Crushed. The title really fits the story. Gosh, Ian! You're such a coward and you worry too much! Yes, Ian Kabra just got crushed. Not only for lettCrushed. The title really fits the story. Gosh, Ian! You're such a coward and you worry too much! Yes, Ian Kabra just got crushed. Not only for letting his mother get away but also hurting Amy's feelings wherein he felt the same way! **continues mumbling** On the brighter side, in this eBook it is revealed that (view spoiler)[ IAN LIKES AMY! XD XD XD (hide spoiler)]. Evan was also mentioned on the end. Here's a short plot: It was many months after the Clue Hunt. Ian stood in front of a stand mirror, practicing what he should say when he'll finally see Amy. He plans to confess to her! Natalie came and said how sappy his speech was. Then while watching TV, news said that Isabel Kabra was released in prison. Natalie shivered and was scared to death. She wanted Ian to just stay. The boy hesitated into going to America and visit Amy or not. It was funny how he made his butler tired for not knowing if he'll go or not. In the Kabra mansion, there was a part where no one should enter. It was the Lucian part. Ian thought he heard Natalie and went inside. Suddenly, he saw someone in a black suit stealing something! He quickly chased after it. They even fell off the roof and to the garden below. Ian realized it was a girl not a boy and instantly he knew it was Isabel. He blocked her way out of the mansion. Isabel knew that Ian's scared of her and with just a simple "Step aside", Ian did so and he let Isabel go away. Back inside, he saw Natalie on the library reading. He made a some sort of excuse and decided he'll not go to America and visit Amy. He then called her. On Amy, she was busy preparing the house for Ian's visit. She was so excited. Then, her phone rang. She answered it and it was Ian. Ian became a jerk once again saying he couldn't go. Amy's face fell. She asked if he can visit some other time but Ian said he doesn't have any plans to do so. He even asked," Is that disappointment I hear on your voice Amy?" (Urgh! I really want to strangle Ian while reading that!) Amy hung up and she cried. Back to Ian, he pitied himself. Saying Amy won't like him back because he was the son of a murderer who killed her parents and blah blah blah. Jeez! Ian's so so so stupid! Back to Amy, Nellie comforted her saying Ian was a jerk and he'll ever be. Amy was really sad, she tried to do everything she could to impress Ian. She tried heating a water not on the microwave but on the stove. She tried to cook, do household chores and many more! And this was all she'll get? Nellie mentioned that maybe Amy should give someone a call, a classmate of hers and even told her if his name is Ethan! Amy corrected Nellie that it's Evan and Nellie just winked at her. Amy then ran to her room and gave Evan a call. "Hello, Evan. This is Amy," Amy said. "You're glad that I called. So am I." And that's how the story ended! And now, I keep thinking, what if Ian did visit Amy? Will Evan and Amy even be together? Is there another chance for Amian? This story is really heartbreaking especially for the Amian fans. No wonder it is called, Crushed.
Merged review:
Crushed. The title really fits the story. Gosh, Ian! You're such a coward and you worry too much! Yes, Ian Kabra just got crushed. Not only for letting his mother get away but also hurting Amy's feelings wherein he felt the same way! **continues mumbling** On the brighter side, in this eBook it is revealed that (view spoiler)[ IAN LIKES AMY! XD XD XD (hide spoiler)]. Evan was also mentioned on the end. Here's a short plot: It was many months after the Clue Hunt. Ian stood in front of a stand mirror, practicing what he should say when he'll finally see Amy. He plans to confess to her! Natalie came and said how sappy his speech was. Then while watching TV, news said that Isabel Kabra was released in prison. Natalie shivered and was scared to death. She wanted Ian to just stay. The boy hesitated into going to America and visit Amy or not. It was funny how he made his butler tired for not knowing if he'll go or not. In the Kabra mansion, there was a part where no one should enter. It was the Lucian part. Ian thought he heard Natalie and went inside. Suddenly, he saw someone in a black suit stealing something! He quickly chased after it. They even fell off the roof and to the garden below. Ian realized it was a girl not a boy and instantly he knew it was Isabel. He blocked her way out of the mansion. Isabel knew that Ian's scared of her and with just a simple "Step aside", Ian did so and he let Isabel go away. Back inside, he saw Natalie on the library reading. He made a some sort of excuse and decided he'll not go to America and visit Amy. He then called her. On Amy, she was busy preparing the house for Ian's visit. She was so excited. Then, her phone rang. She answered it and it was Ian. Ian became a jerk once again saying he couldn't go. Amy's face fell. She asked if he can visit some other time but Ian said he doesn't have any plans to do so. He even asked," Is that disappointment I hear on your voice Amy?" (Urgh! I really want to strangle Ian while reading that!) Amy hung up and she cried. Back to Ian, he pitied himself. Saying Amy won't like him back because he was the son of a murderer who killed her parents and blah blah blah. Jeez! Ian's so so so stupid! Back to Amy, Nellie comforted her saying Ian was a jerk and he'll ever be. Amy was really sad, she tried to do everything she could to impress Ian. She tried heating a water not on the microwave but on the stove. She tried to cook, do household chores and many more! And this was all she'll get? Nellie mentioned that maybe Amy should give someone a call, a classmate of hers and even told her if his name is Ethan! Amy corrected Nellie that it's Evan and Nellie just winked at her. Amy then ran to her room and gave Evan a call. "Hello, Evan. This is Amy," Amy said. "You're glad that I called. So am I." And that's how the story ended! And now, I keep thinking, what if Ian did visit Amy? Will Evan and Amy even be together? Is there another chance for Amian? This story is really heartbreaking especially for the Amian fans. No wonder it is called, Crushed....more
Yes, I've read a lot of stories almost the same as this one: having a some sort of contract oThis review can also be found in The Teenpreneur Writer.
