Deception
by C. J. Rewine
Publishing: 8. 27. 13
Pages: 480

Baalboden has been ravaged. The brutal Commander's whereabouts are unknown. And Rachel, grief stricken over her father's death, needs Logan more than ever. With their ragged group of survivors struggling to forge a future, it's up to Logan to become the leader they need—with Rachel by his side. Under constant threat from rival Carrington's army, who is after the device that controls the Cursed One, the group decides to abandon the ruins of their home and take their chances in the Wasteland.

 But soon their problems intensify tenfold: someone—possibly inside their ranks—is sabotaging the survivors, picking them off one by one. The chaos and uncertainty of each day puts unbearable strain on Rachel and Logan, and it isn't long before they feel their love splintering. Even worse, as it becomes clear that the Commander will stop at nothing to destroy them, the band of survivors begins to question whether the price of freedom may be too great—and whether, hunted by their enemies and the murderous traitor in their midst, they can make it out of the Wasteland alive. 

Deception, how I love thee! Let me count the ways....oh wait too many to count! In all honesty this book was seriously to die for. After loving Defiance to death last year, this book was easily my most anticipated. And boy did Redwine deliver a powerful sequel. My mind is blown. To smithereens. Now floating in the atmosphere...okay you get the picture. Basically my worries about Deception having Second Book Syndrome? Blown to smithereens. Something is seriously wrong with me.

Just as in Defiance, Rachel is seriously kick-all-the-butt. Ha. She's as fierce, loyal and still insanely good with a sword. I loved that her character was still strong, despite all the demons raging within her. Speaking of, oh man. Rachel does go through the wringer emotionally. Just watching the after-affects of Defiance roll in combined with all the ups and downs of Deception? It's tough. It made me feel all the feels for Rachel. But she stayed strong and still kicked all the butt I could have wanted her too. Rachel FTW!
If we're talking character love, I totally cannot forget Logan [aka. my book boyfriend for LIFE]. He's still as ridiculously smart, scientific and swoony as he was in Defiance. Even moreso? He's got his own demons and issues and all the while he's the same voice you know and love! And love some more....
These two characters have the most beautifully broken lives and yet they still work! The romance works! Which brings me to the spot where I happily report that no stupid romance issues pop up! Proof of how un SBS this book is! Rachel and Logan? They just ROCK. And the rest of the cast is phenomenal! They rock so hard. You hate who you're supposed to hate, love who you're supposed to love, pity and sympathize with those who need it and just FEEL with them. It's so vivid. And wonderful.

This book was insanely action-packed. It starts off, starts a chugging and then we are on full speed ahead. Seriously. If yo uthink it's safe? It's not. Don't ever believe your brain. It's intense and the action comes in all shapes and sizes. Which I LOVED. There was variety, but there was never a dull moment! Sure there were downtimes, but there is always something happening to keep you excited and on your toes. And when there's an aura of mystery, she keeps you guessing and re-thinking yourself and the eventually surprising you to the point where you think you were an idiot for not getting it sooner.
Of course with this kind of a book Redwine just has to kill our feels with an ending. An ending so unexpected and insane and yet so full of feels and anticipating and hope that there will be just one more page. An ending that makes you scream and shout with awesomeness. WAAAH. Feels. More feels. And more desperate need for the third book.
So because my brain can't think of anything else to rave about I will wrap this up. I could NOT have asked for a  better sequel. I expected, they were met. And more. And more! C. J. fulfilled the standard of a sequel while keeping it new, fresh and oh so exciting. I am in love with these books and HIGHLY recommend them. Keep your eyes peeled for Deception to hit stores this month and if you still haven't read Defiance? What are you waiting for?
Uh-huh. I'm a little in love with these books. Those are my squeals! Now tell me yours! XOXO,

Sylo
by D. J. MacHale
Published: July 2, 13
Pages: 407
Source: Review copy received for tour.
***I was not paid for this review***

