Book Review: House of Hades by Rick Riordan (Heroes of Olympus #4)

Note: Review contains spoilers. So does the synopsis. If you have not read this or Mark of Athena, do not read on!

The House of Hades by Rick Riordan

Heroes of Olympus #4
Book Summary: At the conclusion of The Mark of Athena, Annabeth and Percy tumble into a pit leading straight to the Underworld. The other five demigods have to put aside their grief and follow Percy’s instructions to find the mortal side of the Doors of Death. If they can fight their way through the Gaea’s forces, and Percy and Annabeth can survive the House of Hades, then the Seven will be able to seal the Doors both sides and prevent the giants from raising Gaea. But, Leo wonders, if the Doors are sealed, how will Percy and Annabeth be able to escape?

They have no choice. If the demigods don’t succeed, Gaea’s armies will never die. They have no time. In about a month, the Romans will march on Camp Half-Blood. The stakes are higher than ever in this adventure that dives into the depths of Tartarus.

Liana's Summary: Without Percy and Annabeth, their two main players, the rest of the crew believes they are weakened. However, they cannot let that stop them. They have to stop Gaea and her forces to restore order. With the raging war between the Greeks and the Romans, and the monsters emerging from Tartarus, the plan seems a bit difficult to follow. But in the end, who will prevail?

Rate(1-10): 10

Book Review: Uprising by Jessica Therrien. (Children of the Gods #2)

Uprising by Jessica Therrien.
(Children of the Gods #2)
Book Summary: Elyse has done everything she can to protect her friends from The Council's reach. As long as they believe she's dead, she has time to rest and train for war. And war is inevitable. 

When Kara arrives with the news that Anna and Chloe have been captured, Elyse is faced with the realization that no one is safe until The Council is stopped and Christoph is destroyed. She doesn't need a prophecy to tell her to lead an army. Christoph has done the one thing that ensures she'll fight to the death. He's threatened the people she loves. 

It will take more than the words of an oracle to help them fight against the most powerful Descendant alive. To break The Council's oppression and rise up against a plot so many years in the making, Elyse will need to get dangerously close to her enemy. So close, in fact, she may not survive.

Liana's Summary: War. It's time for war, and nothing Elyse does can stop it from happening. When Elyse finds out that her friends, Anna and Chloe, have been captured and are in danger, Elyse refuses to let anything happen to them. She knows that no one can be safe unless Christoph is dead. Elyse needs to get closer to her enemy-- so close that she herself, and perhaps the people she loves, may not survive.

Rate(1-10): 9

First of all, let me thank Jessica for sending me an eARC of this book! I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, Opression, and I liked Uprising so much more-- mainly because there's more action, and the plot seems to be faster paced. The romance is the same though, and I can't and won't say that's a bad thing. 

I kind of forgot a lot of things from the first book, since I read it a long time ago. But with Jessica Therrien's writing, it's not hard to remember all the characters. 

At first, I thought the romance was a bit spontaneous, but as William and Elyse got to interact more I felt like their love for each other developed.

If you haven't read Oppression, probably none of that made sense. LOL. Check out my review for it.

http://bookaholic-ness.blogspot.com/2013/03/book-review-oppression-by-jessica.html

That's it!

Book Review: Oppression by Jessica Therrien.

 Oppression by Jessica Therrien.
Book Summary: Elyse knows what it means to keep a secret. She's been keeping secrets her whole life. Two, actually. First, that she ages five times slower than the average person, so that while she looks eighteen years old, she's closer to eighty. Second, that her blood has a mysterious power to heal. For Elyse, these things don't make her special. They make life dangerous. After the death of her parents, she's been careful to keep her secret as closely guarded as possible. Now, only one other person in the world knows about her age and ability. Or so she thinks. Elyse is not the only one keeping secrets. There are others like her all over the world, descendants of the very people the Greeks considered gods. She is one of them, and they have been waiting for her for a long time. Among so many of her kind, she should not be very remarkable--except for the prophecy. Some believe she will put an end to traditions, safeguarded by violence, which have oppressed her people for centuries. Others are determined to keep her from doing just that. But for Elyse, the game is just beginning--and she's not entirely willing to play by their rules.

Liana's Summary: Elyse knows she's different. She ages five times slower than the average person. She can heal herself and other people. She's not human. No matter what she wants to believe, she's not human. And not even close to normal. But when she meets him, William, she realizes that she's not alone. There are others, and since she's just discovered them, she realizes that she's been breaking a lot of important rules.. that can result in consequences.

Rate(1-10): 8.5

First of all, I'd like to thank the author for sending me this copy! 

The cover is absolutely gorgeous. 

I've always loved Greek mythology and I knew I couldn't resist. 

Anyways, character discussions.

