Review: ALL OUR YESTERDAYS by Cristin Terril

All Our Yesterdays

Author: Cristin Terril

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

Published: September 3, 2013

Summary | Add to TBR

"You have to kill him." Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain.

Only Em can complete the final instruction. She’s tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside. 

Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America’s most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James’s life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina’s hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was. 

All Our Yesterdays is a wrenching, brilliantly plotted story of fierce love, unthinkable sacrifice, and the infinite implications of our every choice.

My Thoughts:

"I start to shake. In this time and place, a letter I don't remember writing means something very specific. But it's the last line that made me scramble for the toilet in the corner of my cell.

You have to kill him."

There are plenty of time travel books out there and you probably think it's the same old thing. But I tell you, this book lived up to my expectation. The concept and the theories revolving around this subject are not easy to grasp, but it always fascinates me. Could we really have a different present if we made things differently in the past? Or can we really go back in the past and change the things we've done to have a different future? 

I want  the readers to enjoy this book as much as I did and it won't be possible if there are spoilers. One wrong word and it will break the story. One wrong word and I might ruin the book for you. So I will try my best to give my honest to heart review without giving anything away.

All Our Yesterdays is a story of friendship, love and sacrifice-- how friendship play its vital role just when you needed it, and how true love can get you what you want and lose what you already have.

The story started four years from now, with Em locked inside her own cell. We didn't know how she got there, only why she was kept inside-- somebody wants something from her and she's not willing to give it up. She won't give them up. With every torture and pain she had suffered, she takes comfort in the voice of the boy behind her prison's wall. The boy she knew but the face she couldn't remember. She knew that she holds his life in his hands and there is no way she would let him die. Both of them were trying to protect each other from the man they only refer to as the "doctor". And they need to escape again and save the world from the hands of this man. 

It's true that there are books to be tasted and books to be devoured. This book is the kind to be devoured. It was addicting. The first chapter got me hooked and I knew right away that I want this book. It was hard to put down especially when almost every chapter has revelations to tell. Figuring some of them doesn't make them less surprising either. It actually made me want to read more and it felt like I was the one chasing time. I was caught up in a whirl of emotions--fear, sadness, disappointment, surprise, and anticipation. Another best thing is the plot. It was fast-paced and very well executed. It amazed me how it was written so flawlessly. And though I think that the story was lacking a bit on world-building, I easily overlooked it. A better description of the world where Em and Finn came from could have enriched the backstory more but then again, it wasn't a big deal for me this time. Other than that, the rest was pretty neat and the story was really good. I appreciate the storytelling--the alternating POV of Marina and Em. The personalities of both girls are total opposites and I'd say I loved Em more. Marina was a bit selfish and immature. She was annoying most of the time but it was obvious (for the good reason) that the story needed it for the other characters to be more effective and real. Finn and James are well developed as well, and I liked Finn specifically. Finn, James, Marina and Em-- it was great to see these characters grow and become those persons they couldn't have possibly imagined. 

Gripping and emotional, with meticulously executed, fast-pacing plot, great twists and underlying secrets, with interesting characters that will hold your heart, this book makes an awesome read. I shouldn't have been surprised because I expected it to be good, and yet I still was. If you find time traveling a fascinating story, you'll surely enjoy this one. I hope there's a sequel, because stories like this doesn't need to end just yet. It's one of the best I've ever read in a while and if there's one time travel book I will recommend, it's this one. All Our Yesterdays lived up to my expectation, I hope it will also live up to yours.

My Rating:

You can read the first chapter of All Our Yesterdays and 

watch the web series at Cristin Terril Homepage.

Book Review: REBEL HEART by Moira Young

Rebel Heart (Dust Lands #2)

Author: Moira Young

Published: October 30th 2012

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry

Genre: YA, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

It seemed so simple: Defeat the Tonton, rescue her kidnapped brother, Lugh, and then order would be restored to Saba’s world. Simplicity, however, has proved to be elusive. Now, Saba and her family travel west, headed for a better life and a longed-for reunion with Jack. But the fight for Lugh’s freedom has unleashed a new power in the dust lands, and a formidable new enemy is on the rise.

What is the truth about Jack? And how far will Saba go to get what she wants? In this much-anticipated follow-up to the riveting Blood Red Road, a fierce heroine finds herself at the crossroads of danger and destiny, betrayal and passion.

My Thoughts:

You couldn't find nobody more pig-headed if you tried. An she's always thinkin she knows best, even when she don't, especially when she don't. She's prickly an stubborn an everythin you'd put at the bottom of a list if you was makin a ... a list of that kind. Which I ain't. I didn't. but ohmigawd... she shines so bright. The fire of life burns strong in her. I never realized till I met her... I bin cold my whole life... - Jack

I couldn't even say any other word that would fit Saba's personality other than Jack's description of her. She's fierce, she's intense, she burns, she's Saba. I liked her more in this book than in Blood Red Road. I appreciate how Saba grow as a woman from being the immature Saba I met in the first book. She didn't irritate me like in Blood Red Road, and I loved how determined she was in proving that Jack  didn't betrayed them. She believed in him and even if it means hurting his brother and and her friends feelings, she knows what she needs to do and she's doing it no matter what.

Keys ain't her style. She kicked the door down. - Jack

I have mixed emotions about this book. I loved Blood Red Road so much that it became one of my most favorite books. Rebel Heart is good but I don't think it's as good as the first book. BRR is more action-packed, more thrilling, more exciting, more touching and romantic than RH. I only had Jack at the beginning and at the end, that's it. I wanted more of him, more of him and Saba together and I wanted romance too. So much had happened in this sequel but it felt like something is missing. And once again I was heartbroken and torn apart because one of my favorite characters just died. I got annoyed with Lugh more than anybody else in this book but I'm glad that Saba isn't as irritating as she was in BRR. Many characters died, but there are new ones that will touch your heart. I wanted to see the Free Hawks soar high again, I wanted them alive not dead. I don't want to give away anything but believe me, this book knows how to tear up a heart. It's not a light read and definitely not a happy one. It's for those who wants adventure in Dust Lands, a journey to fight for peace and for what is left of the world. It's a story full of losses, deaths, pains and harshness. But more than that, there's the story of friendship, family, companionship, love and survival.

