Review : Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

  Hello! Sorry if this took awhile to finish, but here is my review! 

Title : Thirteen Reasons Why

Author : Jay Asher

Published : October 18th, 2007

Pages : 304

ISBN : 9781595141712

  Clay receives a bundle of emotion spread across 13 tapes. Who did it come from? Hannah Baker. What are on the tapes? An account on why Hannah killed herself. In the time period of one night, Clay is taken on a roller coaster ride of many events that led Hannah to the decision that cost her life. Why did Clay get these tapes? Because he is of the 13 reasons. We get to see the world through a confused and hurt teenager who can't seem to get a break. 

  

  I enjoyed how engaging this book was. I felt as if I was right along with Hannah the whole time. I felt her pain, and it was really touching. There was a scene in the book where Hannah speaks with Mr. Porter, and it just broke my heart. I so wish I was there in that moment to speak to her, to let her know everything was okay. Although this story is fiction, kids like Hannah commit suicide every day. I enjoyed this book as much as I did, because it touches on this cause of death that grows rapidly. 

  One thing that I didn't enjoy, was that it was a bit too dramatic to me. I mean I just couldn't see anyone in Hannah's situation that would go as far as to kill their self. I mean I wasn't in her shoes, but it was just kinda off to me. I know of people who have much worse off situations who still are fine. I don't mean to be too harsh, because I know she did have struggles, but it's just how I feel. Other than that I loved this book and won't ever forget about Hannah and her descent into a dark and sad mind set.

Purchase Here : http://www.amazon.com/Thirteen-Reasons-Why-Jay-Asher/dp/159514188X

Review : City of Bones by Cassandra Clare (#1)

Hi everyone, I have finished this very popular novel! If you are wondering whether or not to start this book, I hope my review sways you one way or another! Enjoy.

Title : City of Bones (#1)

Author : Cassandra Clare
Published : March 27th, 2007

Pages : 485
ISBN : 9781416914280

Rating : ★★★★☆ 4 Stars

Clary Fray was your average girl in New York, nothing special about her. One night clubbing turns her world upside down. She is introduced to a world she never knew about. There are demons, vampires, werewolves, and much more living beside her that she is now just noticing. Why? Because she is a shadow hunter. A shadow hunter hunts demons and protects the world from the evil creatures. With her mother missing, and an uprising from a shadow hunter assumed to be dead, Clary turns to Jace and his friends to help find her mother and stop this madness. 

This book was actually really good. I started this not liking it so much, and ended up in a bit of a slump as I continued. Towards half way through, it began picking up very nicely. I think I read 100-200 pages in this final day which is pretty good for me. The flow of action and adventure leaves readers wanting more. As soon as you put this book down, you will be aching to pick it back up! The budding romance between Clary/Jace was also something to look forward to. I thought they were so good together, although there is something shocking that happens in the end. It wasn't the book I thought I was getting, but it was really great. All the raves and movie coming out soon definitely made me think that City of Bones would be a no question 5. I did give it a 4, almost 3.5, but I really ended up liking Cassandra Clare's world. 

Oh my GOD, this book ends with a twist that broke my heart. A relationship is pretty much ruined. I was so upset to find out this information! It really made me think about my 4 star rating, but it did leave the reader to think and feel shocked. One thing I didn't like though, was that the twists were really obvious. Clary was so shocked everytime something happened, and I kinda already knew what was going on behind the scenes. Either Clary's just kinda stupid, or Cassandra Clare wrote this for stupid people. Nonetheless, it was a must read. A staple in Young Adult readers bookshelves, City of Bones will definitely be a series that shakes up our world.

So, that wraps up my review! I plan on starting another book tonight and posting a May Book Haul soon. Stay tuned.

Read-a-thon Update/Blog update!

