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2495 reviews
The Black Coats by Colleen Oakes
2.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from BookSparks and HarperTeen. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2.5/5
Publication Date: February 12, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 16+ (rape, rape culture, drug intake, sexual assault, suicide, suicidal thoughts, abuse, language, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Roses are read, violets are blue, if you hurt us, we’re coming for you.
The deeply secretive Black Coats have been exacting vengeance on men who hurt girls and women for years. And Thea has just received an invitation to join them. This is the opportunity she’s been waiting for to finally get justice for her cousin Natalie, whose killer went free.
Thea dives head first into the group, training every day with other girls whose stories rival hers. Together they carry out Balancings—acts of revenge guaranteed to teach a lesson. With every predator threatened, every blackmailer exposed, and every date rapist punished, Thea can feel herself getting closer to avenging Natalie’s death.
But then the Balancings begin to escalate in brutality, and Thea discovers that the Black Coats are not all they seem to be. Thea must confront just how far she’s willing to go for justice—and what kind of justice Natalie, and Thea herself, deserve. Because when the line between justice and revenge is razor thin, it’s hard not to get cut.
Review: Okay so for the most part this was a good book. The book was well written and the characters were pretty well developed. The book was fast, so this would be an excellent book to read in one sitting. The plot was intriguing and if you’re a big fan of action/spy books then you would more than likely love this book.
However, I have some slight issues with this book. There is a rape scene about 4 pages into the book and from what I could see there’s no trigger warning in the beginning of the book. I feel this can upset or trigger some people reading it that are unaware of this. There are also suicidal thoughts and tendencies presented in the book as well as drug use, so be careful reading this one. The book is really unrealistic. There is almost no mention of parents or cops being around. The book is also really slow. I’m mainly worried about the use of revenge in this book. Vigilantism is a problem in criminal justice and it can get people killed or in trouble with the law themselves. The book uses revenge as a means to get justice via online bullying or other means. This could cause kids to seek out and perform the same things in the name of “justice”, but two wrongs don’t make a right. As someone who has a masters in criminal justice and who has worked with juvenile justice programs, the majority of kids who do really stupid things like fighting or bullying are often suffering from problems at home. They oftentimes live a rough home life where they are sometimes abused themselves. Their cry for help is to act out on others. To perform vigilante justice on these bullies that more than likely need help can cause some severe issues to happen. The way to heal from being bullied is to find retribution, not revenge. I’m also worried about how Adam Porter was excused for being a cop. The book acknowledges racism, but I didn’t like how it discarded the fact that a majority of cops in America are perpetrators of domestic violence. In fact, when reading this book I looked over at some news articles on my phone and saw three instances where cops displayed racism and/or deliberately covered up crimes to cover their own asses. Being a cop in this day and age doesn’t excuse you for anything anymore. Also there’s a slight plot hole where an adopted child is said to look so much like their adopted mother.
Verdict: A really action packed book, definitely for fans of Moxie. I feel like the book is amazing and did well to explain the racism that exists and will definitely empower people, but it might have missed the mark a bit.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 2.5/5
Publication Date: February 12, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 16+ (rape, rape culture, drug intake, sexual assault, suicide, suicidal thoughts, abuse, language, violence, slight gore)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 400
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Roses are read, violets are blue, if you hurt us, we’re coming for you.
The deeply secretive Black Coats have been exacting vengeance on men who hurt girls and women for years. And Thea has just received an invitation to join them. This is the opportunity she’s been waiting for to finally get justice for her cousin Natalie, whose killer went free.
Thea dives head first into the group, training every day with other girls whose stories rival hers. Together they carry out Balancings—acts of revenge guaranteed to teach a lesson. With every predator threatened, every blackmailer exposed, and every date rapist punished, Thea can feel herself getting closer to avenging Natalie’s death.
But then the Balancings begin to escalate in brutality, and Thea discovers that the Black Coats are not all they seem to be. Thea must confront just how far she’s willing to go for justice—and what kind of justice Natalie, and Thea herself, deserve. Because when the line between justice and revenge is razor thin, it’s hard not to get cut.
Review: Okay so for the most part this was a good book. The book was well written and the characters were pretty well developed. The book was fast, so this would be an excellent book to read in one sitting. The plot was intriguing and if you’re a big fan of action/spy books then you would more than likely love this book.