There are some people... not many, who have within them the power to change things. The courage to act in the service of somethin greater than themselves. - Auriel

Emmi. When everybody seems down, she's the one left standing... for Saba.

Maev. What more can you ask for in a friend? You need her, she's there.

Lugh. The one I want to strangle from the very beginning. Tie him and throw him into the lake! Reeeeaaaaally!

Jack. I don't need a heartstone to find him. Loved this guy.

De Malo. Oh. My. Shocking. Goodness. I smell a love triangle brewing. (Or as my friend Jenny calls it, A LOVE SQUARE brewing.)

Molly, Tommo, Slim, Bram, Ash, Creed, Nero and Tracker. These amazing characters deserve more than a pat in the back. 

I still loved this book even though I didn't get exactly what I really hoped and wanted. It's worth reading and I will certainly read the next book or books to come no matter what.

What happens to you changes you. Fer good or ill, yer changed forever. There ain't no goin back. No matter how many tears you cry. - Saba

Book Review: SURRENDER by Elana Johnson

Surrender (Possession #2)
Author: Elana Johnson
Published: June 5th 2012
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

Forbidden love, intoxicating power, and the terror of control…

Raine has always been a good girl. She lives by the rules in Freedom. After all, they are her father’s rules: He’s the Director. It’s because of him that Raine is willing to use her talent—a power so dangerous, no one else is allowed to know about it. Not even her roommate, Vi.

All of that changes when Raine falls for Gunner. Raine’s got every reason in the world to stay away from Gunn, but she just can’t. Especially when she discovers his connection to Vi’s boyfriend, Zenn. Raine has never known anyone as heavily brainwashed as Vi. Raine’s father expects her to spy on Vi and report back to him. But Raine is beginning to wonder what Vi knows that her father is so anxious to keep hidden, and what might happen if she helps Vi remember it. She’s even starting to suspect Vi’s secrets might involve Freedom’s newest prisoner, the rebel Jag Barque....

My Thoughts:

This book is one of my favorite reads this year and once again I was reminded how much I enjoy dystopian novels. Surrender is the second book of Possession Series, and if you've already read the first book, then you already met Violet Schoenfield, Zenn Bower, and Jag Barque. You already know what happened to them in the end of the book, and how Violet and Zenn end up at Freedom City. (Freedom City, as weird and as crazy as it is, Freedom City doesn't live up to its name, because here, the Citizens are controlled, and free-will isn't an option.)

In this second book, I was introduced to a new set of amazing characters. If you loved Vi and Jag in Possession, you'll gonna love Raine and Gunner. These two new characters will fight for what is right no matter what the cost is. Just like Vi, Jag and Zenn, they possessed controlling powers that can destroy the whole Freedom City, its government and the whole society.

Every person has a season of knowledge. - Cannon

Raine Hightower has always been good in the eyes of her father, the Director of Freedom City. She was assigned to monitor and report every detail about Violet, her new non-student roommate. She doesn't understand why her father give too much interest about Vi, but Raine suspects that her roommate is not an ordinary citizen. Especially when she already saw how everything will end once Vi got what she desired most--to be free. In the vision, she also saw herself standing with Vi and with another boy--Gunner--as they watched Freedom City falls. Together, with their powerful abilities, they will destroy the city. The time that Raine Hightower realized this, she didn't stop until she recruited Gunner to be part of the Insiders where she too is a member. The Insiders (consist of different groups) are branches of the Resistance that are assigned to work and operate inside the Freedom City. When Jag, the leader of The Resistance was caught, Raine knows that the time has come to unbrainwash Violet and help Jag escape. 

"Maybe if she saw Jag again...maybe that would wake her up. But if she sees him and remembers, I'm nobody. In more than ways than one." - Zenn

There are lots of things that I wanna say about the story and let me start with the characters. How could anyone love a book if the characters aren't well-developed, weak, even more so, annoying. But I tell you, I don't have any problem with that in Surrender. I loved Raine and Gunner. They absolutely have the five S qualities of a protagonist that I like--Smart, Strong, Snarky, Sneaky and Stubborn. Secondly, the plot and the setting. There was a slight difference in the setting of the two books. As far as I could remember anyway, Possession mostly happened outside the Freedom City, while in Surrender, everything took place inside (well, mostly). It was fascinating to read about high-tech gears and facilities, hovercrafts and even the High Rises buildings and apartments. It was so futuristic and scary at the same time. Especially when you know that there are people in the society who have the abilities to control you using their voices, their minds, their touch.

Okay, well, maybe the plot isn't that fast-paced. It was rather a bit slow for me and confusing, BUT, it was never a hindrance for me not to enjoy the story. When I first read Possession a year ago, I admit that it was confusing and I had to go back to a couple of pages and re-read them. There were questions that hadn't even answered even I reached the ending. I had the same experience with Surrender, but as I reached the last part of the story I began to see things clearly. I finally understood what truly happened in Possession and why certain characters acted that way. I'd say that Surrender surprised me with it's incredible twist and revelation! I suddenly want to read Possession again and see if I would have the same reaction as I had the first time I read it. So you must know that the people/characters aren't exactly who they seem, and you'll discover that in Surrender. 