Yes, I've read a lot of stories almost the same as this one: having a some sort of contract or deal that’s really heartless, then the one who signed in will fall in love to their target, then the target will learn about it and everything will be a mess to that person who signed the contract; and then that person will do everything to make up with the mistakes that person made and it’ll be a happy ending.
But this book has its own twists and some factors that made it somewhat different that I’ll be listing later.
Plot Summary:
Avery James had her life planned it out. Graduate as a valedictorian, go to Costa Rica to have some job experience in the medical field, go to a top medicine school and be a doctor someday. But for now, she should focus in getting to Costa Rica but it costs $4,000 and her family wasn't that rich that was why she worked on a hot dog diner. She tended to look at things black and white and logically. And most of all, believe that love was nothing but a distraction and hindrance in getting her goals.
In every story, there was always a somewhat rival to the protagonist. In Avery’s life, it was Hannah Cohen, a typical rich, popular and beautiful blonde girl we commonly see as antagonists in a story. Knowing that Avery needed money, she offered her a deal- make Zac Greeley, her boyfriend, break up with her and $500 is hers. The girl accepted it, determined to get to Costa Rica not knowing the consequences and the circumstances she’ll be facing along the way that she had to learn that she didn't hold all the answers, she was number one in the stupidity department and most of all, sometimes in life no matter how much you plan and control it, there’ll always be a time that’ll come and surprise you. And to our protagonist- it was falling in love.
What I Love:
[_] The plot. I love the twists and turns and sometimes, I love it when my guess in what was going to happen was right (but not all the time). It’s heartwarming in some way and tells the story of a simple junior high schooler who aims to be a valedictorian and at the same time, not that rich.
I’m used to reading books in the perspective of a simple common girl ending up with the hottest and most popular guy at school and so on and so forth. And reading in a perspective of a smart girl (and proved it in the story! There’s a lot of stories that I've read where the author claimed “The main girl protagonist is a very smart girl, she’s the valedictorian in the class!” and yet, throughout the story, you can’t understand how this girl is smart since everything she do- the decisions she makes and even the point of view itself- is the exact opposite the author is implying) who logically looks at everything is a fresh for me. I love the plot, it’s amazing.
[_] The first sentence I've read in chapter one. It said If there was one thing I hated more than anything else in this world, it was Giant Hot Dog Day. I was a little taken aback when I had read that! I mean wow, just plain wow. First sentence and you can definitely tell that the main protagonist is a smart and strong girl.
[_] The characters are relatable in their own way.
Avery is a practical girl, not surprised since she wants to be a doctor and likes everything to be organized. She hates it when there’s a mess and is a clean freak. She’s seriously smart too, and can be pessimistic in life, but not too much. I love how she changes in the end and isn't as practical as before and is open to the idea of ‘fun’.
Zac is almost my dream guy. Almost. Everything I wanted in a guy can be find in him- hilarious, easy-going, kind of laid back, can make anyone laugh, fun to be with, sociable, very sweet (especially what he told Avery in the end! Made me melt in my seat! Wahhh! <3) and most of all, even if everyone thinks that he’s not serious about life, in reality, he’s the most serious person when it comes to that topic. And it’s great. He’s the perfect guy for Avery and I have always been a fan of opposites-attract love story. ;)
Molly is Avery’s best friend and she’s my most favorite. Her perspective in a person doesn't waver just because of that person’s past. She gives people second chances to prove themselves and she’s really smart too, like Avery, but not in medicines or anything, but in computers. She also has this dream of being a CIA operative and according to Avery, a natural born-businesswoman, like I do. Hahaha. I just want to be one, it’s my dream.
Hannah is your typical antagonist of a story. Blonde, popular, rich but with a twist, she’s smart. But even if she’s the rival of Avery and rude and mean and fake, yes, there are times where I dislike her, but most of the time, I pity her. She was such an in-depth character, being who she is because of her family, especially her mom. She became a person she wasn't before and I believe she’s living a miserable life. She’s one of my most favorite antagonists.
[_] The ending is really nice. It’s one of the best endings I've read in a book. Though I’d like to know more about their lives after that major event, it still satisfied me. This is one of those books that put a smile on my face as I put my phone down and inspired to write a book to tell everyone how awesome it is!
[_] I love Ms. Shana Norris’s writing style. I can feel Avery’s feelings as she went through the story. I can feel sympathy to her, how messed up she was under that I’m-a-perfect-role-model student façade. When there’s a heartbreaking scene, I can feel the pain and feel my own heart break too. I feel like I’m Avery itself, like I’m the one that’s going through the story and that’s a really great thing.
[_] The cover is the last thing I want to take note in the things I love in this book. It’s unique in its own way and it’s my first time to see a cover just like that. It’s simple, tells to the reader that it’s about love and teenagers- it’s beautiful.
[_] The title is one of the things that made me pick up this book. I have a thing with book titles with the words “The” and “Thief”. Take The Lightning Thief for example. I picked it up not knowing that Percy Jackson and the Olympians will unleash the fan girl in me and make me so addicted to it that I’m willing to have my birthday celebrate very early just to support the movie (Yes, I just did that in my birthday this year). Another one is The Book Thief. I love it too! Another book you should definitely read!