Elyse-- I love her name, ermahgerd. Anyways, she was the main character, and I guess the protagonist as well. Usually, when characters are in her situation.. the I'm-a-freak-and-you-don't-know-shit and the I-want-to-believe-what-you-say-but-I'm-in-denial situation, the character is annoying and bitchy because the whole time they're just like WTF IS HAPPENING OMG I DON'T BELIEVE YOU AHH and I just can't stand them. However, Elyse was different. I actually liked her as a character. She's caring and determined and stubborn, and not in a bad way either. Although sometimes I can't help but feel that she's seems to be in damsel-in-distress mode a lot.

William-- He's gorgeous, yeah. And really, really cocky. I don't know if that makes him more attractive or just plain annoying. But yeah. I like his attitude and character a lot. He's flirtatious and never awkward. He's always there to save Elyse when she needs him.. 

Kara- She's the bad-guy-but-not-the-bad-guy (jeez, I use too many dashes) character. She's actually pretty great, it turns out, but I couldn't help but be creeped out by her in the beginning.

What I like about this book is that the beginning starts out with tons of questions that get answered later in the story.

I'll have to admit, the romance was a bit awkward. It was almost, sort of love at first sight but not quite.. But it worked out, and that's a good thing!

I'm eager to read the next book, and excited to see how this prophecy is gonna turn out!

Quotes-

"..he would be there.."



Ooooh who is this 'he' you speak of
I think the romance is starting
yes
YES

"She's dangerous, Elyse."



Ermahgerd I don't know what to believe anymore


"I'm not going,"




"Luckily, I'm the one person you can trust."



LIKE I SAID I DON'T KNOW WHAT TO BELIEVE ANYMOREEEE


"The earlier I ended things.."



..BUT THEY BARELY STARTED


"..he pushed his mouth into mine.."



Yes finally omg


"You're mine."






"I love you,"


----
That's that.
What did you guys think of this review?(;

Book Review: Fury of the Phoenix by Cindy Pon.

 Fury of the Phoenix by Cindy Pon.
Book Summary: The Gods have abandoned Ai Ling.

Her mysterious power haunts her day and night, and she leaves home--with just the moon as her guide--overwhelmed by her memories and visions and an unbearable sense of dread. For Ai Ling knows that Chen Yong is vulnerable to corrupt enchantments from the under-world. How can she do nothing when she has the skill and power to fight at his side? A dream has told her where he is, the name of the ship he is traveling on, his destination. So she steals off and stows away on board.

The ocean voyage brings with it brutal danger, haunting revelations, and new friendships, but also the premonition of a very real and terrifying threat. Zhong Ye--the powerful sorcerer whom Ai Ling believed she had vanquished in the Palace of Fragrant Dreams--is trapped in Hell, neither alive nor dead. Can he reach from beyond the grave to reunite with Silver Phoenix and destroy Chen Yong? And destroy whatever chance Ai Ling has at happiness, at love?

In this sequel to the acclaimed novel Silver Phoenix, four lives are woven together and four destinies become one, now and forever.

Liana's Summary: Ai Ling is alone now. The Gods have left her, now that she's done her job and fulfilled her promise. Chen Yong is about to leave to find his biological father, and Ai Ling is about to let him go... After all, he will be back, won't he? But when Li Rong, an old friend that both Chen Yong and Ai Ling cared greatly about, enters Ai Ling's dream and tells her that Chen Yong is in danger, Ai Ling has to follow Chen Yong, and that means sneaking on the ship.. and being the only girl there. Only.. Chen Yong isn't so happy to see her, and he has some news of his own that won't please Ai Ling too greatly. However, the two still go on  the journey together, with no more than a vague idea of what they should expect. Meanwhile, Ai Ling still senses something inside of her- something that she thought she got rid of forever. It's still there, haunting her. And she's going to get rid of it.

Rate(1-10): 10

Hoo, boy. What a summary. You can tell I loved this book so much that I nearly wrote a book report essay in that summary section. 

