Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Series: Standalone
Genre: Mystery
Release Date: January 1st 2012
Source: Borrowed
Overall Rating: 2.5/5 Stars
Cover Rating: 2/5 Stars
Synopsis: On a warm summer morning in North Carthage, Missouri, it is Nick and Amy Dunne's fifth wedding anniversary. Presents are being wrapped and reservations are being made when Nick's clever and beautiful wife disappears from their rented McMansion on the Mississippi River. Husband-of-the-Year Nick isn't doing himself any favors with cringe-worthy daydreams about the slope and shape of his wife's head, but passages from Amy's diary reveal the alpha-girl perfectionist could have put anyone dangerously on edge. Under mounting pressure from the police and the media--as well as Amy's fiercely doting parents--the town golden boy parades an endless series of lies, deceits, and inappropriate behavior. Nick is oddly evasive, and he's definitely bitter--but is he really a killer? 
First Line: "When I think of my wife, I always think of her head."

If you remember my previous reviews, and I don't blame you if you don't, you will know that I am always one to test the hype surrounding popular books. Well you cannot think about hyped books without thinking of Gone Girl which is perhaps one of the most talked about books from the last few years, with the exception of Fifty Shades but let's not go into that. The plot of the novel really interested me, I mean who isn't interested by the idea of a woman who goes missing without a single trace? Well yes, a lot of people actually but I believe that's only because the whereabouts of the women is always so obvious, whether she was killed, kidnapped or ran away, you can almost always tell within a few chapters. This is where Gone Girl is unique though, you actually cannot guess. If you are anything like me then your hypotheses will constantly change the further on you get. The structure of the novel very much aids this, the chapters alternate between Nick's point of view in the present and Amy's point of view in the form of past diary entries. This structure very much interested me as it gave the reader an opportunity to meet and learn to like Amy despite the fact she is not around as well as giving subtle hints about what could have happened to her.

One thing I must fault this book for is the character development - there is almost none. Nick is a boring and somewhat crudely designed character who I personally could not make myself like. I felt the same of the many characters surrounding him: his sister, friends, Amy's mother. They were all very one dimensional, it is as if they exist only to aid the plot rather than to be likable. The only exception to this rule is Amy herself, she was a clever and well designed character who I really enjoyed reading about. It is almost as if Flynn focused all her attention on Amy and the rest of the characters were after thoughts. Despite this, Amy still was not relatable, perhaps she wasn't meant to be, and this prevents the reader from identifying with her therefore we cannot like her as much as we should be able to.

Before reading this novel I simply could not escape talk about it and it's huge twist. I'd heard so much about the shocking plot twist that I spent every few chapters wondering whether what I had just read was the twist. Worry not though, it is unlikely you would have that same problem as me because it turns out the twist was actually quite obvious however, was it shocking? That is for you all to decide for yourselves but personally I don't believe it was for one main reason - it came too late. If I could express only one criticism of this novel it would be that it draaaaags, a lot. It is hard not to feel that cutting out a third of the book would have done no significant damage. Despite this, this could easily be called the book that puts mystery into mysterious, for the first half at least. I have never read a book like it in which I actually had no idea how it would end which is a huge plus for it, however, as I said earlier, I did guess the plot eventually so it is clearly not perfect.

I gave Gone Girl 2.5 stars due to the tense and mysterious plot that kept me guessing almost until all was unveiled two thirds of the way through. I do not believe the book lived up to the massive hype surrounding it, however, because it lacked convincing and likable characters and, for me, that is a vital aspect of a good book. I would recommend this novel to those who prize plot over character development rather than vice versa like me.

Best Quote: “There’s something disturbing about recalling a warm memory and feeling utterly cold.”

The Golden Lily By Richelle Mead

Cover Rating: 3.5/5
Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Synopsis: Tough, brainy alchemist Sydney Sage and doe-eyed Moroi princess Jill Dragomir are in hiding at a human boarding school in the sunny, glamorous world of Palm Springs, California. The students--children of the wealthy and powerful--carry on with their lives in blissful ignorance, while Sydney, Jill, Eddie, and Adrian must do everything in their power to keep their secret safe. But with forbidden romances, unexpected spirit bonds, and the threat of Strigoi moving ever closer, hiding the truth is harder than anyone thought. 
Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Richelle Mead's breathtaking Bloodlines series explores all the friendship, romance, battles, and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive. In this second book, the drama is hotter, the romances are steamier, and the stakes are even higher.


Time for the long awaited review of The Golden Lily. I started this knowing I was going to love it because, well, it has Adrian in it. Yes I was right I did love it but I read it during a reading slump which lessened my enjoyment of it. I will probably reread it sometime to enjoy it more. Anyway I was very excited to read this especially after the huge cliffhanger of Dimitri coming back in the last book. This book had a very similar plot to the last one but it was a LOT more exciting than the last. Lot's more drama! This one focused more on a different threat  than all of the previous books, instead of Strigoi they have a new enemy.


Ah, I just love so many of the characters. Sydney is one heroine that I'm yet to hate, well I am angry at her at the moment (can't tell you why) but I do still love her. She's smart and doesn't depend on any guys. Her beliefs in the Alchemists are still strong but she does what she can for her friends. Adrian, Adrian, what to say about Adrian? I loved him even more in this one, he is a lot less depressed in this one but he does have the odd moments which just makes his character more believable. Also I'm positive his hilarity increased! We saw a very protective side of him which was just amazing. Anyway enough fan-girling. I really like the more minor characters like Eddie and Trey still, both are just believable and I love it! I wasn't keen on Jill or Angeline, neither really connected with me but I don't hate them. Ugh, Dimitri was so boring! I really liked him in Vampire Academy but he seems to have lost all the badass personality though luckily Adrian picked it up. Adrian is the best kind of badass.


