Hi all,
It's been some time. I moved, then I wasn't motivated to read, and I also couldn't find the books I was reading before I moved. But I finally found them and finally finished one! Here is a review of Ghosts From Our Past: Both Literally & Figuratively: The Study of the Paranormal by Erin Gilbert & Abby Yates, with Andrew Shaffer. I received this from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
If you aren't already aware, Ghosts From Our Past is a movie companion novel for the newest Ghostbusters movie that came out in 2016. I finished this book, then I watched the movie. It was kind of fun to have read the book because it is the book that is referenced in the movie. However, I still did not like it.
I know that it was written to reflect how young and dumb Erin and Abby were, which made a lot more sense when watching the movie. It is supposed to show how immature and inexperienced they were when they originally wrote the book. The version that we are reading, though, is supposed to be the "revised edition," but it still reflects an immaturity that I found difficult to read.
It was fun in spots and interesting here and there. However, it became a bit of a chore to read, especially toward the end. I was so excited to read it because I've been a fan of Ghostbusters since I was really little. I liked the movie, but the book was just meh. Overall, I would give this book 2 out of 5 stars.
Jenell
Gamer. Reader. Writer. Whatever.
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Monday, July 25, 2016
BookTube-A-Thon 2016 Results
Well, Booktube-a-thon 2016 is officially ended. I wish I had had more time to read during the read-a-thon! I didn't finish them all, as I anticipated. I wish I could have, but work! So, I'm here to share with you my results from Booktube-a-thon.
First book completed:
Challenges completed: Challenge 1, Challenge 5, & Challenge 6: Read a book with yellow on the cover, read a book older than you, and read a book-to-movie adaptation.
I wasn't originally going to use this book to complete challenge 5. It sort of happened on accident. I got to talking with a co-worker about this play and she mentioned that Joss Whedon had made this into a movie. I love Joss Whedon! So I had to get this from the library. I also got a version of this made in 1993 that had Keanu Reeves in it! As much as I love Joss Whedon, I didn't love his version of Much Ado About Nothing. I actually really liked the 1993 version much more! I think because it actually took place in the time period that Shakespeare set it in. Whereas, Whedon's version was a modern setting and it was all in black and white. I didn't care for that much.
Second book completed:
I managed to make it through this almost 500 page book in about 3 days. Yes, it is for younger readers and is easier to read, but it was so good! I probably would have been able to finish at least one other book before the end of the read-a-thon, but I didn't want to put this one down!
And that is all I managed to finish! I did complete 4 out of the 7 challenges with only 2 books read. I was so very close to finishing Coraline, but I wanted to read Magnus Chase more, so I neglected it. It was worth it. Coraline was kind of a weird book (which I finished today). I also watched the movie adaptation anyway since I already had it from the library. I liked it even less than the book. I gave the book 3 out of 5 stars. I would probably give the movie 2 out of 5 stars. There are elements that are the same, but it is very different from the book.
I also started reading Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes, which was supposed to be for challenge 3: read a book you discovered through Booktube. I'm liking it so far, but have turned my attention to trying to finish the books that I had abandoned to read my TBR for Booktube-a-thon. Right now, that includes finishing up The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani.
Tell me, if you participated, how did you do? Let me know in the comments! I would love to hear from you!
Until next time,
Jenell
First book completed:
Challenges completed: Challenge 1, Challenge 5, & Challenge 6: Read a book with yellow on the cover, read a book older than you, and read a book-to-movie adaptation.
I wasn't originally going to use this book to complete challenge 5. It sort of happened on accident. I got to talking with a co-worker about this play and she mentioned that Joss Whedon had made this into a movie. I love Joss Whedon! So I had to get this from the library. I also got a version of this made in 1993 that had Keanu Reeves in it! As much as I love Joss Whedon, I didn't love his version of Much Ado About Nothing. I actually really liked the 1993 version much more! I think because it actually took place in the time period that Shakespeare set it in. Whereas, Whedon's version was a modern setting and it was all in black and white. I didn't care for that much.
Second book completed:
Challenge completed: Challenge 4, read a book by your favorite author.I managed to make it through this almost 500 page book in about 3 days. Yes, it is for younger readers and is easier to read, but it was so good! I probably would have been able to finish at least one other book before the end of the read-a-thon, but I didn't want to put this one down!
And that is all I managed to finish! I did complete 4 out of the 7 challenges with only 2 books read. I was so very close to finishing Coraline, but I wanted to read Magnus Chase more, so I neglected it. It was worth it. Coraline was kind of a weird book (which I finished today). I also watched the movie adaptation anyway since I already had it from the library. I liked it even less than the book. I gave the book 3 out of 5 stars. I would probably give the movie 2 out of 5 stars. There are elements that are the same, but it is very different from the book.
I also started reading Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes, which was supposed to be for challenge 3: read a book you discovered through Booktube. I'm liking it so far, but have turned my attention to trying to finish the books that I had abandoned to read my TBR for Booktube-a-thon. Right now, that includes finishing up The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani.
Tell me, if you participated, how did you do? Let me know in the comments! I would love to hear from you!
Until next time,
Jenell
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Booktube-A-Thon 2016!
Wow. To think, I started doing this about a year ago, right when last years Booktube-A-Thon was happening. I was mostly posting on my YouTube account then, but I haven't done that in awhile. I find that I don't have as much time to edit, so the blog is a little easier.
Anyway, a little late, but I thought I would share my Booktube-A-Thon 2016 TBR! I honestly have only 4 on the list right now. I always try to combine challenges, then read whatever books I have time for after that. Also, since I have to work all week, I won't have a ton of time for reading. So I probably won't be able to read 7 books, but I will get as far as I can!
Challenge 1 & Challenge 5: Read a book with yellow on the cover & read a book older than you.