Does Tucker Pierce have what it takes to be a hero when the U.S. military quarantines his island?
Fourteen-year-old Tucker Pierce prefers to fly under the radar. He’s used to navigating around summer tourists in his hometown on idyllic Pemberwick Island, Maine. He’s content to sit on the sidelines as a backup player on the high school football team. And though his best friend Quinn tells him to “go for it,” he’s too chicken to ask Tori Sleeper on a date. There’s always tomorrow, he figures. Then Pemberwick Island is invaded by a mysterious branch of the U.S. military called SYLO. And sitting on the sidelines is no longer an option for Tucker, because tomorrow may never come. 
It’s up to Tucker, Quinn, and Tori to uncover the truth about the singing aircraft that appears only at night—and the stranger named Feit who’s pushing a red crystal he calls the Ruby that brings unique powers to all who take it. Tucker and his friends must rescue not just Pemberwick Island, but the fate of the world—and all before tomorrow is too late.  

     To be honest, when I started this gorgeous book, I really wasn't sure what I'd think of it. It wasn't as flashy as I expected. And I wasn't completely on board with this whole military mystery either. But then...ba-bam! We're thrown for a loop and the story gunned it's engine and it got real good.

It's been a long time since I've read a book from a male perspective. Tucker was a very interesting protagonist. He's one of those "turtle characters". Tucker has a safe shell that he lives in and he's content to be that way. Versus his best friend who's eager to poke his head out and do something with life. I loved seeing how throughout this wild ride, Tucker expanded his comfort zone, and found that he could indeed branch out.

Tucker had a good voice and the story progressed well. Or should I say, rapidly. Sylo is one crazy action-packed ride once it lifts off the ground. And it's totally written by a guy. (Meant in a good way of course.) There were so many crazy scenes filled with gunfire and explosions. I could probably find a few places were bombs dropped every other sentence[literally!] and the stakes are raised multiple times within a page. It was pretty awesome! People who love this kind of action will suck it up. And even though this isn't always my thing, it was really fun. My sister would come in and find my eyes glued to the pages, locked in the combat.

There's quite the array of side characters that added flavor to the story. Part of this cast included two young vibrant ladies, Olivia and Tori. Hmm I wonder what two girls and and boy could make? If you guessed a romantic love triangle, you would be correct! But before you assume the worst about this book, let me sooth your worries! There is nothing to worry about! At the beginning of the book it felt like Tucker's head was going through some serious love triangle issues. One page it was Tori, then Olivia, then Tori. Make up your mind bro! But then it relaxed. And it was slow and nice and even though there isn't anything that steady at the end of the book, it worked. Gone was our "love triangle". I was actually kinda glad. I liked that it was light, with a buildup that will flow nicely into the next book.

Speaking of next books..holy cow the ending! After all these questions we get some of the mystery straightened out. The last page was cray-cray! I was like UM WHAT? And then those fateful words.. "To Be Continued..." Hmmph. Why do books do that? Now, I'll be honest, I'm not in shreds over this cliff-hanger. But after this mystery I totally want to know what happens. There are still so many questions and AWEIFAJEIOANWEFYAABHG. Point made.

So. If you love a fun action packed book with a light dosing of romance then this is the book for you. I really enjoyed this and will totally recommend this one!

About The Author

Here's a pretty cool video by the D. J. himself talking about Sylo! Check it out! 

Just kissing! Who doesn't love a fun giveaway! And I've got a fabulous one here! Thanks to Penguin and D. J. for their donation! You can win a copy of Sylo along with some awesome swag! Go enter! Go Go Go!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
And that's all for today folks! Thanks for stopping by!!! :D XOXO,

Author: C. J. Redwine
Published: 8.28.12 by Balthazar + Bray
Pages: 403
Inky's Blurbings....
WOW this book has totally made it onto my All-Time Favorites. Ever since I featured this on Waiting-On-Wednesday I have been so Psyched for this book. Luckily this was a case where I wasn't disapointed!! What is the definition of the word Awesome-Sauce? Um how about Defiance! Okay, so you get it I LOVE THIS BOOK.

