Dawn of the Apocalypse by E.S.P. Blog Tour!

~*REVIEW AT BOTTOM! AND READ THE EXCERPT IN THIS POST!*~ *********************************************************

What's better to celebrate the New Year than the end of the world? 'Tis the Season of the Apocalypse is a week long blitz and review tour with awesome prizes, interviews, guest posts, and more!

The tour will also have a two-week long giveaway, where winners can get a signed paperback copy of Dawn of the Apocalypse and $10 Amazon cash. All tour hosts will get a free ebook copy of Dawn of the Apocalypse, along with the chance to win an autographed copy of Dawn of the Apocalypse and a $5 Amazon gift card!

 SO hurry up and enter, before it's too late!

 

Dawn of the Apocalypse by E.S.P.

Published: August 8, 2013

Publisher: Mind Candy LLC

Amazon

January 1, 2000. May 21, 2011. December 21, 2012 These are just a few of the days humans prophesied as bringing catastrophic events that would end the world. We predicted nuclear warfare. Drastic climate change. A call from God. We were wrong. Cue the gargoyle invasion—laboratory bred mutants designed to slaughter humans. When the government goes AWOL and gargoyles are swarming by the hundreds, it's up to the citizens of the United States to regroup and save themselves. Meet Cliff Matthews, a teenage boy separated from his entire family with the exception of his younger sister, whom he is desperate to keep alive. Along the quest to save their lives, he encounters people who aren't all that they seem. Everyday's a battle, but if he can't trust his own species, where does that leave his family? And we can't forget the man who may be willing to sacrifice Cliff's life, if it means world domination. In terms of doomsday, no one could've seen this coming.

Excerpt!

Angel’s chest was rising and falling rapidly as the gargoyles circled them silently. Hunter had never wanted something more in her entire life than to live for another day. She couldn’t even entertain the idea of little Angel being gobbled up by the big bad gargoyle…

 She squeezed her eyes shut. Please, please, please, she chanted silently over and over.

She knew the type of wound a scratch had given Cliff. What type of pain would they concur on her entire body? Would they eat her right away or save her for dinner? Would they pluck out her limbs and eat them one by one?

Time stopped as the door creaked open. The gargoyles soundlessly cloaked themselves back in the shadows. The stairs groaned as someone walked down the stairs without a care in the world. Hunter could practically hear the gargoyles lick their lips.

She wanted to cry out and warn the person. But it was beyond her control. That’s what you get for walking down the stairs so loudly. That’s what you get for walking in the dark during a damn invasion, she reasoned. But her heart was saying something else.

The person reached the bottom of the stairs. The gargoyles uniformly shifted through the shadows. “Hey…” he said suspiciously.

He had realized his danger a second too late. He broke into a run, but the gargoyles would be on him in a second. And he’d be dead.

“C’mon, sweetie.” Hunter whispered to Angel, crawling out from under the stairs. Ignoring the cries of agony, pain, and sorrow, she raced up the stairs. The wood banged against her ankles, but she didn’t stop. There was the cruel sound of cracking. Hunter shielded Angel’s eyes from the scene and dared to look behind her.

The gargoyles were circled around the man. The predominantly bigger gargoyle bit his neck. A gush of blood spewed across its face. The man’s eyes still stared at her, his mouth formed in an O, as if he was trying to speak to her.

“I’m so sorry.” She choked.

She hurried up the steps, slamming her body into the door. The light washed over her body, as did her relief. But her nerves did not settle.

Enter the Giveaway!

 

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author:

 Being the daughter of an accomplished author, E.S.P. grew up listening to stories and telling her own to classmates. After writing for several years and even publishing some short works, she finally decided to take the plunge to write (plus finish!)a full length novel. Thus, Dawn of the Apocalypse was born. When she's not writing, she's either reading books, blogging at whoistheserialreader.blogspot.com, or watching eighties movies. 

Follow E.S.P. on her blog

Join the Discussion!

"Move over zombie apocalypses, the gargoyles are taking over. " Unabridged Bookshelf Book Blog

"Dawn Of The Apocalypse is a novel full of grit, action, blood and never forgetting the gargoyles...you should get your hands on this one!" Emily at Fluttereal Flight Blog

**********************************************************

 Title: Dawn of The Apocalypse

Series: Maybe a sequel coming??