For this challenge, I picked Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. I chose my No Fear Shakespeare version because it has yellow on the cover, of course. The other reason I chose this was because this play was the very first Shakespeare play I ever went to see and I went with my sister. It was my first trip to the local Shakespeare festival here in Boise, so it hold special place in my heart. This also has the benefit of being older that me!
Challenge 2 & Challenge 6: Read a book only after sunset & read and watch the book-to-movie adaptation
The book that I chose for these 2 challenges is Coraline by Neil Gaiman. I wanted to pick a book that was short, so that I could read it quickly since I'm reading it only at night and here sunset is officially at almost 9:30 pm. Since I go to bed fairly early, I definitely need something short! I also wanted to pick a book that I hadn't seen the movie. I already had the book and I checked out the movie from my library, so I'm ready for it when I finish the book.
Challenge 3: Read a book you discovered through Booktube.
I struggled with this one. There are so many books that I've discovered through Booktube. I had to think about what I was in the mood to read. I ultimately decided to read Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes. I believe I first heard about this series from Lainey from Gingerreadslainey. She always would say how much she loved it, so I looked into it and thought it sounded interesting. I thought about maybe choosing Throne of Glass, but decided I wanted to read this one first.
Challenge 4: Read a book by your favorite author.
The last challenge is to read 7 books. Here I have 4 out of 7. I haven't decided on the other 3 for two reasons. One is because I'm not sure how much reading I'm going to get done, mostly because of work. Second, I am such a mood reader that I want to leave myself some wiggle room to pick books that I'm in the mood to read. Who knows, I may even change my challenge books, depending on my mood! I probably won't because I want to read all of them, but it could happen!
So that's it! That's all I've got for now. Are you participating in Booktube-a-thon? If so, feel free to link your channel or blog in the comments so I can check out your TBR's!
Until next time,
Jenell
Anyway, a little late, but I thought I would share my Booktube-A-Thon 2016 TBR! I honestly have only 4 on the list right now. I always try to combine challenges, then read whatever books I have time for after that. Also, since I have to work all week, I won't have a ton of time for reading. So I probably won't be able to read 7 books, but I will get as far as I can!
Challenge 1 & Challenge 5: Read a book with yellow on the cover & read a book older than you.
For this challenge, I picked Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. I chose my No Fear Shakespeare version because it has yellow on the cover, of course. The other reason I chose this was because this play was the very first Shakespeare play I ever went to see and I went with my sister. It was my first trip to the local Shakespeare festival here in Boise, so it hold special place in my heart. This also has the benefit of being older that me!
Challenge 2 & Challenge 6: Read a book only after sunset & read and watch the book-to-movie adaptation
The book that I chose for these 2 challenges is Coraline by Neil Gaiman. I wanted to pick a book that was short, so that I could read it quickly since I'm reading it only at night and here sunset is officially at almost 9:30 pm. Since I go to bed fairly early, I definitely need something short! I also wanted to pick a book that I hadn't seen the movie. I already had the book and I checked out the movie from my library, so I'm ready for it when I finish the book.
Challenge 3: Read a book you discovered through Booktube.
I struggled with this one. There are so many books that I've discovered through Booktube. I had to think about what I was in the mood to read. I ultimately decided to read Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes. I believe I first heard about this series from Lainey from Gingerreadslainey. She always would say how much she loved it, so I looked into it and thought it sounded interesting. I thought about maybe choosing Throne of Glass, but decided I wanted to read this one first.
Challenge 4: Read a book by your favorite author.
I also had a hard time picking which book I was going to read for this one. I have a few authors that I love with books on my shelf that are unread still. I ultimately decided to read The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan. I love Riordan's books and I felt like this one would be pretty easy to get through. I've also heard good things about this book.
The last challenge is to read 7 books. Here I have 4 out of 7. I haven't decided on the other 3 for two reasons. One is because I'm not sure how much reading I'm going to get done, mostly because of work. Second, I am such a mood reader that I want to leave myself some wiggle room to pick books that I'm in the mood to read. Who knows, I may even change my challenge books, depending on my mood! I probably won't because I want to read all of them, but it could happen!
So that's it! That's all I've got for now. Are you participating in Booktube-a-thon? If so, feel free to link your channel or blog in the comments so I can check out your TBR's!
Until next time,
Jenell
Saturday, July 2, 2016
*BookBear Presents* Gol by J.W. Webb
Welcome back! I'm excited to be working with BookBear again on the month long book tour for Gol by J.W. Webb. As you may know by now, I love supporting independent authors and hope that you will choose to support them too!
Synopsis:
Gol. A continent on the brink of destruction. Once a mighty kingdom, now six provinces torn apart by treacherous barons.
In one province two young lovers strive to stay together when all else prises them apart. Lissane and
Erun must survive to guide their people through the coming storm. The odds are stacked against
them. Erun, dreamer and fool, is chosen for a dark path. Whilst Lissane is given away by her father
the baron to wed the brutal son of a rival ruler.
Meanwhile, at the far side of the world a sorcerer has freed the fire demon, Ashmali, setting off a
chain of events that could ultimately bring about Gol's long foretold ruin. Caught between rising
seas, civil war, and approaching fire the continent’s time is fast running out.
Gol features beautiful sketches and maps by Tolkien illustrator, Roger Garland. It opens the doors on a new epic fantasy series titled Legends of Ansu. Within its content lies an sweeping tale of love, hatred, vengeance and destruction. In Gol the high courage of a few individuals is all that stands against the will of fickle gods and treachery of men.
In one province two young lovers strive to stay together when all else prises them apart. Lissane and
Erun must survive to guide their people through the coming storm. The odds are stacked against
them. Erun, dreamer and fool, is chosen for a dark path. Whilst Lissane is given away by her father
the baron to wed the brutal son of a rival ruler.