Let's take Rachel. First glance at the cover suggests that she has got some flare, and some fiery red hair. Both are true. Take a look at the synopsis and you'll see that she's been raised very different from the other girls in her society. This is also true. Basically she is a kick-butt kinda girl who's not afraid to think for herself or fight for her loyalties. Oh and did I mention she has a brain? I really loved how I connected with Rachel. She has this warrior-girl appearance and personality but at the same time it didn't drown out her feminine qualities. True, they aren't shown as much in this book but they were still there. Rock on Rachel!

Now we have......LOGAN! Eeeep! Holy Ballboden, Logan is H-O-T. And kick-butt and smart. Perfect for Rachel. He's the kinda guy who has these quiet, steady loyalties. He isn't always out there and forward, or impulsive but he finds his ways, oh yes he does, to show he cares about people/things. Honestly guys, after this book there is no way he could not have made it onto my Scarf of Awesomeness*. He's just......*squeak*...no words. Just read the book. THEY ARE SO GOOD/CUTE TOGETHER. Yay for heart-pounding-well-paced-rocking romance!

Baalboden. If you heard this word out on the street you might pass it off as gibberish. But in this world it's an important city, run by the villainous Commander Chase. Okay, well duh, he's the bad guy. He's going to be villainous. ;P He delivered. I think that the way CC (yes I know, you don't nickname bad guys) was protrayed gave a FAB look at his villainy as well as himself. However, I'm looking forward to learning more about him in book Two.

Speaking of villain, how about the Villain-Who-Doesn't-Realize-It's-A-Villain? The Cursed One. A huge black dragon-like creature, that lives in the ground.....and attacks anyone it finds outside the cities(unless you're super talented and don't move or make sound). I know it's weird to like Bad Animals, but I HEART the Cursed One!!!!! <3 Maybe it's because I don't know very much about the beast, where it came from, how it lives, what's going on with it. All I know is that, even though it's a prominent danger in the book it's was FREAK-TASTIC! I'm totally hoping we get to find out more about it in the next book.

Okay so, base established. I LOVE THIS BOOK. CJ is a fantastic debut author. Her writing is fun and engaging. I love some of her quirks, including Best/Worst Scenario train of thoughts from the characters. The story is kick-bomb and everything in it...AWESOME SAUCE. I totally recommend this book!

Content: Very Mild
(A couple uses of He**. Low cut dresses. Mild innuendo. Some kisses)








*Scarf of Awesomeness = My very rocking purple scarf named after EVERY worthy FICTIONAL guy I've ever crushed on in books. (More deets in the About Me page, which is under construction)

Author: Sophie Jordan
Published: 9.11.12 by HarperTeen
Pages: 272
In honor of Hidden's release today I thought it would be a good time for my review! I was lucky enough to get to read an *ARC of this book a couple months ago and loved it! These books are short and sweet. It's a very neat twist on dragon, with the whole shifting to human form side. And I have really enjoyed following Jacinda and her friends throughout their journeys.

With the most action of all the books it's well paced and quite a rush to the conclusion. Sophie's writing flows and the story just runs. It's such a quick read that I was sad when it was all over. But I felt like it was wrapped up into a nice happy ending, so I can't complain.Jacinda went through quite a bit more development but it wasn't overboard for the last book. Normally the most happens in the first books. But I could relate well to Jacinda and follow her well. Honestly there isn't much to say about it other than that! I loved how the romance ended, even though I do really like ******* , ahem, the other boy. :D

So I'd say that the Firelight series is a keeper if you are ever in the mood for some quick light reads with a bit of a paranormal twist.

Content: Mild
(a few moments of language and innuendo. Kissing)


This was a very sweet book! Have you read any of them? Thoughts? Are you eager for this one?







*I received an ARC of this book via Once Upon A Twilight ARC tours.

Author: Robin LaFevers

Author: Sasha Gould
Released: 3.13.12

Inky's Blurbings:
It is a truth universally acknowledged that I LURV historical intrigue. Plus Venice?  *squeak* And yet,  I found quite a big problem going into the novel. I KNEW HALF THE STINKIN PREMISE. (which is why you might now want to read the synopsis..)