If you love dystopian novels, you should read this series. It might be a confusing and slow at the beginning, but overall it's amazing. If the ending of Possession killed you the last time, then be prepared with the ending of Surrender. It was another cliffhanger ending that made me want to read the next book now. It is really good! With the addition of new remarkable characters, the unexpected twist, the huge cliffhanger ending, this series just get more riveting. I can't wait for the next book!

My Rating:

The first book in Possession Series by Elana Johnson

Add to TBR
Read my Review

Book Review: LEGEND by Marie Lu

Legend (Legend #1)
Author: Marie Lu
Published: November 29th 2012
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic’s wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic’s highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country’s most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths—until the day June’s brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family’s survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias’s death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.

My Thoughts:

I didn't expect to love this book as much as I do now. I'm not a fast reader and with lots of house chores to do, reading has been scarce lately. But Legend is unputdownable. I was rooted in my bed from the first time I open the book up to the end. It was really good.

I take a closer look at Kaede's new opponent...
For a second it seems like the crowd's attention has made her uncomfortable and I'm ready to dismiss her as a real contender until I study her again. No, this girl is nothing like the last one. She's hesitating not because she's afraid to fight, or because she fears losing, but because she's thinking. Calculating. She has a dark hair tied back in a high ponytail and a lean, athletic build. She stands deliberately, with a hand resting on her hip, as if nothing in the world can catch her off guard. I find myself pausing to admire her face.
For a brief moment, I'm lost to my surroundings...

...the instant the new girl steps into the circle and I see her stance...I know I've made a big mistake. Kaede strikes like a bull, a battering ram.
This girl strikes like a viper. -Day

June is the golden prodigy of the Republic. She got the best of genes and is destined for a bright future. She's the only person who got the perfect score in the Trial, and she's been recognized at such a young age, making her the youngest yet the best soldier in the military. Until her brother, Captain Metias died and Day became the suspect. Day is the country's most wanted criminal. And June will do everything to hunt him down and avenge her brother's death.

I think that June and Day are two of the smartest, fastest, strongest, and most brilliant characters I've ever met. And they are probably the most perceptive, intuitive of all. When something arise, they easily figure it out. Most importantly, they can immediately figure out each other. I hope that it will continue up to the next book. They somehow remind me of Tris and Four of Divergent. Brilliant and totally kick-ass. And behind those tough personalities are good hearts. These characters are driven by their fears and heartaches in the past. They were crashed but they remain whole in a world where survival is vital and only possible for the fittest. I loved those characters that exudes such great personalities. I want to see them in the big screen. This book deserves it!

Then there's a voice telling me to get up. When I look to my side, I see a boy holding out his hand to me. He has bright blue eyes, dirt on his face, and a beat-up old cap on, and at this moment, I think he might be the most beautiful boy I've ever seen.
"Come on," he urges. I take his hand.

He doesn't act like a desperate street kid. He has so many more sides to him that I wonder if he has always lived in these poor sectors. He glances at me now, notices me studying him, and pauses for a second. Some secret emotion darts across his eyes. A beautiful mystery. -June

I'd say that my most favorite part in the story is when Day first laid his eyes on June at the Skiz. It was remarkable. I loved how Day described June when he saw her, the same way I loved how June thought about Day when he first offered her his hand. I knew that the romance will blossom eventually, and I've been so ecstatic to see how everything will play out for two people who are enemies and bound by duty and responsibility--one for the Republic, the other one for his family.

I am a huge fan of dystopian novels blended with good romance and brilliantly developed characters, and Legend has both. The story is compelling, gripping and totally intense. It's a kind of book that you don't want to put down once you started reading it. The story is fast-paced and the world building is very well crafted. I cannot ask for more in this book. It has the right amount of action, suspense, romance, and drama that makes it a very satisfying read. Aside from that, I loved how the story were told from two different POVs. If you have the paperback or the hardback copy of the book, you'll see that Day's POV was written using a different color of ink, and with different font. This made the book more fun and easier to read. I got even more excited every time the POV changed.

Legend had everything I want in a dystopian book. The story is impressive and I really enjoyed it. It reminds me why I like dystopian novels so much. It's a fast read, intense, highly engaging, emotionally gripping, and a total page-turner! If you are a huge fan of dystopian novels like me, you'll surely don't want to miss it. I highly recommend Legend. It's a powerful story. It deserves a place on my bookshelf, and I'm sure it'll be a great addition to your bookshelf too. It's a must read!

My Rating:

P.S. Did I mention that I grabbed the audiobook version after I finished this book? It is that good.

P.S.S. Check Ms. Marie Lu's website and you'll find some pretty interesting stuff out there. Go check out her blog and media :) I find some sketches and art made by the author herself. There are games, teasers/trailers that you might find very enjoying. Don't forget to check out het awesome site.

Marie Lu's Official Website | Blog | Media

Book Review: PANDEMONIUM by Lauren Oliver

Pandemonium (Delirium #2)

Author: Lauren Oliver

Publication Date: February 28th 2012

Publisher: Harper Teen

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

I'm pushing aside the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and flame.

Lauren Oliver delivers an electrifying follow-up to her acclaimed New York Times bestseller, Delirium. This riveting, brilliant novel crackles with the fire of fierce defiance, forbidden romance, and the sparks of a revolution about to ignite.

My Thoughts:

I think we all have been in this situation where you wanna cry and shout and lie down to bed after reading a book. Okay, not just a book, but a really good book. This is what happened to me the time I reached the final page of Pandemonium. I can't explain the feeling. Maybe it was a mixture of things. The feeling where you don't understand whether you are sad or happy or hopeless or the opposite. And the only easy escape is to have the next book. But no way you can have it now because you still have to wait a couple of months or a year to have it. Then it hits you... frustration and torture. Honestly, I don't think I could write it down well. So let me just say that I totally loved Pandemonium, I enjoyed it so much. It is really good. It surpassed my high expectations.