Cindy Pon is way too good. After reading SILVER PHOENIX, I knew I had to read this one. The beginning of this book continues right after the first book's end. Well, not exactly right after, but close enough. And I love that. My sister, while reading this, was complaining about how different the cover is from the first book's cover, meanwhile complaining about how it's so plain. However, I liked this cover well enough and I think it's pretty cool and symbolic-- although it could have been more colorful. But whatever-- don't judge a book by its cover, right? I ship Ai Ling and Chen Yong with such a passion. They're perfect for each other and their relationship sounds so realistic. It's amazing and so adorbs and romantic. Chai.. Long. Or Ain.. Ying! omg I give up trying to merge a ship name.. anyways, just ship them because they are perf for each other! Keep calm and ship Chai Long! Now, Zhong Ye. Y'all have no idea how much I hated that man in the first book. I WANTED TO KICK HIS NONEXISTENT PENIS UNTIL HE DIED. STUPID FUCKING EUNUCH. omg. Anyways, in this book, everything was explained and I was just like 'oh'. He's a very complex character and he's just like an onion. (Ogres have layers) This is so Severus Snape. If you know what I mean.. I like how Jiang and Xian culture were both in this book because that's pretty cool. Just saying. Also, the chapter decorations. Those little drawing thingies at each chapter. Cindy Pon, what a designer! Btw, just a note. Do not attempt to read this book on an empty stomach because all the fabulous food will make you freakin' hungry OVERALL, THIS BOOK ENDED SO PERFECTLY THAT I DON'T EVEN CARE IF THERE'S NOT A NEXT BOOK BECAUSE THE ENDING IS JUST SO PERFECT AND I LOVED THIS BOOK Quotes~ "He gave her rump a shove for good measure." "Ai Ling?" And.. the moment of recognition! "She's my... sister." "I'm bored with my favorites. Find me a new girl." "You're cockless." It's probably rude to eunuchs how I laughed at this for about literally 5 minutes "Strip." "Silver Phoenix, master." "..across the taut muscles of his shoulders and biceps." OOOH CHEN YONG'S MUSCLY "No. I've had no time for love." Cos' ain't nobody gat time for love "..wooden eating sticks." Could you possibly mean chopsticks "We can be friends to each other?" FRIENDS "I've got you." "But he would not look at her and simply shook his head." "..made her more fetching." "Ai Ling is my sister," "I don't know if I can ever forgive you." "He had cut his hair short,.." "I would fast for you, Li Chen Yong." That is saying so much (SHE'S JUST LIKE ME BECAUSE SHE LOVES FOOD AND I LOVE FOOD AND I WILL GIVE NO ONE MY FOOD IF I LIKE IT) omg brb crying they're too cute ------ That's that! What did you think of this review? (;

Book Review: The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan. (Heroes of Olympus #3)

 The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan.
(Heroes of Olympus #3)
Book Summary: Annabeth is terrified. Just when she's about to be reunited with Percy—after six months of being apart, thanks to Hera—it looks like Camp Jupiter is preparing for war. As Annabeth and her friends Jason, Piper, and Leo fly in on the Argo II, she can’t blame the Roman demigods for thinking the ship is a Greek weapon. With its steaming bronze dragon masthead, Leo's fantastical creation doesn't appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of their praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace.

And that's only one of her worries. In her pocket Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving demand: Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me. Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods on a quest to find—and close—the Doors of Death. What more does Athena want from her?

Annabeth's biggest fear, though, is that Percy might have changed. What if he's now attached to Roman ways? Does he still need his old friends? As the daughter of the goddess of war and wisdom, Annabeth knows she was born to be a leader, but never again does she want to be without Seaweed Brain by her side.

Narrated by four different demigods, The Mark of Athena is an unforgettable journey across land and sea to Rome, where important discoveries, surprising sacrifices, and unspeakable horrors await. Climb aboard the Argo II, if you dare....

Liana's Summary: Annabeth is finally reunited with Percy. Everything's supposed to be perfect, right? Wrong.  It looks like war is coming. Seven demigods-- Percy, Annabeth, Jason, Piper, Hazel, Leo, and Frank. The seven of the prophecy. They must be separated. Each with different tasks. Annabeth must do her task alone, to avenge her mother-- to follow the Mark of Athena. 

Rate(1-10): 10

Someone tell me why I didn't pick this up earlier. (Probably intimidated by the thickness, which is nothing like me) I got this like, five months ago, aware of how good Rick Riordan was, and didn't pick it up 'till.. last week. Yeah, I know. I took forever. Mainly because I was procrastinating like there was no tomorrow, or it might have to do with the fact that I had too much homework. Idk. The main point is that I took so long on a Rick Riordan book which is such a shocker.

Enough of that. Anyways, I loved loved loved this book. The cover is so gorgeous (has so much meaning behind it just like all other Rick Riordan book covers) and the synopsis just makes your heart leap out of your throat. I originally thought that this was going to be a trilogy, but, guess not. I think that's a good thing! But gee, what a cliffhanger. What an ending. Ermaferkengerd.

What I found ironic and slightly funny was that this included a few myths that I just barely learned. Such as, Echo and Narcissus. We were barely doing Greek mythology in our English Honors class and we learned the story of Helen of Troy, of Echo and Narcissus, (since we're reading The Odyssey atm) and I just crack open the book and see those myths. And it makes so much sense and it's so much funnier.

Character Discussions-
Percy- I LOVE PERCY JACKSON, PERIOD. HE'S FRICKIN AMAZING. He's such a sweet guy! Any girl would want a boyfriend like him.
Annabeth- She's so much more mature, since she's older and all, but she's still the know-it-all daughter of Athena. Yes, love her.
Hazel- Since she's from the past and all it's all kind of awkward. And no matter how cute they may seem, I do not ship her and Frank... Now that I think about it, there were really less Frazel moments in this book.
Piper- She's great. LOL. Yeah, she's really caring and I know she would do anything to save the people she cared about.
Jason- I feel like all he really did in this book was get knocked out. LOLOLOL. But yeah, Jason is amazing. He and Percy make such a great team. If they were single I would ship Percy and Jason so hard it would hurt
Leo-LEO VALDEZ IS MY FAVORITE CHARACTER GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWSH HE'S SO AMAZING. The class clown that all the girls love. He's funny and creative and even more, he's a very very very amazing mechanic. And since I want to be an engineer... wow just wow I love Leo and that is all
Frank-Honestly I don't like Frank that much. But he's there when everyone needs him and he's there to save the day whenever people need his.. bravery. But yes. He's great, in his own way.