I think I'm in love with this book, I laughed at every witty comment from Adrian and even a few from Sydney. The ending made me write a very hysterical email to Richelle Mead which I luckily deleted before sending but I can't tell you any more about that just yet. I was very disappointed that Christian hasn't made an appearance just yet, he better do at some point though because he was a great character. Lissa can stay away though she doesn't bother me. Overall I adored this book and if you haven't yet read it you need to. Now.


My favorite quotes - because one isn't enough!


“Sage," he said. "What are you wearing?"
I sighed and stared down at the dress. "I know. It's red. Don't start. I'm tired of hearing about it."
"Funny," he said. "I don't think I could ever get tired of looking at it.”
...
“He shouldn't have said that," repeated Adrian, eerily serious. He leaned his face toward mine. "I don't care if he's not the emotional type or the complimentary type or what. No one can look at you in this dress, in all that fire and gold, and start talking about anachronisms. If I were him, I would have said, 'You are the most beautiful creature I have ever seen walking this earth.” 


“Day 24. Situation is growing worse. My captors continue to find new and horrific ways to torture me. When not working, Agent Scarlet spends her days examining fabric swatches for bridesmaid dresses and going on about how in love she is. This usually causes Agent Boring Borscht to regale us with stories of Russian weddings that are even more boring than his usual ones. My attempts at escape have been thwarted thus far. Also, I am out of cigarettes. Any assistance or tobacco products you can send will be greatly appreciated.
-Prisoner 24601” 


OKAY I'm done... Nearly.


“Adrian, I'm on a date. Why are you here? On my car?” 


Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Bloodfever By Karen Marie Moning

Cover Rating: 3/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Synopsis: "I used to be your average, everyday girl but all that changed one night in Dublin when I saw my first Fae, and got dragged into a world of deadly immortals and ancient secrets...
In her fight to stay alive, MacKayla must find the Sinsar Dubh—a million-year-old book of the blackest magic imaginable, which holds the key to power over the worlds of both the Fae and Man. Pursued by assassins, surrounded by mysterious figures she knows she can’t trust, Mac finds herself torn between two deadly and powerful men: V’lane, the immortal Fae Prince, and  the ever-inscrutable Jericho Barrons, a man as irresistible as he is dangerous. For centuries the shadowy realm of the Fae has coexisted with that of humans. Now the walls between the two are coming down, and Mac is the only thing that stands between them."

I started the Fever series with HUGE expectations, everyone is always going on about it and I wanted to know more about this Barrons person everyone is talking about. Well I read the first book and thought it was good but not amazing so I looked at some reviews all of them saying to keep reading because it gets better. So I had huge expectations for the second book and once again it has disappointed me. Not massively because it was a good book but I am still yet to see what all the fuss is about. Third book lucky? Hopefully. In my last review I said I hated V'lane, I now sorta like him. I don't know why and I don't want to like him but I do. Barrons on the other hand is kinda annoying me, he I want to like. He seems to scary and he bosses Mac around to much. He actually grounded her! Also anyone who has read this; is it just me or has MacKayla NEVER seen Barrons during the day? He always appears at night. I don't know what he is but I think that is crucial to it. I would give you my theory but it may be seen as a spoiler. MacKayla is back to annoying me again because of the stupidity of the things she does. I think she is too weak a character because she lets Barrons get away with way to much and does the opposite of everything he says if it's keeping her safe and if it's a stupid request she will do it.

I don't mean to turn this into a rant because I do like it but characters who act like Barbies must annoy more people than just me. I think the plot didn't really go anywhere in this book but it wasn't really very slow. Everyone is head-over-heels in love with Barrons so I'm hoping the next book lets him redeem himself and the plot gets more interesting. As for Mac and Barrons, it's obvious they are going to get together so I wish they would instead of denying it. It will happen! I would recommend this book to Adult Paranormal Romance lovers. I would give this book 3.5 stars and I am looking forward to the next book.

My Favorite Quote:
“Burns from dropped matches, Ms. Lane? Matches one might have dropped while flirting with a pernicious Fae, Ms. Lane? Have you any idea the value of this rug?”
I didn’t think his nostrils could flare any wider. His eyes were black flame. “Pernicious? Good grief, is English your second language? Third?” Only someone who’d learned English from a dictionary would use such a word.
“Fifth,” he snarled. “Answer me.” 

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Torment By Lauren Kate

I feel guilty for letting my blog get over run by meme's so I thought I will cut some, but now I can't decide which ones to cut so I'd appreciate people to tell me which one they like least and I will cut the one with the majority of votes.

For now I am reviewing a book I read in January and for some reason forgot to review it. Torment is the second in the Fallen series (see Beka's review of Fallen) so it may contain spoilers for Fallen. I was very excited to read it but the moment I opened the book I remembered I didn't even like Fallen that much so I have no idea why I wanted to read this but I did. Torment is set literally minutes after Fallen ended- you know the big fight scene which I still don't know what the point of it was - so Luce has to spend some time away from Daniel hidden in a boarding school for Nephilim where she begins to learn about the shadows that have haunted her for her entire life. She realizes that Daniel - the guy she's been in love with for all of a day - may be hiding something from her about her other lives. 