However, I have some slight issues with this book. There is a rape scene about 4 pages into the book and from what I could see there’s no trigger warning in the beginning of the book. I feel this can upset or trigger some people reading it that are unaware of this. There are also suicidal thoughts and tendencies presented in the book as well as drug use, so be careful reading this one. The book is really unrealistic. There is almost no mention of parents or cops being around. The book is also really slow. I’m mainly worried about the use of revenge in this book. Vigilantism is a problem in criminal justice and it can get people killed or in trouble with the law themselves. The book uses revenge as a means to get justice via online bullying or other means. This could cause kids to seek out and perform the same things in the name of “justice”, but two wrongs don’t make a right. As someone who has a masters in criminal justice and who has worked with juvenile justice programs, the majority of kids who do really stupid things like fighting or bullying are often suffering from problems at home. They oftentimes live a rough home life where they are sometimes abused themselves. Their cry for help is to act out on others. To perform vigilante justice on these bullies that more than likely need help can cause some severe issues to happen. The way to heal from being bullied is to find retribution, not revenge. I’m also worried about how Adam Porter was excused for being a cop. The book acknowledges racism, but I didn’t like how it discarded the fact that a majority of cops in America are perpetrators of domestic violence. In fact, when reading this book I looked over at some news articles on my phone and saw three instances where cops displayed racism and/or deliberately covered up crimes to cover their own asses. Being a cop in this day and age doesn’t excuse you for anything anymore. Also there’s a slight plot hole where an adopted child is said to look so much like their adopted mother.
Verdict: A really action packed book, definitely for fans of Moxie. I feel like the book is amazing and did well to explain the racism that exists and will definitely empower people, but it might have missed the mark a bit.
The Center of the Universe by Ria Voros
4.0
Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the publisher and RockStarBookTours. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary/Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (TW for kidnapping, TW for potential rape, PTSD, sex, and I think there was some small language in this book)
Publisher: KCP Loft
Pages: 506
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Grace Carter's mother --- the celebrity news anchor GG Carter --- is everything Grace is not. GG is a star, with a flawless wardrobe and a following of thousands, while Grace --- an aspiring astrophysicist --- is into stars of another kind. She and her mother have always been in different orbits. Then one day GG is just ... gone. Cameras descend on their house, news shows speculate about what might have happened and Grace's family struggles to find a new rhythm as they wait for answers. While the authorities unravel the mystery behind GG's disappearance, Grace grows closer to her high school's golden boy, Mylo, who has faced a black hole of his own. She also uncovers some secrets from her mother's long-lost past. The more Grace learns, the more she wonders. Did she ever really know her mother? Was GG abducted ... or did she leave? And if she left, why?
Review: For the most part I liked this book. I thought it was well written and it was great to see a tragedy from the perspective of a family effected by it instead of from the viewpoint of the victim. It was realistic and raw. I felt that the character development was great.
However, I did have some issues. I really didn’t like all the misinformation in the book. At one point in the book the father mentions how you had to wait 3 days to report a missing person. This is entirely false. The book is set in Canada and according to the websites I went to, including a government website, it advises people to report missing persons ASAP no matter their age. I usually hear of a 24 hour rule, which is a complete myth and here is why: The first 24 hours in a missing persons case is the most crucial to a case and to the victims life. Your chance of survival and of being rescued decreases significantly after 24 hours is up. I feel it is essential to inform people of the correct times to report missing persons as this can easily mean the difference between life and death for someone you saw/suspect getting kidnapped. The fact that the father waited three days to report the mother missing was very annoying as well. If you think a loved one is in danger or you don’t know where they are PLEASE CALL 911. Another misinformation in the book is that the children in this book were allowed to be interviewed without parental consent. While I’m not exactly sure of the ages of the children as well as the age of majority in Canada, this is a complete falsehood as well. Children have to have a parent or guardian present, even if one of their parents is a suspect.
The back and forth of the time is confusing at first and it takes a bit to get used to. The length for this type of book is really long too, but I’m unsure of how the author could have reduced it. I felt like the book needed to be that long, but it also felt like it was too long as well? It’s a confusing feeling.
