Review: Blood Cross (Faith Hunter)

Blood Cross by Faith Hunter
Publisher: Roc (2010)
Format: Mass Market Paperback | 321 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy

Description (GR): "Jane Yellowrock is back on the prowl against the children of the night... 

The vampire council has hired skinwalker Jane Yellowrock to hunt and kill one of their own who has broken sacred ancient rules — but Jane quickly realizes that in a community that is thousands of years old, loyalties run deep...

With the help of her witch best friend and local vigilantes, Jane finds herself caught between bitter rivalries — and closer than ever to the secret origin of the entire vampire race. But in a city of old grudges and dark magic, Jane will have to fight to protect both sides, even if no one will protect her."

I just can't seem to warm up to Faith Hunter's writing style. I keep coming back to her books because they are great, concept-wise, but a good concept does not a good book make.

I had a bit of trouble following the story of this second installment in the Jane Yellowrock series because I read the first book a few years ago and although I remember strongly that I didn't like it very much, the story is all but forgotten. Still, after a few pages, I was pulled into Jane's world and the characters. I noted a marked improvement in Jane, she seemed less disdainful of females in general and less convinced she was super duper cool and good. I was also pleasantly surprised because, although there was description and the prose itself was still mostly too descriptive for my taste, it wasn't as bad as the first book (that I remember).

However, it didn't take long for me to realize that this book, like the first, lacked focus (narrative-wise). Jane runs around a lot, makes a lot of research but it's like the bits and pieces she uncovers make no sense whatsoever to the case she is investigating. It all seems so... random. Her investigative decisions make no sense. If she's investigating a rogue vampire, it does make sense to investigate crime scenes... but it doesn't make a lot of sense to delve into cold case files that seem to have nothing to do with the case at hand or going to vampire parties. 

All of the things Jane discovered seemed like pieces of different puzzles that really didn't fit together very well in the end (because some of the information was superfluous). She loses too much time on other things, unrelated things. 

It seemed to me the mystery was a bit too simplistic. When Jane uncovered a piece of it, it was quite easy for me, the reader, to understand what was happening... not Jane though; she may be "though as nails" but the sharpest tool in the shed she is not. This was... frustrating. Basically this mystery was not complex enough for a full length novel, in my opinion, and that is why Jane was so slow on the uptake and why she ends up doing so many unrelated things that add little to... anything, either character development or plot.

Overall, I still like the concept. The story telling? Not so much.

Other reviews in this series: Skinwalker (Jane Yellowrock, #1)

Other works by this author: Bloodring

Review: Midnight Secretary, Vol. 1 (Tomu Ohmi)

Midnight Secretary, Vol. 1 by Tomu Ohmi
Publisher: VIZ Media (2013)
Format: Paperback | 192 pages
Genre(s): Romance, Josei, Manga

Description: "Mad Men meets Vampire Diaries. Kaya Satozuka prides herself on being an excellent secretary and a consummate professional, so she doesn’t even bat an eye when she’s reassigned to the office of her company’s difficult director, Kyohei Touma. He’s as prickly—and hot—as rumors paint him, but Kaya is unfazed…until she discovers that he’s a vampire!!

Kaya quickly accustoms herself to scheduling his “dinner dates” and working odd hours, but can she handle it when Kyohei’s smoldering gaze starts turning her way?!

Reads R to L (Japanese Style) for mature audiences."

First impressions: I actually liked this one better this time around. Ok, so the story is pretty typical, but Kaya is cute and she isn't a wimp either. And this Manga is sexy.

Kaya Satozuka is the perfect secretary, right down to her appearance. She works at a major Japanese corporation.

One day she is promoted to executive secretary of the playboy of Touma Corp, director Kyohei Touma! He's handsome, he's cool and he's got a string of girlfriends! But what Kaya discovers about her new boss is even more surprising... he is a vampire! Kaya will have to prove herself a great secretary if she wants to keep her position... even if it means scheduling her boss's meals.

"Midnight Secretary" is a piece of fluffy Josei that you just know how it's going to end as soon as you open volume 1. Kaya is a plain-ish woman who prides herself on being professional... so professional she tries to do her best even after discovering her boss is a vampire.

Kyohei is your typical handsome playboy, who has as many assignations scheduled as other executives have meetings. Of course, as Kaya soon discovers, many of these "dates" are actually feedings.

It's pretty predictable really. There's nothing special about the story and the characters don't evolve (at least in volume 1) to more than mere clichés. I did like the fact that Kaya stands up for herself a bit, but otherwise, everything was pretty predictable.

Still, I enjoyed it anyway. I'm not any kind of specialist on artwork, but it seemed clean enough. I guess it's a good read if you're not expecting much. It's fluffy, romantic (sort of, since the hero is kind of - predictably - childish) and even cute.

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Review: Surrender to the Devil (Lorraine Heath)

Surrender to the Devil by Lorraine Heath
Publisher: Avon (2009)
Format: Mass market paperback | 384 pages
Genre(s): Historical romance

Description (GR): "A Devilish Duke on a Quest for Pleasure...

Frannie Darling was once a child of London's roughest streets, surrounded by petty thieves, pickpockets, and worse. But though she survived this harsh upbringing to become a woman of incomparable beauty, Frannie wants nothing to do with the men who lust for her, the rogues who frequent the gaming hall where she works. She can take care of herself and feels perfectly safe on her own—safe, that is, until he strides into her world, and once again it becomes a very dangerous place indeed. 

To bed her but not wed her. That's what Sterling Mabry, the eighth Duke of Greystone, wants. But Frannie abhors arrogant aristocrats interested only in their own pleasure. So why then does the thought of an illicit tryst with the devilish duke leave her trembling with desire? Her willing body begs for release...and a wicked, wonderful surrender."

I'm a big fan of Historical romance, especially the light-hearted kind. I love the descriptions of the ton, of the British aristocracy and the pseudo-tortured heroes who can only be saved by the heroine. Some of my favorite books are historical romances, because, I suppose, while I am practical in RL, I am a bit of a romantic at heart.

This is the second book I've read by Lorraine Heath. I confess I don't actually remember the other book I've read by her; I only remember that I liked it well enough.

The same can be said for this book. I liked this, but didn't love it. It was a quick read, but it didn't dazzle me.

Frannie Darling is a former street urchin who, along the rest of her (all-male) gang, has made something of herself. She doesn't really like the aristocracy, even though her job as a bookeeper of a gaming club means she has to deal with her on some level.

Sterling Mabry is a Duke. When he sees Frannie he just knows he has to have her (rolls eyes). And so the pursuit begins.

This story/plot is not exactly unheard of. It's a common plot device in these kinds of books (lust at first sight or something), but it's exactly because it's so common that I expect the characters to be well developed and for the protagonists to have chemistry. That, to me, is what makes this sort of book work.

Unfortunately, it wasn't what happened in "Surrender to the Devil". The characters lacked chemistry and were lacking in personality as well. Like I said, I felt like I'd read this story time and again (which is normal, in these types of books)... but there wasn't actually anything to make me want to read it again. The writing was good, but, again, I didn't feel the "sparks" between hero and heroine.