  So, if anyone noticed I had to drop out of the read-a-thon. I wasn't home often and it was just a bad time for me to try and read, so I didn't really get any in this week! I was busy with family stuff and preparing for my nephew's birthday, and I'm really bummed it was throughout the week of the read-a-thon. I apologize to anyone looking forward to my updates but I couldn't. Everything is settled, so now I will be back on my way to reading City of Bones. I'm halfway through and hope to finish it up by the end of the week and just continue on to what I planned for the readathon, and hope to get those reviews out. Sorry I couldn't do it, hope everyone else had a pleasant readthon! :)

Bout of Books : Book Spine Poem Challenge

If you'd like to participate, you must be apart of Bout of Books!
http://thekams.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/bout-of-books-7-0-book-spine-poem-challenge/

  So, first challenge we are asked to create a poem using the spines of books. The winner will be rewarded with a $15 gift card for The Book Depository. I am so excited for this challenge, since it is very creative and innovative. Without further ado, here is my book spine poem!

One of thirteen reasons why scarlet beauty queens or uglies speak, is because we're all beautiful creatures in search of the rose notes, after the rain, which remains outside the lines.

 There you have it! This was fun to make and I enjoyed the first challenge. Looking forward to everyone seeing the other poems.

Bout of Books : Day 1

  The Bout of Books read-a-thon has commenced! I am really excited to begin my reading marathon and fly through these books. I have thankfully finished the book I was on before it started, so now I can start fresh on my reading goals.

Reading Goal : 2 books
- City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
- Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

  I know it's small, but this is just an estimate on my reading abilities. If I finish these fairly quick, I will update my goals as I update my blog throughout the course of the week. As far as the challenge goes, I will be entering today in hopes of getting that gift card! Good luck to everyone who's entered and I will be posting my entry shortly. Happy reading!

EDIT : If anyone still wants to come join me and all the other readers, I think there is still time! I'm sure you will have tons of fun.
http://boutofbooks.blogspot.com/

Bout of Books Read-a-thon!

An Official Blurb from Bout of Books!

"The Bout of Books read-a-thon is organized by Amanda @ On a Book Bender and Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal. It is a week long read-a-thon that begins 12:01am Monday, May 13th and runs through Sunday, May 19th in whatever time zone you are in. Bout of Books is low-pressure, and the only reading competition is between you and your usual number of books read in a week. There are challenges, giveaways, and a grand prize, but all of these are completely optional. For all Bout of Books 7.0 information and updates, be sure to visit the Bout of Books blog.

 - From the Bout of Books team"

So, if you haven't guessed, I will be participating in a read-a-thon organized by Bout of Books. I'm a bit late, but it hasn't started yet! I am currently reading The Perks of Being a Wallflower, but I will be done soon. For the read-a-thon I hope to read two books throughout the week. My books will most likely be the first two in the Mortal Instruments series, I cannot wait. Happy reading, and I will see you during the read-a-thon :)

Trilogy Review : Divergent

Divergent & Insurgent

Title : Divergent
Author : Veronica Roth                                                                                          

Published : February 28th, 2012                                                                        

Pages : 487

ISBN : 9780062024022

Title : Insurgent

Author : Veronica Roth

Published : May 1st, 2012

Pages : 525                                                                                      

ISBN : 9780007442911

  With the highly anticipated third and final novel, Allegiant, coming out in October, I knew I had to read and review these two books. Also a movie is in the works for 2014. I'm definitely picking up that last book the day it comes out, and reading ASAP! In 5 months, watch out for that review! ;)


                                                  Rating : ★★★★★ 5 stars


Divergent by Veronica Roth was incredible. I think this book really sets the bar for any Dystopian novel out there. Roth takes you into an incredibly unique world that is very fun to read. I was so excited to read this book, and it totally fulfilled my expectations. I was so looking forward to continuing on to Insurgent, reads like these only come around once in a great while!Divergent takes place in Chicago where their society is divided into 5 factions. There are Abnegation (Selfless), Dauntless (Brave), Amity (Peaceful), Erudite (Intelligent, and Candor (Honest). Each faction promotes their ideals to the members who inhabit them. Beatrice Prior is of Abnegation, but she doesn't quite fit in there with her family. She doesn't feel as selfless as the others, and thinks she belongs somewhere else. Every year, a day is set aside for all the 16 year olds to choose which faction they wish to belong to for the rest of their lives. They get help from their aptitude results which are administered in school. Beatrice gets some shocking results and has to choose to remain with her family in a place she does not belong, or make a selfish decision of becoming something that is more true to her. Read Divergent to find out Beatrice's decision, her scary secret that she must tell no one, and where these factors take her in this chaotic world.