Verdict: I recommend this for the mix of contemporary and thriller.
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Contemporary/Thriller
Recommended Age: 15+ (TW for kidnapping, TW for potential rape, PTSD, sex, and I think there was some small language in this book)
Publisher: KCP Loft
Pages: 506
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Grace Carter's mother --- the celebrity news anchor GG Carter --- is everything Grace is not. GG is a star, with a flawless wardrobe and a following of thousands, while Grace --- an aspiring astrophysicist --- is into stars of another kind. She and her mother have always been in different orbits. Then one day GG is just ... gone. Cameras descend on their house, news shows speculate about what might have happened and Grace's family struggles to find a new rhythm as they wait for answers. While the authorities unravel the mystery behind GG's disappearance, Grace grows closer to her high school's golden boy, Mylo, who has faced a black hole of his own. She also uncovers some secrets from her mother's long-lost past. The more Grace learns, the more she wonders. Did she ever really know her mother? Was GG abducted ... or did she leave? And if she left, why?
Review: For the most part I liked this book. I thought it was well written and it was great to see a tragedy from the perspective of a family effected by it instead of from the viewpoint of the victim. It was realistic and raw. I felt that the character development was great.
However, I did have some issues. I really didn’t like all the misinformation in the book. At one point in the book the father mentions how you had to wait 3 days to report a missing person. This is entirely false. The book is set in Canada and according to the websites I went to, including a government website, it advises people to report missing persons ASAP no matter their age. I usually hear of a 24 hour rule, which is a complete myth and here is why: The first 24 hours in a missing persons case is the most crucial to a case and to the victims life. Your chance of survival and of being rescued decreases significantly after 24 hours is up. I feel it is essential to inform people of the correct times to report missing persons as this can easily mean the difference between life and death for someone you saw/suspect getting kidnapped. The fact that the father waited three days to report the mother missing was very annoying as well. If you think a loved one is in danger or you don’t know where they are PLEASE CALL 911. Another misinformation in the book is that the children in this book were allowed to be interviewed without parental consent. While I’m not exactly sure of the ages of the children as well as the age of majority in Canada, this is a complete falsehood as well. Children have to have a parent or guardian present, even if one of their parents is a suspect.
The back and forth of the time is confusing at first and it takes a bit to get used to. The length for this type of book is really long too, but I’m unsure of how the author could have reduced it. I felt like the book needed to be that long, but it also felt like it was too long as well? It’s a confusing feeling.
Verdict: I recommend this for the mix of contemporary and thriller.
The Princess and the Fangirl by Ashley Poston
5.0
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from Quirk Books and Netgalley! I got an e-arc from Netgalley and the physical from Quirk Books! Thank you guys so so much! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Once Upon a Con #2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling/Contemporary Romance
Recommended Age: 13+ (slightly mature romance scenes, slight sexual assault, sexual harassment, some language, and a naked cat)
Publisher: Quirk Books
Pages: 320
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Prince and the Pauper gets a modern makeover in this adorable, witty, and heartwarming young adult novel set in the Geekerella universe by national bestselling author Ashley Poston.
Imogen Lovelace is an ordinary fangirl on an impossible mission: save her favorite character, Princess Amara, from being killed off from her favorite franchise, Starfield. The problem is, Jessica Stone—the actress who plays Princess Amara—wants nothing more than to leave the intense scrutiny of the fandom behind. If this year's ExcelsiCon isn't her last, she'll consider her career derailed.
When a case of mistaken identity throws look-a-likes Imogen and Jess together, they quickly become enemies. But when the script for the Starfield sequel leaks, and all signs point to Jess, she and Imogen must trade places to find the person responsible. That's easier said than done when the girls step into each other's shoes and discover new romantic possibilities, as well as the other side of intense fandom. As these "princesses" race to find the script-leaker, they must rescue themselves from their own expectations, and redefine what it means to live happily ever after.