Genre: YA, Science Fiction, Dystopian

Pages: Depends since it's an Ebook (546 on my iPhone 5)

Ages: Probably 14+

My Rating: 3.5 Stars

My Word: TotallyUnexpectedAndAmazing :D

My Fave Quote: (First time Hunter and Cliff meet officially :'))

“I don’t know how they do it where you’re from, but around here; when you tell somebody your name they usually tell you theirs. If not, they think you’re weird."
Cliff snapped out of his trance, feeling the heat rise to his face. "My name’s Cliff." He lowered his voice to a whisper. "Wouldn’t want you to think I’m weird."
"I do think you’re weird," She whispered back. "You’re named after a type of rock face. And a brand of a granola bar."
He retorted, "Well you are named a hobby. You’re not even named after a profession. A hobby is something they do in their free time. So it’s not a priority."
"Well, at least I’m something people do for fun," Hunter teased. "Who likes to jump off cliffs for fun?"
"What type of person likes to kill animals for fun?"
Hunter was silent and for a second, he considered apologizing. Then, she looked him in the eyes for the first time since they met. "Touché.”(46-47 on iPhone)

(I probably laughed more than I should've during this quote :D ) 

 

Review

This book was definitely not as I expected it to be. It starts out from the main character Cliff on a subway station with his parents and from that moment his whole world is turned upside down.

This book totally both grew on me and surprised me. I loved the idea of gargoyle-creature things taking over the world and it definitely connects to what the real world reaction would be to a catastrophe as horrible as this one-especially the ending which I'll get to later on in the review. There wasn't a single boring part in this book which delightfully surprised me! I love all action books and this one fits the category. Also, the idea of Analis in Mexico was really amazing to read because in the middle of the book I expected that she died, but she obviously didn't. However, in the beginning I thought she was going to be one of the main characters from how it was described, but I was wrong haha.

The characters were really unexpected. I was surprised by how much trauma that went on with Cliff's past. Some certain situations that we found out in the book involved his third sister and grandfather. Also. I truly loved Hunter because she depicts the average teenage girl affected by a gargoyle invasion and it was interesting to read the actions and feelings she had that I would've done just as much. Through the disbelief to being scared to hysterical crying; those were all things that I would've done and I might've even cried a little bit more than her considering the whole world was doomed :$. Anyway, I loved most of the characters such as Scott, Aidan, Harris, Angel (I loved how E.S.P. added a little sister in the situation), Dallas, etc. All these characters were unique and just so interesting to read. Regan was the only character that really confused me...like why would he do what he did? He was seriously a creep I agree with Cliff haha!

The relationship between Hunter and Cliff was very nice because E.S.P. was not like other new writers because she didn't rush the relationship and she made every moment very detailed and spread out just enough so it wasn't too much at once nor was it too little.

There were two events in this book that really pulled on my heartstrings. (I promise you I didn't cry! But was actually pretty shocked at how sad I was during these events.) those two events were the one when Cliff told his story of his third sister :'(. And also THE ENDING.

What happened in the ending? Did the person that I think died actually die? I sure hope not! The ending was totally unexpected yet it was definitely realistic if gargoyles are involved. My eyes were bulging out as I read the last few pages because I was honestly so sad because at first I thought that person died but then I doubted it. Because how would E.S.P. do that?! It would be realistic, but it would totally be pulling a Veronica Roth moment at the end of Allegiant (which I cried for a good 5 minutes afterwards) so I seriously hope that that isn't the case.

All in all, this book delightfully surprised me and there were some grammar mistakes which I expected such as the names Angel and Andy were being mixed up in the beginning of the book (that was basically the major mistake), but seriously past that I couldn't peel my eyes off the book! I was overall startled and happy with the whole book and I can't wait to read a sequel if there happens to be one!! :) 

★★★1/2



City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments #2) by Cassandra Clare

Synopsis: "Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father.

To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?"

Title: City of Ashes
Series: The Mortal Instruments #2
Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Adventurous
Pages: 453
Ages: 13+
My Rating: 3 Stars
My Word: ImTired (Seriously though idk I can't think right now)
Sorry, no fave quote for this book... I'm literally so tired I don't even know what I'm typing


Review:

Although City of Ashes wasn't the MOST enduring book on the planet, it still kept me turning pages. I kept thinking: WHEN ARE CLARY AND JACE GOING TO NOT CARE ABOUT THIS DAMN SIBLING THING AND JUST KISS ALREADY?! But, of course, books never turn out that way until the ending... the VERY ending...AKA the last book in the series. By getting there, I must read every book before that, and yeah, that won't happen for a while because of, wait for it, SCHOOL. Anyway, this book was pretty interesting with...more Although City of Ashes wasn't the MOST enduring book on the planet, it still kept me turning pages. I kept thinking: WHEN ARE CLARY AND JACE GOING TO NOT CARE ABOUT THIS DAMN SIBLING THING AND JUST KISS ALREADY?! Because we all know that Cassandra Clare would totally make these really shallow characters find some way to kiss without making it really gross that they're siblings. But, of course, books never turn out that way until the ending... the VERY ending...AKA the last book in the series. By getting there, I must read every book before that, and yeah, that won't happen for a while because of this book. Anyway, this book was pretty interesting with okay characters and a moderate plot. It just felt like it was repeating itself from the first book except this time, Valentine takes the Soul Sword *gasp*. But seriously, this book really needed a few corrections. I'm sorry but Clary especially gets on my nerves because she can't make up her freakin mind about the boys and it was...ugh just so unrealistic this whole book. I hope the third book, if I ever read it, has Jace and Clary stop whining about stupid things! Don't get me wrong, the book was okay, just some most things were getting on my nerves.

★★★

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1) by Cassandra Clare

Synopsis: "When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . .

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end."

Title: City of Bones
Series: The Mortal Instruments #1
Genre: YA, Fantasy, Romance
Pages: 485
Ages: 13-17
Date I Finished: August 30th, 2013 (SUMMER DON'T GO)
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
My Word: Creative (My word wasn't creative, but whatevs #lazystatus)
My Fave Quote:
"'Didn't I read your tea leaves, Shadowhunter? Have you fallen in love with the wrong person yet?'
           Jace said, 'Unfortunately, Lady of the Haven, my one true love remains myself,'
          Dorothea roared at that. 'At least,' she said, 'you don't have to worry about rejection, Jace Wayland.'
          'Not necessarily. I turn myself down occasionally, just to keep it interesting.'" (P.345)

Review

 

I think I expected too much of this book. I mean, it was alright...very creative, nicely built characters, interesting plot (Shadowhunters who kill demons; they can't be seen unless you have the Sight); but I just don't think it was as good as I wanted it to be.

I had mixed feelings for Clary too. I liked her funny personality and witty comebacks, but I didn't think she was badass enough...and the name Clary wouldn't be on my top list of girl's names if I were choosing. Just saying :S. I loved Jace though! Simon got on my nerves, but he's hot in the movie ;). Also, the whole plot twist at the end got me by surprise, but the movie had a sort of different ending (what Hodge said to Valentine about lying) :O

Anyway, this book really didn't move me in the end. Also, the action parts weren't as shown as I wanted them to be; like I wanted it to seem visual. I liked the kind of chemistry between Jace and Clary because it wasn't sloppy, but it wasn't too little either.

The only reason this got 3.5 stars were because of Jace, Clary's mom (her mom is the definition of badass), the plot twist ending, and the whole concept of Sight. I wish I had the Sight like Clary and the rest of the Shadowhunters! Oh, and the beginning was very interesting too (and very suspenseful in the movie).

 

Although this first book didn't reach my expectations, I'm still curious to know what happens next so I'll be reading the second book: City of Ashes in the fall! :)

★★★1/2

 

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp

Synopsis: "This National Book Award Finalist is now a major motion picture -- one of the most buzzed-about films at Sundance 2013, starring Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller.

SUTTER KEELY. HE’S the guy you want at your party. He’ll get everyone dancing. He’ ll get everyone in your parents’ pool. Okay, so he’s not exactly a shining academic star. He has no plans for college and will probably end up folding men’s shirts for a living. But there are plenty of ladies in town, and with the help of Dean Martin and Seagram’s V.O., life’s pretty fabuloso, actually.

Until the morning he wakes up on a random front lawn, and he meets Aimee. Aimee’s clueless. Aimee is a social disaster. Aimee needs help, and it’s up to the Sutterman to show Aimee a splendiferous time and then let her go forth and prosper. But Aimee’s not like other girls, and before long he’s in way over his head. For the first time in his life, he has the power to make a difference in someone else’s life—or ruin it forever."

Title: The Spectacular Now
Series: None
Genre: Inspiring, Romance, YA Contemporary
Pages: 294
Ages: 14+ (all ages over 14 I believe because it's so inspiring)
Date I Finished: August 25th, 2013
My Rating: 3 Stars
My Word: ChangedMyLife
My Fave Quote:
"Goodbye. Goodbye. I can't feel you anymore. The  night is almost too beautifully pure for my soul to contain. I walk with my arms spread open under the big fat moon. Heroic weeds rise up from the cracks in the sidewalk, and the colored lights of the Hawaiian Breeze ignite the broken glass in the gutter. Goodbye, I say, goodbye, as I disappear little by little into the middle of the middle of my own spectacular now." (P. 294)

Review

This book as a whole I rate as 3 stars, just because the first 100 pages bored me.