Overall, it was an entertaining read, but nothing special. Lorraine Heath seems to have incredible ideas for stories, but I can't say she makes me care all that much for her characters or sigh at the romance. Which is exactly what I am looking for in these sort of books. I'll be reading more from this author (I have a few more books in my shelves), because her ideias are good and so is her writing style. I just hope her other protagonists are a lot more charismatic.

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Review: Wrong Ways Down (Stacia Kane)

Wrong Ways Down by Stacia Kane
Publisher: ? (2013)
Format: e-book | 142 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Dystopia

Description (GR): "It’s a thin line between right and wrong. It’s an even thinner one between wrong and dead…

Terrible has always been on the wrong side of the law, living up to the only name anyone ever gave him. As the chief enforcer for Downside’s most powerful criminal, it’s his job to collect debts and protection money by any means necessary. And he’s very good at his job.

But part of that job is also to keep Bump’s various employees safe. So when a street dealer is found dead and a prostitute is brutally attacked, Terrible immediately starts using his fists to hunt down the ones responsible.

He’s determined to find and destroy them. They’re determined to use his desire for the woman he secretly loves to break him."

WARNING: some (minor) spoilers for the Downside Ghosts series.

Terrible: giving depth to thugs everywhere. You'll never look at Thug A from Action Movie 12495 the same way again! And that's a damn feat in my book.

Stacia Kane's characters are so human I actually want to meet them. They are so appealing I actually want to forgive Terrible for his crimes. Damn.

Wrong Ways Down is a novella from Terrible's (the unlikely male protagonist/hero of the Downside Ghosts series) point of view. Terrible is the "chief enforcer" for Bump, one of Downside's drug dealers. As such, he is expected to make sure all of Bump's operations run smoothly. However, when one of Bump's dealers is murdered and Bump's prostitutes are brutally attacked, it is up to Terrible to investigate. So he does it the way he knows best... with his fists.

This story takes place between books 1 and 2 of the series, so, as many readers have already remarked upon, there aren't many "aww moments" between Chess and Terrible. This isn't really about our drug addict of a heroine (erm... no pun intended or whatever); it's about Terrible. And that's fine.

I loved this story because I got to know more about Terrible. Not just how much he cares for Chess (although I must admit that part was too cute for words) but also what makes him tick, how he feels about what he does (and his feelings aren't pretty sometimes) and how he sees himself (as a dumb, ugly goon). We also get to see a bit of how Chess sees him and how that changes him. This interaction helps explain their mutual attraction.

As for the plot itself, it was pretty run of the mill. It served mostly to make the characters interact, which is a constant in Kane's books. Although she has constructed a pretty believable and interesting dystopian world, with solid supernatural elements, it isn't actually the world or even the stories/mysteries that make the series shine, in my humble opinion; it is the characters, that are so excellently written and developed that make me come back to these books again and again. I think did mention in my last review(s) that I was a bit frustrated with the lack of world development; Kane's world remains static (we still don't know much about Haunted Week, there are no factions that we know of, that question the Church's version of events, there are no alternate explanations, etc) and the characters are too absorbed by their little worlds to think about the bigger picture.

But that is a rant for another review. Suffice to say we got little to no world building/development in this short story, but we do find out more about Terrible, which was great to me.

In general, a great read. As compulsive and compelling as always!

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Review: Mila 2.0 (Debra Driza)

Mila 2.0 by Debra Driza
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (2013)
Format: e-book | 480 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Science Fiction

Description (GR): "Mila was living with her mother in a small Minnesota town when she discovered she was also living a lie.

She was never meant to learn the truth about her identity. She was never supposed to remember the past—that she was built in a computer science lab and programmed to do things real people would never do.

Now she has no choice but to run—from the dangerous operatives who want her terminated because she knows too much, and from a mysterious group that wants to capture her alive and unlock her advanced technology.

Evading her enemies won't help Mila escape the cruel reality of what she is and cope with everything she has had to leave behind. However, what she's becoming is beyond anyone's imagination, including her own, and that just might save her life.

A compulsively readable sci-fi thriller, Mila 2.0 is Debra Driza's bold debut and the first book in an action-filled, Bourne Identity–style trilogy."

I've been meaning to write a review for this book for a while now, but sometime in the last few months I understood I had some conflicted feelings about Mila 2.0.

I didn't know what to expect of this book, although many of my friends at Goodreads did like it. The concept seemed interesting and very cinematographic in a way. But I was curious to know how the author would translate it to a book.

Overall, it was a nice read, but not developed enough for my taste (though I understand why it isn't... word count restrictions and the fact that it is a series probably).

I did like the general concept. It was interesting while not particularly original, because we've all seen movies/TV series where the android is lifelike and thinks it is a human (I can think of the movie AI, of the TV series Caprica and of Battlestar Galactica, for example). However, I've never read a book about it. I was curious to see how the author would tackle the nuances of an android that sophisticated (that it would think it was human) and the moral implications (and the human feelings on the matter) of the android's sense of self.

I think Ms Driza did a good job exploring this part. Taking into account this is a YA book and as such I didn't expect it to be very focused on Mila's inner ramblings, quiet despair or philosophical search for humanity, I thought the author still managed to portray that struggle. Mila has to fight to remain "human", she clings to her emotions and she questions the morality of her actions (which makes her, in essence, human). She also has as doubts when she uses her "android capabilities". This, to me, was the best part of the book. Mila still has her "search for humanity", but the whole book isn't about it... which is good.

However (there's always a but, unfortunately): I did think the other elements of the story (the ones that are, I suppose, designed to appeal to a younger audience) were too common in these types of books (YA Sci-fi). The world building was too run-of-mill; there was nothing distinctive about Mila's origins or purpose. I also thought the "imagery" was pretty standard (giant tube to stash/fix the robots, etc).

The whole love story felt phony and a little flat (I still think Hunter is fishy, but I guess I'll have to read book 2 to find out). This aspect was attenuated by Lucas, one of the most awesomest (I am aware this isn't a word, by the way) members of a love triangle... ever (it even made me like love triangles... but only in this book).

The villain was a bit too much of the "mustache twirling", mwahahah-ing type (pretty stereotypical, I mean) for my taste.

Overall, Mila 2.0 was an interesting read. It's definitely geared towards young adults with its high school feel, its teen romance and its... well, teens. But it also has some depth and it tackles important issues such as ethics in science, among others. The prose was simple bu fluid and contributed to a quick, almost compulsive reading (even if the first part was a bit boring, when compared to the second part). I'd recommend this book. It is certainly a solid debut and the series has the potential to turn into something really good. Also, the fact that I remember this book, a few months later tells me it was actually remarkable.

I received a digital copy of Mila 2.0 from Katherine Tegen Books through Netgalley. Thank you.