"What does it feel like?"

I know what he is talking about, but I still ask, "What does what feel like?"

"The deliria." He pauses. Then I hear him slide slowly out of bed. He is kneeling between our bunks. I cannot move or breathe. If I turn my head, our lips will be six inches apart. Less. " What does it feel like to be infected?"

"I-I can't describe it." I force the words out. Can't breathe. Can't breathe. Can't breathe. His skin smells like smoke from a wood fire, like soap, like heaven. I imagine tasting his skin; I imagine biting his lips.

"I want to know." His words are a whisper, barely audible. "I want to know with you."

What I love about this book?

The Deliria. Love.

Even Delirium impressed me so much by tackling this idea that "love" is a disease. It was amazing to see how terrified people are when they learned that you are infected... by love. And then you'll be persecuted because you feel it--love. In Pandemonium, it surprises me even more by how the plot and the setting changed. War. Chaos. Everywhere. I met a whole bunch of characters and each of them has their own story to tell. I felt sad for them. I pitied them. This book is action-packed, you won't get bored. Lots of twists and surprises that will keep you at the edge of your seat.

Lena.

She had grown so much from that innocent girl in Delirium to a fighter in Pandemonium. When the rest of the world seemed to be hardened by loss and grief, Lena remains human, strong and smart. It's nice to see that she still cries, and she still have a soft spot within her, but she's never numb. She knows what she wants and I liked her for that.

Julian.

What can I say? It was a surprise to me because I didn't see it coming. I thought it was this another guy from the Wilds. I missed Alex from the beginning, and I admit that throughout the book, I'm not sure what to believe in. I believed and/or almost believed that maybe he's really dead. You have to read it, to find out. And Julian is the new guy. I loved Alex from Delirium but I can't resist loving Julian in Pandemonium. Both guys are great. I didn't know who I liked better for Lena. But then, Alex might or might not be dead.

Alex.

When I finished the book, I couldn't stop thinking about what really happened. I missed Alex the whole time in the book but Julian filled that hole in my heart. But then I guess, it couldn't be filled at all. Because when I closed the book, I grabbed Delirium from my shelf, and skimmed through the pages where I can read about Alex again. I don't want to say anything more, because I don't want to spoil the book for you. I'm afraid that I'm giving away too much already.

This book made me shiver. It seemed like Lena's emotions poured into me like a bucket of cold water. Or maybe I should lessen my coffee intake. Felt like I was shaking, I could hardly stand. I read the last page over and over again. The big cliffy ending almost killed me. This book is so so good, I totally loved it. I couldn't stop thinking about it and this feeling is weighing me down. I don't think I will sleep well tonight.

Deliria is infectious. Want to know what it feels like? Do I recommend it? My goodness, yes. After a roller coaster ride kind of feeling? After almost being killed by a big cliffy ending? Who am I not to share the torture?

Just read it. It's worthy of your time.

Requiem,

Please be out now.

My Rating:

The first book in Delirium Trilogy

Add to TBR

Book Review: THE SELECTION by Kiera Cass

The Selection (The Selection #1)
Author: Kiera Cass
Published Date: April 24th 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

My Thoughts:

I've never been a fan of The Bachelor or any other dating game on TV, but The Selection appealed to me so much due to its gorgeous cover and positive reviews. Honestly speaking, I've expected a lot from this book and though it didn't perfectly lived up to my expectations, I could say that it was worth my time. I liked the idea of the story--reality show slash dating game slash "aka The Bachelor" slash Cinderella slash dystopia. Even though I didn't quite taste the dystopian flavor, I still enjoyed the other aromas this book has to offer. 

Living as a Five, America Singer never imagined that her life would suddenly make a drastic change when she was chosen as one of the thirty-five girls who will compete for the heart (or the crown) of Prince Maxon of Illea. All she wanted was to marry his secret boyfriend--beautiful and hardworking boy--Aspen, a Six. Being in the palace with other gorgeous women, and having spent time with the handsome prince, she realized that there's something more at being a prince or a royal. Seems like Prince Maxon isn't someone she thought he was. Feeling suddenly confused of her own feelings, she must decide what she really wants while trying to figure out his feelings for Aspen and the prince. 

I'd say that after reading this book, I didn't expect that it would linger on my mind for so long... I don't know what it is that makes me think about the book so much and care for the characters that I've grown to adore. It isn't one of my favorites but I really enjoyed the story. It was charming and beautiful and sweet in its own way. It is a love story mixed with action and just enough suspense. It was entertaining! 

What I didn't like? Hmm... I can't think of any. Except maybe the ending. It wasn't bad though. I just wanted more--more of America and Maxon. For me, it felt like I was given a book that was half-finished. Something that made me want to know the real ending. I need it and I want it now. I want to know what will happen to America. Who is the one she really cares about? Who will she choose between the two guys? Will Maxon pick her as his princess? Or will America end up with Aspen? I so want to know! Really, does it have to end that way? It's going to be a long wait. 

If you enjoyed The Bachelor or any other dating game like this one, then you might like this book. It isn't just the beautiful cover that makes it good, it's the story, the characters, the world of The Selection as a whole. Grab a copy and enjoy!

"I hope you find someone you can't live without. I really do. And I hope you never have to know what it's like to have to try and live without them." America, p.95

My Rating:

Book Review: INSURGENT by Veronica Roth (Consider me awed again)

Insurgent (Divergent #2)
Author: Veronica Roth
Publication Date: May 1st 2012
Publisher:
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.

My Thoughts:

I'm attempting to write a review of a "book" which I won't be able to give justice to. Insurgent is a story at it's finest, a book at its best, awesome to the fullest. The extreme plot, complex characters and unexpected twists and turns of events that never fail to surprise and amaze the readers made this book a one huge awesome read. I can't tell you how much I love this series!