But, the second half of the story inspired me.

Who would've known a teenager like Sutter Keely would have the kindness in his heart to help a lonely, shy girl out? Just the thought of that gave me hope that not all guys go for the popular girls. Some guys realize that they can change a girl's life.

Sutter Keely did just that. He changed Aimee Finicky's life, and not just because he asked her out. Aimee saw depth in Sutter the way no other girl could; she didn't listen to him like he was a joke, but like he was worth something. And Sutter helped Aimee build up her courage, stand up to watch she believes, and fight for her dreams.

The two grew off each other. They needed each other's backs to help them become the best that they can be. That is what inspired me. A girl and a boy changing their lives for the better from the motivation-no- inspiration from their partner.

That's what I loved so much about this book. Also, the ending was one of my favorite sad endings in a book ever. I believe Sutter made the right choice because he knew Aimee deserved better; he was just the boy to help her realize that, and realize that she could do anything.

The only thing I really didn't love was the whole alcohol thing. Sutter was definitely at least slightly drunk half the time and Aimee started drinking a lot too which wasn't a great choice. But, the ending of course motivated him to limit his drinking.

All in all, this book inspired me by the way two people could help each other so much, and learn from each other. It almost brought tears to my eyes-- almost, but I am tougher than that haha. This book showed an experience that neither of them would forget. It changed their lives, and I can just imagine Aimee 10 years later reminiscing about Sutter Keely with a smile on her face and thinking that's the boy that change my life. I don't know, I get kind of sappy with these books, but I loved this book, and it definitely inspired me to help someone out when their life is being slowly drained away, because everyone has a chance to do what they love, and everyone's lives are worth it, they just have to live in the Spectacular Now.

★★★

The Summer I Turned Pretty (Summer #1) by Jenny Han

Synopsis

Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one terrible and wonderful summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along.



Title: The Summer I Turned Pretty
Series: Summer #1
Genre: Romance, Summer Read, YA
Pages: 276
Ages: 12-17
Date I Finished: May 25th, 2013
Rating: 4 Stars
My Word: JER-I-MI-AH

Review

 

Some Spoilers throughout review!!

It's about time I read this book!

This book is definitely a summer read, I must say. I loved basically everything...

The Plot: Very creative. Usually only one boy is involved, but Jenny Han incorporated THREE boys (the more the merrier!).

The Characters: I loved Belly and her personality, yet I didn't like some of the decisions she made :( *cough cough* the end. I LOVED Jeremiah LOVELOVELOVED him, you have no idea. Cam wasn't even that bad! They had the cutest moments together,(Inside joke to readers who've already read the book: "IOU one skinny dip" :')) and she just ignores/forgets him in the end D:. I HATE the decision she made with CONRAD. Okay, he was such a jerk in the beginning to the middle of the book and I know he was just releasing his sadness and all that, but JEREMIAH was so much nicer D:. Taylor=SLUT and I'm happy Belly never brought her again.

Well, I guess that's what sequels are for ^^.

Let's just hope Cam and Jeremiah come back in Belly's love life ;).

The Ending: No, just no. Conrad is OK, but not the right boy for Belly. Although, the ending WAS kind of cute. (I'm a sucker for ANY kind of romance, including CONRAD :') )

This review is pretty boring, a few GIFs would've been better, but I'm lazy :9.

Total Overview: Summer read that had a lot of cute moments in it :). And especially Belly never really left her inner kid self which I like ;). TEAM JEREMIAH. (There I go again)
★★★★

The Iron Knight (The Iron Fey #4) by Julie Kagawa

Synopsis: "With the unwelcome company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end--a quest to find a way to honor his vow to stand by Meghan's side.

To survive in the Iron Realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. And along the way Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice."