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Review: All Night with a Rogue (Alexandra Hawkins)

All Night with a Rogue by Alexandra Hawkins
Publisher: St. Martins (2010)
Format: e-book | 320 pages
Genre(s): Historical Romance

Description (GR): "Notorious, handsome, and decadent, the Lords of Vice prowl the glittering ballrooms of Regency London— breaking rules and hearts with equal aplomb. But even the wildest rogue must eventually meet his match…

Seduce Lady Juliana Ivers and then cast her aside: Those are his sister’s instructions. Alexius Braverton, Marquess of Sinclair—known as Sin to the ton—is happy enough to oblige, especially when he catches a glimpse of his target. Juliana is completely unlike the empty-headed chits who barely hold his attention for a week. A true gentleman would leave her to find a worthy suitor. But then, a Lord of Vice would never claim to be a gentleman.

Juliana is expected to marry well to improve her family’s finances, even if she secretly longs to make a living through her musical compositions. A dalliance can only complicate matters, though not even practical Juliana can help succumbing to the aptly named Sin. But one unforgettable night will draw her into a scandalous affair—and a seduction begun as sport will soon become deliciously, dangerously real…"

WARNING: this review contains some spoilers, is ranty and may offend sensitive readers. Maybe. Probably. (?)

No. Just no, no and NO!

This is one of the worst books I've read in a while. I did not want to say this, but it is true. This book was so annoying.

Let's see if I can write something that isn't too ranty (yeah right).

So, this book takes place in 1820, in English society. The heroine (if you can call her that), starts the book pretty well, fleeing from the unwanted attentions of a lecherous guy. She even climbs a tree, which I kind of thought was cool.

Then... she meets the hero. His name is Sin(clair) and he is a rogue. He looks up while he is getting a blowjob from a woman, sees her, thinks he'd like to bang her (trust me, I'm being way more subtle and less rude than the book itself) and there you have it.

Next day his sister tells him she wants him to seduce this young girl named Juliana, because she is totally stealing her beau. He is like, ok and lucky! Juliana happens to be the girl in the tree.

"Seduction" for this "rogue" is basically half-stalking the girl and sort-of-mauling her even after she said "no". It was so freaking disgusting. I mean, WHAT???? Then, to help matters, the author decides she doesn't really care how Victorian society was and she is going to write a scene where Juliana's mother lets her unmarried daughter enter a carriage alone with a known rogue (damn, it was a man). She also decides that everyone will coo when Juliana, an unmarried woman receives an expensive present from a man (who is a bachelor and a rogue). Hello? Are we in alternate 19th century England?

Well, after he "bangs" her they decide to be lovers, but we're never shown the development of their relationship (yep, it's a sentence telling the reader that they had a torrid, sex-based affair). Because soon new villains that are intent on having our heroine appear out of nowhere.

And that's it... they're in love (not the villains, the hero and heroine).

So. As you can see I thought the plot was the most contrived, annoying thing ever (well, not ever, but...). It was ridiculous, it made no sense and some of the scenes were creepy. As much as a "rogue" is a player I don't want to read about a creepy man (that is the hero). Sin, the "hero" promises the heroine he will bed her. He takes advantage of her (innocence), mauls her and I'm supposed to think that is romantic? Sorry, people are free to think it is, but I sure don't.

Character development was null. Oh wait, the heroine was sort of spunky for the first few pages, but then she noticed the hero was hot and she turned into a whimp. Sin was an idiot, there was no reason for his stupid behavior and he only slightly redeemed himself at the end.

Chemistry between the characters: there was none. As I mentioned above it wasn't even explained how they fell in love. The author just told us they did, but from the sex to the drama there was no development at all.

The supporting characters were equally lackluster.

Overall, very weak. Definitely not my type of book. I like my heros with some redeeming qualities and my romance to be actually romantic. Oh and heroines with some backbone. I will say though, that I thought the writing was ok.

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Review: Storm Born (Richelle Mead)

Storm Born by Richelle Mead

Publisher: Zebra (2008)

Format: Mass Market Paperback | 361 pages

Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

Description (Goodreads): "Just typical. No love life to speak of for months, then all at once, every horny creature in the Otherworld wants to get in your pants. . .
Eugenie Markham is a powerful shaman who does a brisk trade banishing spirits and fey who cross into the mortal world. Mercenary, yes, but a girl's got to eat. Her most recent case, however, is enough to ruin her appetite. Hired to find a teenager who has been taken to the Otherworld, Eugenie comes face to face with a startling prophecy—one that uncovers dark secrets about her past and claims that Eugenie's first-born will threaten the future of the world as she knows it.
Now Eugenie is a hot target for every ambitious demon and Otherworldy ne'er-do-well, and the ones who don't want to knock her up want her dead. Eugenie handles a Glock as smoothly as she wields a wand, but she needs some formidable allies for a job like this. She finds them in Dorian, a seductive fairy king with a taste for bondage, and Kiyo, a gorgeous shape-shifter who redefines animal attraction. But with enemies growing bolder and time running out, Eugenie realizes that the greatest danger is yet to come, and it lies in the dark powers that are stirring to life within her..."

I know I marked this book as "unfinished" and I had every intention of shelving it without reading the rest, but well... I never did like to leave books unfinished and I had two hours of free time because of my trip home, so...

It didn't get any better. Maybe I am just tired of Richelle Mead right now (I've just read the 6 Georgina Kincaid books all at once), but I couldn't seem to focus on this book. It gets the half star for the somewhat original world building, but the characters were flat and the plot... oh dear, the plot. It was contrived. Like many of Mead's characters, Eugenie the protagonist, was a Mary Sue kind of character. Unlike Georgina and even the Vampire Academy characters, however, she wasn't likable in the least. I felt like Mead took one of her characters (who are supposed to exhale charisma) and tried to add to much of Anita Blake's arrogance and pretend thoughness to her (note to author: if you want a strong female character, following in Laurell K. Hamilton's footsteps is NOT a good thing). Eugenie was whiny, mouthy but didn't seem to have enough brains to get herself out of the situations.

The story gave me the creeps, actually. Again, it just sounds too much like the plot of the Meredith Gentry series by Laurell K. Hamilton (which was ridiculous and so is this one) and, I mean, the plot being "lots-of-males-want-to-rape-the-heroine-and-somehow-there-is-a-reason" (I mean, WHAT???) is just not my thing. Ugh.

The other characters lacked development perhaps because they were only there to provide information and hot sex to Eugenie. There was Kiyo, the kitsune (sounds a lot more interesting than it is), the recipient of Eugenie's insta-love. However, the "chemistry" she is supposed to have with him? I just didn't see it. The romance felt so flat, Kiyo's character was equally flat (can we say walking stereotype here?). Dorian might just get interesting in later books (yes, I did buy books 2 and 3... *cries*).

The world building was almost nonexistent, as it is usual with Mead's books. She provides general information but she focus on the characters, in spite of her rather interesting world building ideas. I must confess I didn't actually mind the lack of world builing in the Georgina Kincaid series, because reading those was like watching a soap opera: the characters were endearing and charismatic and you wanted to know more. But in the Dark Swan series? Not so much. I disliked the characters so much that the fact that it had so little world building made the reading painful.

