Review: Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris--until she meets Étienne St. Clair. Smart, charming,beautiful, Étienne has it all...including a serious girlfriend. 

But in the City of Light, wishes have a way of coming true. Will a year of romantic near-misses end with their long-awaited French kiss?

I loved this book so, so, so much! I finally got around to reading it after seeing it about a 294829748248 times on other blogs. I'm so glad I did!

This is one of the few real chick-lit type books I've read. Partly because I generally don't read books set in a real-life setting in the present day, and partly because I haven't bothered to read many books that are mainly focused on romance. This book is changing that, though!

It's definitely a feel-good kind of book, one for when you just want a book that makes you feel all warm and happy. It's not one of those books that makes your brain stretch or completely changes your perspective, so don't read it if you are looking for that. 

As for characters, I found Anna fun and relatable (from a teenage girls' perspective, anyways, as well as I'm no good at speaking French either, despite my best efforts), her new friends interesting and awesome, and the love interest (Étienne St. Clair) is absolutely the best.

So many of the scenes in this book made me want to jump right in and be there with the characters, especially the ones where the characters are out in the city. (Side note: I've been to Paris, and even though it was my least favourite of the four European cities I visited, this book made me want to go back like RIGHT NOW.)

The plot was, I'll admit, predictable at times. However, this didn't make a negative impact on my opinion of the book. Anna and the French Kiss does deal with some serious issues, too, not all just fluffy stuff. There's some bullying, bad friends, and a few other things.

If you are looking for a fun read, a romance, or something light, I would definitely recommend this book.

Another side note: I've noticed a trend in the blogosphere that lots of people aren't particularly fond of this cover, and I've seen several other versions pop up, many of which are fan-made. Of all the covers I've seen, I actually like the original (the one up there) the most. I like how it's simple and pretty and sophisticated and elegant all at once.

The Good: The setting, the characters, and Étienne. Can I just- I can't even- can I... *grabby hands*
The Bad: Somewhat predictable (although that's not necessarily a bad thing)
The Verdict: 5/5. (Actually, on my notes page where I have things jotted down quick about all the books I've read, I wrote 10/5. So if that doesn't say anything about what I thought about it right after I read the book, I don't know what will.)

Rachel

Read more »

Review: Once Upon a Tag by Anna Adams

When David, a young French painter, unexpectedly meets Rita, an infamous Parisian street artist, his convictions are shaken to the core during a night he is unlikely to ever forget.


Ready for a joint review with both Megan AND Rachel? Woot woot! 

Rachel's Opinion: That's a pretty catchy synopsis, isn't it? When it comes to synopses the shorter the better, in my opinion. I was super excited to read this short story, and I'm glad to say I wasn't disappointed!

The story has two main characters, Rita and David, both of which I liked. I feel like I got to know them well, even though the story was only 18 pages long. I also loved the dynamics between Rita and David

A lot happened in the short span of the story, so it's a very satisfying read and not the least bit dull. I loved the way things played out in this story.


Megan's Opinion: I really enjoyed this short story, from start to finish. Right from the moment I read the title, I was instantly intrigued. "Once Upon a Tag"...that just sounds so interesting, no? Could it be a fantasy type story? That was my first thought. And in some respects, I was right. The story has some elements similar to those found in fantasy novels. There is mystery, intrigue, romance and humour. Also, I found that there was an interesting social dynamic between the characters which I often notice in the fantasy genre. The classic child-parent rivalry. We see this relationship in many fantasy and fairy tale type stories, such as Cinderella, Romeo and Juliet, The Little Mermaid, Alladin, and even newer stories like Disney's Brave. All of these stories contain some form of tension between the parents and the children. "Once Upon a Tag" incorporates this, but in a new and modern way, which is what makes it so interesting. 

I may be a bit biased because I am so interested in art, but I really think that this story has something that everyone can enjoy. Having it set in the historic and recognizable city of Paris allows for the reader to relate and imagine the plot more easily. I also really enjoyed the contrast in beliefs and lifestyle between Rita and David. It added a very interesting and relatable dynamic. How often in our lives do we come across people who agree with everything we do? Not very often at all. I think this story did a great job of portraying that real life difference we experience. We aren't going to agree with everyone, but that doesn't mean we can't be friends with them, or respect them and cooperate with them. Differences can be the bridge across the gap in what may have been a non existent relationship otherwise. Sometimes, conflict and rivalry bring people closer together. 