Review: Holy cow Batman! How can I sum up how much I loved this side story/sequel to Geekerella? I loved it so freaking much. The story was well thought out and I loved how it was a Prince and the Pauper retelling. The writing was incredible, Ashley Poston is a force to be reckoned with, so watch out SJM! The characters were well developed and this book just made my little geek heart happy. I also loved how Poston drove home the injustice of fan-people when it comes any strong female character. It’s hard to be a female in the fandom world and I’ve read more than a dozen comments discussing the actress’ breast size and how she’d be better if she supported this male character and how the exact color of her hair does not match the characters and blah blah blah. But you remake Spiderman 40 times and no one complains (except me. I complain. Shameik Moore as Miles Morales is better than Tobey Maguire any day and don’t even get me started on how much we need a Gwen Stacey movie). I think the sexism among some of the fandoms is really sad. We can have the strong female character and the strong male character and the even stronger non-gender conforming character. We don’t need to have these archaic notions of what men can do compared to women and, in my opinion, if you choose to keep those beliefs then you won’t progress as a person in the future. The future is inclusive and we see success and strength in all, not just some.
If I had to choose a working point of this book I’d have to say that I think it’s great, but I wish that the relationships were expanded a bit more. Poston had enough material to go another 100 pages easily and I would have enjoyed them. As is the book is great, but I just want more of the couples.
Verdict: A definite must read!
Book Series: Once Upon a Con #2
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: YA Retelling/Contemporary Romance
Recommended Age: 13+ (slightly mature romance scenes, slight sexual assault, sexual harassment, some language, and a naked cat)
Publisher: Quirk Books
Pages: 320
Amazon Link
Synopsis: The Prince and the Pauper gets a modern makeover in this adorable, witty, and heartwarming young adult novel set in the Geekerella universe by national bestselling author Ashley Poston.
Imogen Lovelace is an ordinary fangirl on an impossible mission: save her favorite character, Princess Amara, from being killed off from her favorite franchise, Starfield. The problem is, Jessica Stone—the actress who plays Princess Amara—wants nothing more than to leave the intense scrutiny of the fandom behind. If this year's ExcelsiCon isn't her last, she'll consider her career derailed.
When a case of mistaken identity throws look-a-likes Imogen and Jess together, they quickly become enemies. But when the script for the Starfield sequel leaks, and all signs point to Jess, she and Imogen must trade places to find the person responsible. That's easier said than done when the girls step into each other's shoes and discover new romantic possibilities, as well as the other side of intense fandom. As these "princesses" race to find the script-leaker, they must rescue themselves from their own expectations, and redefine what it means to live happily ever after.
Review: Holy cow Batman! How can I sum up how much I loved this side story/sequel to Geekerella? I loved it so freaking much. The story was well thought out and I loved how it was a Prince and the Pauper retelling. The writing was incredible, Ashley Poston is a force to be reckoned with, so watch out SJM! The characters were well developed and this book just made my little geek heart happy. I also loved how Poston drove home the injustice of fan-people when it comes any strong female character. It’s hard to be a female in the fandom world and I’ve read more than a dozen comments discussing the actress’ breast size and how she’d be better if she supported this male character and how the exact color of her hair does not match the characters and blah blah blah. But you remake Spiderman 40 times and no one complains (except me. I complain. Shameik Moore as Miles Morales is better than Tobey Maguire any day and don’t even get me started on how much we need a Gwen Stacey movie). I think the sexism among some of the fandoms is really sad. We can have the strong female character and the strong male character and the even stronger non-gender conforming character. We don’t need to have these archaic notions of what men can do compared to women and, in my opinion, if you choose to keep those beliefs then you won’t progress as a person in the future. The future is inclusive and we see success and strength in all, not just some.
If I had to choose a working point of this book I’d have to say that I think it’s great, but I wish that the relationships were expanded a bit more. Poston had enough material to go another 100 pages easily and I would have enjoyed them. As is the book is great, but I just want more of the couples.
Verdict: A definite must read!
To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this on my own! Support your authors!
Book Series: To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 15, 2014
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 13+ (cliché romance and love triangles, also small cuss words)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 355
Amazon Link
Synopsis: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is the story of Lara Jean, who has never openly admitted her crushes, but instead wrote each boy a letter about how she felt, sealed it, and hid it in a box under her bed. But one day Lara Jean discovers that somehow her secret box of letters has been mailed, causing all her crushes from her past to confront her about the letters: her first kiss, the boy from summer camp, even her sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh. As she learns to deal with her past loves face to face, Lara Jean discovers that something good may come out of these letters after all.