That’s why I didn't think twice in picking this up. And now, I've proven my theory to be true. Most of the book titles with the words “The” and “Thief” turns out to be a great one. :) But of course, in every rule there’s an exception. So I’m not saying that every book with those titles is great OK? I’m just making myself clear. :)
[_] And last but not the least, I love the quotes I got from here. It’s definitely amazing and heartwarming! Here are my most favorites (and a BONUS dialogue):
“You shouldn't let her treat you like that,” I told him. “Why don’t you just break up with her if she does all that?” “Because you don’t just walk away from someone when things get tough,” Zac said. “You find a way to stick it out and figure out what’s gone wrong.”
Remember the description I gave to Zac? That ‘even if everyone thinks that he’s not serious about life, in reality; he’s the most serious person when it comes to that topic’? The quote above is one of the proofs I have. And here’s another one:
I looked back at the ragged guy inside the store, feeling ashamed that I had thought of him as a loser stuck in a dead end job at a gas station, sleeping instead of working. “I didn't know that.” Zac tapped his left ear. “That’s because you have to listen to find out things about people. Looking only tells you a small part of the story.”
*sighs dreamily* Zac, you seriously are smart. You’re perfect for Avery!
What I Dislike:
[_] I dislike Avery in some occasions. She’s so practical it makes her life more miserable. I’m glad she changed onward and learned the true meaning of “fun”. There are also times where I dislike Hannah too, but whenever I think about her life and how sad it was too, that dislike turns to pity.
[_] I love 98% of the ending of this story, it’s a happy ending and I love it really, but I dislike for the fact that it’s similar to the conclusions you’ll read at the end of the storybooks. I wish the author added some information about what happened to the characters after that. When I turned the page, I was surprised to see that it was done already, that it was about the author already. It’s good, but in some way it’s not. It means that it lacks something. But I still love it. I just wish it’s a bit longer.
Conclusion:
The Boyfriend Thief by Shana Norris is definitely a book worth checking out especially for teens out there. Whether you've experienced love or not, single or not; smart, popular or just nobody at school, as long as you’re a reader of books that doesn't mind a few clichés here and there; and interested in learning about an ordinary life of a teenage valedictorian wannabe, this is for you. Its worth your time and I promise that once you read this, there’ll be a wide smile on your face since it ended great.
The plot, writing style, cover, title and characters are all great and I love them all. And even if you can’t help but dislike some characters in some parts in the book, it’s still amazing and deserves the rating I gave it- 5 stars!
Well, I was hesitant to read this. First of all, I had read the original one, the real story posted in Wattpad and refused to continue since I alreadyWell, I was hesitant to read this. First of all, I had read the original one, the real story posted in Wattpad and refused to continue since I already got bored. And I wasn't a fan of Tagalog/Filipino stories since most of them are clichéd, too mushy and too full of coincidence and drama to be true.
But then, I heard the news of She's Dating the Gangster by Bianca Bernardino is going to be published as a book and everyone, I mean everyone at my school (even two of my friends) is hyped up at the news and couldn't wait for its publication. So, a friend of mine, Lheii, asked me a favor by buying her a copy once it reached National Book Store. I agreed in exchange that I get to read it. I was very curious with all the popularity and praises this book received and since it was pure English, I asked myself, "Why not?" And so when I got the opportunity to buy a copy (which was yesterday), I asked Lheii if I could read it first before I give it to her. My friend is kind enough to agree and she didn't have any idea how happy I felt.
I started reading the book today and finished it in one sitting. The book isn't thick with only 170 pages and it is affordable for the cost of Php175.
The cover's made quite good. That must be Kenji, being all 'gangster' like smoking with the smoke coming from his cigarette serving as the background for the title. When I grabbed a copy, the first thing I noticed was not the cover, which was surprising since it was the first thing you'll notice in a book, it was the texture of the book and how it touched my own palm. I don't know how to describe it, but it's definitely smooth and I don't have ay idea what they put in there to make it like that. But nevertheless, I really love it!
At the back cover, above the barcode and SUMMIT BOOKS logo, it said "Content is not suitable for readers below 16 years old" and I must admit I'm guilty on that one. I'm not yet 16, but I will be soon and honestly, I didn't find anything too offensive for a 15 and below readers to read. Oh wait, there is. But I do think that 15 year old readers would be able to deal with it. Whatever the reason may be that they put 16+ rating, I do not know.
I enjoyed the whole time I was reading the book. The emotions were in a whirlwind of typhoon, too many and too mixed up. I said that as a compliment. Well, that's basically how I felt while reading- enjoyed. I also felt at some point, sympathy to Athena, anger at Kenji and a lot more. There were many deleted scenes from the original Wattpad story I had read last year since there was a scene where Lucas and Athena kissed during a school fair (that was basically the part when I stopped reading) and didn't find that scene in the book.
I'm glad that they removed a lot of unnecessary things from the original story to the book. Truth to be told, I found a lot of things irrelevant while I was reading the original story. But, when I had read the book, I'm happy with the result. It instantly earned three stars. One star was deducted for the other characters were barely mentioned and I wanted to know more about Sara, Jigs and Kirby's lives more. But I think it is quite reasonable for the story revolves around Athena, Kenji and Abigail. Also Lucas. But I honestly think that the author should also add a little spotlight to the other characters since there are some people who love them.