"We are all right, you know," he says. "You and me. Okay?"

My chest aches, and I nod.

"Nothing else is all right." His whisper tickles my cheek. "But we are."

Once again I was thrown into the world of Divergent, beautiful and terrifying at the same time. The story immediately picked up where the first book left off--Tris, Four, Caleb, Peter, and Marcus--in the train heading to the Amity compound. I'm glad that this time, Insurgent gave me a glimpse of what it is to live inside Amity, the faction dedicated to pursue peace. In the same way that the readers were given the opportunity to see how to live in Candor.

"I love Tris the Divergent, who makes decisions apart from faction loyalty... But the Tris who's trying as hard as she can to destroy herself... I can't love her."

There are so many things to love about Insurgent, and I won't be able to finish if I state them all. But what I loved the most is Four (*swoon). I love it because I get to know him more in this book. Though there are lots of readers who seemed to be so irritated by him, I think he remains strong and amazing. And though Tris annoyed me from time to time because of her recklessness, I'd say that she's the most effective heroine I've ever met. She's strong-willed and smart and absolutely kick-ass. She suffered a lot--the death of her parents, the destruction of Abnegation, and the guilt of killing his friend Will--but she remains strong all through out the story. I just hope that Tris learned to trust Four, and not be stupid to think that Four will just let her go and do whatever it is that she wanted even if she risk her life. I want to pin-point one thing that Tris must have been missing the whole time: Four will always come to the rescue no matter what. He ends up saving her all the time. And Four should have trusted Tris more. I see that both main characters have their own issues to deal with like trusting each other and learning how to communicate with each other better. I hope they will learn to work this out in the next book to spare the readers some heartache that may result from stabbing one another out of arguments whether who is most infuriating of the two! Believe me, I felt stabbed a million times now! *winks*lol*

The setting of the story is as great as ever. The pacing is perfect! No dull moment, no boring ones.   Most of the times I was expecting something to happen and then my heart throbs, my stomach flutters. But what's great is that they come when I'm least expecting them--always surprising, shocking even. Action-packed, full of suspense and lots of exciting moments. This book will leave you breathless. The characters are amazing. Friends and enemies aren't what they seem. You'll hate some of those you've loved, and love some of those you've hated. The turn of events will question what you believe, who to trust, and where to stand. The twists and the revelations will amaze you once again, something that Veronica Roth didn't fail to give her readers.

We both have war inside of us. Sometimes it keeps us alive. Sometimes it threatens to destroy us.

I don't think my rating can ever give justice to it. I would give it a "10" if I could. I will definitely give this book the highest possible rating I can give. This book is what you call "the total page-turner". It did not disappoint, it will never disappoint. Undeniably and irrevocably, this book will take it's place beside Divergent -- there on top of the list of my most favorite books.

To Miss Veronica Roth, Once again, consider me awed.

My Rating:

Make sure you read DIVERGENT (Book 1)

Read my Review
Add to TBR

Book Review: CROSSED by Ally Condie

Crossed (Matched #2)
Author: Ally Condie
Publication Date: November 1st 2012
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Genre: YA Dystopian

Summary | Add to TBR

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

My Thoughts:

Crossed is the next book after Matched by Ally Condie which I loved loved loved. And though I can't say that I loved this book just the same, I still think it did not disappoint. They're just different and now I'm wondering how everything will end in book three.

Because in the end you can't always choose what to keep. 

You can only choose how you let it go. - Ky

Forgetting lets you live without pain for a moment but remembering hits hard. - Cassia

Determined to find Ky, Cassia left Xander and her family in Oria. She was sent in a camp and worked there with other Aberration girls. At the camp, she met a girl named Indie, and together they escape and travel the dangerous Outer Province to find Ky and the Resistance. But Xander has something to tell her... a secret that may change what she thinks about him and about Ky. Intriguing, isn't it? This kept me reading until I discovered what it was. But of course, I won't tell. *wink

This book was told in two different POV--Cassia and Ky. Though it would be much better (I think) if Xander's POV is included, too. Anyway, I love this kind of narrating style because I get to see clearly both minds of the main characters. I get to see more of Ky and how he truly feels about Cassia. There were lots of times that I felt sorry and sad for him for suffering too much. The same thing I felt when Cassia sorted him out in the first book that led him out of the Society. I felt sad for Xander too, but this book gave me the chance to look at him in a different way. I have always loved Ky even from the beginning, but in Crossed, you'll see that Xander isn't who you think he is. He has a secret and you need to read this book to find out. I know that I still love Ky for Cassia, but Xander seems perfect for her too.  Okay, so it's kinda confusing, I love them both now! It's hard to choose between two good boys.

In Crossed, you won't climb the Hills, but you will be taken to canyons and to the plateaus. You'll walk under big rocks and cross dangerous plains and poisoned rivers. This book was a whole new experience. You will meet a lot of new and interesting characters and unravel new secrets and mysteries surrounding them and the Society. The main characters are surprising, because you'll get to see the real them. Ky, Xander, Cassia--they matured, they evolved, they're different. It was so nice to see how these characters developed and become stronger as the story progresses.

Love has different shades. Like the way I loved Cassia when I thought she'd never love me. The way I loved her on the Hill. The way I love her now that she came into the canyon for me. It's different. Deeper. I thought I loved her and wanted her before, but as we walk through the canyon together I realize this could be more than a new shade. A whole new color. - Ky

But loving lets you look, and look, and look again. You notice the back of a hand, the turn of a head, the way of a walk. When you first love, you look blind and you see it all as the glorious, beloved whole, or a beautiful sum of beautiful parts. But when you see the one you love as pieces, a whys--why he walks like this, why he closes his eyes like that--you can love those parts, too, and it's a love at once more complicated and more complete. -Cassia

The story was good though the pacing was a bit slow. There were dragging parts but Ky and Cassia's love story was good enough to keep me reading in spite of those not-so-exciting parts. And the ending? Let's just say, you  will want the next book right away because the ending will leave you hanging.