Title: The Iron Knight
Series: The Iron Fey #4
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Pages: 394
Ages: 13-16
Date I Finished: November 4th, 2012
My Rating: 4 Stars
My Word/Phrasethatisonewordlikethis: MISSTHESERIESALREADY:'(


Review:

OMG. THIS SERIES. WHY IS IT OVER?!?!!?! Okay, so I started this series in JANUARY and I finished in NOVEMBER and it's been apart of me for those 10 months! The plot- PRETTY AMAZING The Characters- ASDFGHKL; No words to explain! Best part in the book! The Ending- YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Okay, so I loved this series. I'm so mad because I was writing a pretty awesome review the day I finished and I accidently 'x'ed it out mid-way through writing! So you get this crappy one, but...but... PUCK...more OMG.           THIS SERIES.                                    WHY IS IT OVER?!?!!?! Okay, so I started this series in JANUARY and I finished in NOVEMBER and it's been apart of me for those 10 months! The plot- PRETTY AMAZING The Characters- ASDFGHKL; No words to explain! Best part in the book! The Ending- YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Okay, so I loved this series. I'm so mad because I was writing a pretty awesome review the day I finished and I accidently 'x'ed it out mid-way through writing! So you get this crappy one, but...but... PUCK IS MINE OK? OK. Thank you ;). I'm giving a big kiss to this whole series *MWAH* because I will miss it! Thank you Julia Kagawa for giving me a spark of fantasy that made my day, everyday because we all know how uncreative I am :))).

The Death Cure (The Maze Runner #3) by James Dashner

Synopsis: "Thomas knows that Wicked can't be trusted, but they say the time for lies is over, that they've collected all they can from the Trials and now must rely on the Gladers, with full memories restored, to help them with their ultimate mission. It's up to the Gladers to complete the blueprint for the cure to the Flare with a final voluntary test.

What Wicked doesn't know is that something's happened that no Trial or Variable could have foreseen. Thomas has remembered far more than they think. And he knows that he can't believe a word of what Wicked says.

The time for lies is over. But the truth is more dangerous than Thomas could ever imagine.
Will anyone survive the Death Cure?"

Title: The Death Cure
Series: The Maze Runner #3
Genre: Dystopie, Science Fiction
Pages: 324
Ages: 12+
Date I Finished: September 26, 2012
My Rating: 4 Stars
Book Format: Hardcover (lib)
My Word/Phrase: SATISFACTION (at the end lol, I coldn't think of naything else)

From now on I will put a lot of * before and after a spoiler with end paranthesis' so it's not confusing.
There are only two spoilers in this review.
Ex. (************John picked an apple*************) XD
Review: 
Sorry in advance for grammatical and spelling errors in this review
This book took me a while to get through, partially from the lack of excitement and partially from all the school work I've been having DX. Anyway, I was going to give this book a three star, but the ending threw me off and I thought it deserved one more star. The reason I did so was because the end was perfection, it wasn't a horrible ending, where I usually throw my book across the room when that happens, (good thing it wasn't because this is a library book!) or it wasn't a cliffhanger where I have to go online to see if there will be a sequel, and there's usually not a sequel for some reason and I'm left with a cliffhanger! Ughh I hate those. But this ending was where I closed the book and felt sastisfied :).

The character develpoment was an OK throughout the series. I guess for some reason in the first book, felt Thomas was a little lifeless, but as the series progressed, he became more of a wise, main character that you love <3. OMG it was so hard to pick between Teresa and Brenda before Teresa did that horrible thing in te second book that made it so hard to believe she did that for the reason she did! By the end of the thrid book though I was so sad of what happened to her :'(. I realized that what happened to her at the end of the book was from doing the same thing that she did in the second book. (Look at spoiler to see what it was only if you've read it >>> (view spoiler)(***********Save Thomas' life.***********) Aside from that, Minho was my alltime favorite character just because of his personality and the way he can lead so many people <3. Also, (view spoiler)(************RIP Newt, Chuck, Teresa, and the other Gladers :'( haha**************)

All in all, the consept of the story throughout the series, especially the last book, was phenominal and I will never ever forget this series because of the creativity and the connection I created with the characters and the story :').      

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Synopsis: "It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.
At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.
Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen."

Title: The Scorpio Races

Series: NO SERIES :'( But I wish there were!

Genre: Fantasy, Romance

Pages: 404

Ages: 11+

Date I Finished It: July 28th, 2012

My Rating: 5 Stars

My Word/Phrase: WHY IS THERE NO SERIES? and VERYVERY CREATIVE PLOT

Book Format: Hardcover (from library lol)

Review: I. WANT. MORE. When I finished this book , I was SO SAD it ended. I just fell in LOVE with this book (and maybe Sean Kendrick too ;) ) from the beginning. At first, I was slightly confused about the whole "water horses" part, but once I read more through the book I began to realize why they are apart of the island. Now I kind of want to live on an island where Puck and Sean live and ....wait- enough with my fantasy. Let's get to the book.