Overall, I really enjoyed my time reading this and this is a good start for Filipino authors to be recognized! This gives more opportunity for Filipino Wattpad writers to hope that they can get their stories published and be famous and pursue their writing career.
Four stars since I had a good time reading it and a lot of irrelevant scenes were removed for the book and I'm happy with the result. One star is deducted for I want to know more about the minor characters like what happened to them during the Batangas trip of Athena and Kenji or their wedding. I suggest that the author should've two people narrating so that the readers will know what happened to the supporting characters while the main protagonists are making good memories. Nevertheless, I'm still satisfied and will be looking forward for more Wattpad-stories-into-books! :)...more
Asphodel (noun): any of various Old World herbs (especially genera Asphodelus and Asphodeline) of the lily family with flowers in usually long erect Asphodel (noun): any of various Old World herbs (especially genera Asphodelus and Asphodeline) of the lily family with flowers in usually long erect racemes. This book is a light read and I’m pretty sure adolescents like me would also enjoy this. I have mixed feelings with it and let me start off with the good ones.
What I Like:
[_] Ms. Lauren really researched and knows a lot about Greek myths. I’d like to congratulate her for writing real facts from the Greek myths and one of the almost exact interpretation of Hades and Persephone love story. Most of my views were also hers, and I found myself enjoying reading it for the personality of the gods were the exact way I imagined them to be. If Ms. Lauren and I both have the same imagination and interpretation in Greek myths, then do I have a future in writing books? :) Just kidding.
I love how she wrote about the gods.
Zeus: A greedy and evil man who is the real , I repeat, real cruellest of all gods and sure doesn’t really deserve to be the king of all. I’m glad Ms. Lauren and I both think that the king of Olympus is not that good. He’s a womanizer that always commits adultery and only thinks of power and superiority that he can get everything he wants. (view spoiler)[ Here’s the whole conversation between Hades and Zeus excerpt from the book. The coldness in Hades’ tone was frosty like too many layers of ice on a frozen lake. “Why didn’t you just send the messenger?” “Because I thought you might kill him.” Zeus howled out with laughter at his own pun and Hades leered at him. The joke wasn’t funny for two reasons; one, because Zeus knew Hades couldn’t kill Hermes and two because Hades despised the fact that Zeus always had someone else doing his dirty work. At least when Hades did something despicable, he mapped out a plan to carry out the idea on his own. “What do you want Zeus?” Hades gazed back into the fire, lost in thought. For a moment, he swore he saw her. He swore he saw Persephone dancing around in the whirling flames with a radiant smile on her face and the illusion made his heart ache. “I want this,” said Zeus. “All of this.” He twirled his finger in the air, motioning to their surroundings. Hades stepped away from the fireplace and lurched closer. “This? My realm?” The father of all nodded with a sadistic smile. Zeus had always been a power hungry god, but now he was going too far. “You can’t have it!” Hades snapped and he felt the fire of rage unfurling inside of him. “I will not give it up without a fight!” “Oh. You’ll give it up.” Zeus lowered his voice. Hades remembered that hatred that ran deep for Zeus when he’d first condemned him to this realm, but after thousands of years Hades had grown fond of his kingdom and he was not giving it up just because Zeus was on a power trip. “Never.” The finality in Hades’ voice made Zeus’s eyes widen a tiny bit. “What about Poseidon? Will you take the sea too?” Zeus tapped his chin with his forefinger, thinking. “Perhaps, but that’s a different war for a different day.” “You’re worse than I am,” Hades hissed. Everyone always thought that Hades was the cruellest of the gods just because of his job, but Zeus had him beat. But unlike Hades, Zeus was able to hide his despicable side and he had one thing Hades normally didn’t compassion. The god of the sky smiled, a fake sickening smile that made Hades’ stomach churn. “I take that as a compliment.” Hades had always believed that everything happened for a reason so there was no need for compassion and as he observed Zeus it appeared that his compassion had been waning as well. “Hades, you need to come with me,” said Zeus, motioning in a come-hither gesture. Hades’ eyes wandered around the dining room. This was his palace. This was his world. He did not want to give it up. He did not want to leave. “And if I don’t come with you, what then? Is this really because I took her? You knew I would eventually. You knew-I.” “It’s not just because you took her. This goes deeper than that,” Zeus interrupted. Hades didn’t like the way he’d answered his questions. His vagueness was annoying. “Answer me, Zeus. And what if I don’t come with you willingly? What if I put up a fight?” Zeus narrowed his eyes and held out his palms. Hades watched as his fingertips spit out white lines of electricity, snapping and cracking before whirling around in circle. Then her image appeared. She was sleeping and the hard look Hades was wearing faded away. She looked so peaceful, and beautiful, and Hades swore that he saw her mumble his name in her sleep. Suddenly Zeus lowered his hands and the ball of electricity evaporated along with the image. “You will come with me,” Zeus said with adamant tone. “Or I’ll kill her.” “You can’t kill her,” Hades whispered harshly. Zeus let out a long sinister laugh. “Have you forgotten who I am Hades?” he asked with a scowl. “I created her. I can most definitely kill her.” Hades balled up his fists and gritted his teeth, hatred pounded through him, numbing everything inside of him. “You wouldn’t>” “You underestimate me, Hades.” Zeus clutched his arm and squeezed. Then in a low, eerily frightening voice he said, “I would.” In that moment Hades knew he had to do something drastic to save her. He had something to ensure Zeus wouldn’t hurt her. And that something was breaking Persephone’s heart. (hide spoiler)]
Hades: He’s what I exactly imagined him to be like! Cold and often misunderstood to be the most callous of all just because of his job as the ‘god of the dead’. But in truth, he is not. He is the opposite. I hate how modern books and movies always misinterpret him (*glares at Hercules, that Disney movie that made Hades, one of my favorite Greek god as the antagonist*).