"Hell on earth.

That’s what it’s like for Luce to be apart from her fallen angel boyfriend, Daniel.

It took them an eternity to find one another, but now he has told her he must go away. Just long enough to hunt down the Outcasts—immortals who want to kill Luce. Daniel hides Luce at Shoreline, a school on the rocky California coast with unusually gifted students: Nephilim, the offspring of fallen angels and humans.

At Shoreline, Luce learns what the Shadows are, and how she can use them as windows to her previous lives. Yet the more Luce learns, the more she suspects that Daniel hasn't told her everything. He’s hiding something—something dangerous.

What if Daniel’s version of the past isn’t actually true? What if Luce is really meant to be with someone else? "

I thought this book was worse than the first but it wasn't the most horrible book I've ever read. If you look past the annoying heroine, the clingy over protective angel and the pointless fights it's actually an okay book. Daniel I hated in the first and now even more, the same goes for Luce. The one character who I actually like is Cam, the evil guy. Yes good guys are so overrated nowadays. There were a few new characters including Shelby- a girl with anger issues and Miles- he was okay. I am being forced by a friend to read the third book 'Passion' because apparently it gets better. That doesn't seem likely but you never know. I would give Torment 2/5 stars (I may come back and change this later because it seems a bit harsh!)

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

My Love Lies Bleeding By Alyxandra Harvey

Sorry this has been my first review in a while but I have been REALLY busy! I'd never read a book by Alyxandra Harvey but I had heard great things about her books so when I saw this in my -badly stocked- library I had to take it out. My Love Lies Bleeding is about Lucy and Solange. Solange is a vampire, the first female to be born, and Lucy is her best friend- a human. Solange is in danger because vampires, vampire hunters and everyone in between seem to all want her dead. Her brothers and family are highly trained to protect her though so she is not easy to kill. Many unlikely alliances form all with the same purpose. They are all determined to keep Solange safe but she's just as determined to look after herself, even if it puts her in danger. I apologise in advance for the synopsis because it is very spoilerish but it's the official one on the back of the book so it's no fault of my own.

"The Drakes are rather different to your usual neighbours. They are vampires and some of the members of the family date back to the twelfth century. One of the children, Solange, is the only born female vampire known and, as such, she poses a direct threat to the vampire queen. Her best friend Lucy is human, and when Solange is kidnapped Lucy and Solange's brother, Nicholas, set out to save her. Lucy soon discovers that she would like to be more than just friends with Nicholas. But how does one go about dating a vampire? Meanwhile, Solange finds an unlikely ally in Kieran, a vampire slayer on the hunt for his father's killer."

My Love Lies Bleeding is a very quick and light read. It is highly predictable and quite cliche but I think that is what makes it good. I really enjoyed it mostly because of the Drake brothers. I loved them all - all seven of them; Connor, Quinn, Sebastian, Marcus, Duncan, Logan and of course Nicholas. My favorites being Logan - the flirty, full of himself brother - and Nicholas - the sweet mysterious brother. Lots of reviews I read were saying that the amount of characters made the book confusing but personally I think every brother had a different personality and were all completely individual. I am looking forward to hearing more from them. I didn't just like the brothers though, there was also Kieran. He was a vampire hunter but I really liked him. The main character Lucy annoyed me slightly but I quite liked Solange, she was more 'real' even though she was the Vampire. Some of the romances, I feel, were a bit quick but then again in YA they always are. I would recommend this book to Vampire lovers or those people who just want a quick read. It's not serious, it has no message, it's just a good book. I would give it 4/5 stars.

My favorite quote:
“All right.” Lucy shouldered her way to my side and made a waving motion as if they were annoying flies. “Shoo!” She narrowed her eyes. “I said shoo.”
They dispersed, mostly startled into moving. Only Logan remained, leaning casually against the wall.
“Darling, I’m not some insect to be chased away.”
“Darling?” She snorted amiably. “You’re not ninety years old, either.”
He straightened. “I’m charming,” he informed her. “And women like endearments.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Pretty Little Liars By Sara Shepard

Hello everyone, I really don't know why I read this book. I love the TV series of it and I knew the book would be a disappointment. Nonetheless I read it. Pretty Little Liars follows Aria, Spencer, Hanna and Emily's lives after the disappearance of their best friend Alison. All of the girls are grief-stricken but underneath the grief there's relief. Alison no longer controlled their lives or that's what they thought. Each of them has a secret that no one knows. No one but Alison that is but three years after her disappearance could Alison really be alive? That's what it seems like when each girl begins to receive anonymous messages about their secrets. All signed A. But who is A? Alison is still controlling there lives when she's not even there.

Here's the synopsis:

"Three years ago, Alison disappeared after a slumber party, not to be seen since. Her friends at the elite Pennsylvania school mourned her, but they also breathed secret sighs of relief. Each of them guarded a secret that only Alison had known. Now they have other dirty little secrets, secrets that could sink them in their gossip-hungry world. When each of them begins receiving anonymous emails and text messages, panic sets in. Are they being betrayed by some one in their circle? Worse yet: Is Alison back? A strong launch for a suspenseful series"

This book was a disappointment. Even for my low expectation. The problem with Pretty Little Liars is it has an awesome storyline but I don't think it is executed very well. I found this book very predictable which may be because I've watched the series or it could be that it's just a predictable book. I don't really like the characters, I feel that the are not very well developed and kinda annoying. I much prefer the TV series of this as with Vampire Diaries and The Secret Circle. The only thing that kept me reading was the need to know who A was but apparently you still don't know in book 10. It's not likely that I will keep reading this series but you never know. Curiosity may get the better of me. I would give this book 2/5 stars. I don't think I would recommend it but I do recommend the TV series!

