City of Heavenly Fire (NO SPOILERS)

Okay. Okay. It's finally time. *takes deep breath* I just finished reading City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare, and I... OMG WHY DID IT HAVE TO END??

Let me tell you something. I have read so many YA books over the past few years. But I have never gotten my hands on a book that caused me to stay up to 2 in the morning just to finish a 725 page book.

Until now.

After reading both The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices series, I have to say that Cassandra Clare is one of my favorite authors. I love her writing style, and the way she's able to create such a vivid world, The Shadowhunter World, is amazing. Cassandra Clare is able to weave so many characters into one huge story, that has a hundred different things going on at the same time.

Now let me say something. When I first read City of Bones, I liked it, but I didn't think it was a masterpiece. When I read Clockwork Angel, I even thought about dropping the Infernal Devices series, because it wasn't my cup of tea. But I'm so glad I didn't drop it. Because every single book Cassandra Clare writes is 10 times better than the last one. And this book, all 725 pages of it, had me hooked the whole way through.

Sebastian is such a despicable character. He has demon blood in him after all. He's inhuman, and shows no empathy when he tortures and kills. And as much as I hate Sebastian, I can't help feeling sorry for him. This is what Cassandra Clare is able to do. She can create such a twisted and evil character such as Sebastian, and make him have a weakness that almost makes him seem like a lost little boy who might've lived a normal life if things were different.

Now City of Heavenly Fire is the end of the series, and it wraps up perfectly. I can't think of anything I'd change to make it better. Although it's a bittersweet ending; many things are still not resolved and to think of how many people died in the war against Sebastian... Even then, it's a happy ending because it's more like a new beginning or... ARGH I DON'T KNOW HOW TO EXPLAIN THIS.

Anyway, if you are a fan of Cassandra Clare's works, you won't be disappointed by this last book of the series, as I think it's even better than the last, which was Clockwork Princess. And you don't know how much I loved Jem, Tessa, and Will after that ended.

Rating: 10 out of 10

The Night Circus

Hello! I'm back again with a review on a book I recently finished; The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. This book was recommended to me by a friend, and after reading it, I have mixed feelings over it. First off, I'm just going say that this book isn't for everyone. It's lengthy, and definitely not for those seeking a story with a lot of action. But it is very descriptive and overall I enjoyed the slow-paced and mysterious aura that this book gives off.

This book is about a Le Cirque des Reves; a circus that travels the world, appearing and disappearing without notice. Unbeknownst to most, this circus is the venue of a competition between two talented illusionists. During their childhoods, their respective instructors have placed a bond on them that entitles their participation in a game against each other, a game that will last for many years, all the way into their adulthood. Due to the bonds placed upon them, their is no way to leave the game until a winner is declared, and neither of them were told clearly how the winner was supposed to be chosen. So without being told who their respective opponents were, they began to create incredible feats of magic for those visiting the circus to enjoy, taking turns to counter each other's moves. Once they first meet, they inadvertently begin to fall in love, learning too late that to end the game there must be only one left standing.

The book spans from 1873 to 1903, which is the duration of their entire competition, from the moment they are bound to it until the moment the game ends. I like how the book is set during this time period, because it adds to the mysterious setting and it fits the circus and magic theme very nicely. What really made this book worthwhile to read was the writing-style of the author; she really puts a lot of effort into describing the setting and characters in such detail, that it made this fictional world so much more magic. The description of the circus was so intriguing that I honestly wished it was real just so I could visit it and experience it myself.

I found the story about the two illusionists to be very heartwarming. The author had a pretty big cast of characters with different personalities that you get attached to, and I think it's very interesting that although the game is between the two illusionists, they didn't realize that there would be so many others that were involved as well. This enriched the story even further; the author made use of a great deal of description in order to make the reader grow really attached to the circus and the characters.