Overall, we both really enjoyed this short story! We highly recommend reading it! It was a great read. :) 

Anna Adams contacted us with a copy of her story in exchange for an honest review. (Thank you!)

The Good: Character dynamic, setting, plot 
The Bad: It was only 18 pages long! Too short, we wanted more! Haha. 
The Verdict: 5/5 stars! Definitely a must read!



keep readin' it write!
Megan and Rachel 

Read more »

WOW #10 The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine . Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event meant to showcase the not-yet-released books that we are eagerly awaiting. This week I've chosen The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau.

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say? But how close is too close when they may be one in the same? 

The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career. 

Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies--trust no one. 

But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust.

Sounds good to me!
Release Date: June 4th, 2013

Rachel

Read more »

Review: The Maze Runner by James Dashner

When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his first name. His memory is blank. But he’s not alone. When the lift’s doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade—a large, open expanse surrounded by stone walls.

Just like Thomas, the Gladers don’t know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night they’ve closed tight. And every thirty days a new boy has been delivered in the lift.

Thomas was expected. But the next day, a girl is sent up—the first girl to ever arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers.

Thomas might be more important than he could ever guess. If only he could unlock the dark secrets buried within his mind.

I know it's been a while since I've posted a review... GOSH LIFE why do you have to get in the way all the time? Anyways, I actually read this book quite a while ago, but haven't gotten around to actually reviewing it until now. I know, I know, bad Megan... timeout time...

This book was pretty good. I had high expectations because my brother just gobbled it up in about a day, and if you knew my brother, you'd know that when he likes a book, that's an amazing compliment. He doesn't read all that much. To be quite honest with you, I kind of found it hard to get into this book. I spent a long time reading the first few chapters and rereading bits because I'd gone too many days without reading and would forget what happened in the last few pages. But once I got about a third of the way into it, it definitely got more captivating. 

This book is FULL of mystery and unanswered questions. It's basically like a really long riddle that you are trying to figure out the whole way through, which is pretty awesome. I constantly found myself asking questions and wondering how things could be happening the way they were. It was a fun read. But also sent a really serious message. Really got me thinking about life and the circumstances that we are so lucky to live in. Also, descriptions and imagery were really crystal clear. Awesome stuff. 

One thing I didn't like as much about this book was the ending. While it was a good ending, and a great opening for the rest of the series, I found it to be a bit predictable. I kind of guessed that something along those lines was happening after about the fifth chapter. So when I finished reading I was a bit dissapointed that the author had not surprised me more. I really like when books take me totally off guard and leave me going "OH MY GOD WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!?" but unfortunately, this book did not have that effect on me. 

 Other than the slightly dissapointing conclusion, this book was a good read. I enjoyed immersing myself in the world that Thomas finds himself trapped in...

The Good: imagery, mystery, riddle-ish storyline
The Bad: slightly dissapointing and predictable ending 
The Verdict: 3.5/5 

keep readin' it write!
Megan      

    

Read more »

WOW #9 Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine . Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event meant to showcase the not-yet-released books that we are eagerly awaiting. This week I've chosen Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers.

Sybella arrives at the convent’s doorstep half mad with grief and despair. Those that serve Death are only too happy to offer her refuge—but at a price. Naturally skilled in both the arts of death and seduction, the convent views Sybella as one of their most dangerous weapons.

But those assassin’s skills are little comfort when the convent returns her to a life that nearly drove her mad. Her father’s rage and brutality are terrifying, and her brother’s love is equally monstrous. And while Sybella is a weapon of justice wrought by the god of Death himself, He must give her a reason to live. When she discovers an unexpected ally imprisoned in the dungeons, will a daughter of Death find something other than vengeance to live for?

This heart-pounding sequel to Grave Mercy serves betrayal, treachery, and danger in equal measure, bringing readers back to fifteenth century Brittany and will keep them on the edge of their seats.

Release Date: April 2nd.

I can't wait for this book! I read Grave Mercy in the fall and loved it. This is definitely going to be a book I buy.

Rachel

Read more »

Review: Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae’s most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

I had to wait so long to read this book because it had about a million holds on before I could get it. And I am so glad I waited. This is one of the best books I read in 2012, I think.

At first, I wasn't too sure if I would like it. It's set in Brittany (that's medieval France, if you can't recall) in 1485, which is, for whatever reason, not one of my favourite time periods. I guess I've just read too many books set in this time that I just didn't like.