I instantly fell in love with this book. As soon as the world came together, I knew I would enjoy every page. It was a really interesting place to read about and viewing it through Beatrice's eyes. I wish there were more backstory to how this world came to be, but I think the second one will go a bit more in depth. The main part of the story is where Beatrice ends up, and her initiation into her faction. It was thrilling to read, because the initiation was very extreme. It pushed Beatrice to her limits and there were some bad apples among the initiates that got in her way. Through initiation she meets Four, who is just perfect for her. I think their romance was so cute, especially how protective of her he was! As I'm reading the novel I'm currently on, I'm still itching to move on to Insurgent. I can't help myself! I wish I could wait a bit longer, so the gap between Insurgent and the 3rd book wont be as long, but screw it! Veronica Roth has made me a fan and I am eager to read more of her work now. Cheers to an excellent series and read!



Rating : ★★★★★ 5 stars


Boy, oh boy. Veronica Roth sure knows how to whip up a sequel! You know, most books in series will never compare to that first golden book. However, Insurgent proved that theory wrong. I was pleasantly surprised to find this book just as amazing as Divergent. It was filled with the same action, thrill, adventure, and creativeness that made me want to continue this series. From the beginning I was hooked. I loved how there was so much more world building, and a glimpse into more of Amity and Candor. We got to see more of the world that Roth created, and I was very intrigued. We also meet the factions leaders, and are introduced to this political struggle and all the faction's standpoints. Insurgent was just beautifully created and did it's predecessor justice.

(Do not read below if you haven't read Divergent yet)

After the events of Divergent, Beatrice and Tobias are left to scramble together to regain strength and control of their lives. Along with them are Caleb, Susan, and Marcus. They travel to Amity in hope of shelter and safety. Unfortunately, they don't see eye to eye and eventually leave after a surprise attack from the Dauntless traitors/Erudite. They then travel to Candor in hopes of allying with them, and even attempt to ally with the factionless. This book continues the struggle of the Dauntless and the Divergent (some shocking new admissions) vs the Erudite. It's full of action and twists, as new and exciting secrets are revealed. Who will come out on top?

If you haven't started Divergent yet, now is the time. Especially with the beautiful Allegiant cover just revealed, this series is a must. In Insurgent, there are some shocking twists. I won't spoil, but there is a traitor among them who really shocked me! Also, the conclusion changes the whole series. I am so wondering what's going to happen in the final installment with this new information present. I reccommend this book to those interested in an amazing, Dystopian, Young adult series. Start Divergent if you haven't and then jump to Insurgent as soon as you can. You will not regret picking these up


If these reviews sparked your interest, you know what to do! I'll provide some amazon links to where you can purchase. Until then!

Divergent : http://www.amazon.com/Divergent-Book-1-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062024035

Insurgent : http://www.amazon.com/Insurgent-Collectors-Divergent-Veronica-Roth/dp/0062234935/ref=pd_sim_b_1

An Update!

  Hello bloggers! I'm not sure if any of my followers remember me, but I'm Muffin aka Kimberly! I've taken a  break from blogging and reading in general awhile ago, but have been non stop reading for the past couple months. With my interest of books back in gear, I would love to begin blogging again. I'm looking forward to talking books with everyone again, and I've missed my small community! Don't be shy, say hello if you remember me! For my first post back, I am thinking of a Divergent & Insurgent review, since I've recently finished the last two books and the upcoming third book has finally got a cover reveal (which is gorgeous). Also a haul will be in the works, since I've been book buying CRAZY. Until then.