As much as I loved the writing-style of this book, this book had many flaws as well. As I mentioned, it's quite lengthy without much development at times, that it's easy to get bored, despite it's detail. Another thing that contributes to the slow-pace is the time period. Each chapter has a location and a date, and because it's not always in chronological order, it takes some time to realize that the events that are happening are often several months apart. It took me a while to realize that the book covered a period of 30 years, that although at the beginning the characters were young and reckless, they've progressed well into adulthood before the game has an end in sight. Also, because the chapters kept jumping from the past to the present, it's easy to get confused and make sense of everything that is happening.

All in all, I enjoyed reading this book, as it was something a lot different than books I've already read. What sold this book to me was the writing-style, and although slow, the story line was also touching to read about. I feel as if I've been brought into a whole new world of magic since I read Harry Potter, and I think those with patience and time will enjoy this book as well.

Rating: 8 out of 10

Clockwork Princess

So true to my rant in my last post, I have finished reading the last book in the Infernal Devices; Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare.

I thought this book was amazing, and an immensely satisfying end to the series. Whatever words come out of my mouth (or keyboard) won't be enough to express how much I love this book. It just won't. So I'll sum up some more important points that I want to mention.

Since the Mortal Instruments and Infernal Devices are somewhat related, all the pieces seem to fall into place after this book. A lot is explained, and I like that.

Okay, that was two sentences. But I've been dying to talk about the best thing of all. And I'll try to make it more interesting than above.

The love triangle: I am not totally fond of love triangles in YA books, because I hate how you have to choose between one or the other. It causes jealousy and anger. But this book proves that love triangles can truly be a 3-way relationship, all tangled up in complicated ways. The two boys, Will and Jem, and the main character, Tessa, aren't connected by jealousy or anger at all. They all care for each other, yet cause pain to each other because they can't satisfy all three of them. I'll explain each relationship in more detail:

Will and Jem: These two are parabatai, and have been best friends for years. Although they both love the same girl, they aren't aware of each other's feelings until later on. And they would never want to cause pain to each other, because of such a strong bond that has kept them together. Will owes Jem for his understanding personalities, and for being his anchor and guide in his journey to cope with the life he has to bear. Jem understands this, and is always the one to step aside and comfort Will. They cannot afford to lose each other, or else they will permanently lose a part of themselves. This is the relationship that makes this kind of love triangle possible; one that doesn't stem from jealousy or enemies.

(The next might be spoiler, but not much.)

Will and Tessa: Will loves Tessa. Yet he knows he can't show it, or else risk hurting and losing Jem for a reason that he can't bear. He doesn't want the guilt that his own selfishness had caused the person he hung on to as a reason to keep living, pain, and an end to Jem's happiness. That is why he is willing to bear the pain and step aside to let his parabatai be happy, while sacrificing his own happiness.

Tessa to both: Tessa loves both of them equally, which is essential. There isn't a single choice that will leave her happy, because of the knowledge that choosing one means hurting the other. It's so complex, yet so amazing.

Ugh, I'm done ranting, this is all I can do. I give it 10 out of 10. :D

The Fault in Our Stars

Okay, I know I haven't been posting lately. So I have a lot of books to review and catch up on.

Description: Hazel meets Augustus at Cancer Support Group and falls in love with him. Although her life has never been normal again after she has been diagnosed, she still finds a world where she can enjoy herself. But is cause her to re-examine life and death and the legacies everyone leaves behind. (Very brief, I know.)

The Fault in Our Stars was the first book I read by John Green, and what struck me most was the unique style he wrote in. Even in such a sad story and such a serious topic, he still manages to bring humor into it that makes the story more light-hearted. The interesting characters, the sarcastic jokes, left me smiling the whole way. Though I admit that the plot didn't seem very promising, John Green is an author that writes well and causes his readers to think deeper into the heart of the story, to have mixed feelings, and to relate to the characters he presents. I really enjoyed this book.

My Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

City of Lost Souls

Okay! So the City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare is the fifth book in the Mortal  Instruments series. Which also means that if you haven't read the first four books, this review will have a ton of spoilers. (Hint, hint.) Ah, so now that everyone who didn't want the book to be spoiled for them has left, onto the review.