Review: How adorable is this book?? I felt like the writing was like how you would write in a diary, very personal and very intimate. The book has a clear, distinct voice, and it’s not just a romance book. The book talks about families and sisterhood as well. The book also brought up good points about bullying, stigmatism, and slut shaming.
However, I felt like the book sort of ended abruptly and that it didn’t give the reader a chance to really understand what was going through Lara Jean’s head.
Verdict: I love Lara Jean.
Book Series: To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 15, 2014
Genre: YA Contemporary
Recommended Age: 13+ (cliché romance and love triangles, also small cuss words)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 355
Amazon Link
Synopsis: To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before is the story of Lara Jean, who has never openly admitted her crushes, but instead wrote each boy a letter about how she felt, sealed it, and hid it in a box under her bed. But one day Lara Jean discovers that somehow her secret box of letters has been mailed, causing all her crushes from her past to confront her about the letters: her first kiss, the boy from summer camp, even her sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh. As she learns to deal with her past loves face to face, Lara Jean discovers that something good may come out of these letters after all.
Review: How adorable is this book?? I felt like the writing was like how you would write in a diary, very personal and very intimate. The book has a clear, distinct voice, and it’s not just a romance book. The book talks about families and sisterhood as well. The book also brought up good points about bullying, stigmatism, and slut shaming.
However, I felt like the book sort of ended abruptly and that it didn’t give the reader a chance to really understand what was going through Lara Jean’s head.
Verdict: I love Lara Jean.
Legend by Marie Lu
1.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book on my own! Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Legend Book 1
Rating: 1/5
Diversity: don’t know, DNFed
Publication Date: November 29, 2011
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: can’t recommend, DNFed
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Pages: 305
Amazon Link
Synopsis: 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.
Review: Soooo I had to DNF this one at 36%. I KNOW I’M SORRY! I love Marie Lu’s Warcross series and I wanted so much to love this book series too but I just couldn’t. The book was really hard to get into and I just couldn’t feel for any of the characters. Maybe I’ll come back to it one day.
Verdict: A DNF, but a sad one.
Book Series: Legend Book 1
Rating: 1/5
Diversity: don’t know, DNFed
Publication Date: November 29, 2011
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: can’t recommend, DNFed
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Pages: 305
Amazon Link
Synopsis: 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.
Review: Soooo I had to DNF this one at 36%. I KNOW I’M SORRY! I love Marie Lu’s Warcross series and I wanted so much to love this book series too but I just couldn’t. The book was really hard to get into and I just couldn’t feel for any of the characters. Maybe I’ll come back to it one day.
Verdict: A DNF, but a sad one.
Royal Replicas by Michael Pierce
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book after it was recommended to me! Trust your friends!
Book Series: Royal Replicas Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: n/a
Publication Date: July 11, 2017
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 17+ (gore, violence, mentions/references of sex, TW for parental abuse, TW for potential sexual abuse, TW for self harm)
Publisher: ParousiaSix Press
Pages: 420
Amazon Link
Synopsis: "Princess Amelia is dead... and one of you will replace her."
Seventeen-year-old Victoria Sandalwood has served the Duke and Duchess all her life. Over the years, she’s learned to make do with what she has and endure her surrogate father’s awful punishments. She dreams of escape, but never expected it to come in the form of a message from the Queen of Westeria.
Victoria learns that she’s the Queen’s daughter, the younger sister to Princess Amelia, and it’s time to come home and claim her birthright. When she arrives, she discovers she’s not the only one who received the royal message.
Victoria must compete with six other girls to earn the affection of both the Queen and a princely suitor… and to replace the secretly deceased Princess Amelia. If she fails to win the crown, Victoria may just have to fight for her life…
Royal Replicas is the first book in a YA dystopian series. If you enjoy courtly intrigue, heart-pounding adventure, and sweet romance, then you’ll love this captivating story. Perfect for fans of Kiera Cass, Bella Forrest, and Veronica Roth.
Review: I was recommended this book from Mary Ellen @aparanormalromance and I have no regrets. This book was everything I wanted. I got part The Selection, part dystopian, and part gore and violence! I loved it and I loved the concept of this book and series. The characters are very well developed, the writing is amazing, and that cover is to die for! I seriously read this book in 3 hours, continuously.