My favourite quote:
“Only two can keep a secret if on of them is dead.”
Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Shatter Me By Tahereh Mafi

Hello everyone, I've been waiting to read this book for SO long! And eventually I got hold of it. Shatter Me is a Dystopia novel, I have been reading a lot of Dystopia lately. Shatter me follows Juliette, she can't touch anyone. The last time she did there were devastating consequences.Her touch is lethal. Everyone thinks she's a monster, Juliette thinks she's a monster. That's why she's been locked away where she can never hurt anyone. She's been on her own, not spoken to anyone in 264 days. That is until someone is thrown into her cell with her, but who is he and why would they put him in with her? The world Juliette lives in is dying; disease is killing off most of the population, the sky is the wrong colour and the birds don't even fly anymore. But what can Juliette do when the Reestablishment decide that she may be a useful advantage in their twisted plans?
Here's the synopsis:

 "Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color. The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now. Juliette has to make a choice:

 Be a weapon. Or be a warrior. "

I really enjoyed Shatter Me, the only problem was how fast I was reading it. I had finished the book within a few hours. It was really unique and it always suprises me how unique each and every Dystopia themed book is. How do these authors think of these things? The descrition in shatter me was so beutiful, Julliette who has been imprisoned and isolated still has a mind full of kindness and beauty. I loved nearly all of the characters; Juliette, Kenji, James and Adam. Especially Adam, he was such a sweet character. For once I actually really liked the heroine in the book, she may have been my favorite character along with Adam. I loved that what ever the world threw at her she never stopped being kind, compassionate and she wasn't one of the girls who are always complaining. In fact she never complained. I would rate this book 5/5 stars and I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel, Unravel Me.

My Favorite Quote:

“I spent my life folded between the pages of books.
In the absence of human relationships I formed bonds with paper characters. I lived love and loss through stories threaded in history; I experienced adolescence by association. My world is one interwoven web of words, stringing limb to limb, bone to sinew, thoughts and images all together. I am a being comprised of letters, a character created by sentences, a figment of imagination formed through fiction.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

One Foot In The Grave By Jeaniene Frost

Hello everyone, I'm reading much to fast at the moment! Yes this is like my fourth book this week. Anyway One Foot In The Grave is the second book in the Night Huntress Series. It is set four years after the first book, Cat Cr- I mean Special Agent Cat Crawfield is still killing bad vamps only now she's doing it for the government. She's left the badass Bones 'for his own good' but Bones being Bones has tracked her down and Cat finds it very hard to fight her feelings for him (who wouldn't? a hot vamp with an English accent would be very hard to resist). But now someones trying to kill Cat and she needs Bones to help her find out who it is. Many secrets are revealed and Cat finds out more about her family and what being a half-vampire actually means.
Here's the synopsis:

"You can run from the grave, but you can't hide . . .

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She's still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help her is the vampire she left behind. Being around him awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline kick of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head—wanted: dead or half-alive—means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard she tries to keep things professional between them, she'll find that desire lasts forever . . . and that Bones won't let her get away again."

What to day about this book, well... Okay who am I kidding, I loved it. I know in my review of the first book I was a little negative because of the explicit-ness but I'm over it. I had forgotten that it wasn't supposed to be YA. Anyway I really did enjoy this book and although Cat annoyed me sometimes it was mostly because I was embarrassed for her. Some of the things she said were definitely cringe worthy. Yes I don't hate the heroine (or the hero). I pretty much liked all of the characters except Cat's mother but who does like her? She is so annoying. Parts of this book were totally hilarious and others VERY steamy (Chapter 32!). As with the first I wouldn't recommend this to anyone under 14/15. I would give this book 5/5 stars. Really whole numbers used to be rare for me! I need to read some bad books just to add in some variety. There will be another review soon of Shatter Me which I'm sure will be another 5 star review but until then I bid you farewell (Don't ask).

My favourite Quote:
“She's my kitten, and no one else's.” - Bones referring to Cat

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Clockwork Prince By Cassandra Clare

Hello everyone, now for my review of the long awaited Clockwork Prince. To sum this book up in one word: AMAZING! Yes see I can be positive some times. This book is well desercing of that title though, it is my new favorite book. Clockwork Prince is the second in The Infernal Devices series. The first, Clockwork Angel, I reviewed a couple of weeks ago. Read my review here. I have to warn you though, this review may contain spoilers for Clockwork Angel.

Clockwork Prince follows straight on from Clockwork Angel. Mortmain has vanished along with his clockwork army but he's still as threateing as ever. We find out more about Will because as I'm sure you all remember we were left with a huge cliffhanger at the end of the first but by the end of this book I had a true understanding of his character. Tessa sets out to find out more about Mortmains past but ends up finding out more about her own. And to top it all off Charlotte is given an ultimatem: Find Mortimain in two weeks or lose the institute.
Here's the synposis:

"In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends. With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them. Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do? As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart."