In this book I was sort of surprised and then again not surprised by my foreshadowing skills. Prophecies aren't supposed to make sense until it's too late, but I found myself making sense of the prophecies before any of the characters did. (; I think Riordan did it on purpose. LOL.

Rick Riordan must be a god. It amazes me how he can weave these words together just like Arachne can weave them webs. That man is truly amazing. I don't know if it's his writing or if it's just the mythology that I love- but yeah. ALL I CARE IS THAT IT'S AMAZING AND YES, IT IS AMAZING.

I can't wait for the next book.

Quotes-

"Ella likes books."

LIANA LIKES BOOKS TOO

"He would remember a pretty girl paying such close attention to him."

Hey hey hey she's got a boyfriend

"I am so gorgeous."

Narcissus- the father of all narcissists. LOL. He's sooo gorgeous.. right.

"I'm the Super-sized McShizzle, man!"


LOLOL WTF

"..only because he'd tried to shield her from the Romans."


AWWWWWW how sweeeeet.

"Team Leo?"

SHHH, DON'T TELL EDWARD?

"Ah... yes. John Green."

ERMAHGERD JOHN GREEN HAHA

"Percy fell face-first into his pizza."



Is it bad that I'm thinking of that one kid who died with pizza sauce on his forehead in Safe Haven? 

"I care nothing about this Percy."

I am offended

Everyone cares about Percy

"But they interrupted a Chuck Norris movie!"

AIN'T NOBODY GAT TIME FOR CHUCK NORRIS

"..all children of Athena feared spiders."

DOES THIS MEAN.. OMG RON WEASLEY IS A CHILD OF ATHENA HAHA

"She had nice hair--"

No Leo you're not allowed to say she has nice hair because she has a boyfriend

it's ok Leo bby I'm here for you

"Do you trust me?"
"No!"

Going all Aladdin huh HAHA

"I should have been there for you."


If all the guys in the world were like Percy Jackson then the world would be a better place.

"You would be my Deianira."


EW EW WTF THAT ESCALATED SO QUICKLY

"Hello, brother."



Said Damon omg

"Percy, let me go,"

NO NO NO OMG MY FEEEEEELS BRB CRYING

"Leo, they're not dead."



And at that moment, I swear that Nico di Angelo put hope into all of us.

--------

AGH I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK GOSH

Reading this book I've realized that all antagonists have a good side, no matter how small that is.

What did you think of this review? (:

Book Review: Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin.

 Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin.
Book Summary: In the Valley of Fruitless Mountain, a young girl named Minli spends her days working hard in the fields and her nights listening to her father spin fantastic tales about the Jade Dragon and the Old Man of the Moon. Minli’s mother, tired of their poor life, chides him for filling her head with nonsense. But Minli believes these enchanting stories and embarks on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man of the Moon and ask him how her family can change their fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest.

Liana's Summary: Minli is determined to change her family's fortune. So she decides to go find The Old Man of the Moon, who can answer any question in the world every 99 years. Minli is determined. Leaving her parents a single note of where she's going, she immediately sets out alone. With the help of a talking goldfish she was lucky enough to encounter, she finds out exactly where to find the man she's looking for. On the way, she encounters a dragon who can't fly-- who's wish is to learn how. Minli's story revolves around loyalty, friendship, and many other important morals in life. Grace Lin takes you on an enthralling journey through the topic of Chinese Mythology.

Rate(1-10): 8

This book was actually better than I would have ever anticipated. Being Chinese myself, I enjoyed reviewing my Chinese mythology and I actually learned some more, too.

Minli is the main character of this story, and her dad LOVES to tell stories. A handful of stories in this book are actually from her dad. Her mom is always complaining, "WHY YOU GOTTA TELL THEM STORIES. AIN'T GON' GIT US ANYTHING." But her dad tells stories anyway, and since Minli's mother is always complaining about how they're so poor, Minli goes off to chase a myth, believing her father's stories. But they actually turn out to be real. Yep, that's right. Real. Making this story more than Historical-Fiction. It's a blend of Fantasy and Mythology and history at the same time. Somehow, this sort of reminded me of The Chronicles of Narnia. They both taught morals and protagonists are faced with a decision that's really hard to make. This was a really, really moral-filled story. It was a fun and quick read. My eyes were tired from reading The Kill Order so I sort of cheated on TKO for this book. LOL. It only took 2 hours though, since the text was HUGE, and there were pictures as well (totally good for younger kids). And I really have nothing left to say. That's that. No quotes! I kind of sort of started this book in the middle of the night.. with a flashlight.. What did you think of this (really short) review? (;

Book Review: Silver Phoenix by Cindy Pon.