I hate, hate, hate, summaries that do that.

I mean I was pretty much predicting -no, cut that I KNEW- what was happening and what was going to happen for about the first 1/3-1/2 of the novel. Um, sadness? And then not to mention it still started slow. Laura wasn't the most interesting character at the beginning and because I knew what to expect, it lost most the excitement surrounding the intrigue.

Luckily, the book began to redeem itself around halfway mark, (the synopsis was finished so things took new twists (YAY)) and the romance began. Giacomo was like a breath of fresh air. Ack. He's awesome. I think the relationship was fairly well developed. They got to know each other pretty well, though I wish there had been more space in the book for that. This book isn't even 300 pages. When I pick up a book that size, I have my doubts. But it was still well delivered.

The Venice that is portrayed was beautiful. I really have to give it so Sasha for her lush descriptions and portrayals. It was really great without being to little or to much description. So did I like it? Yeah I did. Not at first, but it redeemed itself to a nice read. By the end I enjoyed it, but still about a 3.5 rating.

Content: Mild
(Language: Quite a bit ofDeity related phrases, a couple Da**s and He**s. A few moments of innuendo, kissing scenes)

*ARC Galley received from Publisher for honest review

THIS BOOK WILL ROCK YOUR SOCKS OFF. I got it on Netgalley and it BLEW MY MIND! I read it in a day. My mom kept trying to get me off the computer but I couldn't stop! ACK! I loved it! The characters and narrative voices, EVERYTHING!! I'm in a dream haze! IT WAS EPICTASTIC! If you have an ARC of this book, GO. READ. IT. NOW. If you don't have this book early, start saving your money or GO PRE-ORDER! 

Okay now that the fan-girling is over onto the real review. It was amazing, we've already established that fact. I loved how well it was told! The narrations were very well done, especially for being told in 3rd. In some of my reviews I've mentioned that I prefer 1st, but this was very impressive! And yes there are multiple POVS. Mostly from Celaena, but also from two of the guys. It was all so awesome. Snarky and funny comments provided quite a few laughs. I loved it!

As I was reading the novel I found scenes that reminded me of fairy-tales. I was kinda just like "Oh that's neat..." but then after I finished the book I read this review that said it was lightly based off of Cinderella. That was really nicely woven in. But I could also see a few little things from other fairy-tales. Another great plus! There is mystery-magic twist that felt a little bit out of place, but I'm guessing it's going to lead into something bigger and amazing in the next book so I think I could forgive that. But still a little awkward.

The romance...I'm honestly standing right in the middle. I'm totally in love with Chaol. But I also love the Prince. (Yes, he does have a name, but I've forgot) So I'm still not sure who I'm rooting for. Probably Chaol. Either way she gives you a cliff-hanger and now I NEED BOOK TWO! Overall it was AMAZING and I highly recommend you get your hands on this book AS SOON AS IT COMES OUT! Which would be in a month!

Content: Mild [D*** word throughout, not heavy. B**** a couple times, He** a couple times. A couple instances of innuendo. Mention of women's "moon time".]









This review is 100% from Inky's brain
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.

Author: Alex Flinn
Published: 2. 8. 11 by Harper Teen
Pages: 341

I’m not your average hero. I actually wasn’t your average anything. Just a poor guy working an after-school job at a South Beach shoe repair shop to help his mom make ends meet. But a little magic changed it all. It all started with the curse. And the frognapping. And one hot-looking princess, who asked me to lead a rescue mission.

There wasn’t a fairy godmother or any of that. And even though I fell in love along the way, what happened to me is unlike any fairy tale I’ve ever heard. Before I knew it, I was spying with a flock of enchanted swans, talking (yes, talking!) to a fox named Todd, and nearly trampled by giants in the Everglades. Don’t believe me? I didn’t believe it either. But you’ll see. Because I knew it all was true, the second I got CLOAKED.