Hera: She was not that bad. She was just jealous of Zeus’s women (Goodness, who wouldn’t? If I were Hera, I already left Zeus) but a good woman who cares about her loved ones (She’s always being misunderstood).
Demeter: Same motherly-like that I knew.
Hermes: I love how Ms. Lauren described him almost exactly the way I imagined him to be! The Demigod disappeared through the opening and seconds later a tall, lean muscled man with ash-blonde hair strolled toward Zeus. “You summoned me?” he questioned. “Yes,” said Zeus. “Thank you for coming Hermes. We have a mission for you.” When I had read that, I almost squealed (that always happen to me when I read or hear Hermes).
Persephone: I love how she never gives up and will do everything just to be with Hades.
Athena: Oh, please, don’t get me start with her. I’ll explain why later. I didn’t find anything I like in her personality in this book.
[_] The plot. It’s quite good if you ask me. I like how she made a twist, making it a contemporary retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth. I really enjoyed it and could really relate.
[_] The cover. Is that Persephone in a field of Asphodels?
[_] The title. Asphodel was a very catchy title especially to those who are lovers of Greek myths. At first, I thought it was referring to The Fields of Asphodel, a desert full of floating spirits not knowing where to go. But I was wrong. Asphodel was referring to a very beautiful flower that only grows in the Underworld. (view spoiler)[ Asphodel was the flower Persephone mistaken to be a rose and it was the reason why she got to the Underworld and met Hades. That’s why I think it was its title. (hide spoiler)]
[_] Writing style. I love how she described things and adding figures of speech here and there to make the reader visualize more what was happening or what the protagonist was feeling. An example of this: She was the light to his darkness. The compassion to his rage. The key to his heart. Point blank, Persephone was everything to him [Hades]. Another example: Pain. All there is pain. I feel like someone has just plunged their fist into my chest and wrapped their fingers around my heart. They are squeezing and squeezing. There is blood everywhere. A crimson river trails down the length of their arm and when they yank their hand out of my chest cavity my organ is in their palm. But it doesn’t beat. They’ve killed it. And now I’m dead inside.
What I Dislike:
[_] I’ll start off with Athena. I disliked how she was portrayed in this book. She was my only problem with the characters (except for Persephone) for the rest were fine. Athena was implied as an idiot like she wasn’t treasuring her womanhood like she loved to flirt with handsome and hot guys. And that enraged me. A lot. Take a look how Athena appeared in the book: Athena turns her attention to the guests. “I’m gonna go flirt with Apollo,” she tells me. “I’ll catch ya later.” “Later.” [Persephone said] As I [Persephone] make my way to the kitchen, I hear Athena shout, “Hey Apollo! Looking good!” Who wouldn’t get mad at that? *points disgustingly above* That was one of the most horrendous thing I’ve ever read. Athena flirting to Apollo? She was wiser than that and for goodness sake, she swore to stay single forever like Artemis! *shakes head* Next is Persephone. I am an adolescent myself and I must say, I dislike how Persephone acted. She was like a little child, weeping, wailing, and screaming when she doesn’t get what she wanted. A spoiled brat actually. She was also selfish she even said so somewhere in the book. She wasn’t that miss independent, I guess I can’t blame her for the last five thousand years she was under the care of Demeter, repeating high school all over again. I also dislike her curiosity. It reminded me of Pandora.
[_] The ending. It’s so cliffhanger-y it made me bang my head. What’s up with the authors nowadays loving cliffhangers? It’s getting annoying. Judging at the plot summary, I thought the whole plot will revolve around Persephone finding the last Pomegranate tree to be with her beloved Hades. But I was wrong. (view spoiler)[ The ending was Persephone leaving her house in Oregon going to Mount Olympus to find the last Pomegranate tree but then her best friend and ex crush, Adonis, blocked her way. He then told her, “I’m not who you think I am.” The end. *rolls eyes* (hide spoiler)]
Conclusion:
Asphodel by Lauren Hammond, the first book of the Underworld Trilogy was good and a light read. The characters are the exact way I imagined them to be except for Athena and Persephone (which made it lose one star) but I have to give credit to Ms. Hammond for writing the real Zeus and Hades that always make people misunderstood (which instantly made two stars). The twist with the contemporary style on an old and ancient myth was cool too.
“Breaks your heart and puts it back together again.” Jo Knowles, author of Lessons from a Dead Girl said about this book.
I can’t help but to agree w “Breaks your heart and puts it back together again.” Jo Knowles, author of Lessons from a Dead Girl said about this book.
I can’t help but to agree with her.
Ms. Knowles just said everything I wanted to say in this book in just one sentence. If I’ll be saying all I wanted to say, I’m pretty sure you’ll yawn at the first sentence already. Just kidding :P (view spoiler)[ or maybe not… (hide spoiler)]
Like most books, it has its own good and bad sides that I’ll be listing below.