P.S. I've updated my weekly poll, check it out and vote. Looking forward to your answers!

Introducing : Polls

  Well to spice up my blog a bit, I think it would be nice to add a weekly poll! Topics will be based loosely around polls of course, and a new one will be posted every Friday. Feel free to leave some questions for future polls! For the first weekly poll I ask you this; Which is your favorite vampire book series? The poll will be off to the left, go ahead and leave your answer!

My New Nook Tablet!

Recently, I have gotten my hands on my mom's Nook Tablet! Since she had gotten the iPad today, she decided that she would let me have the Nook. I am so excited, I can finally read ebooks! Although I would prefer reading paper/hardbacks, at least I have an option. And if I can access free ebooks, then of course I'll read them on my Nook! So I am really excited, and I hope to start reading on there soon. I am in the middle of Fever by Lauren DeStefano, and I have a lot more to read after that. I don't know if it will get much use in the near future, but it will definitely soon! I also splurged today, and bought two books. I have been wanting The Selection by Kiera Cass from the moment I saw the cover. It instantly intrigued me, and when the plot was to die for, I knew I had to have it! I also heard that they shot a pilot for a possible T.V. show at CW so it must be good. The other book I bought was Fifty Shades Darker by E.L. James. I honestly have missed reading about Anastasia and Christian, and I think I'm hooked! The book has been on my mind since I stopped reading it, so I know I had to buy the second one in the trilogy. I had a nice line up of books that I planned on reading, but I think I'll be reading Fifty Shades Darker next! If you've read any of the books mentioned, let me know! Also if you have a Nook Tablet, tell me some interesting things about it. Do you love it or hate it? Next time you'll see me posting, I plan on having a Fever review ready. Until then!

Review #2 : 50 Shades of Grey

Title : Fifty Shades of Grey
Author : E.L. James
Published : June 20th, 2011
Pages : 514
ISBN : 978-1612130286

  Today I finished reading Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James. I have mixed feelings towards this book. It's like the horror movie you can't turn away from, it's too dark and addicting. On one side, this book is very romantic and suspenseful, yet it is very twisted and sick. Continue reading if you want to see my full review!


When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.

Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires. (GoodReads).



  The book starts with Anastasia Steele going to meet Christian Grey on an errand for her friend Kathryn. She is supposed to interview him for the school newspaper. Of course they hit it off, it is somewhat of a romance novel after all. From that moment, they start bumping into each other and their relationship evolved from there. Christian is basically a stalker, I'm sure the times they've met were no coincidence. He was drawn to her, and he wanted to know more about her. Ana is always so intimidated by him, constantly blushing and acting clumsy whenever he is around. I really did not grow to like her, she was no heroine at all. She is just a foolish girl in love, and would do anything for him. Their relationship really takes off when she learns more about Christian's dark side. I'm sure most people know this, but he is into BDSM. Ropes, chains, toys, cuffs, you name it. He isn't looking for love, just rough sex. Of course the naive Ana, although weary of it, doesn't consider this a deal breaker. At this point I would be get away from his as fast as I could, it's just too sick. Plus Ana is portrayed as this innocent virgin, yet she doesn't seem to mind that this guy is messed up in the head.  