This is my first Alex Flinn book and it probably won't be my last. I really had fun with this one! I love fairytales so naturally I was drawn to this. Boy was it a ride! This book is a combination of over 5 fairytales, some more common, such as The Frog Prince, and some less known like The Salad. I loved the fact that my favorite fairytale, The Wild Swans, was a part of this book! Loved it!

First off, this book is narrated by a male voice. Shocker right? I wasn't expecting that but it wasn't bombed like I thought it might be. In fact I loved reading from Johnny's POV! He's funny, pretty smart and loves shoes. What more can you want than a guy who loves shoes? Haha. It also really neat reading from his POV as a girl reading and knowing things...yeah, things. Haha. Okay so specifically like how girls act and what that means. I think Flinn did a great job portraying him.

So the plot didn't have a problem keeping me interested. I loved where it went and the clever situations that arose. The way it all fit together in the end. It was super cool! Yay! The romance part was cute as well, but a bit obvious. Okay. It's staring you in the face. But it was sweet nontheless and I had fun watching it play out. Happy Ever After. *sigh*

I had a delightful time reading this and would recommend it to anyone in want to a good fairytale jamboree! A definite new favorite on my part.

Content: Mild
(A few Deity references, innuendo spots, a couple drug mentions and kisses)









This review is 100% from Inky's brain. Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.

Author: Branden Sanderson
Series: Mistborn #2
Published: 8. 21. 07 by Tom Doherty/Tor Fantasy
Pages:796
add to your Goodreads

They did the impossible, deposing the godlike being whose brutal rule had lasted a thousand years. Now Vin, the street urchin who has grown into the most powerful Mistborn in the land, and Elend Venture, the idealistic young nobleman who loves her, must build a healthy new society in the ashes of an empire.

They have barely begun when three separate armies attack. As the siege tightens, an ancient legend seems to offer a glimmer of hope. But even if it really exists, no one knows where to find the Well of Ascension or what manner of power it bestows. It may just be that killing the Lord Ruler was the easy part. Surviving the aftermath of his fall is going to be the real challenge.

Inky's Blurbings
Once again Branden Sanderson has stuck me in an AFTER-SHOCK of AWESOMENESS. Eeep! Wow. Honestly, truth be told, when I first started this book it wasn't as good as I thought it would be. It wasn't living up to the first book but then it happened. Bombs started getting dropped and it got good. The last 200 pages or so were INCREDIBLE. Oh man.

This is told from multiple narratives. I loved how well they bended and were all unique, giving a really great depth into the story from all the different aspects. I think that really added and made it all the more shocking and amazing. I LOVE VIN. She is like the bomb. Of course you're supposed to love Vin and it's hard not to. She goes through some amazing character development that continued from book one, so do the other characters. It's just amazing the Branden is capable of such a thing.

Elend and Vin have got to have the best fictional romance EVER. Honestly I'm in love with them. In this book they are seriously tested but come out strong and I just love them to death.

Shocking secrets totally blew me away. Branden is so good at taking little itty bitty things and blowing them up. This book didn't go where I thought it would when I first started it. It was a SERIOUSLY CRAZY ride. But I loved all 700 pages of it. 

So once again I've been wowed and thrilled by a super-duper exciting, nail-bitting trilogy. I'm starting book three, Hero of Ages ASAP!



Content: Moderate
(Some language(D***, He**, Bloody, swearing on the Lord Ruler/gods). Mention of evil things such as men having many mistresses. Violence and action. Somewhat gory descriptions in places.) 
them the next day so nothing happens ) Violence. Somewhat specific details a few times.
Read My Review of The First Book!
 Have you read these books? What do you think? I'd love to hear!









This review is 100% from Inky's brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.

Author: Brandon Sanderson
Series: Mistborn #1
Published: 6. 25. 06 by Tor Fantasy
Pages: 657

Once, a hero arose to save the world. A young man with a mysterious heritage courageously challenged the darkness that strangled the land. He failed.