Meanwhile, at the far side of the world a sorcerer has freed the fire demon, Ashmali, setting off a
chain of events that could ultimately bring about Gol's long foretold ruin. Caught between rising
seas, civil war, and approaching fire the continent’s time is fast running out.
Gol features beautiful sketches and maps by Tolkien illustrator, Roger Garland. It opens the doors on a new epic fantasy series titled Legends of Ansu. Within its content lies an sweeping tale of love, hatred, vengeance and destruction. In Gol the high courage of a few individuals is all that stands against the will of fickle gods and treachery of men.
J.W. Webb - find out more at Legendsofansu.com
My Review:
I went into reading this story completely blind. I didn't read the blurb first, as is my preference. So I didn't know anything about it beforehand. I was pleasantly surprised by this story. I found it interesting from the beginning. The story often switches perspective, and often in the middle of the chapter and often a few times. Webb mostly accomplished this seamlessly. There were a few rough transitions, but for the most part they were done well. None of the transitions caused me any confusion, whether rough or smooth. I was actually very impressed with the way the transitions of perspective were done when it was switching from one to another without the obvious breaks in the text that denoted a switch in character and scene.
I found the story itself to be interesting. The way it is written reminds me a lot of the Song of Ice and Fire series by George R. R. Martin, but less brutal and about 95% less incest. That's not to say there isn't adult content in Gol. There are torture scenes, sexual scenes, and other violent deaths.
I also really enjoyed the characters. It was rough going in the begging of the story for me to care and like the characters, but that did come and it didn't take too long either. For me, it came with a scene involving on of the main characters, Erun and the brothers of the girl that he loves. Even though this scene happens not too long into the beginning, I don't want to include any detail on it. It's an event that triggers the growth and journey of Erun, and I wouldn't want to spoil anything! This was the turning point for not just Erun, but other characters as well.
The story seems to flow really well, with a few rough patches here or there. I was glad to have read this on my Kindle because I found myself using the dictionary quite a bit because there were many words used that I was not familiar with. This use of obscure words (at least for me) hardly ever took away from the story. Only a few times did I look up a word and wonder why it was necessary to use that word instead of another. That being said, I do have an appreciation for the way words were used in Gol. The writing style has the feel of fantasy. Does that make sense? I don't really know how else to describe it. There are also some beautiful drawings that are in the novel right at the beginning of each book, as well as two maps in the beginning.
An example of the drawings
Gol was really enjoyable and it gets better and better as you go. It has some hiccups, as most books do. I gave Gol 4 out of 5 stars.
Go read it! :)
Until next time,
Jenell
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Cover Reveal! 100 HOURS by Rachel Vincent
Check out the awesome cover for 100 HOURS, the first book in a new trilogy by New York Times best-selling author Rachel Vincent! I'm so excited to be able to share this cover with you. 100 HOURS will release on March 28, 2017 from Katherine Tegen Books. Along with this cover reveal is a note from the author about her upcoming novel and an amazing giveaway.
Scroll down to check out the gorgeous cover, read what Rachel Vincent has to say about 100 HOURS, and enter for a chance to win. And be sure to share your thoughts about the cover in the comments!
The Cover Revealed
Title: 100 HOURS
Author: Rachel Vincent
Release date: March 28, 2017
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Pages: 368
Formats available to pre-order: Hardcover
Find it: AMAZON | GOODREADS
Description:
Maddie is beyond done with her cousin Genesis’s entitled and shallow entourage. Genesis is so over Miami’s predictable social scene with its velvet ropes, petty power plays, and backstabbing boyfriends.
While Maddie craves family time for spring break, Genesis seeks novelty—like a last-minute getaway to an untouched beach in Colombia. And when Genesis wants something, it happens.
But paradise has its price. Dragged from their tents under the cover of dark, Genesis, Maddie, and their friends are kidnapped and held for ransom deep inside the jungle—with no diva left behind. It all feels so random to everyone except Genesis. She knows they were targeted for a reason. And that reason is her.
Now, as the hours count down, only one thing’s for certain: If the Miami hostages can’t set aside their personal problems, no one will make it out alive.
A Note from Rachel Vincent
In my upcoming YA suspense 100 HOURS, Genesis and her cousin Maddie come from opposite ends of the privilege spectrum, but when they wind up kidnapped for ransom during spring break in Colombia and have no one else to count on, they discover they have more in common than either of them thought.
If you’ve read any of my previous releases, 100 HOURS probably seems like a departure for a Rachel Vincent book. And that’s what I thought, back when it was just me and an idea. But as I wrote the story and got to know the characters, I realized that even though this book is set in the Colombian jungle and these characters have no supernatural abilities, 100 HOURS is very much a book about the themes that draw me in over and over. Survival. Family friction and loyalty. High-stakes pulse-racing action. Twists, turns, secrets, and revelations. Girls who can fend for themselves—and for anyone else who needs help.
Rachel Vincent is a former English teacher and an eager champion of the Oxford comma. She shares her home in Oklahoma with two cats, two teenagers, and her husband, who’s been her # 1 fan from the start. Rachel is older than she looks and younger than she feels, and she remains convinced that writing about the things that scare her is the cheapest form of therapy—but social media is a close second.
Enter in the Rafflecopter below...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
What are your thoughts on the cover? Let me know in the comments!
Until next time,
Jenell
If you’ve read any of my previous releases, 100 HOURS probably seems like a departure for a Rachel Vincent book. And that’s what I thought, back when it was just me and an idea. But as I wrote the story and got to know the characters, I realized that even though this book is set in the Colombian jungle and these characters have no supernatural abilities, 100 HOURS is very much a book about the themes that draw me in over and over. Survival. Family friction and loyalty. High-stakes pulse-racing action. Twists, turns, secrets, and revelations. Girls who can fend for themselves—and for anyone else who needs help.
