story, its message, and the development of the writing. One word of caution, this is probably best for older readers, grades 9-12. The writing and situations has moments that are more sexually forward that other YA books.
Defy
The plot: Following the violent deaths of their parents, twins Alexa and Marcel must make a choice. In order to avoid the breeding houses, Alexa hides as Alex as she and her brother join the King's army. Several years pass and Alexa believes her secret is safe, but is it? Hiding her identity becomes increasingly difficult since she is the top fighter in Prince Damian's personal guard. When Alexa, another guard and her best friend, Rylan, as well as the prince are kidnapped by a sorcerer, Alexa learns more about herself, that her secret is not quite so secret, and that those closest to her have some secrets of their own. The characters: There is potential here for memorable, strong characters; however, I failed to connect with any of them. Alexa has potential but her reactions were not believable in some aspects and I expected more to develop from her. I found the prince a bit one note but believe that Rylan shows great promise down the road. The love triangle felt forced and unnecessary. I would have rather Alexa dealt more with her own identity and history rather than swooning over the prince and questioning if she has feelings for Rylan. It seems to undermine the seriousness of the situation.
Overall: This is a adequate debut with room for improvement as the series develops. Readers who like in fantasy, romance, and the addition of a strong female lead may find this of interest. However, the writing is repetitive and weighs down the actual story. Furthermore, I do not recommend the audiobook. It was less than engaging.
The Passage
I'll give it a 3/5 because its an interesting twist on vampires in an apocalyptic setting. There is a bit too much 'I am Legend' and 'Walking Dead' to be truly unique. There were characters and stories here that I liked but overall it was just too long and rambled in places that were unnecessary. I will say that the ending was satisfying and I'l read the next one but I'm not in a hurry to do so.
So You Wanna Be a Rock & Roll Star: How I Machine-Gunned a Roomful Of Record Executives and Other True Tales from a Drummer's Life
Interesting and honest look at the highs and lows of the music business. Very well written.
The Four Dorothys
An elite performing arts school has cast four separate Dorothys. Sabotage ensues when one Dorothy goes all Wicked Witch on the others.
Lick
I enjoyed this but maybe not quite as much as Olivia Cunning's series 'Sinners on Tour'
Soul Screamers, Volume Four: With All My SoulFearlessNiederwaldLast Request
Teen Fiction. I always love revisiting Kaylee and the gang. In addition to including the last novel, there are 3 new stories. I enjoyed them all. I miss these characters!
The Staff of Serapis
The mystery behind who is intertwining the Greek and Egyptian pantheons in this tale of Sadie and Annabeth meeting to vanquish an ancient god.