Quite a long synposis isn't it? Well I LOVED this book, I think it was the best in the series so far. I know in my review of Clockwork Angel my favorite character was Jem, well sorry all you Jem lovers but after you discover Will's secret you will understand. Will is now my absolute favorite character, in fact I love all of Cassandra Clare's characters. She is one of the most talented writers I know. I would recomend this series to absolutly everyone, thats how good it is. I would give Clockwork Prince 6/5 stars (I can change the rules if I want to!) and it's well deserving of those stars. I am eagerly awaiting the third and final in the series Clockwork Princess.

My Favorite Quote/s:

I loved this book so much I had to share two quotes with you, I physically had to, it was impossible to avoid! :)

“Demon pox, oh demon pox

Just how is it acquired?

One must go down to the bad part of town

Until one is very tired.

Demon pox, oh demon pox, I had it all along—

Not the pox, you foolish blocks,

I mean this very song—

For I was right, and you were wrong!"

"Will!" Charlotte shouted over the noise, "Have you LOST YOUR MIND? CEASE THAT INFERNAL RACKET! Jem—"

Jem, rising to his feet, clapped his hands over Will's mouth. "Do you promise to be quiet?" he hissed into his friend's ear.

Will nodded, blue eyes blazing. Tessa was staring at him in amazement; they all were. She had seen Will many things—amused, bitter, condescending, angry, pitying—but never giddy before.

Jem let him go. "All right, then."

Will slid to the floor, his back against the armchair, and threw up his arms. "A demon pox on all your houses!" he announced, and yawned.

"Oh, God, weeks of pox jokes," said Jem. "We're in for it now.”

“Did you just kiss me?" Will inquired.

Magnus made a spilt-second decision. "No."

"I thought-"

"On occasion the aftereffects of the painkilling spells can result in hallucinations of the most bizarre sort."

"Oh," Will said. "How peculiar.”

I love the CP quotes, I would share many more with you if I could.

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Wolfsbane By Andrea Cremer

Hello everyone, I'm finally getting back on track with my reading yaay. This review may contain spoilers for Nightshade if you haven't yet read it. I finished Nightshade ages ago so I thought I may be a little confused reading Wolfsbane but luckily the start let you catch up fast.

Wolfsbane follows alpha of her pack, Calla. She has escaped the evil keepers but to do so she had to leave her pack behind in the process. Calla ends up with the searchers instead. They have always been her enemies but when she realises everything that she has been told is lies Calla discovers that maybe the searchers can be trusted after all. But after making the ultimate sacrifice what will happen to her pack?

Here's the synopsis:

"When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemies, she's certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer, one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack and the man she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive."



I liked and disliked Wolfsbane I really enjoyed the actual story and most of the characters were quite developed. So your wondering what I disliked about the book huh? One word. Calla. I found her character irritating and very under developed, then again I often hate the main heroines.  Remember this is my opinion you may love her. The only other negative was we didn't get enough Ren! There was a lot of characters I loved from Nightshade though, to name a few Bryn, Mason and  Ansel. In Wolfsbane we meet a whole new cast of characters, 'The Searchers'. These characters are also awesome, especially Conner. The Nightshade series finally has a hilarious character (Everyone rejoice!). I would give this book 4/5 stars, without some of the characters it would have been a lot lower. I would recommend this book to werewolf lovers.

My Favourite Quote:
"Oh, horrors, I've angered The Great One", Connor said. "Will I ever gain his forgiveness?"

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Hello everyone, I was sent this book by the author to review a while ago and again I apologise for the delay in this review but as I said before I've been very busy. Alibi's Ghosts follows Ali aka Alibi, her mother is a medium so she encounters ghosts on a daily basis. Ali has the ability to be controlled by the ghosts which gives her clues on how to solve the mystery's they all have. She has a little help from her  deceased Grandfather and cousin though.

Here's the synopsis:

"Alexandra ‘Alibi’ Vernon is the eleven-year-old daughter of a psychic medium whose behavior is repeatedly influenced by kids from the Other Side. From building sub sandwiches in her sleep to sneaking into a stranger's attic, Alibi has her innocence challenged on a regular basis. Since her mother is fairly new at medium work, she only schedules two readings a week. However, this particular week, she accidentally schedules five readings, five days in a row. During this time, each child from the Other Side has a mysterious clue for Alibi to unravel, and she begins to notice each clue is connected in some way with the other readings. With a bit of ghostly charade playing, lots of trouble dodging, and the help of her deceased relatives: Grandpa Edgar and Cousin Kyle, along with her living but scaredy-cat best friend, Daisy, Alibi is able to solve the mystery and help all five grieving parents simultaneously."

I found this story quite interesting though honestly it was a little young for me. I found the characters likable and the story simple to follow. If you are not a fan of horror books do not be deceived, the ghosts in this book are more friendly than sinister so it would be great for many ages. It is also quite fun to work out the mysteries along with Alibi. I would give this book 4/5 stars for me but probably 5/5 for someone younger. I would recommend this book to people primary school age to early high school age. I enjoyed this book and recommend you read it.

If you want your book reviewed or want to do a guest review feel free to contact me.