About Rachel Vincent
 |
| Photo credit: Kim Haynes Photography |
Rachel Vincent is a former English teacher and an eager champion of the Oxford comma. She shares her home in Oklahoma with two cats, two teenagers, and her husband, who’s been her # 1 fan from the start. Rachel is older than she looks and younger than she feels, and she remains convinced that writing about the things that scare her is the cheapest form of therapy—but social media is a close second.
The Giveaway
Courtesy of the author, there is a blitz-wide giveaway for…- ONE (1) winner will receive a SIGNED SET of a paperback copy of THE STARS NEVER RISE + an ARC of THE FLAME NEVER DIES
Enter in the Rafflecopter below...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
What are your thoughts on the cover? Let me know in the comments!
Until next time,
Jenell
Sunday, June 12, 2016
2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas by Marie-Helene Bertino
Hello everyone,
It's the end of the weekend. It was entirely too short. Saturday, the Hubby and I went to a nice lunch and went to go see the new Warcraft movie. Sunday was spent gardening and running other errands. Over the weekend, I finished 2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas by Marie-Helen Bertino. I received this book for free from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review. I chose this one because of a BookTuber, Lindsey Rey, that I really enjoy recommended it. I would link her account, but she seems to have stopped making YouTube videos since the time I was away from YouTube (during my most recent reading slump). Which is really unfortunate! I really enjoyed her videos!
2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas. What to say about it. It is written differently that most books I read. The whole books takes place during the hours of one day. Each chapter title is the time that the events following are taking place. It's a really interesting concept. And you know from the title that something is likely going to take place at 2 A.M. What confused me before reading the book, and not having read the blurb at all, was what the heck the title meant. The Cat's Pajamas is a jazz club in the story where the culminating event takes place at 2 A.M.
Once I got used to the writing style, I really enjoyed it. The only thing that was a little annoying was the fact that the perspective would rapidly change from one character to another. This worked most of the time and I was able to follow it, but there were a few occasions where it did get confusing as to who you were supposed to be following.
The story was fun. There was a bit of romance, some mischief, some sad events in character's pasts. It was entertaining. But the end. I won't spoil it, but it left me with a sense of what the hell is happening? This is one of those stories that leaves the ending open, which is fine. But there is a scene at the end with a character by the name of Mrs. Santiago. If you've read it, I'm sure you know what I mean. That last scene was just so out of left field with no explanation as so what the heck it is supposed to be that it really brought down the overall rating of the book for me.
Overall, I gave 2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Have you read this book? If so, what did you think? Without spoiling anything, what did you think if the end? Let me know! I'd love to hear from you!
Until next time,
Jenell
Monday, June 6, 2016
Bats of the Republic by Zachary Thomas Dodson
Hello again!
I have another review for you all. This one is Bats of the Republic by Zachary Thomas Dodson.
This is going to be a tough one to review. This book is unique. I've never read another book like it. My library has it categorized as Science Fiction.
It has those elements, but it also has a Historical Fiction aspect to it as well. It includes drawings, a few pull out pages, maps, and an envelope. It is one of the most interesting and beautiful books I've read. I originally was granted access to this book as a digital ARC from NetGalley, but never read it because I could only read it sitting at my computer as I couldn't get it on my Kindle. I decided there was no way I was going to do that, so I promptly forgot about it.
I was browsing around NetGalley not too long ago and came across this on my list. So I decided that I would just check this out from my local library instead so that I could read and review it. This book is, in my humble opinion, a much better experience as a physical book than an e-book. So if you are interested in it, I would get a hold of a physical copy.
This book. My very first reaction to this after finishing was, "What did I just read?" I was confused as to what just happened. I immediately Googled it and found out that I wasn't the only one confused by the ending and there was actually a Reddit thread where some theories are thrown around. Don't go searching for this thread unless you want to be spoiled for the book. This thread helped me to consolidate my thoughts about it a little better, but ultimately there is one thing that I'm still confused about. I can't share that thing because it would be spoiler for the book. Nor will I share my theory because it would also be a spoiler.
Basically this book is about a man from the 1800's named Zaddock Thomas and a man in the future, about 2043-ish I think, who is his descendant. His name is Ezekiel Thomas, but goes by Zeke. Zaddock is sent to Texas from Chicago on a dangerous mission to deliver a letter and Zeke inherits the letter from his grandfather in the future, apparently undelivered.
That's the basics. It's hard to go into any more detail about the story without telling too much. This is told in a series of letters written by Zaddock to Elswyth, the girl he loves back in Chicago, as well as through a book, and other transcripts. I felt like I completely missed something when I finished this book, hence the confusion. Is this book so "meta" (as I saw it called by someone) that I just didn't catch on? I think I understand it now, but can't help but feel that maybe I am missing something.
Despite the struggle with understanding the ending and how it all ties together, the writing was really very good. In the first half of the book, I really struggled with Zeke's parts. I didn't like him much, so when his parts came around, I tried to read through as fast as possible to get back to the other parts. I liked all the other perspectives in the story, just not Zeke's. After the 2nd half, I became more engrossed in the story and began to like his parts more, but they still weren't my favorite. Towards the very end, his sections become much more interesting because of the anticipation you definitely will feel by that time.
I'm still struggling to figure out a rating for this. While I enjoyed the writing for the most part, and really enjoyed the uniqueness of the storytelling method, the ending just messed with me too much and was a little anticlimactic. I don't like to be left wondering what it all means. Tie it up for me in a neat little bow Mr. Author! I'm not saying I don't like to be challenged, but I'm not really fond of endings like this. I have one nagging question (that I can't reveal because, again, spoilers), and no way for me to find out that answer! That all being said, I think I've settled on 3.5 out of 5 stars on this one. Zeke's parts not being very interesting and the way it ended brought it down for me.