 Silver Phoenix by Cindy Pon.
Book Summary: No one wanted Ai Ling. And deep down she is relieved—despite the dishonor she has brought upon her family—to be unbetrothed and free, not some stranger's subservient bride banished to the inner quarters. 

But now, something is after her. Something terrifying—a force she cannot comprehend. And as pieces of the puzzle start to fit together, Ai Ling begins to understand that her journey to the Palace of Fragrant Dreams isn't only a quest to find her beloved father but a venture with stakes larger than she could have imagined. 

Bravery, intelligence, the will to fight and fight hard . . . she will need all of these things. Just as she will need the new and mysterious power growing within her. She will also need help. 

It is Chen Yong who finds her partly submerged and barely breathing at the edge of a deep lake. There is something of unspeakable evil trying to drag her under. On a quest of his own, Chen Yong offers that help . . . and perhaps more.

Liana's Summary: Ai Ling isn't going to wait for her father to return anymore. Because she's going to find him herself. He promised 2 months. He's already been gone for six. And besides, Ai Ling would rather die than marry Master Huang. But when she sets out on her journey, she realizes she can't do it alone. So, with the help of Chen Yong, a young man, and his brother, Li Rong, they set out to their destination to face what they must face, sacrificing a lot on the way. Meanwhile, Ai Ling and Chen Yong find out that their fates are more interwined than they think.

Rate(1-10): 10

This was SO good.  I don't know why l didn't pick it up earlier.

Wow Cindy Pon, wow. That was freaking amazing.

Okay, so, I am Chinese myself. And a fan of Chinese dramas. So whenever I read a Chinese historical fiction, such as Silver Phoenix, I feel like I'm watching a drama. LOL. There, of course, are a lot of historical references and since I know some of them, I often find myself recognizing the tradition. In this book, I not only recognized, but learned a few things about my own culture.

There are a lot of gods and goddesses and dragons and phoenixes and demons and trees of immortality (sounds almost like Greek mythology now, huh?) which just made me enjoy it THAT much more. It reminded me of a Chinese version of Little Sister by Kara Dalkey, honestly. 

The title. Silver Phoenix. There isn't an explanation for it until the almost-end. Which I will not explain out loud because that's spoiling. And I hate spoiling, especially when the book is highly recommended by me. But oh ho, yah. It means so much.

So let me discuss the characters. (The fabulous trio that made me think of Harry Potter)

Ai Ling- She's brave and reckless and persuasive. Persuasive. PERSUASIVE. That's a really big part of her and I can't give any more emphasis. You'll see. Anyways, she seems like she can do fine without Chen Yong but then again he saved her life so much times. And she saved his life so much times as well. What I like about her is that she's not weak. She's not the type to cower, she's the type to approach the bad things.

Chen Yong- This guy. Ok. He's half Xian and half... White, I'll just say broadly. His father was White and his mother was Xian. His life story is so sad. And, he's hot. He's gorgeous. LOL. He's really kind and caring and he's ready to unsheathe his sword any time as long as it means he's protecting Ai Ling. Whenever he's mad or sad he just keeps his emotions to himself, which makes him somewhat introverted, but not really. He's just so lovable. The best part of him is that he went with Ai Ling even if he didn't have to. He risked his life so much times and he remained calm each of those times, never yelling at Ai Ling or blaming her in any way.

Li Rong- He's Chen Yong's brother. Well, not by blood, anyways. Without him, I doubt this story would have humor at all. Without him, Chen Yong and Ai Ling's travel would have been boring, dry, and flat. And 3 fighters are better than 2, right? I'm grateful that Cindy Pon decided to let Li Rong travel with them. Readers will never forget him.

I think it's time for quotes!

"..Hei Po.."

Some of these names bring me great amusement. Hei Po. #BrbDying LOL

"After two years, I implored your father to take a second wife."


"Fei Ming towered over her."



"Somewhere private."



"I've been hungering for a taste of you."



"It was a mistake..."



"I've been waiting for you."



"I counted nearly three hundred strides. I saw no windows or doors, no way of entering the tower."

IT'S TIME TO CALL FOR RAPUNZEL

"I became a eunuch when I was twenty years.."


GOOD NOW HE CAN'T MAKE HER PREGNANT

"I don't doubt your capability to travel the world-- and beyond."


Toooooooo infinity, and beyond!
-------
Hopefully there's more romance in book 2. I need it NOW. -cries-
The ending was just so sad.
And that's that. What did you think of this review? (;

Book Review: Tyger Tyger by Kersten Hamilton.

 Tyger Tyger by Kersten Hamilton.
Goblin Wars #1
Book Summary: Teagan Wylltson’s best friend, Abby, dreams that horrifying creatures—goblins, shape-shifters, and beings of unearthly beauty but terrible cruelty—are hunting Teagan. Abby is always coming up with crazy stuff, though, so Teagan isn’t worried. Her life isn’t in danger. In fact, it’s perfect. She’s on track for a college scholarship. She has a great job. She’s focused on school, work, and her future. No boys, no heartaches, no problems.

