This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

Author: Sarah Dessen
Published March 8th 2004 by Speak
345 pages
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

When it comes to relationships, Remy doesn't mess around. After all, she's learned all there is to know from her mother, who's currently working on husband number five. But there's something about Dexter that seems to defy all of Remy's rules. He certainly doesn't seem like Mr. Right. For some reason, however, Remy just can't seem to shake him. Could it be that Remy's starting to understand what those love songs are all about?

Review:

I liked it but not as much as The Truth About Forever which is one of my favorites from the author. The book of course has the usual elements of Sarah Dessen's novels -  girl with some issues about her family or friends, then she meets the boy who she will fell in love with, or will help her get over those issues. Same, same. But what I liked about this one is that it's an interesting read and it actually helped me cope with some things.

When I started reading this, I was having some issues with things (school, lovelife, etc.). So when I get to know Remy it's like I want to be like her. Just carefree, mean, has control over her feelings. But then, it's not easy being like her. When you have too much control over your feelings, you tend to ignore other people's feelings and you become selfish and insensitive. Sometimes you have to open up with the possibility that when you care and love someone, you will get hurt. It's better than feeling nothing at all and losing that someone. 

The romance part of this book is lacking. I liked Dexter's challenges, although sometimes I can't figure out his personality. Overall, this was an easy read and just like other Dessen books, you get to learn something about love and life. :)

 ♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Fifty Shades of Grey Trilogy by E. L. James

Author: E. L. James
Published May 26th 2011 by The Writers Coffee Shop Publishing House (First Book)
Series: Fifty Shades of Grey
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

FIFTY SHADES OF GREY: When college student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating.  The unworldly Ana realizes she wants this man, and Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian’s secrets and explores her own desires.


FIFTY SHADES DARKER: Daunted by Christian’s dark secrets and singular tastes, Ana has broken off their relationship to start a new career. But desire for Christian still dominates her every waking thought. They rekindle their searing sensual affair, and while Christian wrestles with his inner demons, Ana is forced to make the most important decision of her life.


FIFTY SHADES FREED: Now, Ana and Christian have it all—love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to turn Ana’s deepest fears into reality.

Review:

First I want to warn you young people (yes, you kids and young adults, below 18) that this book is certainly not for you. So, don't even think about reading this book or plan to buy it because I will assure you, you won't like it. And don't continue reading this review please!

Okay. My inner goddess is kinda pissed here. lol I just want to defend my three hearts there. I was actually about to rate it two but I'll be dishonest because I did like the book in a weird kind of way. I've heard the rave about this book so I instantly pushed it at the top of my to-read pile. Not knowing what this fucker is all about! I didn't even know it was erotica at first. The genre is not new to me. I've read some decent erotic books. I just didn't expect that BDSM will be as cheesy as this trilogy.

The trilogy centers on the beginning and development of fifty shade Christian Grey and inner goddess Anastasia Steele's relationship. The series is full of, like I mentioned BDSM, intense sexual scenes and some other kinds of sexual shit that some may like. Of course it's a love story as well if you like it to be that way.

I have lots of things to say about the books, mostly negative but I don't think that's necessary. I already read lots of insults about the trilogy. I still respect the author for her work. Don't get me wrong. The writing is shitty. It's just that, her enthusiasm of her work is great that she created this whole mess, this whole hype about Fifty. It's a Twilight fanfic but I don't see the similarities besides the hot male lead character with his stupid female lover. I'm a kind of reader who doesn't actually blame the author of her works. I think I'd blame myself more because I chose to read it.

I think many liked the series because they fell in love with Christian Grey. Well, who wouldn't? I did! A guy who's so wealthy that he can buy you anything that you want and provide your needs - material and sexual needs. Yeah, we fell in love with the money and the looks and the body and the..., I can't think of anything else.lol Anyway, I think I liked the book because of him. Because he's so generous, handsome, hot, wealthy, sexy, what else?  Fucked up! This is a superficial kind of love.

Now let's talk about Anastasia fucking Steele. Another fucked up and stupid character that doesn't know anything but to bite her lips, spread her legs, and be the drama queen. Her stupid fucking inner goddess is so irritating. Like so overly irritating. If you plan to read the book skip the parts where inner goddess is mentioned.

Told you, I liked the book in a weird kind of way. hehe I don't recommend the book. But if you like to know about what the hype is all about, go ahead and read. But if you're just curious and just want to know why people hate it, don't waste your time on this. If you like rich, hot, sexy, fictional male character, you might want to try it. lol  I can't believe I said that! XD

 ♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

P.S. I couldn't believe I was able to write a review of this. I apologize for the swearing. This is the first time I swore on my review. It's actually necessary for this review I tell you! Now we wait for the movie. : )

Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter (Goddess Test #2)

Author: Aimee Carter
Published March 27th 2012 by Harlequin Teen
296 pages
Series: Goddess Test
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

KATE WINTERS HAS WON IMMORTALITY.

BUT IF SHE WANTS A LIFE WITH HENRY IN THE UNDERWORLD, SHE'LL HAVE TO FIGHT FOR IT.

Becoming immortal wasn't supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she's as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he's becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate's coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.

Henry's first wife, Persephone.

Review:

The book is a good sequel for the Goddess Test series. I liked how the story went and developed. I wasn't able to review the first book which is The Goddess Test. But if you want a really good story based on the major Greek gods and goddesses, this series is a good start. Read The Goddess Test first!

In Goddess Interrupted, Kate as Henry's wife returned to the Underworld after six months in the mortal world as part of their deal. But after her return, she didn't expect that immortality has its price - Calliope's escape, Henry's cold shoulder, meeting Persephone, and a Being that could destroy the world including the immortals.

I'd say the book really lived up to my expectation. There are more adventures and some back story about the confusing relationships of the other gods and goddesses. Calliope's never-ending wrath and jealousy is as always, so annoying. There's lot of Kate's rant about Henry's treatment to her but that's bearable for some reasons. Maybe some can relate to it. Overall, Goddess Interrupted is a good read and I really enjoyed it.

For those who read the first book and liked it, Goddess Interrupted is a must-read! I want the third book now!

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr (Wicked Lovely #2)

Author: Melissa Marr
Published May 1st 2008 by HarperTeen
325 pages
Series: Wicked Lovely
Rating: ♥ ♥

Summary:

Seventeen-year old Leslie knows nothing of faeries or their shadowy power struggles. When she is attracted to an eerily beautiful tattoo, all she knows is that she has to have it, convinced it is a tangible symbol of changes she desperately craves for her own life.

The tattoo does bring changes - not the kind that Leslie has dreamed of, but sinister, compelling changes that bind Leslie to Irial, a dark and dangerous faery king fighting for the soul of his court. Slowly, Leslie is drawn deeper and deeper into the faery world, unable to resist its allures and helpless to withstand its perils...

Review:

Love the cover! Well, only the cover. I read this book, I think for two weeks because I didn't really enjoy it. The first one is better.

Ink Exchange is about Leslie who has a hard life ever since her mother left. With an addict brother and a drunk father, she struggles everyday and works hard to pay their bills and to earn to get the tattoo she wanted. She believes that tattoo will probably change her. Little does she know, that it will change more than she expected it will.

I really had a hard time getting into this book. I like the concept though. A girl struggling and getting a tattoo. The concept of how getting a tattoo can change someone is interesting but how the author narrated the story, it isn't at all! Some events are not relevant to the story and will just keep readers more confused. Although the series is about faeries, this book doesn't really give more information about them. I think it's more of a companion novel than a sequel. Also, I don't like the author's writing style.

I think the series has potential but I think Ink Exchange is not a really good sequel for the first book. I'm not sure if I'll continue to read the next books in the series.

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

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

Author: Julie Kagawa
Expected Publication: October 25th 2011 by Harlequin
386 pages
Review Copy from NetGalley and Publisher
Series: Iron Fey
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing.

Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her

irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can  survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side. To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale. And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Review:

The last book of the Iron Fey series. I was so excited to read this because I loved the previous books. And I'm glad to have finally read it. Of course courtesy of NetGalley! :)

The Iron Knight started where the Summer's Crossing left off. So I suggest you read Summer's Crossing first. The book is in Ash POV so I expected it to be interesting. The story is about Ash's quest to become mortal so that he can honor his vow to Meghan - and that's to be with her in the Iron Realm. It's kinda slow at first but as the story went it will keep you interested.

This final installment of the series will not disappoint you. It's kinda refreshing to have Ash's point of view. In the previous books, we saw him as a quiet guy who would always keep his feelings to protect himself. In this book, you'd know his true feelings and his true identity. Also, I like Grim and the Big Bad Wolf's bickering! They really entertained me a lot in this book! 

I was surprised with the twist! I don't want to be a spoiler. I just didn't see that coming. Initially, I thought that revelation will complicate things. But there's a purpose why it happened. I'm not that satisfied with the ending! I want more!

I'd still say The Iron Knight is a really good ending for the series. Ms. Kagawa was able to capture us with this Faery series. Thank you and We want more right?? 

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

The Iron Knight (Harlequin Teen)

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan

Authors: Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
Published October 26th 2010 by Knopf Books for Young Readers
240 pages
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

“I’ve left some clues for you. If you want them, turn the page. If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Timesbestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions? 

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

Review:

This is an interesting book. The first paragraph already caught my attention when I started reading. With a bookstore and the mystery behind a red notebook, I was expecting a really good book.

Dash and Lily are two interesting characters with distinct personalities. I think I like Dash more. A bookish loner but witty and quite amusing. Not to mention that he likes to hang out in a bookstore! I love that! Lily however is not the typical teenager. She has her own unique way of enjoying herself alone. She's sweet and optimistic.

Although I liked the premise, I think there's something lacking. I don't know, maybe it's just because of my lack of enthusiasm when I read this. And the ending! I didn't like it. Anyway, Dash and Lily's Book of Dares is still a fun and easy read! : )

 ♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Dash and Lily's Book of Dares

Return to Paradise by Simone Elkeles (Leaving Paradise #2)

Author: Simone Elkeles
Published September 1st 2010 by Flux
302 pages
Series: Leaving Paradise
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Caleb Becker left Paradise eight months ago, taking with him the secret he promised to take to his grave. If the truth got out, it would ruin everything.

Maggie Armstrong tried to be strong after Caleb broke her heart and disappeared. Somehow, she managed to move on. She's determined to make a new life for herself.

But then Caleb and Maggie are forced together on a summer trip. They try ignoring their passion for each other, but buried feelings resurface. Caleb must face the truth about the night of Maggie's accident, or the secret that destroyed their relationship will forever stand between them.

Review:

I didn't like this as much as the first one. But what I liked about it is the humor. Mostly of Lenny! That guy is uber disgusting but very entertaining. Giving this a 3-star rating because of him. hehe

Even though it didn't live up to my expectations, I still continued reading because I want to know what will happen to Caleb and Maggie's relationship. I think the author missed the "wow factor" here unlike her other novels which I really liked. Some of the events in the story are not as moving just like the first one. Other characters seem likable but there's not much development especially to the other girls on the trip. Then all of sudden Lea decides to turn herself in because someone just talked to her. There's not much story on this which I think should have been a good part for the book.

I don't think this is a good sequel for the first one, but if you want to know what happened to the two protagonists then read at your own discretion. : )

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥
Return to Paradise

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles (Leaving Paradise #1)

Author: Simone Elkeles
Published April 1st 2007 by Flux
303 pages
Series: Leaving Paradise
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Nothing has been the same since Caleb Becker left a party drunk, got behind the wheel, and hit Maggie Armstrong. Even after months of painful physical therapy, Maggie walks with a limp. Her social life is nil and a scholarship to study abroad—her chance to escape everyone and their pitying stares—has been canceled.

After a year in juvenile jail, Caleb’s free . . . if freedom means endless nagging from a transition coach and the prying eyes of the entire town. Coming home should feel good, but his family and ex-girlfriend seem like strangers.

Caleb and Maggie are outsiders, pigeon-holed as "criminal" and "freak." Then the truth emerges about what really happened the night of the accident and, once again, everything changes. It’s a bleak and tortuous journey for Caleb and Maggie, yet they end up finding comfort and strength from a surprising source: each other.

Review:

My first review for the month! I've been a fan of Simone Elkeles writings ever since I read Perfect Chemistry a year ago. It's not new to me how adorable her books are! But I'm always impressed whenever I read her books.

I liked the story of Leaving Paradise. The love story of an ex-con who falls in love with his victim is kinda new to me. I liked the character development and how the story went. It may be a little mushy at times but it still turned out good. Maggie's character is admirable. She may be a timid girl because of her limp but she still manages to stand on her ground and take the risks. Caleb is one tough guy but with a soft heart. I think all of Miss Elkeles' characters in her books are always likable. It's because of how she described their personalities. The author always make it a point to describe their strengths and weaknesses.

Leaving Paradise is an interesting read and very engaging. And oh, another thing, I love the author's titles for her books! Clever and intriguing! :)

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Perfect Chemistry
Rules of Attraction
Leaving Paradise

Archangel's Consort by Nalini Singh (Guild Hunter #3)

Author: Nalini Singh
Published January 25th 2011 by Berkley Sensation
324 pages
Series: Guild Hunter
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux and her lover, the lethally beautiful archangel Raphael, have returned home to New York only to face an uncompromising new evil…

A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders. The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.

An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…

Review:

After two weeks, I finally finished this. This has been a great read. I think I liked that I have to read it that long since I'll miss Raphael and Elena's tandem. I've been busy in school these days so I can't really read a lot. But of course, I'll always find the time to read.

I think this is also a favorite of mine from the series. I really love the story of the first book where we get to witness how the romance between Raphael and Elena took place. This time, you'll find out how strong Raphael and Elena's bond with each other.

The two have returned home. In this book, new evil has emerged and attacked innocent little girls and a bunch of vampires. Also, calamities have been occurring all over the world - a sign that an ancient immortal or a Sleeper is waking. Together the two will try to stop the madness of the powerful Caliane. And Raphael faced a difficult decision whether to kill the Sleeper or not.

Whenever I read Nalini Singh's books, I'm always surprised. There's always something interesting to read about! I really liked the story of this third book in the series. There's more depth to the story especially about the main characters. I always forget to mention that I really admire whenever Elena is hunting and when she's describing the scents. The descriptions are really engaging that I also want to smell the scents. The development of Elena and Raphael's relationship is even more intense. Thus, Elena being Raphael's consort. I liked how the author made their relationship. There's teasing and humor but you'll know how affectionate they are with each other.

I'm really curious about Illium's past. So now I'm confused if I want more Raphael or more Illium. Oh Bluebell! I really want to know what happened to you! I'm wishing the fourth book will be more about you. Well I'm a bit disappointed because it isn't. I'll watch out for the coming books then!

Archangel's Consort is a one great read! If I have the time, I'll be happy to reread this in one sitting. :)

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Archangel's Consort (Guild Hunter)

Archangel's Kiss by Nalini Singh (Guild Hunter #2)

Author: Nalini Singh
Published February 2nd 2010 by Berkley
323 pages
Series: Guild Hunter
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux wakes from a year-long coma to find that she has become an angel-and that her lover, the stunningly dangerous archangel Raphael, likes having her under his control. But almost immediately, Raphael must ready Elena for a flight to Beijing, to attend a ball thrown by the archangel Lijuan. Ancient and without conscience, Lijuan's power lies with the dead. And she has organized the most perfect and most vicious of welcomes for Elena...

Review:

I really liked this but not as much as the first one. This second book will still surprise you with new mysteries and characters.

The book picks up where the first book left off. Elena wakes up after a year of sleep. She wakes with wings but in a weak condition. She has to gain her strength to attend the ball of Lijuan, the most powerful and eldest archangel in the Cadre. There are also threats and murders by this angel who wants to be part of the Cadre. Raphael, the Archangel of New York, wouldn't let Elena hurt by anyone. Not even when she's his weakness.

I liked this book because I got to know some of what had happened in the past and the truth behind Elena's nightmares. It also had a glimpse of Raphael's past. We'd like to know more about this archangel right? I also liked the mysteries involved in this book. As usual, Nalini Singh's writing is impressive. Although lots of characters are introduced, the book won't leave you confused.