Have you read this book? If you have, please tell me what you thought!! If you are going to include spoilers, please say so that way anyone who hasn't read it knows and can skip it.
Thanks for reading. Until next time.
Jenell
I have another review for you all. This one is Bats of the Republic by Zachary Thomas Dodson.
This is going to be a tough one to review. This book is unique. I've never read another book like it. My library has it categorized as Science Fiction.
It has those elements, but it also has a Historical Fiction aspect to it as well. It includes drawings, a few pull out pages, maps, and an envelope. It is one of the most interesting and beautiful books I've read. I originally was granted access to this book as a digital ARC from NetGalley, but never read it because I could only read it sitting at my computer as I couldn't get it on my Kindle. I decided there was no way I was going to do that, so I promptly forgot about it. I was browsing around NetGalley not too long ago and came across this on my list. So I decided that I would just check this out from my local library instead so that I could read and review it. This book is, in my humble opinion, a much better experience as a physical book than an e-book. So if you are interested in it, I would get a hold of a physical copy.
This book. My very first reaction to this after finishing was, "What did I just read?" I was confused as to what just happened. I immediately Googled it and found out that I wasn't the only one confused by the ending and there was actually a Reddit thread where some theories are thrown around. Don't go searching for this thread unless you want to be spoiled for the book. This thread helped me to consolidate my thoughts about it a little better, but ultimately there is one thing that I'm still confused about. I can't share that thing because it would be spoiler for the book. Nor will I share my theory because it would also be a spoiler.
Basically this book is about a man from the 1800's named Zaddock Thomas and a man in the future, about 2043-ish I think, who is his descendant. His name is Ezekiel Thomas, but goes by Zeke. Zaddock is sent to Texas from Chicago on a dangerous mission to deliver a letter and Zeke inherits the letter from his grandfather in the future, apparently undelivered.
That's the basics. It's hard to go into any more detail about the story without telling too much. This is told in a series of letters written by Zaddock to Elswyth, the girl he loves back in Chicago, as well as through a book, and other transcripts. I felt like I completely missed something when I finished this book, hence the confusion. Is this book so "meta" (as I saw it called by someone) that I just didn't catch on? I think I understand it now, but can't help but feel that maybe I am missing something.
Despite the struggle with understanding the ending and how it all ties together, the writing was really very good. In the first half of the book, I really struggled with Zeke's parts. I didn't like him much, so when his parts came around, I tried to read through as fast as possible to get back to the other parts. I liked all the other perspectives in the story, just not Zeke's. After the 2nd half, I became more engrossed in the story and began to like his parts more, but they still weren't my favorite. Towards the very end, his sections become much more interesting because of the anticipation you definitely will feel by that time.
I'm still struggling to figure out a rating for this. While I enjoyed the writing for the most part, and really enjoyed the uniqueness of the storytelling method, the ending just messed with me too much and was a little anticlimactic. I don't like to be left wondering what it all means. Tie it up for me in a neat little bow Mr. Author! I'm not saying I don't like to be challenged, but I'm not really fond of endings like this. I have one nagging question (that I can't reveal because, again, spoilers), and no way for me to find out that answer! That all being said, I think I've settled on 3.5 out of 5 stars on this one. Zeke's parts not being very interesting and the way it ended brought it down for me.
Have you read this book? If you have, please tell me what you thought!! If you are going to include spoilers, please say so that way anyone who hasn't read it knows and can skip it.
Thanks for reading. Until next time.
Jenell
Thursday, May 26, 2016
The Sandman: Overture Deluxe Edition by Neil Gaiman
Hello again,
It's been awhile....sorry about that. I'm in the midst of a reading slump and haven't been reading very much lately. That has also transferred over into blogging and my YouTube channel. I decided that it was too much to handle for me at this time. Then because I haven't been reading, I haven't had much to say. But anyway! I did recently read The Sandman: Overture Deluxe Edition by Neil Gaiman.
The illustrations in this graphic novel were very colorful. While some of the drawings were a little odd, the colors were really bright and really beautiful.
When I see illustrations that are like the ones in this graphic novel, I always wonder how people could be so creative and think up these different creatures. Though I'm sure it was a little easier in this case to have the story that Neil Gaiman thought up to help with inspiration. Some of these are really works of art. This book feels like works of art that have a story woven into it, rather than a traditional graphic novel.I'm still not really sure how I feel about this. It was a bit odd. I felt like I understood the story, but when I finished reading it, I also felt like maybe I was missing something. Did the meaning of the whole thing just fly right over my head? I felt like this was supposed to be some profound story and it read that way. However, once I was done reading, I was just said, "ok..."
But do take my opinion with a grain of salt when it comes to Neil Gaiman. His writing it hit or miss for me most of the time. I really want to just love everything he writes, but I don't. I enjoyed Trigger Warning and Stardust, but did not enjoy American Gods. According to my Goodreads page I didn't enjoy Neverwhere either. However, I don't remember anything about it and want to read it again.
Overall, the story was ok and while the illustrations were odd, they were really gorgeous. If you are a fan of Neil Gaiman and enjoy graphic novels, you should definitely pick this up. I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Review: Worlds of Ink and Shadow by Lena Coakley
Welcome back!
I've got another review for you all today. This time it is Lena Coakley's Worlds of Ink and Shadow. If you don't know what this book is about, it's a novel involving the Bronte's as characters and the worlds that they created. I didn't know that much about this book going into it, as is my preference. All I knew was that it had something to do with the Brontes. I had initially received this as a digital ARC from Netgalley, but I never really got around to reading it. Instead, I checked it out from my library and read it that way.