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Hope's Daughter By Melanie Cusick-Jones

Hello everyone, I was sent a copy of this book from the author to review. I got sent it a while ago so sorry for the delay but I have been unusually busy. So many books so little time. Anyway Hope's Daughter is a dystopia/sci-fi novel but don't be put of by the genre. Usually when someone says the word sci-fi I automatically picture Star Wars or something like that but this is completely different. Hope's Daughter follows a young girl called Cassie as she lives her "normal" life in a perfect world. She has always believed everything she was told was true, that is until she meets Balik. When I say meets I mean they've known each other a long time but never properly. Balik has doubts about their supposedly perfect world, but who will be right?
Here's the synopsis:

"Life should be simple for Cassie.
For the small population of Earth survivors who live on the Space Station Hope everything they do is planned and scheduled, down to the cyclical food menus, their roles in the station, even how many children they have. Despite rigid controls directing her life, Cassie feels more out of synch than ever and worries she won’t find a place for herself within the station community. Perhaps that’s because she’s hearing things inside her head that can’t possibly be real. Or maybe it’s the regular elopements of her peers, heading off to a romantic future in the Married Quarter of the space station, whilst she’s never even been attracted to a boy – no matter how hard her best friend Ami pushes them at her. Then there are the odd questions her work placement partner Balik keeps raising. His questions are just as troubling for her as his distracting smiles and eyes that seem to see inside her. As Cassie draws closer to Balik she finds that everything else in her life begins to shift. He tells her things that call into question the system they live within. She can't believe he is right, but at the same time she finds it hard to deny the sincerity of his ideas. Could there be a connection between Cassie’s problems and Balik’s questions? The truth will drag them both to a terrifying and deadly conclusion beyond anything they could have imagined."

Personally I really enjoyed this book, it was completely different to anything I had read before. It was really interesting and the storyline really raised many questions in my head which I got the answers to later on in the book. It's one of those books that you try and work out before the ending. I admit halfway through I thought I had worked it out but when I got to the end I realised I was partly right but the true depth of the story I had no clue about. I would recommend this book to anyone who would enjoy intriguing, complicated stories. I would rate this book 4.5/5 stars.
If you want me to review your book or want to do a guest review don't hesitate to contact me.
 Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

The Hunger Games By Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games, where to start. Well at first I was a little apprehensive about reading this book, I'm not really one for reading a book everyone's obsessing over but I thought I would give it a shot. I finished this book last night at 2 O'clock in the morning, it was that addictive that I kept reading it even knowing I had to get up in a couple of hours. All I was thinking when reading this book was 'Why did I leave it so long to read this'.  There was not one part I didn't like.

The Hunger Games follows Katniss Everdeen, she lives with her mother and her sister Prim. Since her fathers death Katniss has been the sole provider for her family but she has to leave them to fend for themselves when her sister Prim is selected to compete in The Hunger Games and Katniss takes her place. The Hunger Games is a fight to the death where two kids from each district are selected as participants, one girl and one boy aged between twelve and eighteen. And this is all aired on live TV.
Here is the 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, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister Primrose, 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 will weigh survival against humanity and life against love."

Personally I loved this book, I know it sounds slightly gory but it really isn't. Suzanne Collins has put a romantic twist into fighting to the death. Any other author I think would have gone overboard with the gore but The Hunger Games is perfect. It is also going to be turned into a movie soon (YAY!). I really recommend this book to everyone, it really is a work of art. I would give this book a 5/5 stars, I would give it more if I could. So what did you think of the hunger games? If you are an author and want to do an interview or for me to review your book let me know and if anyone is interested in doing a guest review it would be much appreciated.

My favourite quote:
“You don’t forget the face of the person who was your last hope.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Review of Generation Dead By Daniel Waters AND Author Interview With Daniel Waters

Hello everyone, yes I'm doing a review AND an author interview together. Buy one get one free, or in this case they are both free. Lucky you. I was so happy to have got to ask Daniel Waters questions as I am a huge fan, plus its always good to get into an authors head. I read this book a few months ago so please forgive me if my review is slightly vague. Anyway I will start with the review.

 Generation Dead follows a normal girl called Phoebe, living a normal life. That is until teenagers begin coming back from the dead, hence the title generation dead. No one knows why this is happening but it is, the teenagers are referred to as 'Living Impared' or 'Differantly Biotic'. No one really wants anything to do with the dead teens, that is except Phoebe. Phoebe feels strangely attracted to the head of the 'living impared' Tommy Williams.  Somehow Daniel Waters manages to make Zombie romance seem well romantic, but can the living and the dead ever be together without prejudice getting in the way? Well you will have to find out.
Here's the Synopsis:

 "Phoebe Kendall is just your typical Goth girl with a crush. He’s strong and silent…and dead.All over the country, a strange phenomenon is occurring. Some teenagers who die aren’t staying dead. But when they come back to life, they are no longer the same. Feared and misunderstood, they are doing their best to blend into a society that doesn’t want them.The administration at Oakvale High attempts to be more welcoming of the “differently biotic.” But the students don’t want to take classes or eat in the cafeteria next to someone who isn’t breathing. And there are no laws that exist to protect the “living impaired” from the people who want them to disappear—for good. When Phoebe falls for Tommy Williams, the leader of the dead kids, no one can believe it; not her best friend, Margi, and especially not her neighbour, Adam, the star of the football team. Adam has feelings for Phoebe that run much deeper than just friendship; he would do anything for her. But what if protecting Tommy is the one thing that would make her happy?"

I really enjoyed this book which was quite unexpected as I don't usually like Zombie themed books, but this one was really good. It explored prejudices that are around now, not towards Zombies of course but towards humans. It shows just how cruel we can be. I was definitely not expecting there to be romance but I was wrong again. It just shows don't judge a book by it's cover or in this case by it's theme. I would rate this book 3.5/5 stars. I would go higher but you know me, I'm a fan of awkward numbers. I would recommend this book to Zombie lovers and those who do not like them so in other words literally everyone.