For a thousand years since, the world has been a wasteland of ash and mist ruled by the immortal emperor known as the Lord Ruler. Every revolt has failed miserably. Yet somehow, hope survives. Hope that dares to dream of ending the empire and even the Lord Ruler himself. A new kind of uprising is being planned, one built around the ultimate caper, one that depends on the cunning of a brilliant criminal mastermind and the determination of an unlikely heroine, a street urchin who must learn to master Allomancy, the power of a Mistborn.


Inky's Blurb
OH MY GOODNESS! This is sure to give you the biggest *after-shock of AWESOMENESS ever! when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it! *hyperventilating ensues*

This book is pure GENIUS. Brandon Sanderson takes a completely generic idea (Bad Overlord Needs to be Crushed) and makes it the latest, greatest, and one of the most unique books I have ever read. WOW. I loved it all. From the characters to the magic to the action to the romance it's all EPIC! ACK. I can't get over how awesome it is. Sorry for my repetitiveness. 

Brandon Sanderson writes with great style. He can hold your interest and portray all the scenes of the story with accuracy and slides in just enough description that it's not overwhelming but not to little to get the picture. It was enthralling. Reading from the eyes of his characters, even though they were all in 3rd person was amazing. I felt like I had some sort of connection to each of them. 


Vin is The Bomb of the story. (I mean who wouldn't love a girl named VIN?) At first I wasn't sure that she could be done justice seeing as it's a male author, but never fear. She had that hard warrior side and then she has her feminine side. I'm so glad I got to see both parts. Kelsier is the other main protag and he's so funny. He's wacky and incredible and hardcore in one. Loved him! 


I don't know what it is but I seem to be reading a lot of books lately about a girl on a team(or in this case, "crew") of guys. Haha. (i.e. Touch of Power) I LOVED this crew. Made up of a mix of characteristics and personalities that I'd have to have memory loss to forget them and their awesome glory. Not forgetting the other side characters as well, even if they were evil.


There is quite a bit of action and magic in this book. It is NOT a dry read. But it isn't a fluff read either. It's not something you just "read over a weekend". Maybe you could though, I don't know. As for the magic.....Zippidee-Doo-Dah! One of the most unique styles of magic ever! I really don't know how I could explain it to you but it deals with metal and it's VERY Cool. 'nuff said. 


Okay now that I've spewed my ravings all over this post is there something I didn't like? Actually yes. I felt the attraction-to-love aspect of Vin's romance with he-who-shall-not-be-named was a bit fast. I LOVED the romance but it did seem to go a bit faster than likely. Of course I should take into consideration that part of it wasn't as broadcast. 

Over all this is the BOMB, new favorite and I highly suggest reading this book! It will take you on a ride you won't want to get off of (thank goodness for sequels). Powerful, exciting and just all-in-all thrilling! This is the fist book I've read by Brandon and for sure it won't be the last one!

Content: Moderate
(Some language(D***, He**, Bloody, swearing on the Lord Ruler). Because you are reading about evil people there are EVIL things.(Lords are allowed to have(bed) any woman but then they have to kill them the next day so nothing happens ) Violence. Somewhat specific details a few times.)

*when you finish a REALLY AMAZING book and then you can't get over it!












This review is 100% from Inky's Brain.
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.

Author: Moira Young
Series: Dustlands #1
Published: 6. 7. 11 by Margaret K. McElderry Books
Pages: 466
Rating: 5/5 Stars

Saba has spent her whole life in Silverlake, a dried-up wasteland ravaged by constant sandstorms. The Wrecker civilization has long been destroyed, leaving only landfills for Saba and her family to scavenge from. That's fine by her, as long as her beloved twin brother Lugh is around. But when a monster sandstorm arrives, along with four cloaked horsemen, Saba's world is shattered. Lugh is captured, and Saba embarks on an epic quest to get him back. Suddenly thrown into the lawless, ugly reality of the world outside of desolate Silverlake, Saba is lost without Lugh to guide her. So perhaps the most surprising thing of all is what Saba learns about herself: she's a fierce fighter, an unbeatable survivor, and a cunning opponent. And she has the power to take down a corrupt society from the inside. Teamed up with a handsome daredevil named Jack and a gang of girl revolutionaries called the Free Hawks, Saba stages a showdown that will change the course of her own civilization.