Overall, not a good book. The writing is decent and compelling and the world is interesting enough but the story is idiotic and the characters unlikable. Not recommended.

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Review: Spark (Brigid Kemmerer)

Spark by Brigid Kemmerer
Publisher: Kensington (2012)
Format: e-book | 290 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Urban Fantasy

Description (GR): "Gabriel Merrick plays with fire. Literally. Sometimes he can even control it. And sometimes he can't. Gabriel has always had his brothers to rely on, especially his twin, Nick. But when an arsonist starts wreaking havoc on their town, all the signs point to Gabriel. Only he's not doing it. And no one seems to believe him. Except a shy sophomore named Layne, a brainiac who dresses in turtlenecks and jeans and keeps him totally off balance. Because Layne has a few secrets of her own..."

First impressions/ Right after finishing: YEAH! Now we're talking! I just knew the twins were going to be great!

After being thoroughly disappointed by the first book in this series (Storm), which I thought was pretty average (one of those "why the hype" and "you're so not working for me, book" cases), with unappealing characters and a contrived plot, I was weary of reading book 2. But Gabriel and Nick (the Merrick twins) were my favorite characters in book 1, even if they were not the protagonists; and this book is about Gabriel, the "bad-boy", the guy who plays with fire (literally) and since I loved the concept of the series and the writing is good I decided to give it another chance.

I can now say this series is for me. There was a marked improvement in this book, not only in terms of characters but also in terms of plot.

Gabriel is such a layered and appealing character. He seems like a stereotype for the high school bad-boy who sleeps around and causes trouble, but Kemmerer explored his inner demons/ issues really well. She went to the root of Gabriel's problems, she made the character speak to the readers and she made them understand why Gabriel is like he is. Why he seeks conflict, why he wants to beat people and why he is always angry. Gabriel admits to his flaws in such an honest manner that the reader (at least I did) connects with him. This character really resonated with me. Gabriel exposes himself and his problems but it never seems weird or forced.

I also loved Layne. She wasn't as complex as Gabriel, but there was something about her that I found appealing.

There were no superfluous characters in this book (except perhaps Becca's father). Everyone was there for a reason. Simon, Becca, even Chris had his own little role.

This book had everything I felt was missing in book 1: more developed characters (that were interesting), a more linear and interesting plot (that wasn't all over the place) and the promise of a "greater" plot/story.

Overall, a big improvement from book one. I'll definitely keep following this series.

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Review: The 5th Wave (Rick Yancey)

The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey
Publisher: Penguin Books (2013)
Format: e-book | 480 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Science fiction

Description (GR): "The Passage meets Ender’s Game in an epic new series from award-winning author Rick Yancey.

After the 1st wave, only darkness remains. After the 2nd, only the lucky escape. And after the 3rd, only the unlucky survive. After the 4th wave, only one rule applies: trust no one.

Now, it’s the dawn of the 5th wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from Them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered Earth’s last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, Cassie believes, until she meets Evan Walker. Beguiling and mysterious, Evan Walker may be Cassie’s only hope for rescuing her brother—or even saving herself. But Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death. To give up or to get up."

WARNING: MAJOR SPOILERS!

Sorry if this review is confusing. I'll probably edit it in the next few days, I wanted to write it while the book was fresh in my mind. 

The 5th Wave. Half my friends list is giving 5 stars to this book or recommending it or reading it (I'm exaggerating, but, yes it was that popular), so obviously I had to read it. 

It's a popular book so I was skeptical. I know I shouldn't be, the premise is fantastic, but still. But I'm happy to say I did enjoy this book. The story had enough action, romance, shock factor and awesomeness to keep me entertained.

Not all was good, unfortunately. I think some parts just didn't work for me. Like the multiple POVs (I'll explain why later) and the love story, although I think I do understand why Cassie 'fell in love' with the Silencer. She was alone and vulnerable, he had cared for her and he was hot... and it was kind of the end of the world. Sure, I get it. I just wasn't sold on it.

I think I'll divide this review into two parts: what worked and what didn't work. Because I have so many thoughts running through my head about this book and I wouldn't want to miss anything.

 What worked: 

The 5th Wave is an incredibly charismatic book. Does that make sense at all? It pulls you in with its story and its characters. There is just enough action, twists (predictable or not) and romance to get you through the exposition (I kind of like exposition if it's not too boring, but it might not work for everyone). The characters are though but lovable and the writing style is fluid and it makes the book easy to read and even addictive. 

So, this is what worked for me: the fact that the book reads like a movie (albeit a made-for-TV one, where the characters go through much hardship... but not as lame as made-for-TV movies usually are), due to its action and general plot (alien invasion, electromagnetic wave, etc). 

The fact that it had some... raw parts (sorry, can't think of a better expression) also helps. Some parts, like the army of kids and those same kids burning corpses were pretty disturbing and were quite successful at making me feel something (disgust?). So I'd say that worked too. 

The characters (as mentioned before) worked as well, mostly. Zombie and Cassie especially, but most of the characters worked because they are just examples of "overcoming hardships". So they are lovable. Everyone likes these types of characters. 

What didn't work: 

For me, the weakest point was the world building. I didn't get the aliens' intentions, I felt they were there only to be the villains, even though the characters hinted that it was more complex than that. That there was a purpose to the invasion. I didn't see any and I think the fact they are attacking Earth makes no sense. Here's why: it was said that the aliens needed a new place to live, but it was also noted, earlier in the book that there are lots of planets in the Universe that can sustain Human life - so, no need to attack Earth even if they are humanoid. Plus, the aliens have no bodies. They could either make new ones (wouldn't need an Earth-like planet then, they could adapt to different conditions, perhaps?) or use human bodies (out of the question, since their goal is extermination). 

So that was a fail. I liked the world well enough because it allowed for some character development and for a certain type of story to be told, but I wasn't crazy about how the aliens were a collective villain without much individuality and without good reasons for their actions. They were little more than a rather obvious plot device. 

Evan didn't work for me. He was too stereotypical. As I said before, the romance also didn't ring true, especially because Evan was too "tall, dark, handsome and brooding" for my taste. It was just unrealistic under the circunstances. And why would Cassie fall for him, anyway (even after she learns the truth)? Consequently, I didn't think he was needed and was annoyed when he was given book time. Too many unneeded POV (Nugget's didn't add that much to the story either). 

Overall: it was a interesting book that kept me reading for hours because I had to see what happened next. I liked the overall premise/concept, the characters and the way the author told his story. I do think the romance between Cassie and Evan was not needed, though. Evan himself was not needed. He is the type of character that plagues these types of books and even these types of movies/TV series (I'm looking at you "V"). 

The world building needed work as well. Why would an alien species wreak such destruction? There must be a story there... and we don't get a worthy hint (poor aliens have no home, doesn't count). I also disliked the fact that the story seemed somewhat familiar (although one of our narrators tells us this "invasion" is not like what we see in the movies, it ended being quite like it, actually). 