I love Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, though I don't believe I have read any of Anne's work. However, I know very little about their actual lives. Ink and Shadow created a fantastical version of the Bronte's lives. It used characters and worlds that the Bronte's had originally created during their lifetimes. I didn't know this while reading. Only afterward when the author explains this. I thought this was kind of cool.
Coakley weaves a story around the Bronte siblings and their creations that explains the way their lives ended up. I don't really want to say any more than this because I don't want to spoil anything. This book was actually done very well. I wasn't sure, in the very beginning, if I was going to like it or not. However, that rapidly changed. I flew through this book!
With the little knowledge that I do have of their lives, Ink and Shadow seems to have followed their lives fairly closely. At least the brief period that is a part of the story. This book inspired me to pick up another book from the library, called The Brontes by Juliet Barker. At the end of the story, Coakley mentions this book as one of the resources she relied upon for her story. I didn't know this when I went to get this, but found out later when I finished the story. Apparently from a little research I did, Barker's book is very highly regarded in the research world. If you, like I, want to learn more about the Brontes, I would suggest picking up Barker's book. A word of warning, it is a very long book! :)
Back to Ink and Shadow. In this story, Charlotte and Branwell can crossover into the stories that they created. They can shape the world and also participate in it, in whichever way they choose. All is well and good until things start to go awry and they begin losing control of their plots and characters.
The whole concept was really interesting. It would be so neat to be able to actually enter a story and interact with the characters! I've always liked stories that involve actually being able to enter and participate. So this was right up my alley to begin with. Coakley's writing style felt very proper. I'm not sure if it was right on target with the time period, but it seemed to be. At least, as much as it could be and still be understandable.
One thing that I really liked was the fact that Coakley had Emily learn from a mistake she makes. She trusts one of Branwell's characters by the name of Rogue, then he does something he said he wouldn't. The next time he tries to gain her trust, she doesn't believe him. I get so frustrated when characters make the same mistake over and over again. So this was a little refreshing. Although Rogue and Emily end up having a weird relationship and I was never quite sure if Rogue was being genuine or not.
Overall an interesting story and one that I really enjoyed. I gave World of Ink and Shadow 4 out of 5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
I've got another review for you all today. This time it is Lena Coakley's Worlds of Ink and Shadow. If you don't know what this book is about, it's a novel involving the Bronte's as characters and the worlds that they created. I didn't know that much about this book going into it, as is my preference. All I knew was that it had something to do with the Brontes. I had initially received this as a digital ARC from Netgalley, but I never really got around to reading it. Instead, I checked it out from my library and read it that way.
I love Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights, though I don't believe I have read any of Anne's work. However, I know very little about their actual lives. Ink and Shadow created a fantastical version of the Bronte's lives. It used characters and worlds that the Bronte's had originally created during their lifetimes. I didn't know this while reading. Only afterward when the author explains this. I thought this was kind of cool.
Coakley weaves a story around the Bronte siblings and their creations that explains the way their lives ended up. I don't really want to say any more than this because I don't want to spoil anything. This book was actually done very well. I wasn't sure, in the very beginning, if I was going to like it or not. However, that rapidly changed. I flew through this book!
With the little knowledge that I do have of their lives, Ink and Shadow seems to have followed their lives fairly closely. At least the brief period that is a part of the story. This book inspired me to pick up another book from the library, called The Brontes by Juliet Barker. At the end of the story, Coakley mentions this book as one of the resources she relied upon for her story. I didn't know this when I went to get this, but found out later when I finished the story. Apparently from a little research I did, Barker's book is very highly regarded in the research world. If you, like I, want to learn more about the Brontes, I would suggest picking up Barker's book. A word of warning, it is a very long book! :)
Back to Ink and Shadow. In this story, Charlotte and Branwell can crossover into the stories that they created. They can shape the world and also participate in it, in whichever way they choose. All is well and good until things start to go awry and they begin losing control of their plots and characters.
The whole concept was really interesting. It would be so neat to be able to actually enter a story and interact with the characters! I've always liked stories that involve actually being able to enter and participate. So this was right up my alley to begin with. Coakley's writing style felt very proper. I'm not sure if it was right on target with the time period, but it seemed to be. At least, as much as it could be and still be understandable.
One thing that I really liked was the fact that Coakley had Emily learn from a mistake she makes. She trusts one of Branwell's characters by the name of Rogue, then he does something he said he wouldn't. The next time he tries to gain her trust, she doesn't believe him. I get so frustrated when characters make the same mistake over and over again. So this was a little refreshing. Although Rogue and Emily end up having a weird relationship and I was never quite sure if Rogue was being genuine or not.
Overall an interesting story and one that I really enjoyed. I gave World of Ink and Shadow 4 out of 5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Review: The Whisper King: Daughter of Shadows
Hi all,
It's been awhile, but I'm back to give you a review of Wil Radcliffe's newest release The Whisper King: Daughter of Shadows. This is the 2nd installment of The Whisper King Saga. I was asked by the author if I would like to receive a copy of the 2nd book for an honest review and I accepted.
Daughter of Shadows picks up pretty much right where the first one leaves off. It begins with the main character, David, trying to figure out a way to save his daughter. The plot sort of changes directions from there and becomes mostly about something else, but it is still related to his ultimate goal. In fact, in reflecting on the story as a whole, I'm glad that it was done that way. I don't think the story would have been as good had it solely been about trying to rescue her.
I really enjoyed this story! I like The Whisper King just fine. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars. But this one, I liked it a lot more! It was exciting and griping! I wanted to know what was going to happen next! There is a certain element to it that I never quite get used to, which is the violence and brutality. It's just not something that you see in fiction...or at least the fiction that I normally read. There's also the mature language. Also not something super prolific in the books that I typically read. However, the language doesn't bother me.