Until Finn Mac Cumhaill arrives. Finn’s a bit on the unearthly beautiful side himself. He has a killer accent and a knee-weakening smile. And either he’s crazy or he’s been haunting Abby’s dreams, because he’s talking about goblins, too... and about being The Mac Cumhaill, born to fight all goblin-kind. Finn knows a thing or two about fighting. Which is a very good thing, because this time, Abby’s right. The goblins are coming.

Liana's Summary: Teagan's best friend, Abby, thinks she's physic. She's been seeing the goblins in her dreams. She claims the goblins are coming. Teagan doesn't believe her. But when Finn, her cousin, comes to live with them, and he claims there are goblins too, Teagan starts to have her doubts. But when her mother just dies out of nowhere, she's sure that the goblins are coming.

Rate(1-10): 8

This turned out to be better than I thought.

Don't judge a book by its cover Yeah yeah I know. The cover was just so severely creepy. It was actually the synopsis that got me interested in the first place.

The book was actually really thin. So I expected a simple and short story. But instead, Kersten Hamilton created a story that was enjoyable and long-lasting. Somehow. LOL.

Teagan is the main character. She seems brave enough but then I don't know what she would do without Finn.

Finn is her cousin. They're not blood related though, which makes everything not-gross. Finn seems like the guy that came from the military or something. He reminds me a lot of John from Nicholas Sparks's DEAR JOHN. He's way too tough for a kid that escaped a foster home and tried to live on his own for 5 years. He's really tough, oh yeah.

Aiden is Teagan's little brother. Oh my goodness, was I that annoying when I was in 1st grade? Well. This little kid is one of a kind, actually. He's pretty awesome and his skill is pretty cool as well.

Abby is Teagan's best friend. She seems like the girl that would always be there to give comfort or something. She would always cheer someone up when they're down. (Unless she doesn't like that person. LOLOL)

Lennie. Honestly I wouldn't care less if he wasn't in the story or not because he's not such a huge character. But I just wanted to talk about him because he reminds me a lot of Lennie Small from Of Mice and Men because Lennie is autistic. Sort of makes me think the name was borrowed.

Ida. She's Finn's grandma, (I think. omg) and she's such a fabulous old lady. And no, I am not using the word fabulous loosely. Because she is fabulous. FABULOUS. 

So the cat goblins. Ok. This series features goblins a lot and there are cat goblins. CAT GOBLINS. OUT OF ALL THE ANIMALS UGH. I never liked cats in my life. Ever ever ever. And I think this book increased my fear of cats instead of my hate for cats. ohmy. If you're scared of cats do not read this at night. LOL RIDICULOUS

This was based on Irish mythology and I found it really interesting. Even if it was sort of creepy at times. 

The plot was unpredictable at times. 

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.

Quotes!
Note: I own an ARC Galley of this book. Therefore the quotes might be different from that of the published version's.

"..about your cousin Finn coming to live with you?"

COUSIN. WHAT.

"He has wrinkled lips!"

Oh ew that's disturbing.

"We're not."

"I'm going to change that plan of yours."

"Strawberry. Girls like strawberry, right?"

That is so stereotypical. omg.

"..expected them to bear him children."

OHMYGOD WTH WHO WOULD BEAR CHILDREN WITH HIM

"She'd slept with her mouth open and slobbered all over him.."

".., Thomas."

"But that cop was totally flirting."
Oh wow just wow and ew
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And that's that! What did you think of this review? (;

Book Review: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan.

 The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan.
Heroes of Olympus #1.
Book Summary: Seven half-bloods shall answer the call, To storm or fire the world must fall. An oath to keep with a final breath, And foes bear arms to the Doors of Death. Percy is confused. When he awoke from his long sleep, he didn't know much more than his name. His brain fuzz is lingering, even after the wolf Lupa told him he is a demigod and trained him to fight with the pen/sword in his pocket. Somehow Percy manages to make it to a camp for half-bloods, despite the fact that he has to keep killing monsters along the way. But the camp doesn't ring any bells with him. The only thing he can recall from his past is another name: Annabeth Hazel is supposed to be dead. When she lived before, she didn't do a very good job of it. Sure, she was an obedient daughter, even when her mother was possessed by greed. But that was the problem — when the Voice took over her mother and commanded Hazel to use her "gift" for an evil purpose, Hazel couldn't say no. Now because of her mistake, the future of the world is at risk. Hazel wished she could ride away from it all on the stallion that appears in her dreams. Frank is a klutz. His grandmother says he is descended from heroes and can be anything he wants to be, but he doesn't see it. He doesn't even know who his father is. He keeps hoping Apollo will claim him, because the only thing he is good at is archery — although not good enough to win camp war games. His bulky physique makes him feel like an ox, especially infront of Hazel, his closest friend at camp. He trusts her completely — enough to share the secret he holds close to his heart. Beginning at the "other" camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods, this breathtaking second installment of the Heroes of Olympus series introduces new demigods, revives fearsome monsters, and features other remarkable creatures, all destined to play a part in the Prophecy of Seven.