   The main conflict in the story is when Anastasia starts putting down her limits, and that is when the book starts getting better. I was beginning to think she'd succumb to anything, but she doesn't. I was proud of her. Although agreeing to some terms of his contract, one which states the things their relationship would entail, she draws fine lines. Of course Christian doesn't like this, he wants to be her "Dominant". He wants her to do as she's told, and obey his every command. I really did not like him for this, although I know it's not his fault. Later on in the story you find he's seduced into this lifestyle and has been victim to it since. He agrees to her negotiations, but she doesn't fully accept yet. I find it funny that throughout the whole book, the contract was not signed once. They just come to a mutual agreement. Anastasia tries to go along with the whole Dominant torture sex acts, while she tries to convince Christian to give her more in this relationship. He doesn't want love, and she wants it more than ever. Even though you can tell he is so drawn to her, he never admits how much he loves her. He cares for her deeply, and it is so apparent. Towards the end of the book, they come closer and closer to each other's agreements. He is letting her into his sad background, and showing more and more of how much he truly feels about her. In return she agrees to opening up more to his kinky lifestyle. The book ends on a deal breaking decision that may or may not ruin their relationship. With much progress they've made, how do you think their relationship is at the end of the first book of this three part trilogy? I won't spoil it, read for yourself if it interests you!

Rating : ★★★☆☆ 3.5 Stars

  I think the biggest turn off, were the explicit sex scenes. Without them, I think this book would easily be a 4 for me. Looking past the sex scenes, I really do enjoy this book. It's a dark and romantic book that is very addicting. The whole idea of Anastasia trying to change this sad, twisted man that she's in love with is a great read. There's a lot of suspense to this book, the darkened vibes make me want to read more. I find myself wanting to see what's going to happen next in their relationship. I do see a lot of Twilight by Stephanie Meyer in this book as well. (Fun Fact : Fifty Shades of Grey started off as an erotic fan fiction of Twilight,  under the name of Snowqueens Icedragon). I plan on reading the next two in the trilogy, because I did enjoy it somewhat. Let me know what you think! If you aren't sure if you want to read it or not, keep this in mind. If you can look past the sex scenes, I say it is a good book. If not, then you may want to pass this one. 

Just a thought!

Just curious, how many of you read more than one book at a time? I don't think I could ever do that! When I'm reading a book, I want to be 110% interested in it. If I am busy between books, I don't think I could do that for two at the same time. Plus information would probably get scuttled in my brain, and everything would get fuzzy. If you can read more than one book at a time, more power to you. It's honestly just too hard and weird for me. Let me know how you feel about reading two books at a time! Also, tiny update, I haven't had much time for reading due to traveling, but I think I'm going to devote this night to some quality book time. 50 Shades of Grey review soon to come! Until then.

Updates!

Alright well, I just thought some updates would be nice. I am ten chapters into Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James, and I have mixed emotions. On one hand it is a suspenseful, mysterious kind of book. I constantly wonder where Ana and Christian's relationship is going to go, and what will happen to them next! On the other hand, I am totally grossed out about his 'hobbies'. Let's just say to those who haven't read it, he's into some twisted, kinky things. I'm sure everyone knows already though. The dark and mysterious part of Mr. Grey is appealing, but once you know what the mystery is, you are really repulsed. I thought more of Anastasia, but she is surely giving into him. And the contract he is making her sign, which declares the basic rules and such of their relationship, is really stupid. I don't think I'd ever let somebody boss me around, Anastasia is just a mess. I still have high hopes, and I'm looking forward to the twists and turns. Not looking forward to more of the sex scenes!

Secondly, I bought a new book! I am currently visiting my family here in L.A. & I picked up Fever by Lauren DeStefano. I read the first book in the trilogy, Wither, last year. It has been quite a gap, but I finally purchased it! I think I'll put that higher up on my reading list, since it has been such a big gap from Wither. I have high hopes for this one, since Fever was such a good book. The plot is definitely interesting, seems like it will be a good one. Going to have to wait and see. Buying this book was a big deal too, because it was the first Barnes & Nobles I've been to in months. Where I live the closest, decent book store is 30-45 minutes away. I don't want to travel so far every single time I want to get a book! I mean most Targets & Wal-Marts carry books, but I want the satisfaction of being surrounded by books. So being around all those books was amazing, I can't believe I managed to only buy one. So for now, I'm going to continue to read Fifty Shades of Grey. I'll either update in another 10 chapters, or just post my final review when I'm finished. Until then!