What I Like:
[_] One of the things that caught my attention is the plot. It is good and most of all, original with only few clichés you’ll see. This book is all about Anna Reiley, a coming-of-age girl who will be going to Zanzibar Bay, California to have a one month vacation with the family of her best friend, Frankie Perino and former boyfriend, Matt Perino (I prefer not to say what happened to him). Frankie and Anna made a plan to meet twenty boys during their stay so that the conservative girl can ditch her A.A (Anna’s Albatross) which refers to the capital V (view spoiler)[ or virginity (hide spoiler)]. I must say no more for I might give more spoilers unconsciously.
[_] Another thing I can’t let pass for its awesomeness is the writing style. I have underlined them as I read the book to make sure I’ll be able to share it with you how great Ms. Sarah wrote. It’s like she’s cooking. Let’s take a hamburger as an example.
The meat in the middle is the plot, the most ‘juiciest’ part of the story.
The ‘cheesy’ scenes or in Filipino as we call it kilig moments that makes a girl reader squeal is the cheese.
The lettuce is the characters inside the story making the hamburger add a little bit of ‘healthiness’ and ‘freshness’.
And lastly, the buns are the writing style, which holds the whole story together to make the reader more interested and feel the ‘softness’ or the ‘hardness’ of the story.
After typing that, I want to eat a hamburger.
Anyway, let me share with you my favorite sentences and/or paragraphs to show the greatness of Ms. Sarah’s writing style. (I truly apologize if some of them are spoiler-y).
- In my sixteen-year history as an Official Member of This Family, we’ve never taken a real vacation. In a perfect storm of stupid ailments, Dad’s afraid of flying, Mom can’t stomach long car rides, and both of them have issues with nonchlorinated water. Sure, we’ve covered the local circuit – Amish country, the zoo, Oak Ridge State Park – anything listed in the New York State guidebook and less than two hours’ drive. But no exciting, life-altering experiences to write about in those school essays in the fall. No exotic destination from which I could send postcards.
Dear Frankie and Matt,
Here we are at… the zoo! We didn’t even have to stand in “lion”. The monkeys miss you. Love, your world-travelling neighbor, Anna
- Sand that travelled millions of miles over billions of years across shifting continents and churning oceans, surviving plate tectonics, erosion, and sedimentary deposition is crushed by our new sandals.
- Science: a construct created by man to explain away all of life’s mysteries. Nature: it’s own creation, its own mystery, existing long before we took our first breaths and long after we take our last.
- Such a normal family breakfast on such a normal family morning. If they had a dog, his name would be Spot, and he’d start barking outside until one of us tossed him a Frisbee.
- Once Katie’s gone, Frankie and Jake become an undulating, kissing, indistinguishable mass of flesh and highlights sticking out of the water. If things progress any further, I’m going to have to upgrade the rating on this public spectacle from PG-13 to R.
Thankfully, Sam is nothing like Jake. Just his foot brushing against mine under our secret layer of ocean is enough to drive me crazy, and within five minutes I know I’ll meet him out here tonight, even if I have to leave a ransom note to fake my own kidnapping.
- For three hours, Frankie and I sing and dance and laugh until our breath runs out, our hair falls, and our makeup fades. Nothing else matters- not my drowned journal or Matt or Johan or Jake or any of the secrets and lies between us. It’s just us and the music, the universal language of love and hope and loss and everything else.
- After packing our bags, cleaning our room, and eating a light breakfast with Uncle Red and Aunt Jayne, I take a final walk out to the ocean – my sad blue secret keeper. She’s witnessed everything on this trip – albatross cast off, secrets unleashed, history destroyed, love and friendships found and broken – yet she remains the same. Reassuring. Undying.
Shhhhhhhhh.
“Goodbye.” I whisper to many things at once. The water kisses my toes as the ghosts of our memories fade from the house like wet footprints, the curtains of Matt’s attic room above the beach closed tight against the sun.
[_] I really like some of the characters, but not all.
Anna Reiley is a good main protagonist. She just wanted to protect Frankie (even if it means she also have to forget her conservative personality). I dislike how she lied and it just come out of her mouth naturally like she was already used to it. *shakes head in disappointment* Lying is not good.
Frankie Perino is a character I deeply dislike and I'll tell more about her later.
Matt Perino is one of my ideal guys! He's sweet, polite, kind- almost every positive characteristic I can think of! (view spoiler)[ It's really tragic that he died. :'( (hide spoiler)]
Sam Macintosh... Oh, Sam. He's now included to my list of great-guy-characters-in-books. He's very polite, asking Anna's permissions when he touch her, very patient, getting Anna by talking to her (not flirting), having conversations and just starting as friends. He also loves music and is a great DJ! From the first paragraph that Ms. Sarah Ockler described him, I already know he's the love interest to the main protagonist.
[_] The cover is undeniably utterly gorgeous. The smooth gray wood background is amazing! The blue heart in the middle made up of broken glasses in different hues of blue adds up to the effect and a single red one sticking at the end of southeast adds to the color contrast and beauty of the cover! At first sight, you already have an idea that it's related to summer (even if it's obvious in the title)! Over all, the cover is breathtaking.
What I Dislike:
[_] Let me start with the characters. Frankie Perino is someone whom I deeply dislike. She's like one of those liberated antagonist in stories who always make the protagonist bad. It's not like she's making Anna feel bad. It's that she's a bad influence. She's a self-centered, prideful, almost callous liar who only mind herself. Someone who doesn't like her image to be stained, who'll have a really hard time admitting her mistakes and many more. If I was Anna and Matt just died, I probably should've told Frankie how she should change herself that she shouldn't do bad things just to divert her mind to something else other than Matt. She's also a liar who influence Anna. *shakes head* But I like how Ms. Sarah made Frankie quite good in the end, getting back to her old self.