My favourite quote:
“We make deals with the devil every day, metaphorically.”
 Normally I would end my post here (and I was about to) but there's still the interview. I know your all relived you get to listen to me going on and on for a little longer.  Here's my Question and Answer session with Daniel Waters:

Q1: What inspired you to write your generation dead series?

A news magazine show that on bullying in schools that I watched in a lonely motel room. If you would like to read the full story, it is in the Dear Bully anthology, edited by Carrie Jones and Megan Kelley Hall.

Q2: How old were you when you began writing?

I would say eight or nine. I was serious about it by the time I turned twelve.

Q3: Who is your most inspirational person?

I'm not sure I have a "most" inspirational; so many people inspire me. Lately I'm fascinated by Orson Welles.

Q4: What is your favourite quote?

"We can't ever go back to the old things and try to get the 'old kick' out of something or find things the way we remembered them. We have them as we remember them and they are fine and wonderful and we have to go on and have other things because the old things are nowhere except in our minds now." -Ernest Hemingway

Q5: What is your favourite book?

Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace or The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger. I can have two, can't I?

Q6: Have you got another job alongside/before you started writing?

Yes, I've had many different jobs. Since writing Generation Dead, I am occasionally employed elsewhere and occasionally not.

Q7: Are you in the process of writing a book or planning to start?

I am always in the process of writing, and always in the process of planning to start! More concretely, I've just finished the edits on a new book.

Q8: Apart from your generation dead series what other books of yours should my readers look out for?

My next book is a ghost story/thriller called Break My Heart 1000 Times; it is due to be released in the Fall of this year. The book was optioned by Gold Circle Films so with a little luck we may see it as a movie.

Q9: Who is your favourite character you have created?

I don't know that I have an absolute favourite; I tend to really like whoever I am writing about at a given time.

Q10: Who is your favourite author?

I can't pick one, but some of my perpetual favourites are David Foster Wallace, J.D. Salinger, Stephen King, Ernest Hemingway, Kim Newman, Graham Joyce, Shirley Jackson, Douglas Coupland, Ira Levin, Douglas Clegg and F. Paul Wilson. I could keep going.

Q11: What is your favourite genre?

I don't really have one. I read quite a bit of science fiction, horror, noir and literary fiction but will stray out of those categories quite often. I love books of essays on pop culture.

Q12: What tips would you give aspiring writers out there?

Know what your reasons for writing are. Understand that not all writing advice is credible or even well-intentioned. Learn how to take a punch and how to refrain from throwing one. Breathe.

How very interesting! And I loved his tip at the end, NOW I'm going to end the post. Don't worry I will be back soon. If your an author and you want me to promote your book but reviewing it or doing an interview with you please do not hesitate to let me know. Really I love doing it. Thank you for reading. One more thing I now have over 50 followers (YAY!) But lets get it to 100. Yes it's a lot to ask but if you like my blog please tell your friends and if you hate my blog, well still tell your friends. :)

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

The Host By Stephanie Meyer

Hello everyone, I have read this book twice now and each time I forgot to post a review but I have actually remembered today. I read the Host straight after Twilight and it was a refreshing contrast. No sparkly Vampire's in sight. The Host is a dystopia novel in which near enough is human anymore. Their body's are possessed by 'souls', creatures that need to be inserted into host bodies.

The story follows Wanderer (a soul) as she tries to live normally - at least as normally as a soul can live - but she can still hear her host, Melanie's thoughts. Eventually Wanderer begins to listen to Melanie and they both set off to search for the man they both love. Though as with every good story their are complications along the way. In a world where humans are few and souls rule how can Wanderer survive when all humans want to kill her?
Here's the synopsis:

"Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away.

Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy. Humans become hosts for these invaders, their minds taken over while their bodies remain intact and continue their lives apparently unchanged. Most of humanity has succumbed. When Melanie, one of the few remaining "wild" humans is captured, she is certain it is her end. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, was warned about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the glut of senses, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. Wanderer probes Melanie's thoughts, hoping to discover the whereabouts of the remaining human resistance. Instead, Melanie fills Wanderer's mind with visions of the man Melanie loves—Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she has been tasked with exposing. When outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off on a dangerous and uncertain search for the man they both love."

I really loved this book, it was VERY original. I had never read anything like it, The Host was my first Dystopia novel. The only thing I didn't like was how slow the start of the book was, but by the time I got 1/3 of the way through it sped up drastically. I would definitely recommend this book to people who love Dystopia or have never read a Dystopia novel. It is a great first one. I would rate this book 4/5 stars. How did you like The Host? Did you prefer Jared or Ian? Tell me about it.

My Favourite Quote:
Fine,' Jared snapped. 'But if you try cuddling up to me tonight... so help me, O'Shea."
Ian chuckled. ' Not to sound overly arrogant, but to be perfectly honest, Jared, were I so inclined, I think I could do better.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Halfway To The Grave By Jeaniene Frost

Hello everyone, this was my third book of the year and I loved it. The only downside was how dirty it was. Don't get me wrong I don't mind books that have small bits in but this kinda went over the top. I suppose the cover should have given me an indication of what was to come. Halfway To The Grave follows Cat, normal girl by day, vampire hunter by night. That is until she meets Bones, he kidnaps her and is going to kill her until he realises she's half vampire. So they team up, the ultimate vampire hunter duo.