Inky's Blurb
First off, let's begin with the synopsis. If you have not read this book, doesn't that just GRAB YOU? Make your heart thrill at the thought of Adventure? Relationships? Warrior girls? Let's just say that for me it totally BLEW ME AWAY. That should be enough to get you to race to your nearest bookstore or library and get this book. You won't regret it. I promise.

The first thing that you notice about this book is the writing. It's the most unique, poetic-style writing I have ever read. Almost rough in fact. Let me give you a snippet:

Pa never says naught. He jest stares at the sky, the clear cruel sky. Then he gathers up the stones or twigs or whatever he's set out on the ground this time, an sets them away for tomorrow. Today he shoves his hat back. Tips his head up an studies the sky fer a long while.

Could you notice that? It's grammatically rough but it's still so beautiful I liked it. It still held my interest and gripped me in a good way. I just plowed through this book. Saba's story was fascinating and her narration equally so!

Saba, (awesome name) starts out with some grudges of sorts. Against her Pa and her sister and some against her life. She's a stubborn character. Fierce, loyal, brave and she's not scared of what needs to be done. She has her weaknesses at times, vulnerable moments and it was all so well put together. I loved watching her change in relationship to people, especially to her sister. Gotta love a great heroine!

The cast of characters in this book was perfect! You've got the villains, the witty and handsome ally and love interest, faithful friends with power, and then you've got the family. I love wonderful band members. When the MC has a team of friends and allies that are just the right mix of humor, consideration and sass it's amazing. Thumbs up to everyone in this book!

As a last thought I will say that the world building was really interesting. It's almost futuristic but now in the way you think of when you think Dystopian. The main setting of this book is a desert like. Almost like Tatooine in Star Wars. Very interesting setting and I'm SO excited to see where Moira Young will take this group of awesomeness in the next book! For sure one of my most anticipated reads this year!

Content: Mild/Moderate
(Language throughout (Bas****, D***, He**, Bi***, Deity) A couple instances of mild innuendo. Kisses. A character gets drunk)

Have you read Blood Red Road? I would love to hear what you think!










This review is 100% from Inky's brain. 
Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited.

Author: Maria V. Snyder
Series: Healer #1 
Published: 12. 20. 11 by Mira (Harlequin)
Pages: 390
Rating: 4.5 Stars


In One Word: Breathtaking

What I Thought: Oh. Wow. This. Book. Was. Amazing. This is the first of Maria's books that I have read and it won't be the last. It had everything you could want in a novel! Action, Magic, Surprises, and Romance! It was an incredible blend of all into one delightful read.

There were quite a few times I had to put this book down, but I ALWAYS wanted to come back to it. Sometimes I was annoyed when I had to set it down for a minutes. A ton of things went into that. First I felt like the setting and world building was incredible. I was just sucked into the land of the 15 Kingdoms and the magic and all the little details that make the world what it was. Like some of the special plants including the Death Lilies. And the way it was presented was great as well. Not overwhelming in detail, but introduced as the story progressed. I like that. She didn't spend paragraphs describing things. It just flowed Which brings me to my next point...

The writing was almost seamless. I grabbed me and didn't really let me go. There were twists I didn't see coming and surprises that brought up the suspense and depth of the story. Another aspect that I loved was Avry's character. She was developed and introduced as the story progressed so that I could understand how she felt and sympathize with her. She wasn't one of those characters you just hate. At least she wasn't for me.

Going into the romantic aspect...it was great. This is not one of your traditional romances. I'm not going to say anything about who the love is but loved how it wasn't love from the beginning. It wasn't love till past the halfway point! It was a "grow and change and evolve into love". It was an incredible development and satisfying to know that they had already had that rough patch and grown together.

Okay, the Monkeys were amazing. Flea was so great! I loved that whole juggling theme. Loren and Quain reminded me of Merry and Pippin from Lord of the Rings. I just love the whole gang and seeing them and their history fit into their characters!