Wil Radcliffe has a way with words. Many of his metaphors made me laugh, partly because they were funny, and partly because they were unexpected. Although the language used could sometimes be crude, I very much enjoyed his writing style. He has created a world that has many fantastical and horrific elements in it, yet his writing feels more real and relate-able. His characters are flawed and they make mistakes. Many of them are "monsters," but they seem to behave more like a real person would.
I very much enjoyed Daughter of Shadows and am looking forward to the next installment in the series! I have this 4.5 out of 5 stars!
Until next time,
Jenell
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Review: The Girl With Ghost Eyes by M.H. Boroson
Hi all,
Sorry for the inconsistent posting. I got a new job at the end of last month and so I've been busy learning and haven't had enough energy to read much, let alone anything else! :)
Recently, though, I read The Girl With Ghost Eyes by M.H. Boroson.
I ended up really enjoying this book. However, in the beginning I had a really hard time with it. I was very close to DNFing it actually. You're just thrown right into the action right in the beginning, and as someone who is not very familiar with Chinese folklore, was a little overwhelming. The author also has a tendency to repeat some stuff. For example, there'd be a description of something, a few sentences, and then the description would repeat itself. Not always in the same exact wording. It's just a writing quirk that bugs me.
However, once things started flowing better for me, I was able to get into the story. It was very interesting to get a bit of insight to Chinese folklore. It actually has peaked my interest and I want to learn more.
It is a good story, filled with Chinese folklore and religion. I think those who were disappointed by Soundless may want to look into this one. An overall 3.5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Sorry for the inconsistent posting. I got a new job at the end of last month and so I've been busy learning and haven't had enough energy to read much, let alone anything else! :)
Recently, though, I read The Girl With Ghost Eyes by M.H. Boroson.
I ended up really enjoying this book. However, in the beginning I had a really hard time with it. I was very close to DNFing it actually. You're just thrown right into the action right in the beginning, and as someone who is not very familiar with Chinese folklore, was a little overwhelming. The author also has a tendency to repeat some stuff. For example, there'd be a description of something, a few sentences, and then the description would repeat itself. Not always in the same exact wording. It's just a writing quirk that bugs me.However, once things started flowing better for me, I was able to get into the story. It was very interesting to get a bit of insight to Chinese folklore. It actually has peaked my interest and I want to learn more.
It is a good story, filled with Chinese folklore and religion. I think those who were disappointed by Soundless may want to look into this one. An overall 3.5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Friday, February 5, 2016
Review: The Secret of Letting Go by Katherine Fleet
Hi All,
I recently read The Secret of Letting Go by Katherine Fleet. A digital arc was made available to me by Entangled Teen in exchange for an honest review.
The Secret to Letting Go is about two main characters, Clover and Daniel, each with their own traumas to deal with. Clover has secrets that she doesn't trust anyone enough to share them with and Daniel lost someone close to him and has yet to deal with it. Clover and Daniel meet and shenanigans ensue.
This book switches perspective between Daniel and Clover every once in a while. I liked that it didn't do it every chapter like some novels do. It was a really quick read for me, and over all, I did enjoy it. There were a few things that I didn't enjoy, though. There is a character that is very obviously mentally ill, and I don't know how to say who it is without spoiling things. He does bad things, and Clover often refers to him as evil. I did not like how the mental illness was handled in this book at all. While I'm sure some people act and do the things he did, it just gave a poor image to what mental illness is. I feel like it adds to the fear and misunderstanding by portraying it the way that it did.
Clover and Daniel spend a lot of the book saying the same things about themselves or their situations and it does get a bit annoying. Clover keeps repeating that no one would ever love her if they knew what her secrets were and Daniel doesn't want to allow himself to feel anything for Clover and he absolutely doesn't want to talk about him tragic event. This pretty much happens until about 60% into the book, then the secrets start coming out. None of the secrets were a surprise. The book is a bit predictable. But there are enough hints dropped throughout the story that nothing is shocking.
However, despite these, I still enjoyed it. It kept me up past 11 pm one night and I had to force myself to put it down and go to bed because I had to get up early for work the next morning. Katherine Fleet managed to write teenage characters that I, mostly, didn't want to slap and I don't think I rolled my eyes once!
I liked her characters, especially Amelia, Daniel's twin sister. The one I liked the least was probably Clover, but she just frustrated me with her unwillingness to let go (which I'm sure is the point, considering the title). She described the setting really well. It made me remember what it was like the two times I've visited Florida, with the thunder storms and the humidity. Ugh.
Overall, I gave this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Friday, January 15, 2016
A Review: The Woman Who Would be King by Kara Cooney
Hi Everyone!
I recently read a book called The Woman Who Would be King by Kara Cooney, provided to me by Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.
This book is about the life of Hapshepsut, a female Pharaoh in Ancient Egypt. This book review is going to be rather short because, honestly, I don't have a lot to say about it. It wasn't a fantastic book and I struggled with it.
There was a lot of "this might have happened, but no one knows for sure because the Egyptians didn't keep those kinds of records." I do realize that there is only so much you can do when the things left to you don't give you all the answers you want, but I found this tendency to be particularly annoying. The beginning actually starts out really well, almost like Kara is going to tell you her version of events in a story format, but then that changes and it isn't like that at all.
I'm sure some people would enjoy this book, but I didn't really. There were some interesting things to learn, but overall, I was bored and annoyed. I would give this book 2.5 out of 5 stars.
Until next time,
Jenell
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Cover Reveal! Greta and the Lost Army by Chloe Jacobs
Hi Everyone!
I'm excited to be apart of the cover reveal for Chloe Jacobs' new book, Greta and the Lost Army, book three in the Mylena Chronicles! In addition, the first 2 books have had cover updates as well! They are all so gorgeous! So take a peek and enjoy!