The almost main thing I loved about this book was the characters. They were so well put together. Also, Puck and Sean's realationship was progressively built and was written beautifully. You already know, but I HAVE loved Sean Kendrick since the beginning of the book and I wish to be like Puck :'). They are so cute together though, so I could not break their relationship (literally because they are fictional characters! :) ).

The other reason why I loved this book was the whole concept of it. The way Stiefvater described the island, water horses, and the Scorpio Races was so creative and visionary. Overall, this whole idea of The Scorpio Races got me since the beginning of the book and I really wish there were a sequel, but I even searched online if there was going to be a sequel and there is not :'(. But I will never forget The Scorpio Races and how beautifully written it was.

Oh, how I wish I had a guy like Sean Kendrick in my school... :(
★★★★★

The Toy Sorcerer (Ancient Knowledge #1) by Laura Hart

Synopsis:
Trapped as a mortal in a dimension where human dreams become reality, Alice Towers endures a journey of unmerciful persecution and excruciating self-discovery. Guided by an extraordinary realm creature named Shammerwack, she must find Magog; a boy imprisoned for over three centuries who holds the key to her release.

Unaware that her incarceration heralds the dawn of the Final Prophecy; Armageddon, Alice is pursued by an ancient being that plagues humanity with relentless nightmares, until the world hovers on the brink of insanity and self-annihilation.

Alice’s only earthbound ally, Leona, is also an antediluvian soul who has lived and reincarnated as a human for thousands of years. As one of the Ancient Coven and practitioner of the old knowledge, Leona summons shadows to protect Alice’s slumbering body and Magog’s timeworn effigy. But Leona’s maleficent sister, Lillian, another of the ancients, is equally as determined to capture Alice; the vessel by which the Demon Lord of... (Read more) Trapped as a mortal in a dimension where human dreams become reality, Alice Towers endures a journey of unmerciful persecution and excruciating self-discovery. Guided by an extraordinary realm creature named Shammerwack, she must find Magog; a boy imprisoned for over three centuries who holds the key to her release.
Unaware that her incarceration heralds the dawn of the Final Prophecy; Armageddon, Alice is pursued by an ancient being that plagues humanity with relentless nightmares, until the world hovers on the brink of insanity and self-annihilation.
Alice’s only earthbound ally, Leona, is also an antediluvian soul who has lived and reincarnated as a human for thousands of years. As one of the Ancient Coven and practitioner of the old knowledge, Leona summons shadows to protect Alice’s slumbering body and Magog’s timeworn effigy. But Leona’s maleficent sister, Lillian, another of the ancients, is equally as determined to capture Alice; the vessel by which the Demon Lord of the Realms intends to escape the confines of his nebulous world.
A bloody battle ensues on Earth as Lillian’s underworld demons and Leona’s defensive forces tear lives apart, whilst an increasingly insane world creeps inexorably closer to the Final Prophecy.

Title: The Toy Sorcerer
Series: (I don't know the name of the series, 'cause the rest didn't come out yet) #1 EDIT: Ancient Knowledge #1
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 377
Ages: 10+ (Very entertaining and cute!)
Date I Finished It: April 26th, 2012
My Rating: 4 Stars
My Word: Creative
Book Format: Ebook

This book intrigued me for most of the time. I started to really like Alice because of the way that her brother and mother have died, and being crippled, she still doesn't really argue and she doesn't give up. This has also occurred when she was in the Dream Realms. Oh, and SHAMMERWACK!! Now who doesn't love him? I might not listen to him a whole lot, but he was so loving and caring towards Alice. The whole time Alice was in the realms, it was just more and more adventure for her. I truly loved the different and crazy things going on in the Dream Realms. The totally different characters really amazed me. All in all, this book left me wanting to know more. Hart did a great job with the fantastic writing. I could easily see the Dream Realms in my head! I just loved this book and oh-THE DARK DAYS!!! SOO SUSPENSEFUL!!!
★★★★

The Maze Runner (The Maze Runner #1) by James Dashner

Synopsis:  "When Thomas wakes up in the lift, the only thing he can remember is his first name. He has no recollection of his parents, his home, or how he got where he is. His memory is blank. But he’s not alone. When the lift’s doors open, Thomas finds himself surrounded by kids who welcome him to the Glade, a large expanse enclosed by stone walls. Just like Thomas, the Gladers don’t know why or how they got to the Glade. All they know is that every morning, for as long as anyone can remember,  the stone doors to the maze that surrounds them have opened. Every night, for just as long,  they’ve closed tight. And every thirty days a new boy has been delivered in the lift. And no one wants to be stuck in the maze after dark. The Gladers were expecting Thomas's arrival. But the next day, a girl is sent up—the first girl to ever arrive in the Glade. And more surprising yet is the message she delivers. The Gladers have always been convinced that if they can solve the maze that surrounds the Glade, they might find their way home...wherever that may be. But it's looking more and more as if the Maze is unsolvable. And something about the girl's arrival is starting to make Thomas feel different. Something is telling him that he just might have some answers-if he can only find a way to retrieve the dark secrets locked within his own mind.

Title: The Maze Runner
Series: The Maze Runner #1
Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, The Maze Runner Genre (Yep, its that cool it gets its own genre)
Pages: 374
Ages: 12+ (You might not even want 12 'cause I was freaking out half the time in this book: its pretty scary :P)
Date I Finished: April 3rd, 2012
My Rating: Begillion Stars
My Word: OMGITHINKIMINLOVEWITHTHISPLOTILOVEITWITHALLMYHEARTITISSOUNIQUE (yep, I officially have gone crazy)


According, to Goodreads 5 star rating system; 5 stars means "it was amazing." Now, if I were able to go over the 5-star rating system, I'd make this book be a begillion stars which would mean: OMG THIS BOOK WAS FREAKING AWESOME!!! (or should I say...shucking awesome) But, maybe it would be even more than that. If I were able to go back in time and see myself having bad thoughts on this book before I began reading it, I'd shoot myself in the head. Was that a little too far? Nah...

Before we start, I'm going to say that the book can be described with just one word: OMGITHINKIMINLOVEWITHTHISPLOTILOVEITWITHALLMYHEARTITISSOUNIQUE. (See? Didn't I say it was just one word??)

Anyway, let's start with...THE PLOT!!! This plot really was freaking awesome (aka: a begillion stars) because it was so unique. The idea of people "testing" these kids to go out in the maze island thingy and wipe their memories is brilliant. I would've never come up with the idea myself. (But, of course I wouldn't 'casue I'm not what you say, a writer.)

Moving on, THE CHARACTERS. I lovelovelove Thomas. You would think (at least I would) that since I'm a girl, I wouldn't like a boy narrator, which I usually don't, but Thomas was just so freaking awesome. (Once again, a begillion star.) It wasn't just Thomas though. I really lovedlovedloved Alby, Newt, Chuck (OH CHUCK I LOVE YOU!!!), Frypan, AND MINHO!!! I also loved the only girl, Teresa. Dashner did a fabulous job giving each and every one of the characters a different (and amazing) personalities.

Oh yeah and did I mention? THIS BOOK WAS FREAKING SUSPENSEFUL!! Now, when I say a book is suspenseful, people, Ms. Holly isn't lying. Oh, and also, I pretty much bawled my eyes out near the end that had something to do with one of the characters I loved. I won't say anything else! Just that I'm gonna make a ALLTIME FAVE TILL DEATH book shelf on Goodreads just for this book.

Lastly, THE ENDING...HOLY CRAP I THINK I WET MYSELF WHEN I READ IT!! In other words, it was amazing. Now, I'm usually the one who finds all the twists before reading it, but woo-ie this book's ending was SCHOCKING. I mean, I never would have thought THAT would be the ending.

On to the next book! Now, if anyone has negative feelings for this book; it's alright just tell me. Hopefully you'll come out of the argument alive. >:)

★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
(Sorry, I couldn't fit a begillion) :'(

The Iron King (Iron Fey #1) by Julie Kagawa

Synopsis:  "Meghan Chase has a secret destiny - one she could never have imagined... Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school... or at home. When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change. But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face... and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart."

Title: The Iron King
Series: Iron Fey #1
Genre: Fantasy, Fiction
Pages: 363
Ages: 11+?? (I'm pretty sure. It's been a while since I was 11. :P)
Date I Finished: March 23rd, 2012
My Rating: 5 STARS
My Word: CREATIVE

I LOVED how this book is all fantasy like. :):) The interesting creatures were so unique and descriptive that I could clearly see them in my head. It felt like I could just reach out and grab them. I enjoyed the plot and I loved the chemistry between Ash and Meghan, although I wish Ash would just cut the crap and stop thinking about his queen and just LOVE Meghan. (But, if Meghan doesn't take him, I'll be glad to!) This book was fairly good, but I should say I really liked it because that's what four stars means on goodreads. :P (But I did really like it so that's good!!)I loved, loved, loved the characters!! Meghan, a very courageous girl/princess, just trying to get her brother, Ethan, back; Ash, the handsome, prince, whom I really want to be a reality; Puck, the funny, 200 year old still teenager guy, and last but certainly not least Grimalkin, a wise cat who helps Meghan through her journey. WOW! I loved them all! There were many other charries too though like, Oberon, Ethan, Luke, Meghan's mom, etc. So glad I read this book! All in all, this book was very adventurous and it showed Meghan's journey as she traveled through the Nevernever to get her brother, Ethan, back. Ughhh... sometimes I hate sequels because then you have to WAIT!
★★★★★

Racing in the Rain: My Life as a Dog by Garth Stein

Synopsis: "Have you ever wondered what your dog is thinking? Meet one funny dog—Enzo, the lovable mutt who tells this story. Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: most dogs love to chase cars, but Enzo longs to race them. He learns about racing and the world around him by watching TV and by listening to the words of his best friend, Denny, an up-and-coming race car driver, and his daughter, Zoë, his constant companion. Enzo finds that life is just like being on the racetrack—it isn't simply about going fast. And, applying the rules of racing to his world, Enzo takes on his family's challenges and emerges a hero. In the end, Enzo holds in his heart the dream that Denny will go on to be a racing champion with his daughter by his side. For theirs is an extraordinary friendship—one that reminds us all to celebrate the triumph of the human (and canine) spirit."

Title: Racing in the Rain: My Life as a Dog

Series: None
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Pages: 278 (Paperback)
Ages: 8-12 (But all are welcome to read it!)
Date I Finished: February 20th, 2012
My Rating: 3 stars- not my favorite genre

My Word: INSPIRING

This book was not really the genre I like, (Science fiction, romance)but it was still very good. This novel basically is the whole life of the dog, Enzo, from the moment he is born to the moment he dies. I loved that Enzo was the narrator!! It was very realistic too because he can't speak, he doesn't have opposable thumbs and all he really can do is eavesdrop. The plot was Enzo's life and how his owner's family is having a hard time. Denny, Enzo's owner/master, had very tough times with his family because his wife dies (not really a spoiler because it tells you that right at beginning of book) and he loves his daughter, Zoë, but unfortunately he has to fight to keep custody of her from someone else during most of the book. It felt like I was literally watching a movie because the details were described beautifully. Also, Denny is a racecar driver and Enzo really loves racecars too. In the story they have little quotes of racecar driving that relates to life, which made it inspiring, I guess. The book was really sad during most parts, for all of you people who love sad things, hahaha. But, at the end it was kind of happy, almost like closure for all those sad moments. This book shows how life can really push you to the limit, but you should never give up, now that is what makes it inspiring. I really loved how Denny never gave up even though he's been through so many tough times. I give this a 3 star because the genre, (fiction, and just the life of the dog) isn't very appealing to me and it makes it a little more boring, but for some reason, I just couldn't put down the book. If you like this genre, than you will love this book...

★ ★ ★

The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games Trilogy #1) by Suzanne Collins

Synopsis: "In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before - and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love"

Title: The Hunger Games
Series: The Hunger Games Trilogy #1
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction, Romance
Pages: 374
Ages: 12+
Date I Finished It: January 10th, 2012
My Rating: 5 stars, it was amazing!
My Word: UNPUTDOWNABLE (literally)

How can Suzanne Collins come up with such a great plot? She displays that the capitol in Panem shows the other districts that they have the power by putting these Hunger Games out to the districts, where kids fight for survival. Katniss, the main character, goes to these Hunger Games and learns so many things that she never noticed before. During Katniss’ stay at the arena, she experiences the love of Peeta or Gale. She loved each one of them differently. Like, the kisses with Peeta at the arena, and thinking of what Gale said about running into the woods together. I truly couldn’t decide which one she would truly love at the end. I worship Suzanne Collins because of her fabulous talent. This book, broke my heart, made me laugh out loud, and cry for happiness all at once. I don’t know how Suzanne did it, but she made the best book I’ve ever dreamed of come into reality. (book reality, anyway) The characters were all so unique and these charthey really made the story UNPUTDOWNABLE. Every one of them were fabulous. Prim is amazing to me because she is only twelve in the story, but she has to deal with all the dystopian problems of the nation. Even though other reviewers say she is weak, she doesn’t seem at all to me. All the characters worked together to make this story the best I believe it could possibly be. My thanks to Suzanne Collins for creating this new, different, and one of a kind world. I truly loved everything about this book. Suzanne Collins surprised me with it and she showed me this could really happen in the future.
★★★★★