So that's my blurb on this book. I would really recommend it. I'm for sure excited for the release of the sequel, come next year! For those who like content ratings and/or worry about content, there is a bit of questionable happenings at the end. Read on for specifics.

Content: Moderate
(Language throughout (D***, H***, Bas****) Kissing. Forced passion via magic. Some implied sex at the end.)

Themes of the Review: Very well done development and progressiveness in many aspects of the story. Well told and engaging. A very fun read!

 Find This Book: Goodreads / Amazon

 Have you read Touch of Power? Have you read any other books by Maria? What would you recommend? Would love to hear your thoughts!

Till Next Time,
 






This review is 100% from Inky's brain. Use of this review w/out consent is prohibited. 

Author: M. J. Putney
Series: Dark Mirror #1
Published: March 1, 2011 by St. Martin's Press
Pages: 305
Rating: 2.5 Stars

Lady Victoria Mansfield, youngest daughter of the earl and countess of Fairmount, is destined for a charmed life. Soon she will be presented during the London season, where she can choose a mate worthy of her status.  Yet Tory has a shameful secret—a secret so powerful that, if exposed, itcould strip her of her position and disgrace her family forever. Tory’s blood is tainted . . . by magic.

When a shocking accident forces Tory to demonstrate her despised skill, the secret she’s fought so hard to hide is revealed for all to see. She is immediately exiled to Lackland Abbey, a reform school for young men and women in her position. There she will learn to suppress her deplorable talents and maybe, if she’s one of the lucky ones, be able to return to society. But Tory’s life is about to change forever. 

My Thoughts: It's a sad day when a book doesn't meet your expectations. I was really interested to read this book, but unfortunately it didn't live up to my standards. It was a fun cute read with magic but it just didn't grab me enough. I got distracted but two or three books before I came back to finish this one. The idea that begins this book is that magic is frowned upon in the London societies of 1803. Lady Victoria (or Tory) grows up in one of the nice families and is horrified to discover that she has the magical ability. Of course her family sends her off to Lackland Abbey, a school where they supposedly "cure you of your ability". 

I have to say it was interesting, but for me it didn't work in an ideal way. There is this whole Time-Traveling twist with the Mirror that shows up and that was interesting, but I dunno, it almost didn't work. It was kinda weird. Don't get me wrong, her historical detailing was really well done but I dunno I just felt like it was to.....bland. It needed more flavor. Putney's writing was nice as well but it was also a bit dull. I felt like there were times when unnecessary things were inserted and it took me off the storyline. Being a writer and reader I notice things and so it stands out more. It felt like some of the wrong things were being described and the things that should've had it weren't getting the right attention. I dunno, maybe I'm just being picky. 

The cast of characters was widely ranging and enjoyable, but I just didn't get into them as I like to. Tory was told in 3rd person and normally I'm not as much of a fan of reading that because I don't feel like I get the characters and the motives portrayed as clearly. Tory was well written but I was missing that link. I didn't feel the character development as much as I'd have liked to. She was enjoyable and I got all her motives but....

The romance was sweet. Allarde sounds uber hot. I want to meet him. So yes I approve of Allarde. But I get like they hardly knew each other before they were acknowledging they both wanted to be together! I mean they have this strong magical connection and there is attraction but I didn't see much else... so it was lacking. But I approve of Allarde. 

Okay I know it's a historical book and I love historical, but sometimes how they talked just got to me. They used phrases like "I'm very pleased to hear that," Tory smiled at her friend. Okay so not that bad, but yes poke me now, especially since I keep saying I love historical and I do but it didn't work so well in this book. I hate to rat out a book that's how I feel. And then the whole WW2 twist (sorry, mini spoiler) I was like.. What? Why? How? It was kinda out of the blue and I was a bit discombobulated. But either way it was an enjoyable fantasy/historical novel about friends and working together for the common good. So I won't say it wasn't a read wasted, just one that could have been better.