Review #1 : Mockingjay

Title : Mockingjay
Author : Suzanne Collins
Published : August 24th, 2010
Pages : 390
ISBN : 978-0-439-02351-1

Alright, this is officially my first review! I am so excited, I feel like once I post this my blog is officially up and running. So here is the first of many, enjoy! Let me know of what you thought of Mockingjay by commenting below.

Note : Mockingjay is the 3rd and final book in The Hunger Games trilogy. Start out with The Hunger Games and read your way up if interested!

Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding. It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plains--except Katniss.The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay--no matter what the personal cost.

First off, let me say that I think the Hunger Games series is if not the best, one of the best series I have ever read. It is so unique, and full of surprises and great emotions. It is a page turner for sure, I could not put it down. It has it's slow parts here and there, but the suspenseful parts were so great. Coming into Mockingjay I did not expect a good book at all. I've heard so many friends say it was the worst of the three. I completely disagree. It was an amazing ending, to an amazing series.

Katniss has to really tackle a sense of leadership throughout this book, facing many hard decisions. The rebels are counting on her. She is the Mockingjay, the face of the rebellion against the Capitol. With her leading them to victory, they believe it's a sure win for the rebels. She comes to many obstacles, some they can climb over, and some that wrench your heart. Collins packed this book with emotions alnd leaves such strong thoughts in your mind. Mockingjay is not all about fighting and war between the two opponents. It has a such a stronger meaning, one that questions and boggles your mind. Even as I sit writing this review, I am still thinking what I would do if put into this situation. Dealing with death, struggling for power, and having to sacrifice so much. Such a brilliant, unique book. I give props to Katniss, she is so brave and strong. She isn't the typical damsel in distress who has to depend on a man to get her out of a sticky situation. Although stuck between two guys, she constantly relies on herself and gets herself out of any problem she faces. Katniss is a very inspirational, independent role model that girls could look up to.

Rating : ★★★★★ 5 stars!

I would highly recommend this series to anyone who hasn't read it yet, and tell those just starting that you won't be disappointed! If you enjoy a suspenseful book, this is definitely for you. There are so many surprises and exciting twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat grasping and fidgeting for more. Even as the book comes to an end you don't want to put it down. I absolutely loved this book, and I'm sure most do too. Give it a try, you will love it just as much!

Book Line Up #1

Alright well while I'm finishing up the third book in the Hunger Games series, Mockingjay, I'd like to share what books I plan on reading when I'm done. Feel free to tell me if they are any good, and what you thought of them in the comments!

First up, I'm going to be reading Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James. I have heard that it has a BDSM element in it, and I did not expect that! I am a bit iffy of that side of the story, but other than that it seem suspenseful and full of drama! Hopefully if it's good, I can read the other books in the series. After that I'll be reading The Pact by Jodi Picoult. It seems like a page turner, but I find Jodi Picoult somewhat boring at times. I'm probably used to so much suspense and thrills, maybe this one will be different. Fingers crossed! After that I'll be starting another series, The Dark Divine by Bree Despain. It is a trilogy that is suspenseful, and paranormal. Looks really good, but I haven't heard too much about it. Seems spooky! And the last book I know I'll be reading is Divergent by Veronica Roth. I've heard so many good things about this book, and I can't wait to actually read it myself. It's a dystopian young adult book, one of my favorite types of books! I think I am most looking foward to Divergent. I am a bit iffy about starting three new series, hopefully I don't start confusing them and forgetting about them. I have a tendency for that, hehe. I can do it though! I plan on doing honest reviews on each of them! So stay tuned to see what I think. Next post should be about Mockingjay, and my thought on the series in general. Until then, adios! - xoxo Muffin

Welcome!

I think it's finally time for me to voice my opinions on the books I read, and start letting others how I feel. Hopefully I can interest people, and get them into books they may have never come across! So welcome to my brand new blog, reviews will be coming soon! So if you look foward to a fresh face and more book reviews, give me a chance! Thank you, and have a nice day.