But this one did not fall into that category of 'just didn't like'. Not in the least.

Just to start off- Ismae, the main character, is probably one of the most kick-ass heroines I've ever read about. In fact, all of the characters were fun to read about and not a single one made me annoyed, not once. I don't think if I've ever read a book about assasins before, and I can't possibly think there was a better book to start with. I love the concept of the convent and the take on religion; it made the whole book more interesting to me. 

From the start, the pacing of this book was spot-on. It didn't waste time following Ismae from Timbuktu and back as she journeyed from her home(and away from her abusive arranged-marriage husband) to the convent, or as she spent time at the convent (I do kind of wish there was a bit more on that, just because I'm curious, not for plot-sake, but can you imagine how long this book would be if the author spent more time on this sort of thing? It's already 549 pages long!) and instead it sped(nawww, not the right word, more like... cruised) through, set the stage, and jumped in to the story with just the right amount of time to understand where Ismae was coming from and what the background of the story was like. I don't think there was a single part of the book where I got bored or it felt like it dragged on.

The book also incorporated many terms and words that are either not used much or at all anymore, or have a different meaning now. Depending on your preferences I guess this could be good or bad, but for me it was a plus. For me, it helped to draw me in to the world more. It was also written in first person, which isn't always a favourite for me, but I really really enjoyed it in this book. It fit first person more than it would have fit third person.

The romance aspect of this book was a nice addition. It was believable (as in, it made sense that the characters were drawn to each other, and not just added in for razzle-dazzle.) and added that extra spark to the book, even if it was a little bit predictable at times(the romance, that is). If I lived in the 1400's I think I'd call myself pretty lucky to have someone such as Duval courting me ;)

The overall plot had me not wanting to put the book down ever. I read all 500-some pages in about five days, it was that intriguing. As soon as I though I had it all figured out, something else would be revealed and the whole story would be a complete mystery all over again.

Overall, I think this is a must-read in the YA department. It's full of traitors and plots and awesome characters and kick-ass-ery and romance and intrigue and assassin-nuns-who-might-just-be-ninjas. 

What's more, the sequel, Dark Triumph, comes out in April and the pre-release reviews are already better than for Grave Mercy.

Plus, it has a map. Bonus points from me.

The Good: Plot, pacing, clothing, characters, romance
The Bad: Since Ismae is an assassin, I was expecting more actual assassinations and some more action. Hopefully that will be to come in the sequel.
The Verdict: 5/5 stars

Read more »

TTT #19 Favourite Fantasy Characters

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and Bookish. Each week they give a topic, and then other blogs make their top ten lists for that topic.

This week's topic is.......Top Ten Characters from the Fantasy Genre

1) Sirius Black from Harry Potter: Sirius always has been and probably always will be my very favourite Harry Potter character, even though we didn't get to see him as much as some of the characters in the books.

2) Alanna from Song of the Lionness: She's pretty much all you could want in a female character and then much, much more.

3) Ismae from Grave Mercy: Ismae is the main character of one of my new favourite series, and she's so completely kick-ass it's amazing. I loved reading about Ismae and her world.

4) Katerina from Katerina Trilogy: She's got dark necromancer powers but she's completely devoted to doing what she thinks is right, as well as ignoring all of the standards that people think she should be following. 

5) James from The Books of Faerie: He's smart and funny and a bit of a smart ass and musically talented and deals with faeries. Plus he plays the bagpipes. Plus I like his name.

6) Reepicheep from Prince Caspian & The Voyage of the Dawn Treader: The Narnia series, along with Harry Potter, were kind of the first fantasy books I read. I've always loved Narnia, and these two books are my favourites of the series. It's been a while since I've read them, but I've always loved Reepicheep. He's a talking, sword-yielding mouse with sass. How could you not love him?

7) Cole from Wolves of Mercy Falls Trilogy: Sure he's kind of your typical bad-boy, but I couldn't help rooting for him through this whole trilogy. 

8) Inigo Montoya from the Princess Bride: "Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die." 

If you haven't seen this movie, you're missing out big time.

9) Jack Dandy from the Girl in the Steel Corset: Again, another of the somewhat-shady characters, but he's so charming and mysterious! 

10) Lord Raoul from Song of the Lionness: He's just awesome, okay? You just have to read the books to understand :D (yes, that is me trying to get you to read Tamora Pierce books.)

Rachel

Read more »