[_] The thing I most dislike in this book is the ending. I now added it to my list of most-cliffhanger-endings-ever-written. I deeply dislike how it was cliffhanger that made me annoyed and almost banged my head. Seriously, what's up with authors nowadays ending their books in cliffhangers? Those annoying cliffhangers just make the readers feel bad and be up in a I-want-to-know-what-happened-next-already trance. Ms. Sarah should've think of a better ending than that. (view spoiler)[ I seriously want Anna and Sam to end up with each other. Not just a summer romance. I. Want. Them. To. Get. Married. So, if I was Sarah Ockler, the ending will be something like many years after, Anna would return to Zanzibar Bay, California, meet up with Sam, fall in love once again, and finally, decided either for the two of them to stay in New York or in California. But sadly, I'm not Sarah Ockler, thus, the ending is still the same annoying cliffhanger-y. (hide spoiler)]
Conclusion:
Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler is a book romance lovers should definitely read. The cover is breathtaking, the writing style is very humorous, the plot is quite original and some characters are good, these factors made this book have four stars.
Half star is deducted for how annoying the ending was, not quenching my thirst of satisfaction. It's something that I can't just let pass. I give this book 4.5 stars.
If you want happy endings where the main protagonist and his love interest ended up together and get married or something like that, I warn you, you must not read this for you may just end up disappointed (like what happened to me). But if summer flings love story is okay with you, then you may proceed.
A MUST READ!
P.S: Just a shout out to my friend and classmate, Sandy who might be reading this review right now. :) She finished reading this book in just one and a half day. I hope the review's alright with you! :)...more
If you’ll read my review of The Selection, you can see that I’m trying my best to like it just for goodnesI never expected that I’d love this book.
If you’ll read my review of The Selection, you can see that I’m trying my best to like it just for goodness sake (like I just bought a paperback copy thinking that the eBook I had read was cut short and when I read the copy I bought, it wasn’t cut. The book ended that way). I kind of dislike the first book with reasons so many I won’t list them here.
So anyway, The Elite is everything The Selection lacked. It’s more action-packed, more realistic, a lot of suspense scenes, some unpredictable scenes that I, surprisingly, didn’t find it coming, more secrets unfold, some questions cleared in my mind (like how Illea really started) and most especially, it proved that America is not a Mary-Sue. And I’m very happy with the result.
I love America’s determination in the ending. I saw myself in her when she promised she would fight and prove that she can be a decent princess. I didn’t expect that I’d like her character since she was introduced in The Selection as a girl like Bella. I’m glad she has changed in the sequel.
I love how the rebel attacks were frequently often, more drama in the Maxon/America/Aspen love triangle (Thank God it’s finally done! America has already decided! *winks*). I also love how America read one of Gregory Illea’s personal diaries (reminds me of my own story where the main protagonist stumbled upon her great grandfather’s diary and read how he started the business and now an empire. She drew inspiration from it) and how I learned more about Illea’s history (view spoiler)[ and how cruel Gregory Illea is and definitely NOT a hero! Now I know where the King, Maxon’s father got his attitude. (hide spoiler)].
If you had read The Selection, you already know that Celeste would be the antagonist with her attitude, caste and beauty. But in The Elite, Kiera Cass it revealed the real antagonist to America and Maxon’s love story. (view spoiler)[ If you want to know who it is…. (view spoiler)[ It’s Maxon’s father, the King. (hide spoiler)](hide spoiler)] Honestly I wasn’t surprised at all when it was revealed. It’s quite common in some love stories I had read.
And for the once in a blue moon moment in my life, I love the ending of this book. That’s really surprising in my point of view. I deeply loathe the ending of The Selection with all my heart, body and soul and I hate it more than the main antagonist in the story (and that’s something!). I’m very satisfied that Ms. Cass didn’t fail me this time. I actually started hoping that The Selection may turn out to be a good trilogy and it just started in the wrong way.
If there’s anything I dislike, there are a lot of scenes that are clichéd like The Selection did. But I guess I can let it pass for now. It’s hard to come up with an original idea without copying other people.
(view spoiler)[ If you have read the spoiler to the identity of the real antagonist to the story, you may proceed to read this one. Well if you want to. (view spoiler)[ I absolutely hate the King! He doesn’t deserve to be in the throne! He’s everything I abhorred with all my heart! He’s rude, cruel, and merciless. And what struck my nerve was that he’s judgmental! He judged America for being a Five, for being plain looking, for having nonexistent connections and for being not lovely and poised unlike the remaining three! Ugh! This kind of people makes me want to throw a brick at them. (hide spoiler)]
Overall, I really enjoyed reading The Elite. I didn’t expect that the author would be able to make The Selection’s sequel a really good one. I’m glad I did the right choice to give her another chance to prove to me that she can write a decent realistic book. I’d like to congratulate Ms. Kiera Cass for writing a good sequel. :)
A mix of romance, sci-fi, adventure, action, mystery, suspense and thriller, this book will surely make sure that you'll have a hard time bringing it A mix of romance, sci-fi, adventure, action, mystery, suspense and thriller, this book will surely make sure that you'll have a hard time bringing it down and pausing to read it.
That was what happened to me.
Discovering it for one of my friends recommended it to me and reading the plot summary, my first impression was that it'll be a really good book. And it was.