Liana's Summary: Percy lost all his memory-- except for the fact that his name is Percy Jackson. He also remembers one person from his past: Annabeth. Hazel is supposed to be dead. But she's not. Frank is such a klutz. People make fun of him. When Percy meets Hazel and Frank, the three go on a dangerous quest, and discover a lot of truths.

Rate(1-10): 10

I seriously expected no less from Rick Riordan. I mean, the guy's amazing! If I ever meet him and if he's walking away from me I'll jump on him and tackle him to the ground and ask for an autograph.

Honestly, at some parts I wasn't even paying attention because I was thinking about this other book... (I know, I'm such a book cheater.)but the good thing is that Mister Riordan kept me interested the whole time. And besides, I had my sister by my side to explain things to me. LOL.

Anyways, I was so glad when I saw Percy had a point of view. I miss his first-person POV, though. But I guess third-person would have to do just fine. After all, it's PERCY. -fangirl scream-

And there's Hazel and Frank.

Hazel is pretty cool. Frank? Well, he's not my favorite. But he's still pretty awesome. His Chinese name is Fai. Which is not, I say, NOT a legit Chinese name. Which bothered me the whole time.

There was sure a lot of battle-discussing and planning and just a tiny bit of action. I think most of the action is going to appear in book 3. Gods, that ending. I just have to say that I'm glad I own book 3 already. Phew.

And honestly, that's all I have to say.
Quotes!

"Frank, just keep your eyes open."


"You can be anything."

Oh ho. Really now. Later I figured out Frank's grandma was right ermahgerd

"Two Gods had a horse for a kid?"


"Stop them!"

Okay, so I totally LOVE how antagonists just yell, "STOP THEM!" to their minions to capture the good guys, as if they don't know how to do anything. It's so hilariously entertaining.

"You think Percy Jackson is better than you."

-cough-
Sorry Frank. But I think he is.

"Well, she should be, you dolt! Don't let her get away. You need strong women in your life, if you haven't noticed."


IT'S FINAL. HIS GRANDMOTHER IS FABULOUS.

"And he was unpopular because he was Chinese."



"He was the most beautiful man Hazel had ever seen."


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And yeah, that's it! What did you think of this review? (:

Book Review: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan.

 The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan.
Heroes of Olympus #1
Book Summary: Jason has a problem. He doesn’t remember anything before waking up in a bus full of kids on a field trip. Apparently he has a girlfriend named Piper and a best friend named Leo. They’re all students at a boarding school for “bad kids.” What did Jason do to end up here? And where is here, exactly? Piper has a secret. Her father has been missing for three days, ever since she had that terrifying nightmare. Piper doesn’t understand her dream, or why her boyfriend suddenly doesn’t recognize her. When a freak storm hits, unleashing strange creatures and whisking her, Jason, and Leo away to someplace called Camp Half-Blood, she has a feeling she’s going to find out. Leo has a way with tools. When he sees his cabin at Camp Half-Blood, filled with power tools and machine parts, he feels right at home. But there’s weird stuff, too—like the curse everyone keeps talking about. Weirdest of all, his bunkmates insist that each of them—including Leo—is related to a god.

Rate(1-10): 10

Of course I expected no less from Rick Riordan. I've already read enough of his books to know how fabulous he and his writing is.

So, this book has three main characters.

Jason- He's alright, I guess. He didn't really show how he really was because he didn't have his memory the whole time and all.
Piper- Dang, this girl. She's such a tomboy I can't even. I like her! She's awesome.
Leo- This boy. Is. Amazing. He is hothothothothot and his humor ohmygoodness I'm dying

Well, first off, you can't read this series without reading the Percy Jackson series. Unless you are very persistent- then you would have to collect the bits and pieces and put them all together. In this book, Percy is gone. GONE. GONEEEEEEE. If you didn't read Percy Jackson then you wouldn't realize how significant his disappearance is. Ohmygod. Ohmygod. POOR PERCY OMG I CAN'T CONTROL MY EMOTIONS THE CLIFFHANGER AT THE END OF THIS BOOK HOW MANY TIMES CAN I THANK THE LORD FOR HAVING THE NEXT BOOK READY

Alright, the author does a really really really good job of foreshadowing. RIDICULOUSLY good. I was a bit curious about which goddess was going to claim Piper at first, but then when I got to know her better, it became evident. I couldn't really predict Jason though. Mainly because he lost his memory and all. I'm hoping to know him better in book 2.