Still, I liked The 5th Wave. It was, mostly, interesting and captivating and it's far better developed than most YA science fiction books. Worth a read, if you're into the theme.

Review: Blaze (Laurie Boyle Crompton)

Blaze by Laurie Boyle Crompton
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire (2013)
Format: e-book | 202 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance

Description (GR): "Blaze is tired of spending her life on the sidelines.

All she wants is for Mark the Soccer Stud to notice her. Not as Josh's weird sister who drives a turd-brown minivan. And not as that nerdy girl who draws comics.

What she gets is her very own arch-nemesis.

Name: Mark Deninger, aka Mark the Shark

Occupation: Soccer star and all-around lady killer

Relationship Status: Serial ater

Group Affiliation: No loyalty

Known Superpowers: Anti-girlfriend force field, breaking hearts

Mark may have humiliated Blaze supervillian-style, but what he doesn't know is how geek girls always get revenge.

#GeekGrlzRevenge"

WARNING: some (minor) SPOILERS.

This book is NOT bad. That's the first thing I want to say. It's just so... underdeveloped that I was disappointed and couldn't really connect with the characters. The premise, however, was interesting.

Basically I had a problem with the length of the book (less than 200 pages) because it didn't allow for the story to be properly developed. There was so much the author could have done with the characters, so much depth she could have added to their... character. She could have explored Mark's past better; she could have explored Blaze's feelings about her parent's divorce better; she could have explored Blaze's and Quentin's relationship (she could actually have included it in the book). Blaze herself deserved more development. The entire issue(s) raised by this book deserved more development, to be better and more deeply explored (I'm not saying the book had to be bleak... but some serious moments among the predominantly humorous moments would have made this book so much more interesting) and more "closure" than they got.

As it was, I couldn't really connect with the characters. I felt like only Blaze and Josh (her younger brother) were really more then cardboard cutouts (which I felt the rest of the characters were; just there to fill the book with... characters), but even them lacked development.

I don't know. This could have been a really good book about double standards based on gender in our society, the dangers of social media, etc. But... it needed more development and a bit more depth. As it was, I thought it was a quick, fluffy read and Blaze's love of comics was awesome, but that's all this book was... and it could have been so much more.

Overall... a quick, fluffy read that could have been so much more.

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Review: Beauty Queens (Libba Bray)

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Publisher: Scholastic Press (2011)
Format: e-book | 445 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance

Description (GR): "From bestselling, Printz Award-winning author Libba Bray, the story of a plane of beauty pageant contestants that crashes on a desert island. Teen beauty queens. A "Lost"-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to emall. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count."

You know those made-for-TV movies that are on every channel on the weekends? Those adventure and/or romance movies with really predictable characters (perfect cliches) and storylines, all so overdone you can't help but roll your eyes and ask yourself and the world "Is this for real?".

Beauty Queens has that vibe. Everything about it is cliche... on purpose. Yep, this book is satire. I'd say it's a parody that mixes a lot of tropes and premade ideas with the objective of pointing out the sheer trope-ness (I think I just made up a new word) and stereotyped way of life of western societies. Beauty Queens touches a lot of subjects from sexism to reality TV (which is also sexist) and of course, the evils of rampant capitalism. All in an easy-to-read, easy-to-comprehend and highly marketable package. I mean this book is about sexy girls. All together. On a deserted island.

The book starts with a bunch of beauty pageant contestants on a plane. The plane crashes on an island and voila! You have the perfect setting for bunch of girls to find themselves. As the survivors try to survive one more day they'll have to deal with their inner demons not to mention with sexy pirates and corporate militias.

This book sort of defies description. There are no really great characters (or character development), no really great plot (the story is kind of nonsensical, actually) and no world building to speak of.

It's a cliche, inside a trope that has a stereotypical message inside. It's a very in-your-face kind of book about how sexist our society is, how ridiculous reality TV is and how big corporations have too much power over us and shape us with their products. It isn't subtle. It doesn't try to be. It's loud and it drills these realities into your head. Still, it's probably the only way teens will read something more critical than "Twilight" nowadays. It's marketable and/or pop "makes you think, at least a little" literature.

Overall, a funny and cute book, I suppose. Not especially deep, but it does have a specific purpose and its not afraid to tell you what it is.

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Review: Pushing the Limits (Katie McGarry)

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry
Publisher: Mira Ink (2012)
Format: Paperback | 416 pages
Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance

Description (GR): "So wrong for each other...and yet so right.

No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with "freaky" scars on her arms. Even Echo can't remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal. But when Noah Hutchins, the smoking-hot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo's world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she'll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again."

I was never one to read contemporary YA. I think I simply got my fill when I was younger as we have a YA series written by famous teen book author (at least in Portugal) Maria Teresa Maia Gonzalez. She wrote numerous adventure type books featuring teenagers but she also wrote a series (called Profession: Teenager) in which she explores several subjects and problems that teens generally have: image in high school, bulimia, broken homes, among others. I always thought she had a very realistic outlook on these issues and I loved her books when I was younger. 

American contemporary YA is different. It generally follows the same structure: you have a boy and a girl one or both are troubled and they end up together and supporting each other through their problems. While I like this formula as much as the next person, the thing I loved most about Gonzalez's books was that romance was usually not needed for the characters to move forward; they do it by themselves. Also, in some books, the changes the characters go through aren't going to make everything peachy and sometimes they even make wrong choices. 

So why am I talking about another YA series in my review for Katie McGarry's "Pushing the Limits" you ask. Well, I just want to establish the background; the possible reason why I don't find "realistic YA" as enticing as many other people do. While they do bring up serious issues, I feel these books are so formulaic I end up not paying enough attention to the issues they address. 

"Pushing the Limits" suffers from the same problem. I mean it is obviously a love story so I don't get why exactly both characters need to be so troubled. And their issues are so... strange, or Echo's are anyway, a convergence of events so bizarre that it is probably quite rare in real life. 

Still, while the cliches abound, McGarry does know how to write. It was a compulsive reading but I must say I was disappointed with the cliche characterization of most of the characters (especially Noah). Where is the cute, awkward geek in these books? He never gets to be a hero! I want YA fiction with a game geek and/or an otaku for a change... I'm kind of tired of pseudo-bad-boys who sleep around and are "reformed" by the heroine. Oh well :P 

But it was a nice read anyway. Echo and Noah's voices were realistic enough, likable enough and the issues were well explored. 

Overall: a typical contemporary/ realistic YA book that failed in its characterization and fell into the same old formulas for this kind of book. However, the writing was very good and Noah's choices at the end made him a lot more likable to me. It was a good book, but more of a romance book than a "let's explore teen issues" book.

Review: Biting Cold (Chloe Neill)

Biting Cold: A Chicagoland Vampires Novel by Chloe Neill
Publisher: Gollancz (2012)
Format: Paperback | 337 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance

Description (GR): "Turned into a vampire against her will, twenty-eight-year-old Merit found her way into the dark circle of Chicago’s vampire underground, where she learned there was more to supernaturals than met the eye—and more supernaturals than the public ever imagined.

And not all the secrets she learned were for sharing—among humans or inhumans.

Now Merit is on the hunt, charging across the stark American Midwest, tailing a rogue supernatural intent on stealing an ancient artifact that could unleash catastrophic evil on the world. But Merit is also the prey. An enemy of Chicagoland is hunting her, and he’ll stop at nothing to get the book for himself. No mercy allowed. 

No rules apply. No lives spared. The race is on."

WARNING: some spoilers for earlier books.

So, what went wrong? I was liking the series well enough (although Neill's plots are pretty easy to figure out. I figured out who was the villain in all the books. The world building is also nothing to write home about, but I like the fact that these books are light and somewhat funny.

This latest book... was not so good in my opinion. Why? The biggest reason is Ethan. He's back and he's having exactly the same attitude towards Merit he had before (avoidance, let's break up because of... reasons and all that crap). It's the same situation again and I kind of got tired. It does help that I never understood the chemistry between Merit and Ethan. It also helps that Ethan never fully developed into something more than a stereotype.

So Ethan... go away. You're annoying (I doubt that will happen but oh well).

This series isn't exactly characterized by inventive plots and deep mysteries. Every single time I knew who the villain was quite early. Person behind the drugs in book 4? Yeah, figured it out. Person behind the black magic in book 5? Very easy, knew it. Seth Tate's identity? Since he was revealed to be a supernatural I had a suspicion about which type he would be. I kid you not. I'm being totally honest here.

So why, you ask, did I keep reading? Because Neill seemed willing to take some risks with her characters. I mean what happened in book 3 and book 4. Sadly, she always fixes these "dramatic events". And that really annoyed me and made me dislike this book. The events in books 4 and 5 would have been great ways for Merit to grow as a character... but she doesn't because these huge, traumatic events are... fixed and everything is alright and back to normal in the end.

Overall, this book was pretty boring. The world building is rather cliche and not very detailed, the mystery was too simplistic and the romance felt flat (as it has felt since the beginning). I lost interest in reading the rest of the series, at least for now.

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Review: Magic on the Storm (Devon Monk)

Magic on the Storm by Devon Monk
Publisher: Roc (2010)
Format: Mass Market Paperback | 344 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy

Description (GR): "Allison Beckstrom is committed to her work tracing illegal spells. Now, there's an apocalyptic storm bearing down on Portland, and when it hits, all the magic in the area will turn unstable and destructive. To stop it from taking out the entire city, Allie and her lover, the mysterious Zayvion Jones, must work with the Authority-the enigmatic arbiters of all things magic-and take a stand against a magical wildstorm that will obliterate all in its path..."

WARNING: SPOILERS!

I've been meaning to post my rant (ahem) review about this book/series for a while now. I've written a bit in my book journal (I was that frustrated) about the chosen direction of this series and what I like and dislike about it. Since the series is complete at nine books I guess there is no changing its direction (not that I think I could change anything, since I am not the author, ahah), but still, these books have so much potencial that it is frustrating (here's that word again) to see it wasted (in my opinion).

I was thinking of buying the 3 books I still don't own, but after book 4 I reckon I won't. I cannot muster enough interest in the characters even though the world is interesting enough.

Allie is "tolerable I suppose" in the famous words of Mr Darcy, but she has yet to reach her full potential as a character. As for the rest of the characters, they are not good "enough to tempt me" to keep reading. Let's hope I am not making a big mistake, as Mr Darcy did with Elizabeth Bennet at the beginning of Pride and Prejudice, but considering this is book 4, I doubt it. I doubt Zayvion will get more interesting (and stop being a stereotype for tall, dark and handsome) or that Allie will stop being uber-special and possibly a bit Mary-Sue-ish. I doubt the "Autority" will stop being far-fetched.

My problem here is that the thing that interested me in these books - the magic system and the world building - has taken a turn I don't much like. That is, of course, a personal issue. It just sounds all too far-fetched and very "cloak and dagger". Magic stopped being dangerous and unknown, almost alive... humans have regained control of it by dividing it into disciplines/types that are never fully explained.

Zayvion continues to be the most boring male lead ever. His presence is barely "felt" during the books (ok, so he was in a coma for most of books 3 and 4, but even if he wasn't... I wouldn't miss him) and he was revealed to be a boring super human (I was hoping for sexy Sumerian god or something, but alas, no. The characters with the most potential (Stone and Stotts) don't get nearly enough airtime.

Overall, the elements that made me like this series seem to have disappeared. I never warmed up to the characters, the romance always felt flat and even the magic system got boring. I still have book 5 on my shelves but unless there is a gigantic twist, I'm not that interested in reading more. A pity, since the concept was pretty cool.

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Review: Magic In the Blood (Devon Monk)

Magic In the Blood by Devon Monk
Publisher: Roc (2009)
Format: Mass Market Paperback | 358 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy

Description (GR): "Working as a Hound-tracing illegal spells back to their casters-has taken its toll on Allison Beckstrom. But even though magic has given her migraines and stolen her recent memory, Allie isn't about to quit. Then the police's magic enforcement division asks her to consult on a missing persons case. But what seems to be a straightforward job turns out to be anything but, as Allie finds herself drawn into the underworld of criminals, ghosts, and blood magic."

I've read book 1 of this series way-back-when so I wasn't really clear on the details. I knew there was a heroine who uses magic and I remember liking the magic system in these books because in Monk's world everyone (as far as I can tell) can use magic (some are more talented than others, though) but magic requires a price and that makes most people think twice about using it. It can be a simple headache but it can also be something a little more serious.

Anyway... I remember (I went to check my review, ahah) liking the world building but not being crazy about the stereotypical characters. Still, I bought some more books of this series a while back so I decided to give it another chance.

This second book was fast-paced and there was a lot happening at the same time.

I was enjoying this book immensely (a lot more than the first) but the ending was rushed and the mystery underdeveloped. I mean, Allie is a Hound, she should be investigating and drawing conclusions but I felt the book was too focused on her and that too much happened to her. The mystery plot suffered because of it. We arrive at the climax with only vague ideas about what is going on and the way everything was resolved just didn't seem... plausible. The villain was almost absent until the end, also due to this. The author gave us no time to feel anything for him.

On the other hand there was a lot more world building and character development in this one. Allie was a lot more likable; unfortunately Zayvion Jones is still a walking stereotype. But... there is no love triangle in sight, which is great.

So, overall, it was a nice read, better than the first one but I feel it still needs more. There's too much and too little happening (I know I sound confusing but that's how it seemed to me) and some things were explained in a really implausible manner.

I will be reading the rest of the series though, since Monk got me interested in her world and her magic system (again).