Plot Summary:
Miranda North just woke up with no memories other than her name. She went inside a mall in Cleveland and was trying to talk to the mall cop into helping her. Thinking she was just pranking him, the mall cop refused and this made Miranda frustrated releasing this kind of energy that made everyone panic in fear. She also discovered she had inhuman strength and wasn't like any other ordinary people.
She was confused, not knowing what to do nor where to go. And that was where he met him. A guy with black hair and unnaturally blue eyes was sitting in one of the dining chairs, a mango chicken in front of him. He wasn't like the other people, panicking or doing things out of fear. He was just there, sitting calmly, watching her as if he had an idea what was happening to her. Curiosity filling her mind, Miranda approached him.
He was a stranger, that was for sure even if he gave her his name, Peter. But, she doesn't have any choice. If she wanted to know the answers to the mysteries around her, she had to trust this guy.
Peter then led her to a safe place and told her almost everything. They were all called "Roses". They engaged in a gene therapy and was born with supernatural abilities. Their purpose was to help prevent war by sending fear signals to the minds of the people.
Miranda North's life would be in a hard roller coaster ride finding answers to who she really was, meeting strangers that were once her friends, learning the true purpose of Roses, people she loved dying, and torn between a man who was actually her boyfriend she doesn't remember loving and a man who just introduced her to this world.
If I were you, fasten your seat belts now and hold on the railing tight and secure yourself on your seat as this book will put you to a roller coaster ride filled with mysteries, romance, suspense and thriller.
What I Love:
[_] The plot is surely one of the things I love. It is very unique (which is hard to find nowadays thanks to cliches). (view spoiler)[ Who would ever thought of writing a book with clones as main characters? (hide spoiler)] It is also full of action and these scenes are described so amazing it was like I was watching an action movie.
[_] The characters are great too.
Miranda North is an amazing woman. I love how authors nowadays make girls main characters and are not damsel in distress that depends on their prince charming to save them but in the other way around. She was strong, smart and is great in coping up with changes. I also admire that she wasn't selfish and follows what her heart tells her.
Peter West is another of those boys who are handsome and are like prince charming. (He reminds me of Will Herondale from Clockwork Angel with the black hair, blue eyes with the main girl protagonist getting intimidated to him and hopefully ending up with the girl protagonist. ) He's also the leader and wants what is the best for the group. Ever since I first read about him, I know there's something in him that makes him a great love interest for Miranda. (view spoiler)[ I'm also glad that they ended up together in the end! (hide spoiler)]
Noah East is a nice guy. He's kind, warm, sweet and shows how much he loves Miranda (view spoiler)[ that he's ready to erase her memories for her safety even if that'll mean she won't be able to remember him anymore (hide spoiler)]. He's also a great boyfriend, if you ask me. Too bad, though, that I still like Peter for Miranda than him.
Olive South is a girl you want to be your friend. She's quiet, a listener and take things calmly. She also have this reassuring presence that everything will be alright and is not that vocal, complete opposite to Noah. If I were in this book, she already became my best friend. (view spoiler)[ Too bad, though, that the Olive South I wanted to befriend died. (hide spoiler)]
Rhys is a rogue Rose who discovered the truth about Roses, making this reason to betray their creators. I like how he helped other Roses see the truth and doesn't let his loved ones get hurt and will do everything so that they won't be a part in the upcoming war (view spoiler)[ even if he have to kill them (hide spoiler)]. He was at first a mystery but when I had read his encounter with the characters, he was one of the best supporting characters. I also like how he cope up with things and shows everyone that everything will be alright with his carefree attitude.
[_] The writing style. I love how Mr. Dan wrote the action scenes so amazing! I guess that was his specialty.
[_] The title. False Memory. It really describes the whole plot in just two words. (view spoiler)[ It is entitled False Memory for Miranda North is not actually who she thinks she was. Every memory she had in mind was false and was just put their with mad scientists who was her creator. And she was just a clone and not the Miranda the Alpha team loved. She was different and just a clone. (hide spoiler)]
[_] The cover. Are those two shadowy figures of a man and woman are Peter and Miranda? Anyway, I love how it is also unique and reminds me of the cover of Divergent. I love how the blue combines with black, harmonizing with each other. And it is truly nice to look at if you ask me. (view spoiler)[ The big thing in the middle which looked like wires connecting to each other inside a circle, I think that's the tattoo that'll make a clone a robot and will have an apathy, or not feeling anything at all. Which was creepy. (hide spoiler)]
[_] I also love how the author answers as many questions roaming around the plot as he can. Why was Miranda there in Cleveland? Why did she have an amnesia and can only remember her name? What is she? Who will she end up with? And the most important question of all, Who is Miranda North really? All of this questions were answered throughout the plot and I love it! It doesn't leave the reader remembering this book as something that didn't answer most of your questions and is left as a mystery to all of us like Rapture. Sure, there are still some questions that wasn't yet answered and I hoped will be on the next book, but, hey, at least I already have an idea of what is going to happen next.
What I Dislike:
[_] Except for the fact one of my favorite characters died, I have no dislikes in this book.
Conclusion:
False Memory by Dan Krokos is one of the great books I've read this year and will surely make you grip the railings hard and hanged on your seat as you see yourself in a hard roller coaster ride full of mysteries, romance, sci-fi, suspense and thriller. It also answers most of your questions in the end and some that are left unanswered for you to get anticipated for the next book like I do!
Despite of the horrible thing Mr. Krokos did by killing one of my favorite character, but because of the original plot and a catchy cover and title, I'll be giving this book five stars.
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