I see a glint in her eye as she looks at me and it makes me smile. hold our breath? She seems to say. Move the earth? We've been doing that all along. - Ky

Crossed isn't as great as the first book, but it is still worth reading. A must-read if you loved Matched. I'm looking forward for the next book.

My Rating:

The first book in Matched Series:

(Click the image to add it on Goodreads)

Book Review: PURE by Julianna Baggott

Pure (Pure #1)
Author: Julianna Baggott
Publication Date: February 8th 2012
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian/Scifi

Summary | Add to TBR

We know you are here, our brothers and sisters . . .

Pressia barely remembers the Detonations or much about life during the Before. In her sleeping cabinet behind the rubble of an old barbershop where she lives with her grandfather, she thinks about what is lost-how the world went from amusement parks, movie theaters, birthday parties, fathers and mothers . . . to ash and dust, scars, permanent burns, and fused, damaged bodies. And now, at an age when everyone is required to turn themselves over to the militia to either be trained as a soldier or, if they are too damaged and weak, to be used as live targets, Pressia can no longer pretend to be small. Pressia is on the run.

Burn a Pure and Breathe the Ash . . .

There are those who escaped the apocalypse unmarked. Pures. They are tucked safely inside the Dome that protects their healthy, superior bodies. Yet Partridge, whose father is one of the most influential men in the Dome, feels isolated and lonely. Different. He thinks about loss-maybe just because his family is broken; his father is emotionally distant; his brother killed himself; and his mother never made it inside their shelter. Or maybe it's his claustrophobia: his feeling that this Dome has become a swaddling of intensely rigid order. So when a slipped phrase suggests his mother might still be alive, Partridge risks his life to leave the Dome to find her.

When Pressia meets Partridge, their worlds shatter all over again.

My Thoughts:

In the world of Pure, there are two kinds of people. The Pure and the wretches. The Pures are people who made it inside the Dome before the Detonations, and the wretches are those who were left behind. The Pures are unscarred, living in a very controlled environment where they are kept healthy, fit, and perfect. While the wretches, those who are outside the Dome, are living with deformed bodies, scarred--strangely fused with something--either a machine, an animal, or even another human being. Pressia lives among the wretches. She has a hand that is made up of a doll's head which became her fist, and she has a burn scar on one side of her face. Partridge, on the other hand, lives among the Pures. He used to be inside the Dome until he escaped to find her mother whom he believed is still alive and living outside the Dome. So when Pressia hit 16, the time when she needs to surrender herself to either serve or become a living bait to the OSR (Operations Sacred Revolution), she escaped and she had no choice but to find Bradwell--the leader of the Resistance who seemed to know more about the Before, the life before the Detonations. Along the way, she met Partridge and together they seek Bradwell's help.

The story was a bit slow for me in the beginning of the book and I need to reread some of the passages to understand what they were talking about. There are terms and things that were not explained fully and it made me confused most of the time during the first half of the book. Halfway through, the story became interesting and I got the answers that I was looking for. It made me even more eager to know what will happen next especially to the characters that I loved.

"I remember how the ugliness is what makes the beautiful things beautiful." - Partridge

I've read a lot of dystopian books before but nothing delivers a world as eery and as frightening as the world in Pure. The world was startling, overwhelming, and horrible. If you have a vivid imagination and a weak stomach, then you might find yourself wincing while reading this book. The writing was effective and the images were so vivid that I can actually picture them in my mind. Imagine humans fused with animals, metals or plastics. Some are fused with machines, toys, and even another human being. Everything is mutated and death is everywhere. It's a dangerous world, and it's like survival of the fittest.

I find this book a bit different from other dystopian books I've read. I can't describe how my stomach felt while I read this book, but I remember eagerly turning the page to see what will happen next. I stopped reading many times just to let the everything sink in before I continue with the next scene. There were exciting and surprising twists that made this book even more engaging. And not only that, this book is full of heart stopping actions that will keep you rooted in your seat until the last page.

But you might ask, why only 3/5? Well, it's actually 3.5/5 though. And as I've mentioned on the first part of my review, it took me halfway through before I completely pulled into the story. The first half of the book was a bit slow and confusing and I needed to reread some parts to get it. Maybe I'm a bit slow, too *wink. But anyway, I could have given it a much higher rating if not for the slow part.

So do I still recommend it? Absolutely.

Pure is blended with alive characters, intriguing story line and unexpected surprises. If you like dystopian novels then you might as well grab a copy of this one. It's good and unique on it's own way. It's very intense, breathtaking and most of all frightening. It might be a little disturbing due to the images that you'll get while reading it, but the story itself was fascinating.

"It's all a game now," El Capitan says, unlocking the trap. "You lose and you're dead. Winning means you just keep playing. Sometimes I wish I'd lose. Tired. I get tired, that's all..."

3.5 Coffee Cups!

My Rating:

Book Review: SHATTER ME by Tehereh Mafi

Shatter Me (Shatter Me #1)

Author: Tehereh Mafi

Publication Date: November 15th 2011

Publisher: Harper Collins

Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Paranormal, Romance

Summary on Goodreads:
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

In this electrifying debut, Tahereh Mafi presents a world as riveting as The Hunger Games and a superhero story as thrilling as The X-Men. Full of pulse-pounding romance, intoxicating villainy, and high-stakes choices, Shatter Me is a fresh and original dystopian novel—with a paranormal twist—that will leave readers anxiously awaiting its sequel.

My Thoughts:

The world is flat.