Recap: Basically, Jace is now "part" of Sebastian. Stab one, and you'll also have stabbed the other. Wonderful, considering that Sebastian has the whole Clave on his trail, his murder high on their priorities. Jace is just another Shadowhunter, so who cares if he dies in the process? Well, Clary, Isabelle, Alec, Simon, and Magnus are all naturally worried. And the rest of the gang.

So they have to track Jace and Sebastian down, and find a way to kill Sebastian without killing Jace, and they also have other things going on, and yeah. I feel like I'm doing a terrible job at this review. Okay... moving on.

This book was good. I enjoyed it, as I enjoy all of Cassandra Clare's books. They are just so well-written, and in such a fascinating world. However, somethings were just getting old after, what, five books? The romance thing was a bit annoying. There are 4 or 5 couples among the main characters, not counting the side characters. Plus, the epilogue at the end hinted at yet another problem for the next book. Not that cliffhangers and suspense isn't what I usually crave, but it's just too much!

Some people say that the author should've just finished the series after book 3, but I don't agree. I think it's still interesting to see the aftermath, and explore more of the various problems that pop up. I love this series. Yes, there are some things that annoy me greatly, but those are minor concerns. I love how it also ties in to the Immortal Instruments series, and can't wait to read the last books of both series. Same as always, great book.

My Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

Cassandra Clare's Works

Cassandra Clare is one of my favorite authors. The Mortal Instruments series first book is City of Bones, and it takes place in New York City. When Clary Fray witnesses a murder by three teenagers with strange tattoos and weapons, she immediately calls on the police. However, it turns out that only she can see the three murderers; they are invisible to everyone else. The victim's body seemingly vanished into thin air. She is unable to explain what she had witnessed, when her mother disappears and she is attacked by a demon. Immediately pulled into a world she didn't exist, she must trust the Shadowhunters who quickly become her friends as she searches for her missing mother, while slowly discovering the truths about herself and where she belongs in this world.

That pretty much explains the first three books in the series. The third book could've easily been the last, and finish off the series nicely, but the author decided to continue the series with a new plot, after the events in books 1-3.

The Infernal Devices is like a prequel series to the Mortal Instruments. Taken place  in London maybe a hundred years ago (not particularly sure on the time period, so more or less during that time) with different characters and a different plot. These series depict the same Shadowhunting world, and can be read separately without needing any knowledge from the other. However, in books 4-6 in the Mortal Instruments, it references some of the characters from in the past, so it's interesting to read both series, to give you an insight to the story. (Good to read them in the order they were published.) Choosing between the two series is hard; they are equally great.

Cassandra Clare has done an amazing job with expanding the world, and making it seem so real-like. The characters, the plots, the humorous voice of the characters that will keep you laughing in times of chaos. Many books I've liked, because of the plot and the characters, but very few pull me in so strongly that I can't stop reading until I reach the end. She's also terrific at setting up cliffhangers at the end of each book to keep you on edge until the next book comes out. Mysterious, suspenseful, amazingly well written. I recommend any of her books to anyone craving something good to read. My rating refers to Cassandra Clare's works in general.

My Rating: 10 out of 10 stars

I am Number Four

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore is about nine children and their guardians from the planet Lorien, the only ones left after it was wiped out. Now all of them are living separate lives on Earth, binded by a charm where they can only be killed in numerical order. Hunted by the Mongadorians, they have to keep a quiet life, and avoid any attention or suspicion toward themselves. But the Mongadorians are finding them, and are getting closer and closer to killing them all. Three are dead, and John is Number Four. But when love and friendship gets in the way of survival, not only is his own life at risk, but the five others.

I loved the plot idea, and because of this I had high expectations for this book. Boy, was I disappointed. I thought this book was very poorly written, and a perfect example of "telling", and not "showing". It had me wincing many times throughout the book, and I was fed up of the phrase "we aren't who you think we are" being used so many times. The romance was mushy, and the storyline was very slow. If just based off how well this book was written, I probably would've given it 2-3 stars out of ten.