My only issue with the book is that cliffhanger ending, which had me like “nooooo” and how the book put me in a book hangover! I also felt the pacing was a bit wonky, slow in parts and fast in others, but it wasn’t that noticeable when I read it in 3 hours LOL. I also felt that the romance was a bit rushed, but I understand that for this character, being a teen and being enslaved, the romance would probably be a bit “oh I’m so in love with you” when you’ve known that person for like a month.
Verdict: If you liked The Selection but wanted something a bit more bloodthirsty, definitely check out this series!
Book Series: Royal Replicas Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: n/a
Publication Date: July 11, 2017
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 17+ (gore, violence, mentions/references of sex, TW for parental abuse, TW for potential sexual abuse, TW for self harm)
Publisher: ParousiaSix Press
Pages: 420
Amazon Link
Synopsis: "Princess Amelia is dead... and one of you will replace her."
Seventeen-year-old Victoria Sandalwood has served the Duke and Duchess all her life. Over the years, she’s learned to make do with what she has and endure her surrogate father’s awful punishments. She dreams of escape, but never expected it to come in the form of a message from the Queen of Westeria.
Victoria learns that she’s the Queen’s daughter, the younger sister to Princess Amelia, and it’s time to come home and claim her birthright. When she arrives, she discovers she’s not the only one who received the royal message.
Victoria must compete with six other girls to earn the affection of both the Queen and a princely suitor… and to replace the secretly deceased Princess Amelia. If she fails to win the crown, Victoria may just have to fight for her life…
Royal Replicas is the first book in a YA dystopian series. If you enjoy courtly intrigue, heart-pounding adventure, and sweet romance, then you’ll love this captivating story. Perfect for fans of Kiera Cass, Bella Forrest, and Veronica Roth.
Review: I was recommended this book from Mary Ellen @aparanormalromance and I have no regrets. This book was everything I wanted. I got part The Selection, part dystopian, and part gore and violence! I loved it and I loved the concept of this book and series. The characters are very well developed, the writing is amazing, and that cover is to die for! I seriously read this book in 3 hours, continuously.
My only issue with the book is that cliffhanger ending, which had me like “nooooo” and how the book put me in a book hangover! I also felt the pacing was a bit wonky, slow in parts and fast in others, but it wasn’t that noticeable when I read it in 3 hours LOL. I also felt that the romance was a bit rushed, but I understand that for this character, being a teen and being enslaved, the romance would probably be a bit “oh I’m so in love with you” when you’ve known that person for like a month.
Verdict: If you liked The Selection but wanted something a bit more bloodthirsty, definitely check out this series!
The Savior's Champion by Jenna Moreci
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book for Indie Reads Book Club! Support yo indie authors!
Book Series: The Savior’s Series Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: a gay couple, but other than that not really anything else
Publication Date: April 24, 2018
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 17+ (gore, violence, language, sexual situations)
Publisher: Jenna Moreci
Pages: 562
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Tobias Kaya doesn't care about The Savior. He doesn't care that She's the Ruler of the realm or that She purified the land, and he certainly doesn't care that She's of age to be married. But when competing for Her hand proves to be his last chance to save his family, he’s forced to make The Savior his priority.
Now Tobias is thrown into the Sovereign’s Tournament with nineteen other men, and each of them is fighting—and killing—for the chance to rule at The Savior's side. Instantly his world is plagued with violence, treachery, and manipulation, revealing the hidden ugliness of his proud realm. And when his circumstances seem especially dire, he stumbles into an unexpected romance, one that opens him up to unimaginable dangers and darkness.
Trigger warning: this novel contains graphic violence, adult language, and sexual situations
Review: Oh. My. God. I LOVED this book! I kinda described as a Male version of The Selection but with violence and gore. I loved Tobias and I loved Leila. Both were very well developed and I loved how they were written. Tobias was written to not be like how a stereotypical guy is portrayed. He let his feelings show and I think that’s very important for young boys in this day and age. The world building was also magnificent and the plot was crazy good and that writing! THE WRITING WAS GREAT!