I know because I was tossed right off the edge and I've been trying to hold on for 17 years. I've been trying to climb back up for 17 years but it's nearly impossible to beat gravity when no one is willing to give you a hand. - Juliette

This book shattered my heart captured my heart from the very beginning up to the end. The writing is powerful and captivating, it was hard to put down.

264 days of isolation. Juliette has been locked up in a cell consisting of 4 walls and 1 window. She hadn't seen  or touched a single human being for  3 years until Adam Kent was sent to be her cellmate. That's where the story began and I was hooked immediately, excited to know who the boy was, and his connection to Juliette. I was excited to know why The Reestablishment put Juliette in the institution and why they suddenly put a boy in her room. I loved how the story was written in such a way that it became even more effective to see what's in Juliette's head and the things she had been thinking and feeling and I hope I could see Adam in the same way.

"Of course I remember you." My voice strangled whisper. I squeeze my eyes shut. I remember you every day forever in every broken moment of my life. "You were the only one who ever looked at me like a human being." - Juliette

You're going to love Adam Kent. It is always one of the things I look for in a story. A guy whom I can see myself rooting for. He's one of those sweet, sexy and dependable guy that you will put on your list of swoon-worthy book boyfriends that will make you fall in love over again. With a strong hero comes a strong heroine and a book is dull without them. Juliette is definitely one tough girl and I liked her because she has a good heart. I don't think I can describe Juliette in a more effective way than this, so I chose Adam's exact words as she said this words to her.

"A million times... I saw you do things like that a million times. But you never said a word unless it was forced out of you... You never asked for anything from anyone... But no one ever gave you a chance."  -Adam

I always loved a character with goodness in their heart because they inspire me... to do good, to think right. Juliette is one of those heroines that I tend to love because of that. Not just a kick-ass, but also kind-hearted.

What I liked most about this book is the love story and that the words were written beautifully and effectively. It was surprisingly good and refreshing since I didn't expected it to be some kind of superhero thing. I realized that Juliette actually reminds me of Rogue. I wonder if Tehereh Mafi is a fan of X-Men and if she, too (like me) is fascinated by Rogue. It was quite interesting and I am excited to see how the things will turn out in the next books.

I loved everything about this book except for the world-building which I think is lacking. I hope that the author gave us a clear picture of the "The Reestablishment", the leaders, and the society. Dystopian novels is one of my favorite genre, and it's important (I think) that we are given a clear image of the dystopian world and what it takes to live in that horrific period. Other than that, this book is great in many ways. 

An engaging book like this with strong characters and amazing story line will win the hearts of readers who enjoy paranormal-dystopian novels with deliciously crafted romance. The whole story is gripping, the ending is satisfying, and the experience... shattering.

My Rating:

Book Review: THE PLEDGE by Kimberly Derting

The Pledge (The Pledge, #1)
Author: Kimberly Derting
Published Date: November 15th 2011
Published By: Margaret K. McElderry
Genre: Young Adult, Dystopian, Fantasy

Summary on Goodreads:
In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max who speaks a language she's never heard before . . . and her secret is almost exposed.
Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills give way to real crisis and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime. Add to TBR

My Thoughts:

I'm a big fan of dystopian novels--from Hunger Games to The Maze Runner series, from Divergent to Blood Red Road. When I first saw this book, I didn't realized that it was actually another dystopian book. But I was immediately intrigued by the premise: people divided by classes and languages, a girl who can understand all the languages even the most unfamiliar ones, a mysterious boy whom she was very much attracted to. There are mixed reviews about this one, but I'm glad that I read it. It captured my heart from the very beginning up to the last page. The story is unique and I liked how the author added a magical flavor to it. It's a modern, dystopian world with something that is both historical and epic. 

The queen smiled. The girl was ready; young but ready. She will be a beauty in her time... She will be strong and powerful and feared, a force to be reckoned with. Men will fall at her feet...

...and she will crush them.
She will be a great queen.
She took a deep breath. It was time.

She reached for the girl, clutching the child's tiny fingers in hers...She heard the child gasp, and then felt her struggle, trying to free her fingers from her mother's grip. But it didn't matter now; it was too late. She'd already said the words... "Take me, Mama. Take me instead."

The book was narrated in third-person perspective when it comes to the Queen, Xander and Max. But when it comes to Charlaina, it was always in first-person narration. A bit confusing to others, but for me it's quite interesting to read because it gave me glimpses of how things and situations appear to the different characters. It made the story even more effective. 

Charlaina may not be the best heroine but she is good. She's not stupid and she's not irritating. She's strong... smart... and though she's not as snarky as the other characters I tend to love, it's not difficult to like her and to relate with her. She has imperfections but who doesn't have flaws? And Max. Oh my Max. What is a book without a guy who is beautiful and mysterious? Well, if a guy is someone as interesting as him, who wouldn't want to be stalked?

His lazy smirk was pure enticement. I wanted to be immune to his brand of temptation, but I wasn’t, and I found myself leaning toward him. The lamp in the corner flickered, casting shadows over his face, changing shapes and colors, but no matter what dance they did, he was still beautiful to look upon. -Charlie

For me, The Pledge is a page-turner, gripping, engaging, avoid-drinking/eating-while-reading kind of book (yeah, because you might sprinkle some on the pages). The mysteries and all those secrets behind each of the characters were so intriguing that I couldn't put down the book. But the answers and revelations held me captive and kept me awake up to 3 am. There were times that I find myself turning back to a couple of pages and re-reading some of those just-can't-get-enough-moments... parts that I so want to remember. Those sparkly and giggle-inducing moments between the two main characters created a tempting and delicious romance. The ending is beautiful, no biggie cliff hanger ending that left me frustrated. But instead, it gave me just enough reasons to anticipate the next book. 