But the plot, the idea. This book would've been so good if it wasn't for the actual writing. But the plot gave through and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series just to see how the story unravels.

My Rating: 6 out of 10 stars

Daughter of Smoke and Bone

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor takes place during a war that has been going on for thousands of years. In the middle of it all is an art student in Prague; Karou, who has bright blue hair, speaks many languages, and is constantly sent out on errands to collect teeth of all kinds; bear, elephant, even human. She has been raised by "monsters" since she was a baby, the only people she could truly call her family. When the war finally comes to an end, she is cut off from the people she loves. As she sets out to find them, she comes to discover who she really is.

Angels vs. Devils. Seraphs vs. Chimaera. Enemies even since before the war had even started. Every seraph grows up learning that the chimaera are wild, dangerous beasts, and every chimaera grows up learning that the seraph are greedy, arrogant creatures. Day after day, night after night, the only life they've known is war. But when an angel and a devil fall in love, they imagine a world without war; only peace, and harmony between the two sides. But sometimes things can go horribly wrong. Harmony isn't the only way to end a war; destruction, and crushing the other side into nonexistence is another. And when Karou finally finds out the truth, it might be too late.

A great book, that has you feeling pity and hatred toward both sides, not knowing exactly who's the bad guy and who's the good guy. "Angels and devils" don't mean anything. When your whole life has been centered around war, nothing good can come from that. The only thing you can do is hope, hope for a different life, and a different world. It was very descriptive, constantly switching points of view, though it focused more on what happened in the past, not what she's going to do next. Which is why the author left the book on a cliffhanger. Can't wait for the sequel!

My Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

Dark Visions

Dark Visions by L.J. Smith is one of my favorites. Kaitlyn Fairchild can predict the future though her drawings, though they're often too abstract to understand until too late. Tired of being an outsider, she decides to attend the Zetes Institute, where she can study and learn how to control her powers with four other psychic teens who have different powers. There she and the others start an unlikely friendship, and bond, when they discover the true meanings behind the institute and why they were brought there.

As they strive to escape and to destroy the evil intentions of the Zetes Institute, Kaitlyn finds herself torn between two irresistible, opposing guys; Rob and Gabriel. Rob is kind and gentle, where as Gabriel is aggressive and mysterious. When their opposing sides threatens to tear the group apart, Kaitlyn must decide who to trust, and who to love.

This book was soo good. I love books where the bad guys and the good guys join sides to stop the REALLY bad guys. The friendship between the five of them, or more importantly, the telepathic bond was too captivating to stop reading. In the end, they just want to help each other, no matter what the differences. The ending was a brilliant one, not disappointing at all, as it ties the story off perfectly, and everything is resolved.

My Rating: 10 out of 10 stars

Night World 1 and 2

L.J. Smith puts a new twist on the world of vampires, witches, and werewolves with the Night World series. They walk among us, appearing to us as ordinary humans, yet they have a dangerous secret. It is against the law to tell any humans about the Night World, and it's punishable by death if you manage to fall in love with a human. But the Soulmate Principle, which some people believe in and some people don't, is where everyone has just one perfect soulmate, and when you meet them, you recognize them instantly. However, more and more Night Worlders are finding human soulmates, in which they find themselves breaking the law for love. Can they establish the peace between Night Worlders and humans once and for all?

I love these books. Each book is separated into three shorter stories, with three different plots. The overall plot of the series is that there's something that's making Night Worlders have human soulmates, yet they don't quite know what it is. The books are always full of mystery and action, making it exciting at times, and spooky at others. A true thriller/horror book that alerts you to your senses with every sentence. My favorite of the three from the first book would be Secret Vampire, and my favorite of the second book is The Chosen.

My Rating: 9 out of 10 stars

The Hunger Games

As most of you know, the Hunger Games movie just recently came out! Based off the Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins, it's full of action and is a great series.