My only issue is that I predicted the twist at the end about 17% of the way in, but I’m really good at that. My group I read this with didn’t seem to catch onto the twist, so it was a very well done twist, just one that I predicted lol. But knowing the twist makes the book more interesting at least!
Verdict: Highly recommend this book.
Book Series: The Savior’s Series Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: a gay couple, but other than that not really anything else
Publication Date: April 24, 2018
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 17+ (gore, violence, language, sexual situations)
Publisher: Jenna Moreci
Pages: 562
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Tobias Kaya doesn't care about The Savior. He doesn't care that She's the Ruler of the realm or that She purified the land, and he certainly doesn't care that She's of age to be married. But when competing for Her hand proves to be his last chance to save his family, he’s forced to make The Savior his priority.
Now Tobias is thrown into the Sovereign’s Tournament with nineteen other men, and each of them is fighting—and killing—for the chance to rule at The Savior's side. Instantly his world is plagued with violence, treachery, and manipulation, revealing the hidden ugliness of his proud realm. And when his circumstances seem especially dire, he stumbles into an unexpected romance, one that opens him up to unimaginable dangers and darkness.
Trigger warning: this novel contains graphic violence, adult language, and sexual situations
Review: Oh. My. God. I LOVED this book! I kinda described as a Male version of The Selection but with violence and gore. I loved Tobias and I loved Leila. Both were very well developed and I loved how they were written. Tobias was written to not be like how a stereotypical guy is portrayed. He let his feelings show and I think that’s very important for young boys in this day and age. The world building was also magnificent and the plot was crazy good and that writing! THE WRITING WAS GREAT!
My only issue is that I predicted the twist at the end about 17% of the way in, but I’m really good at that. My group I read this with didn’t seem to catch onto the twist, so it was a very well done twist, just one that I predicted lol. But knowing the twist makes the book more interesting at least!
Verdict: Highly recommend this book.
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
5.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book. Support your authors!
Book Series: Uglies Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: February 8, 2005
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 14+ (some violence, some gore, jumping off cliffs and roller coasters, fighting the government)
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 425
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. In just a few weeks she'll have the operation that will turn her from a repellent ugly into a stunning pretty. And as a pretty, she'll be catapulted into a high-tech paradise where her only job is to have fun.
But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to become a pretty. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world-- and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally a choice: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. Tally's choice will change her world forever...
Review: This book just brought back all sorts of childhood memories! I loved every moment of this book and I definitely love how I chose such a strong character as my childhood idol. The characters are very well developed and the plot is very intriguing. I also love the message Scott has about beauty standards as a whole.
However, I do feel like the pace is a bit wonky in places, too fast or too slow when they should be the opposite.
Verdict: I still love this series.
Book Series: Uglies Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: February 8, 2005
Genre: YA Dystopian
Recommended Age: 14+ (some violence, some gore, jumping off cliffs and roller coasters, fighting the government)
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 425
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. In just a few weeks she'll have the operation that will turn her from a repellent ugly into a stunning pretty. And as a pretty, she'll be catapulted into a high-tech paradise where her only job is to have fun.
But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to become a pretty. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world-- and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally a choice: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. Tally's choice will change her world forever...
Review: This book just brought back all sorts of childhood memories! I loved every moment of this book and I definitely love how I chose such a strong character as my childhood idol. The characters are very well developed and the plot is very intriguing. I also love the message Scott has about beauty standards as a whole.
However, I do feel like the pace is a bit wonky in places, too fast or too slow when they should be the opposite.
Verdict: I still love this series.
The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson
4.0
Disclaimer: I bought this book for a readalong! Support your authors!
Book Series: The Remnant Chronicles Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: n/a
Publication Date: July 8, 2014
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance, violence, gore)
Publisher: Henry Holt
Pages: 492
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In a society steeped in tradition, Princess Lia’s life follows a preordained course. As First Daughter, she is expected to have the revered gift of sight—but she doesn’t—and she knows her parents are perpetrating a sham when they arrange her marriage to secure an alliance with a neighboring kingdom—to a prince she has never met.
On the morning of her wedding, Lia flees to a distant village. She settles into a new life, hopeful when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive—and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assassin sent to kill her. Deception abounds, and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets—even as she finds herself falling in love.