If you haven't read The Pledge, I recommend that you try it. If you love dystopian novel with a twist of magic and with a promising and delectable romance, then you might enjoy this as much as I did. But of course, and as always, I only try to give my humble opinion, as far as all my reviews are concerned *WINK*.

My Rating:

Book Review: THE DEATH CURE by James Dashner

The Death Cure (The Maze Runner #3)Author: James Dashner
Publication Date: October 11, 2011
Published By: Delacorte books
Genre/Category: Young Adult, Dystopian, Sci-fi

Summary on Goodreads:

Thomas knows that Wicked can't be trusted, but they say the time for lies is over, that they've collected all they can from the Trials and now must rely on the Gladers, with full memories restored, to help them with their ultimate mission. It's up to the Gladers to complete the blueprint for the cure to the Flare with a final voluntary test. 

What Wicked doesn't know is that something's happened that no Trial or Variable could have foreseen. Thomas has remembered far more than they think. And he knows that he can't believe a word of what Wicked says. 

The time for lies is over. But the truth is more dangerous than Thomas could ever imagine.
Will anyone survive the Death Cure?

My Thoughts:

I've waited for this book ever since I finished The Scorch Trial and it was definitely worth the wait. The first two books has always been on my top favorite list and I wish I could put into words the thoughts and the emotions I had when I read this final book. I expected a lot from it and James Dashner did not disappoint. Welcome back to the maze!

The Maze Runner and The Scorch Trials put me on the edge of my seat. They're so hard to put down and I would say the same thing about The Death Cure. It's totally gripping, full of action and suspense. You will keep turning the pages up to the very end. And when you think that you had figured everything out, think again... The brilliant twists and the unexpected turn of events will leave you wanting for more and you'll be surprised by how the author pulled everything together to create a satisfying finale.

The Death Cure picked up what the second book left off. Once again, the Gladers and the other survivors are back--Tommy, Minho, Newt, Frypan, Teresa and Brenda. The world that awaits them is even more frightening than the life in the maze... or the scorch... The horrible cranks are everywhere, they have nowhere to turn to, no place to hide... it was a terrifying world. Expect more death and more sacrifices. Be ready to shed some tears as you witness some heart-breaking moments. I can't tell you how much I loved and enjoyed this book. It was amazing and I loved every part of it. I was hooked from the very first page up to the last one. It was intense and it's like a roller coaster ride kind of feeling.

I just have a few concerns that I want to honestly point out. Though the ending is satisfying and I find it really good, you might find some questions that hasn't been answered completely and this might leave confusion in the end. There are also some important characters that remained a mystery to me and I keep thinking about them until now. I wish there was some explanations about the past lives of the Gladers especially Tommy, Minho, Newt, Teresa and Brenda, and how they all ended up in WICKED. It didn't answer those questions. Nevertheless, it doesn't change the fact that this is an amazing book, and it's a good finale for a remarkable series.

If you haven't seen the maze and you haven't met the Gladers, I urge you to read The Maze Runner Trilogy. It's a series of heart-gripping, heart-wrenching, and heart-throbbing novels that will undoubtedly put you at the edge of your seat. With the engaging plot, terrifying setting, and a whole pack of amazing characters, you wouldn't be able to put down this book. You will never be disappointed.

I will always remember the maze and the Gladers I've grown to love. I'm going to miss those awesome shuck-faces!

My Rating:

Book Review: VARIANT by Robison Wells

Variant (Variant #1)
Author: Robison Wells
Publication Date: October 4, 2011
Publisher: HarperCollins / HarperTeen
Genre/Category: Young Adult, Sci-fi/Thriller, Dystopian

Summary on Goodreads:
Benson Fisher thought that a scholarship to Maxfield Academy would be the ticket out of his dead-end life.
He was wrong.
Now he’s trapped in a school that’s surrounded by a razor-wire fence. A school where video cameras monitor his every move. Where there are no adults. Where the kids have split into groups in order to survive.
Where breaking the rules equals death.

But when Benson stumbles upon the school’s real secret, he realizes that playing by the rules could spell a fate worse than death, and that escape—his only real hope for survival—may be impossible.

My Thoughts:

What will you do when you are sent to an enormous school with no teachers, no principals, no guards--no adults at all? A school surrounded by forest and walls and a 24/7 surveillance cameras? Where the students are not allowed to get out--breaking the rules means punishment, escape means detention, and detention means death? TRUST NO ONE.

Variant is a gripping story of alliance and survival.  It started with Benson (the protagonist) as he told the story in his POV—starting on the day he arrived at the Maxfield Academy. Though I am not much impressed with Benson's character, I like him enough to accept and understand his behaviour. He's not the super strong, super smart hero but I admire him for his motivation and courage to stand up against the injustice when the majority couldn't.

Reading Variant reminded me of Unwind and The Maze Runner. It was suspenseful and thrilling at the same time. Though the story was a bit slow in the beginning, it was never boring. I started to really enjoy the book during the second half where the turn of events put me on the edge of my seat as I discovered secrets and the questions were slowly being answered.

The twists are surprising, even the characters are unpredictable. I liked how the author made me so curious about each them. I’m loving a character and then I hated him afterwards. There are some whom I loved and hated them in the end. You'll never really know whom to trust when the first instinct of everyone is to survive no matter how.

It doesn’t have the typical romance flavor you’ll find in other books, but it didn’t lessen the excitement. From the beginning, I waited for the right girl to come out. The author kept me guessing! Just when I thought I figured it out already, the story proved me wrong! I am so anxious to know the real girl for Benson and I’m so excited to know what will happen next especially after the HUGE CLIFF HANGER ENDING! I was totally surprised! It made me even more excited to read the next book. I am almost sure that the story will just keeps getting better once it comes out. I can’t wait!

My Rating:

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins / Harper Teen and Author Robison Wells for the copy of the book.