In future North America, Panem consists of the Capitol as well as twelve outer districts. Every year they hold the Hunger Games, which forces one boy and one girl between ages 12 and 18 from each district to fight against each other, their efforts shown televised to the whole nation. To win is to be the last one alive. So when Katniss Everdeen from district 12 takes up the death sentence, she is determined to win using her hunting and survival skills.

This book is probably my favorite out of the whole series. I loved all the action and Katniss was definitely my favorite character. Her hunting skills, and her cunning personality fit in perfectly with the story. She uses all these characteristics to win the game and start a rebellion against the Capitol.

In Catching Fire, she comes home, a hero, signs of rebellion amongst the other districts popping out everywhere, which greatly angers the Capitol. As long as she lives, the rebellion will go on. Defying the rule that the winners wouldn't be forced into the games anymore, Katniss finds herself in the arena once more, this time with other past winning tributes. She finds herself making allies with several of them, of whom are determined to keep both Katniss and the rebellion alive, no matter what the cost.

This book I found captivating as the story continued to unravel. You meet new obstacles, new characters, and find out more to the original plot.

Mockingjay I just found really sad, as many loved ones go seperate ways. It was perhaps a great finale to the plot, yet I didn't like this one as much as the other two, which both took place for a great chunk of the story in the arena.

So overall, great characters, great plot. Hopefully the movies will be just as good, or better.

My Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

Divergent

Divergent by Veronica Roth introduces Beatrice Prior, whose time to choose her final path in life has come. There are five different factions she must choose from:

Abnegation: the selfless

Dauntless: the brave

Amity: the peaceful

Candor: the honest

Erudite: the intelligent

Each faction serves a different purpose to help keep the government in order. But soon she finds that she doesn't belong to any of them, and she starts to wonder where she truly belongs in this imperfect society.

I loved it. I read it in two days. Each faction was described in great detail, as were all the characters and settings. It was reckless, and fun all the way. Yet there were still some parts that I didn't really like. Especially the ending. It felt like it was in slow motion; there wasn't enough action, not enough description of what was going on. And the last part, which gave a quick hint of what was to come in the second book kind of ruined the whole mood. But overall it was great and I couldn't put it down.

My Rating: 8 out of 10 stars

Matched and Crossed

Cassia's whole life is controlled by the Society. What to eat, where you work, who you marry, when you die. The Officials decide everything for you, to provide you the best life possible. But when Cassia starts falling in love with Ky other than her designated match, Xander, she starts to wonder if the Society isn't perfect after all.

I thought this book was pretty good. Though a bit slow, it described how the Society worked really well. I liked the conflict between Xander and Ky, and Cassia having to choose one over the other. It was interesting to see how everyone reacted when they found out; her parents, Xander, and her Official. I thought the Society was pretty evil, not only to her, but to everyone. I enjoyed reading it a lot.

Crossed on the other hand, was a lot slower than Matched. Sequels almost never turn out to be as good as the first book. Ky was taken away to the Outer Provinces, and Cassia desperately tries to find him. You meet a lot of new characters, and learn more about Xander, Ky and the Society. Yet it was a touch too slow for me. It only got really interesting towards the end. Crossed by Ally Condie has you almost dangling on a cliff hanger, waiting to find out what happens next in the final book.

My Rating: 7 out of 10 stars

The Forbidden Game

    The Forbidden Game by L.J. Smith is a terrific book, divided into three parts; The Hunter, The Chase, and The Kill. Jenny buys a game from a mysterious boy she encounters for an upcoming party. Turns out that the boy is a Shadow Man and has been in love with Jenny since she was a kid. To take her for himself, he draws Jenny and her friends into three consecutive games in which Jenny and her friends' lives are at stake. If they win, Jenny gets her freedom. But if they lose, Jenny has to commit herself to Julian for the rest of her life.

    This is a book where friendships deepen, and love gets in the way of the game. I loved the unique plot and the different characters. There were surprises at every turn and it's a great story of love, horror and sacrifice. In the end you have to question who's the real enemy, and who you can trust. I have no idea what to categorize this one as. Is it romance? Paranormal? Or both? Either way, I loved it.

My Rating: 9 out of 10 stars