Review: Overall, I liked this book. The book has very well developed characters, the plot is complex and intriguing, and the writing was fantastic. I also feel that this book was a great set up for the series. The romance was also solid!
However, I do feel that the pacing was a bit too slow for my liking and the book spent a lot of time on the romance and not so much the plot.
Verdict: A great series starter!
Book Series: The Remnant Chronicles Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: n/a
Publication Date: July 8, 2014
Genre: YA Fantasy
Recommended Age: 15+ (romance, violence, gore)
Publisher: Henry Holt
Pages: 492
Amazon Link
Synopsis: In a society steeped in tradition, Princess Lia’s life follows a preordained course. As First Daughter, she is expected to have the revered gift of sight—but she doesn’t—and she knows her parents are perpetrating a sham when they arrange her marriage to secure an alliance with a neighboring kingdom—to a prince she has never met.
On the morning of her wedding, Lia flees to a distant village. She settles into a new life, hopeful when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive—and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assassin sent to kill her. Deception abounds, and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets—even as she finds herself falling in love.
Review: Overall, I liked this book. The book has very well developed characters, the plot is complex and intriguing, and the writing was fantastic. I also feel that this book was a great set up for the series. The romance was also solid!
However, I do feel that the pacing was a bit too slow for my liking and the book spent a lot of time on the romance and not so much the plot.
Verdict: A great series starter!
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
4.0
Disclaimer: I received this book from NetGalley. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book Series: Malamander Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: May 2, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (lost and found)
Publisher: Walker Books
Synopsis: A quirky, creepy fantasy set in Eerie-on-Sea finds a colorful cast of characters in hot pursuit of a sea monster thought to convey a surprising gift.
It’s winter in the town of Eerie-on-Sea, where the mist is thick and the salt spray is rattling the windows of the Grand Nautilus Hotel. Inside, young Herbert Lemon, Lost and Founder for the hotel, has an unexpected visitor. It seems that Violet Parma, a fearless girl around his age, lost her parents at the hotel when she was a baby, and she’s sure that the nervous Herbert is the only person who can help her find them. The trouble is, Violet is being pursued at that moment by a strange hook-handed man. And the town legend of the Malamander — a part-fish, part-human monster whose egg is said to make dreams come true — is rearing its scaly head. As various townspeople, some good-hearted, some nefarious, reveal themselves to be monster hunters on the sly, can Herbert and Violet elude them and discover what happened to Violet’s kin? This lighthearted, fantastical mystery, featuring black-and-white spot illustrations, kicks off a trilogy of fantasies set in the seaside town.
Review: This is a fun book! The characters are likable and the story is exciting. This would definitely be something many kids would absolutely love.
However, I think the story is predictable for me but for a kid I could see where this would be an amazing read.
Verdict: A cute book!
Book Series: Malamander Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Publication Date: May 2, 2019
Genre: MG Fantasy
Recommended Age: 10+ (lost and found)
Publisher: Walker Books
Synopsis: A quirky, creepy fantasy set in Eerie-on-Sea finds a colorful cast of characters in hot pursuit of a sea monster thought to convey a surprising gift.
It’s winter in the town of Eerie-on-Sea, where the mist is thick and the salt spray is rattling the windows of the Grand Nautilus Hotel. Inside, young Herbert Lemon, Lost and Founder for the hotel, has an unexpected visitor. It seems that Violet Parma, a fearless girl around his age, lost her parents at the hotel when she was a baby, and she’s sure that the nervous Herbert is the only person who can help her find them. The trouble is, Violet is being pursued at that moment by a strange hook-handed man. And the town legend of the Malamander — a part-fish, part-human monster whose egg is said to make dreams come true — is rearing its scaly head. As various townspeople, some good-hearted, some nefarious, reveal themselves to be monster hunters on the sly, can Herbert and Violet elude them and discover what happened to Violet’s kin? This lighthearted, fantastical mystery, featuring black-and-white spot illustrations, kicks off a trilogy of fantasies set in the seaside town.
Review: This is a fun book! The characters are likable and the story is exciting. This would definitely be something many kids would absolutely love.
However, I think the story is predictable for me but for a kid I could see where this would be an amazing read.
Verdict: A cute book!