Book Title: Greta and the Lost Army (Mylena Chronicles, #3)
Series Name: Mylena Chronicles (Previous books are: Greta and the Goblin King and Greta and the Glass Kingdom
Author: Chloe Jacobs
Release Date: Feb. 1, 2016
Genre: YA Fantasy / Fairytale Retelling
Author Website: www.chloejacobs.com
Author Twitter: @Jacobs_Chloe
Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChloeJacobsAuthor
Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/chloejacobs
Newsletter: http://www.chloejacobs.com/p/contact.html
Author Bio:
Chloe Jacobs is a
native of nowhere and everywhere, having jumped around to practically every
Province of Canada before finally settling in Ontario where she has now been
living for a respectable number of years. Her husband and son are the two best
people in the entire world, but they also make her wish she'd at least gotten a
female cat. No such luck. And although the day job keeps her busy, she carves
out as much time as possible to write. Bringing new characters to life and finding
out what makes them tick and how badly she can make them suffer is one of her
greatest pleasures, almost better than chocolate and fuzzy pink bunny slippers.
Greta and the Lost Army Book Synopsis:
A fate as unavoidable as love itself…
After spending the last four years
trapped in a place of monsters, demons, and magick, the last thing the fierce
teenage bounty hunter Greta expected was to ever be back on Earth. But a rare
opportunity gives her and the Goblin King Isaac the opportunity to do just
that. Now she’s home. With a boy in tow. And her parents have lots of
questions.
Although Greta finally has her heart’s
deepest wish—to see her family again—every step she takes to reconnect with
them drives her further away from Isaac. Greta and Isaac planned for her to
return to Mylena and become his queen, but she’s not sure if she can go back to
that harsh world, though staying on Earth means giving up the boy she loves.
But a powerful enemy refuses to let
Greta escape. A demon who will stop at nothing to destroy her and everything
she loves. Even if it means following her to Earth and forcing her to face a
fate as unavoidable as love itself.
Book 1: Greta and the Goblin King:
Amazon.co.uk Buy Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Greta-Goblin-King-Mylena-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00R6AVKHY/
Book
2: Greta and the Glass Kingdom:
Goodreads
Book Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18630439-greta-and-the-glass-kingdom
Amazon.com
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Greta-Kingdom-Entangled-Mylena-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00SEZI7LC
Amazon.co.uk
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Greta-Kingdom-Entangled-Mylena-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B00SEZI7LC
Entangled
Page: http://www.entangledpublishing.com/greta-and-the-glass-kingdom/
Until next time,
Jenell
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
A Review: Fat Girl Walking by Brittany Gibbons
Hi All!
Long time, no blog. Sorry about that! I've been so busy! Of course there was the holidays, but I was also applying and interviewing for different jobs. I've been successful and will be starting a new job in a little over a week! Hopefully once things settle down a little bit I'll be able to write a little more consistently!
What I have for you today is a review on the book Fat Girl Walking: Sex, Food, Love, and Being Comfortable in Your Skin...Every Inch of It by Brittany Gibbons.
I loved this book. I don't remember how I came across it, but I picked it up at my library. I had never heard of Brittany Gibbons previous to picking up her book. The reason I did was because I struggle with accepting my weight. I'm at the heaviest I've ever been in my life. I was never plus size growing up, but after having two children, that all changed. The description of the book spoke to me and I thought maybe it might help me on my journey to self acceptance.
Most of this book is about Brittany's struggles throughout her life with her weight. The lack of self-confidence and how others felt the need to make fun of her or tear her down because of it.
The last part of this book is what spoke to me most more than anything else in the book. Everything else was interesting, sometimes funny and sometimes serious, always honest. She definitely doesn't hold anything back.
I identified exactly with the chapter when she talks about her relationship with her husband after she had children. Her book has given me hope and has helped me to start down the road to accepting myself how I am. I know I'm not there and it could take a while before I'm completely comfortable in my own body. Brittany has given me the courage to say to myself that it's okay that I don't look like I did 10 years ago and I can, eventually, feel sexy again.
This book makes so many great points about weight, regardless of whether you are overweight or not. I think that anyone who struggles with accepting how they look needs to read this one!
5 out of 5 stars!!
Until next time,
Jenell
Long time, no blog. Sorry about that! I've been so busy! Of course there was the holidays, but I was also applying and interviewing for different jobs. I've been successful and will be starting a new job in a little over a week! Hopefully once things settle down a little bit I'll be able to write a little more consistently!
What I have for you today is a review on the book Fat Girl Walking: Sex, Food, Love, and Being Comfortable in Your Skin...Every Inch of It by Brittany Gibbons.
I loved this book. I don't remember how I came across it, but I picked it up at my library. I had never heard of Brittany Gibbons previous to picking up her book. The reason I did was because I struggle with accepting my weight. I'm at the heaviest I've ever been in my life. I was never plus size growing up, but after having two children, that all changed. The description of the book spoke to me and I thought maybe it might help me on my journey to self acceptance.
Most of this book is about Brittany's struggles throughout her life with her weight. The lack of self-confidence and how others felt the need to make fun of her or tear her down because of it.
The last part of this book is what spoke to me most more than anything else in the book. Everything else was interesting, sometimes funny and sometimes serious, always honest. She definitely doesn't hold anything back.
I identified exactly with the chapter when she talks about her relationship with her husband after she had children. Her book has given me hope and has helped me to start down the road to accepting myself how I am. I know I'm not there and it could take a while before I'm completely comfortable in my own body. Brittany has given me the courage to say to myself that it's okay that I don't look like I did 10 years ago and I can, eventually, feel sexy again.
This book makes so many great points about weight, regardless of whether you are overweight or not. I think that anyone who struggles with accepting how they look needs to read this one!
5 out of 5 stars!!
Until next time,
Jenell
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