"If Buffy and Angel had a daughter, she’d be just like Cat Crawfield, a vampire hunter with some vampire blood and an attitude.

Cat’s got a few skeletons in her closet… and some buried in the backyard.  The half-vampire is out to rid the world of these hideous night creatures, and when she’s captured by Bones, she realizes the master vampire has a few things to teach her. Teaming up with one of “them” wasn’t in her plans, but now that the stakes have been raised, she is faced with the most difficult fight of all…."

I really loved most of the characters in this book and that is really uncommon for me. The only character I could NOT stand was Cat's mum but I cannot reveal to you the reasons why without giving away half the story. Cat was quite a good heroine and as her values changed I liked her character more and more. When I reached the end of the book I was very annoyed. My second book this week with a ginormous cliff hanger. But on the bright side I can't wait to get the next book. I would not reccomend this book to anyone under the age of fourteen and even that I feel may be stretching it a little bit. But overall a grat read. I would rate this book 5/5 stars. Happy reading :D

My favorite quote:
“Charles,” Bones said distinctly. “You’d better have a splendid explanation for her being on top of you.”
The black-haired vampire rose to his feet as soon as I jumped off, brushing the dirt off his clothes.
“Believe me, mate, I’ve never enjoyed a woman astride me less. I came out to say hello, and this she-devil blinded me by flinging rocks in my eyes. Then she vigorously attempted to split my skull before threatening to impale me with silver if I so much as even twitched! It’s been a few years since I've been to America, but I daresay the method of greeting a person has changed dramatically!”
Bones rolled his eyes and clapped him on the shoulder. “I’m glad you’re still upright, Charles, and the only reason you are is because she didn’t have any silver. She’d have staked you right and proper otherwise. She has a tendency to shrivel someone first
and then introduce herself afterwards.”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Clockwork Angel By Cassandra Clare

Hello everyone, Yay this is the second book I have read this year. You probably think its strange that I'm reviewing the second book before the first but I loved this book so much I had to share the review with you! I have never read any books by Cassandra Clare before but now I think I'll look into some of her others like The Mortal Instruments series which I have heard is great. Clockwork Angel is a book set in the reign of queen Victoria, so the content and the way they speak is slightly old-fashioned. Usually this would annoy me but it fit beautifully into this book.

Clockwork Angel follows Tessa Grey as she travels to England to see her brother Nate after he sends her a plane ticket out of the blue. When she arrives in England she is greeted by the strange Dark Sisters who claim to have been sent by her brother. Little does Tessa know they actually want to take advantage of the huge power she possesses. After escaping the Dark Sisters she is taken in by the Shadowhunters and meets best friends Jem and Will. Will is your stereotypical bad boy with a witty sense of humour and drastic mood swings. Then there's Jem, kind, forgiving Jem. Terrorised by a secret of his own.
Here is the synopsis:

"Magic is dangerous - but love is more dangerous still...

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray arrives in England during the reign of Queen Victoria, something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Friendless and hunted, Tessa seeks refuge with the Shadowhunters, a band of warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons. Drawn ever deeper into their world, she finds herself fascinated by – and torn between – two best friends, and quickly realizes that love may be the most dangerous magic of all."

So what do you think? Personally I loved this book, It was one of the best I had read in a while. I found that all of the characters had depth to them and that's unusual in books. Strangly enough I didn't hate Tessa, this is one of the few books (and I mean few) in which the main heroine didn't irritate me every time they spoke. I found Will's character a little annoying at first because of his HUGE moodswings but when I came to understand his character better I began to like him. The one character that I loved all through the book was Jem, his character was so well written and consistant. It takes skill to make such a great character, CC should be proud. I would reccomend this book to YA and PNR lovers. I would give 5/5 stars to CA. See it must be good, I gave it a full number after all. Keep Reading :)

My favorite quote:
“’I like ducks,’ Jem observed diplomatically.  ‘Especially the ones in Hyde Park.’ He glanced sideways at Will;…’Remember when you tried to convince me to feed a poultry pie to the mallards in the park to see if you could breed a race of cannibal ducks?’
‘They ate it too,’ Will reminisced.  ‘Bloodthirsty little beasts.  Never trust a duck.’”

Email me at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK

Guest Reviewers

Hello everyone, have you read a really great book lately? Well if it is Young Adult, Paranormal Romance or Dystopia of genre then you can send me a review to be included in my blog. If there are any other genres that you would like to review then if you e-mail me I will make sure  its ok.
Also if you are a devoted reviewer then you could have a regular section. I would really appriciate anyone who would like to do this, as I would like to add a little variety to my blog. So please send me your reviews and inform me whether you want a regular section. It can be once every two months, once a  month, a fortnight or even a week, but it had to be consistant.
Rules for guest reviews are simple:
1) inform me if you want me to use your name or if you want to remain anonymous. If you want me to include your name in the email tell me your preferred name.
2) at the end of your review include your rating out of 5
3) include a synopsis of the book your reviewing so everyone knows what it's about. Use the official one and put it in "speech marks"
4) only review ya, pnr or dystopia. If there is another genre you REALLY want to do I may make an accept ion. But no classics sorry. I might accept horror.
5) you can send me as many reviews as you want and I promise I will upload them all but maybe not all at once
6) I will not be able to publish reviews of books that have been reviewed already.
7) please follow my blog :)
Thank you for reading.

Email me your reviews at: confessionsofabookaholic@LIVE.CO.UK