I am SO looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I don't know what I would do if I didn't have Son of Neptune and Mark of Athena next to me, ready to be read. But like, I'm not going to touch them yet. Saving the adventures for later. (;

I can't control my emotions. Percy Annabeth Percy Annabeth Annabeth Percy THEY CAN'T BE SEPARATED AFTER ALL THEY'VE BEEN THROUGH

Quotes!

"Save her!"
Yeah. Drop everything and SAVE HER!

"You're a faun.""Satyr!"

Someone's offended..

"A guy named Percy Jackson."


MY PERCY

"Your mom is a rainbow goddess?"
You say that like it's a bad thing.

"Is my hair on fire?"
I LOVE LEO ALREADY OK

"Charles Beckendorf."


"Suffering? I love suffering! Let's do this!"


"Leo was in love."


"..and smack her."
One does not simply smack Greek goddesses okay

"Dang, that girl was fine."


"Then Torque picked up a truck and threw it at him."
#RANDOM

"That's what she said."


"My friends call me Your Highness."
No way.

"Hephaestus?"


"What is Roman?"


"I can smell your fear."


INHAAAAAALE THE FEAR

"..you tried to eat a stapler when you were two!"
Lu-di-crous.
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And that is all! What did you think of this review? (:

Book Review: Blood to Blood by Ife Oshun.

 Blood to Blood by Ife Oshun.
Book Summary: Angelika Brown has a killer voice. Too bad her über-conservative parents aren’t happy when she decides to quit high school to be a pop singer. What’s worse, she’s morphing into a blood-drinking immortal and her soaring vocals can now decimate everything, and everyone, within earshot. Will she learn how to control her new powers? Or will her bloodlust cause her to kill her girl group before they reach the Top 10?

Liana's summary: Angel wants to drop out of high school so she can live her life as a professional singer, but her parents absolutely forbid that- except.. they will give her consent only if they have access to all her thoughts- but how could that be? It's only because they're immortals. Blood-drinkers. The protagonist is trying to grow accustomed to being a bloodsucker after she overcomes her Change. She meets Sawyer, and notices he's different from the rest. She meets Justin, her donor, and they start to build a relationship. As Angel is getting used to her new self, she might change the people around her-without even knowing it.

Rate(1-10): 8.5

First of all, I would like to thank Ife, the author of this fantastic book, for sending me a free PDF review copy, giving me the opportunity to read it!

Usually, I really hate vampires. (Thanks a lot, Twilight.) But this book just kind of sort of changed my mind! I didn't think of Twilight at all, which is a good thing.

I think bloodthirsty vampires are really scary for some reason, but this book didn't really scare me, since there was something else to concentrate on. Her dream career! I think it's really cool how she affects people with her singing. Before she was a newborn, she could already affect people. After she was Changed, she affected them even more. I think it's really cool. Her supernatural abilities are envied- by me. They're just so dang cool though! I always had this impression of vampires as bloodsucking beasts that are scared of the sun, but Ife Oshun actually puts in the thing with different types of vampires, and I like that a lot, with the Shimshana blood-drinkers, where they don't have fangs, love the sun, and are not scary pale. But of course, they're gorgeous. ;D

It was a fun Labor Day read. Finished in a few hours! I feel so accomplished. Three books this weekend. (:

I know I marked this as Mythology-ish, since they're kind of talking about Egyptian mythology at this one point in the book. But there's not really the Rick Riordan sort of myth-writing. Just mentions! 

I like how the protagonist is African American, since there aren't enough books with Af. Americans as strong protagonists.

I liked the romance here, since it's not too awkward, not too slow, and not too forward. It is completely appropriate for youths, since it's definitely NOT like Fifty Shades of Grey. Ugh. Best of all, though, it was actually believable. Despite the part where she yearned for the poor guy's blood. That's vampy, I suppose.

One thing that's weird are the character attitudes. It's not really natural. And like, every time the girls address each other, they're all-


Literally. It's very weird. It's sort of like a teenage stereotype.

I'm honored to be the first person on Goodreads to review this book. (x I feel so special. (EVEN IF IT JUST RECENTLY GOT PUBLISHED AND IT'S NOT EVEN OUT IN PAPERBACK YET)

Unfortunately, since this was an ebook, it was so much more difficult to do quotes than usual. Therefore, less quotes. Very much unfortunate, for it was such a great story! D:

Well, here you are.

"... and the only thing I'd drunk was Cici's blood."
Ermagerd, that sounds really gross.

"I was hungry. But not for food. I was hungry for Sawyer."


“You really love banana pudding that much?"
“I could love you more,” he said in a low voice.


That moment. When something is so mundane that it's absurd. Banana pudding! LOL.

Instantly, I was at her back, standing before him. His eyes grew widewhen he saw me. “He’s mine,” I seethed before Risa swung around, ready for a fight.


“AB,” I ordered, “with a splash of O. No ice."

No matter how many times I read vampires doing their thing, I still get grossed out.

“Silly girl. I'm not offering myself to you.."

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Avid readers of vampires, don't miss out on this book. It's definitely worth reading!

So, what did you think of this review? (: