I am the book blogger and reviewer at THE BOOK WORMS. I've been reading ever since I remember, but it was most recently that I discovered my real love for stories. I'm a book nerd and computer geek :)
Taken by Erin Bowman
This book…I loved it. Period, the end. Well, I wish that was all, but I’ll explain a little further. What a fascinating and unique premise. The story unfolded at a perfect pace. There was action, romance, and friendship. A book that keeps me on my toes and learning more and more is all I can ask for. There was never a dull moment, even when the story slows a bit as he learns more about his situation.
I so loved the male perspective. I haven’t read too many books with a male perspective so it was really fun and different. Gray was a very thoughtful and smart character. He was sensitive, yet strong and always cautious. I also really loved Bree, which is someone you will meet as you read the story. She kicks ass. I loved her character and whit. Its always a good thing to have a BA girl thrown into the mix!
Gray was torn between his head and heart often, and of course it was never easy. Based on description (and how I defined him in my head) he was so magnetic, personality and looks wise. It was really neat to have a love triangle with two girls, rather than the norm of two boys. I’m not fond of love triangles, but it definitely works in Taken.
Another reason why I loved Taken was that it was a very believable world. It wasn’t like a robotic dystopian, but a realistic future America that has civil unrest. Its something that really makes you think. You take this journey with Gray as he determines what’s important to him and how he fights for what he believes.
Basically, I would read this book again in a second. There was a full storyline, enough closure, and just enough to leave you wanting more. I enjoyed it so much and can’t wait for future books in the series!
For those who like: Dystopian, male perspective, futuristic civil unrest
Source: Publisher – thank you!
Originally posted at The Book Worms
http://thebookworms.org/2013/04/review-taken-by-erin-bowman/
Fated (Soul Seekers) - Alyson Noel
I really loved the storyline of Fated! I easily related to the book, because I’ve always been interested in Native American folklore and animal spirits. It’s fascinating and I think Noël successfully weaved a teen’s already crazy life with that of the myths of the Native American cultures. I really think Noël took a step up with this series!
I enjoyed the toss between good and evil and how both had a magical and alluring quality about them. Especially regarding the Native American cultures…definitely magical! The scenes and places Noël sent her characters were described with so much detail that it was easy to imagine they were real. I love that quality in a book. Its important for me to get thrown into the story and this just backed that up.
Daire wasn’t a really special kind of girl, but she stands out by having this strong connection to her Native American culture even though she had been previously separated from it. I loved this aspect of the book as well, because we grow with Daire as she learns more about herself and that creates a seamless experience for the reader.
The only minor downfall with Fated was that the first quarter of the book was very slow. It took a little while for me to get the hang of the dream sequences until we started learning where Daire came from. I encourage you guys to stick through that first part, because it’ll pay off!
Overall, what a great start to a new series. I can’t wait to pick up my copy of book 2. Oh and I can’t forget to mention the romance…very apparent and appropriate, but I am definitely hoping for more. Which I think might happen! ;)
For those who like: Animal spirits, good vs. evil, Native American legends
Source: Publisher – thank you!
Originally posted at The Book Worms
http://thebookworms.org/2013/03/review-fated-by-alyson-noel/
I had no idea what to except when picking up Mockingjay. I didn’t know where the story would go or who we would meet this time. I loved that mystery and the fact that it wasn’t predictable! It made for a better adventure and more of a roller coaster ride, but still keeping those little things we absolutely love.
Katniss’s new life consists of getting used to the ways of District 13 and being the main face of the now outspoken rebellion. A rebellion that has previously killed many people, and Katniss feels responsible. She wants to give people the freedom they wish for and to get Peeta back, but in doing so making the Capitol angrier is inevitable.
Katniss is such an awesome and dynamic heroine. She’s one of those heroines that girls look up to and that makes The Hunger Games series even more important to a lot of readers! She’s smart and strong and ready to take on challenges handed to her no matter the cost she might pay. There weren’t many new characters added, which was okay, because there was so much more to learn about the ones introduced in the previous book. I really enjoyed that.
Like I’ve stated in previous reviews, I love that this series is written in more of a live-diary style. There is dialogue, but less than most novels. For me, I can connect with Katniss on more of an emotional level, which is really important and just another reason why this series is a big favorite of mine! The writing is exceptional and the storyline is unique and action-packed. Something you should definitely not overlook!
For anyone who hasn’t read the series, start now! I can say the same for readers who haven’t picked up Mockingjay yet. Its an epic story and something you shouldn’t pass up. You will laugh, fight, and cry with Katniss throughout all of her challenges, relationships, and personal conflict. I can’t recommend it enough!
For those who like: Dystopian, action, adventure/survival, strong heroines
Source: Won from Bewitched Bookworms
Originally posted at The Book Worms.
http://thebookworms.org/2012/04/review-mockingjay-by-suzanne-collins/