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Review: Cold Days (Jim Butcher)

Cold Days by Jim Butcher
Publisher: Orbit Books (2012)
Format: Hardcover | 515 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Fantasy

Description (GR): "For years, Harry Dresden has been Chicago's only professional wizard, but a bargain made in desperation with the Queen of Air and Darkness has forced him into a new job: professional killer.

Mab, the mother of wicked faeries, has restored the mostly-dead wizard to health, and dispatches him upon his first mission - to bring death to an immortal. Even as he grapples with the impossible task, Dresden learns of a looming danger to Demonreach, the living island hidden upon Lake Michigan, a place whose true purpose and dark potential have the potential to destroy billions and to land Dresden in the deepest trouble he has ever known - even deeper than being dead. How messed up is that?

Beset by his new enemies and hounded by the old, Dresden has only twenty four hours to reconnect with his old allies, prevent a cataclysm and do the impossible - all while the power he bargained to get - but never meant to keep - lays siege to his very soul.

Magic. It can get a guy killed."

WARNING: SPOILERS FOR PREVIOUS BOOKS AND FOR THIS BOOK AS WELL.

Initial reaction: How does Jim Butcher do it? How can he take the most ridiculous sounding ideas and turns them into a coherent, interesting, page-turner of a book? O_O

Weeks after finishing this newest installment in The Dresden Files, I still don't know what to write about it. Except that Butcher can definitely write a compelling story and mix the most strange ideas and plot lines into something that makes sense. And he can keep readers interested for 14 books! 14!

This 14th book starts with Harry waking up after a near-death experience (see Ghost Story, book 13 for details). He is in Mab's kingdom for he has agreed to be her Knight (see Changes, book 12 for details). As he is nursed back to health, he has to escape Mab's deadly training. For Mab is about to ask him for something really unexpected... something Harry thought even Mab wouldn't be able to do.

One of my favourite books in this series is book 4 (Summer Knight), which dealt with faeries and their strange morals, powers and trickery. So I was quite happy to see that Cold Days deals with faeries as well. They are some of my favourite characters in the Dresden Files world.

Cold Days has a bit of a weak start. Harry is in Fairy Land (the NeverNever) and is being groomed to be the new Winter Knight. I must admit that while I did read the first 100 pages pretty quickly, I wasn't overly enthusiastic about the turn of the story. Harry lusting after a changeling and going to parties. Nop.

But then Mab did something that made the book get back on track: she made an impossible request to her new Knight and there Harry is, with enough trouble to get him killed twice over. So Harry gets back to Chicago and meets up with the old gang and that's when the book really 'starts'.

There is all of the usual action (almost non-stop), there is Harry battling with his new Winter powers and what they entail (changes in personality are one thing) and Harry and company trying to figure out why Mab would request such a thing.

What they find is terrifying (and a bit out there). I'm not sure how to feel about the new, shadowy enemies called "The Outsiders". Aliens on top of everything else? I don't know how it will work, but in this book, their involvement was epic. The mystery of the fae's existence and purpose is beginning to unravel; at the same time, we have these Outsiders, who are yet another big mystery, but could also shift the series into the ridicule (looking too much like the X Files, suddenly).

Overall, a typical Harry Dresden book (which is a good thing), with a bold idea that can go very, very wrong. I can't wait to see where Butcher will take the series next, so of course I will be buying the next book. Recommended to fans of urban fantasy and of course to readers of this series: this installment will not disappoint you as it has everything a good Dresden Files book should have.

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Review: Daughter of Smoke and Bone (Laini Taylor)

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company (2011)
Format: Hardcover | 417 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Young Adult

Description (GR): "Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages—not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out. When one of the strangers—beautiful, haunted Akiva—fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?"

WARNING: Contains Spoilers

First Impressions: I relutanctly give it 3.5 stars for the world-building (in the fantasy lands, at least) but I was a little disappointed with the cliché star-crossed lovers who dream of changing the world romance. This book had so much potential!

Daughter of Smoke and Bones is another one of those books everyone loves and raves about. Maybe that's why it sat on my bookshelf so long, but I bought the second one because I got an excellent price at Amazon and I decided I could avoid this one no longer.

The synopsis didn't give me a clear idea of what to expect, which filled me with dread and joy at the same time. At least there was no obvious predominance of romance and stereotyped characters. Still, I find myself disappointed. I wanted to like this book a lot... and as people say (or as I say?) expectations are a bitch. 

Karou is a high-school student in Prague. She is artsy (and has blue hair), has a mouthy (and stereotypical) best friend and lives a perfectly normal life. Oh and she was raised by demons. Yes, you read right. She was raised by a demon (who calls himself a chimaera) called Brimstone and his band of merry friends, one of whom is a Naja; they live "Elsewhere" and their dwellings are only accessible through portals hidden all around the world.

Brimstone is a sorcerer of sorts, and much like the tooth fairy he collects teeth in exchange for wishes. Karou is his errant girl and collects teeth from all over (when she's not in school or hanging out at the coolest bar ever - and I am not being sarcastic here). She never questioned her way of life even if she knows other people don't believe in monsters.

Everything changes when an angel appears. His mission is to destroy the portals and Karou's family.

So, this is very true. Everything changes when the angel appears. I loved the whole concept behind the story; Karou was a lively, likable heroine and her chimaera family was truly interesting.

Then Akiva, the angel arrives, bent on vengeance and everything went downhill.

Sure I understand, after reading the whole book, why it was "insta-love". There is actually a reason besides the fact that Akiva is hot and tortured and oh-so-dark. But... he is also all that and it annoyed me to no end. There I was, with an otherwise fantastic, interesting and mysterious book on my hands and the male lead just had to fit the Male YA Stereotype to a T.

I didn't care for Akiva. He was boring, overdone, the type of male lead that is only saved by the fact that he isn't an asshole (most of the time) to the girl. But he was tortured. And dark. And hot. And so very sad. And Karou swooned in his presence and I lost some respect for her, as a character, right there.

So basically, my main problem with this book was the fact that the author handled the romantic themes poorly. As in, like almost every YA author. As in, the heroine drools, the hero suffers in silence and their attraction is A Very Powerful Thing.

Oh how disappointed I was!

The book redeemed itself a little in the end and I did love the ending because it adds more emotional complexity and depth to the main character's relationship. Still, like I said in my first impressions, I was a little turned off by the cliché "star-crossed lovers who dream of changing the world" romance. It's a common plot device... in made-for-TV movies.

But then there was the world building (fantastic) and some of the supporting characters (charismatic) and I felt better about Daughter of Smoke and Bone.

Overall: it was good and imaginative. It blends urban fantasy and classic fantasy seamlessly and, oh, did I mention the writing is mostly fantastic? I didn't like the romance or the part it plays in the story, but in the end the good points outweigh the bad. I'd recommend this one.

Review: Stormdancer (Jay Kristoff)

Stormdancer by Jay Kristoff

Publisher: Tor UK (2012)

Format: Hardcover | 352 pages

Genre(s): Fantasy, Steampunk, Young Adult

Description (GR): "A DYING LAND 

The Shima Imperium verges on the brink of environmental collapse; an island nation once rich in tradition and myth, now decimated by clockwork industrialization and the machine-worshipers of the Lotus Guild. The skies are red as blood, the land is choked with toxic pollution, and the great spirit animals that once roamed its wilds have departed forever. 

AN IMPOSSIBLE QUEST

The hunters of Shima’s imperial court are charged by their Shōgun to capture a thunder tiger—a legendary creature, half-eagle, half-tiger. But any fool knows the beasts have been extinct for more than a century, and the price of failing the Shōgun is death.

A SIXTEEN YEAR OLD GIRL

Yukiko is a child of the Fox clan, possessed of a talent that if discovered, would see her executed by the Lotus Guild. Accompanying her father on the Shōgun’s hunt, she finds herself stranded: a young woman alone in Shima’s last wilderness, with only a furious, crippled thunder tiger for company. Even though she can hear his thoughts, even though she saved his life, all she knows for certain is he’d rather see her dead than help her. 

But together, the pair will form an indomitable friendship, and rise to challenge the might of an empire."

WARNING: Contains SPOILERS!

I liked the overall concept and most of the world building, but some things just didn't work for me. I even made a list, which I will present later, but first, some context.

I've read a few reviews that mentioned the fact that Stormdancer gets a lot of things wrong when it comes to Japanese culture, myth and even language. I admit that while I do like anime and manga and have read a few books set in Japan, I don't know enough about their culture (especially historically) to judge if most things described in this book are right or not. But even so I've noticed some things that bothered me (or at least I think I did. I might be wrong, it may be all a matter of perception).

1. Setting - so Stormdancer takes place in an alternate version of Japan called "Shima". The author could have gotten away with the frequent incorrections if this "fantasy" land wasn't so obviously Japan. You have Daimios (feudal lords), Japanese supernatural creatures, Japanese deities, the same creation myth, the same society structure and hierarchy and even the same language. Shima is Japan which makes all the factual errors this book might or not contain very bad.

The ones I detected (very easy to spot, really) were the erroneous use of "sama" (any anime addict knows this is a suffix, it can't be used by itself) the use of the word "aiya" (which I've heard in Taiwanese dramas, I think, but never in Japanese dramas) and the bow Yukiko was always doing (with the fist in the palm) that seemed right out of "Mulan" (and Mulan, as we all know is Chinese).

2. Cultural Values - here's the part that bothered me. While this alternate Japan seems to have most of the values of Feudal Japan samurais that follow the Code of Bushido, rigid social hierarchy, rigid social rituals, respect for honor and servitude, these same values are considered... well, bad. The main character thinks they are the reason why people are oppressed and boasts the qualities of "revolution" and "rebellion" which are typically more western ways of thought.

The heroine despises her own culture, as seen when she is invited by the Shogun's sister to tea and says she doesn't have time for such silliness and all the rituals. This disregard for the culture the author is trying to portray bothered me.

3. Characters - to me they were another weak point of the book. They were two-dimensional and lacked development. They seemed to be there to further the plot more than anything else. For example, Hideo the minister was complacent, but why was he complacent we never know. He was complacent simply to be an obstacle to our heroine. The Guild people and the Shogun were simply evil without explanation. They were evil so that the heroine could fight them. The rebels were rebels so they could "open the heroine's eyes". Even Yukiko had little substance.

I had a hard time connecting to any of the characters.

4. Romance - two of my "pet peeves" made an appearance: insta-love (well, insta-lust, but still... the love interest was pretty hollow, no personality whatsoever) and a love triangle. The author didn't handle the romance part well at all. I'd have preferred no romance at all. Enough said.

5. Writing Style - too verbose, which made the reading difficult. Some things were just overly described and it served no purpose.

So why the three stars? For the potential. The world building is interesting and the story could be good if it was more layered and deep. As it was, the "message" (industrialization is bad, yadda, yadda, we're literally paying for it with our blood, etc) was about as subtle as a freight train. This book could have been great, but I think a little more research and character development were needed before it was 'released'. The concept is pretty good and the whole "steampunk" part of the story was well-constructed and imaginative; I wasn't too fond of the rest, though.

A disappointing read, mainly because I had such high expectations.

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Review: Imaginary Girls (Nova Ren Suma)

Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile (2011)
Format: Hardcover | 348 pages
Genre(s): Urban Fantasy, Young Adult

Description (GR): "Chloe's older sister, Ruby, is the girl everyone looks to and longs for, who can't be captured or caged. When a night with Ruby's friends goes horribly wrong and Chloe discovers the dead body of her classmate London Hayes left floating in the reservoir, Chloe is sent away from town and away from Ruby.

But Ruby will do anything to get her sister back, and when Chloe returns to town two years later, deadly surprises await. As Chloe flirts with the truth that Ruby has hidden deeply away, the fragile line between life and death is redrawn by the complex bonds of sisterhood.

With palpable drama and delicious craft, Nova Ren Suma bursts onto the YA scene with the story that everyone will be talking about."

This book is beautiful. And it's ugly, sometimes, even. And it's definitely weird.

I was in a reading slump. I didn't feel like reading anything at all and that is a very scary feeling for a book lover as all book lovers know. I started reading Imaginary Girls in this mindset, and at first I wasn't interested. Not much really.

But then the pace of the book picked up and I wanted to know more and more and I just had to read. And I also had to stop because I wanted this book to last, if that makes sense.

Ruby and Chloe are sisters. They might as well be orphans because they have different fathers and their mother loves her bottles more than she loves them. But it's all right, because Ruby takes care of Chloe. Ruby can get anything she wants, from anyone.

And so Ruby raises Chloe and tells her stories about the town that was there before their town but was destroyed by water when New York City decided to make a reservoir. And that the townsfolk didn't leave and now live in the underwater city.

One day an accident happens. Chloe is swimming and she finds a dead girl. She is sent to live with her father but after two years, Ruby wants her back. And Ruby always gets what she wants.

Imaginary Girls was... well, I can't even say. I really liked it because it is just so... strange (but good strange). There's a main character who isn't the main character, there is love that is more obsession than love but in the end it is love and the emotions portrayed in this novel turn everything around and make us doubt our assumptions about the characters.

I can't even describe this book properly. It has that ethereal quality of otherness that so many paranormal books try to achieve but can't. It is truly compelling and beautiful, not because of the writing being poetic or anything. It's just the story, the overall subtleness of the plot and of the characters that make it so. And Chloe's unique and flawed perspective is what makes this book so magical.

Imaginary Girls is the story of two sisters that had a hard time growing up. It's about love so strong it ends up destroying instead of nurturing. The characters were spellbinding and interesting. The story was haunting and the paranormal elements were subtle and so well placed you never really know if there is something supernatural.

The plot is well constructed and keeps you guessing. But what really makes this book shine are the characters. They seem so real and at the same time so... other, so different. I must say I didn't much care for Chloe's "love interest", though.

Overall, a great read. It is a mysterious book that will keep you reading just to find out what is real and what is not. Recommended.

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