I'm intrigued with Illium's character. I think we have to know more about him as well. Actually most of the characters are intriguing. I think that's why you'd want to read the series more. That is, to learn what these angels and vampires' secrets. The story of this one was set mostly in the Refuge. The sensual parts are not as intense as the previous book but of course it would leave you wanting more. The end was kind of a cliffhanger.

Archangel's Kiss is a good sequel for the series. It's sort of answered the questions in my mind after reading Angels' Blood. I think the third book would be interesting by how this book has ended. Let's see what will happen back home!

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Archangel's Kiss (Guild Hunter, Book 2)

Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh (Guild Hunter #1)

Author: Nalini Singh
Published March 3rd 2009 by Berkley
339 pages
Series: Guild Hunter
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux is hired by the dangerously beautiful Archangel Raphael. But this time, it's not a wayward vamp she has to track. It's an archangel gone bad.

The job will put Elena in the midst of a killing spree like no other—and pull her to the razor's edge of passion. Even if the hunt doesn't destroy her, succumbing to Raphael's seductive touch just may. For when archangels play, mortals break.

Review:

PASSIONATELY AWESOME! I was asking myself why I didn't read this one first before those YA books which I didn't really enjoyed that much. I should have trusted my instincts! Enough of that. I finally finished it and it's oh so good! I think that is an understatement. The book is amazing! : )

We have a kick ass heroine named Elena Deveraux who is a hunter-born. She's a guild hunter and has this great ability of sensing vampires. She is hired by the Archangel of New York, Raphael, who's oozingly hot (I love his wings). Together they have to track and kill this archangel on the loose killing people. But it turns out that Elena will also be haunted by her own seductive thoughts of Raphael.

I very much liked the story about angels, vampires and humans that coexist. This is the first adult angel book I've read and I wasn't disappointed. The book is a combination of fantasy, suspense, mystery and romance. So what else could you ask for? The characters are amazing! I sometimes like Elena's stubbornness especially when she's with Raphael. I've always liked strong female characters and that's a plus factor why I really liked this book. And oh, Raphael. Why do angels always have to be so beautiful? The vampires are not what you would expect them to be. They are made by angels. And you can apply to be made a vampire! How does that sound?

It's also my first time to read Nalini Singh's book. I think I have a new favorite author. I love her writing in this book. It's impressive with a little mystery to it. That's why I didn't see the last part coming. I was so surprised that I literally giggled and my brother's saying I'm crazy. The book is filled with intense emotions and sexual tensions that build the sex scenes very well. The plot is detailed. This is not your typical angel story.

Angels' Blood is a very impressive read that will certainly fill your fantasies! I have to read the next book! Can't get enough of Elena and Raphael and the story! : )

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Angels' Blood (Guild Hunter, Book 1)

The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Author: Elizabeth Eulberg
Published April 1st 2010 by Scholastic, Inc. (first published December 29th 2009)
285 pages
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Love is all you need...or is it? Penny's about to find out in this wonderful debut.

Penny is sick of boys and sick of dating. So she vows - no more. It's a personal choice...and, of course, soon everyone wants to know about it. And a few other girls are inspired. A movement is born; The Lonely Hearts Club (named after the band from Sgt. Pepper). Penny is suddenly known for her nondating ways... which is too bad, because there's this certain boy she can't help but like.

Review:

This book is a light and fun read. The story is about Penny Lane Bloom (yes, her parents are Beatles fan!) who swears off guys because of a failed relationship. She quietly starts a club that she calls, right, The Lonely Hearts Club. At first, she's all by herself until she finds out that her friends are also tired of wasting their time on guys. And the rest follows.

The characters are funny and witty. I never thought of having this kind of club back when I was in highschool. This book made me think of my high school days. The dramas over boys, break ups, hanging out with your girlfriends or boyfriends. It's just funny how the concept can let you remember those days when you would also swear off boys because they broke your heart. I think the target audience of the book is teens and middle grade. Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading it.

The Lonely Hearts Club is an enjoyable read despite the cheesy teenage dramas. I liked the Beatles references and the simple idea that this book implies to its readers.

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

The Lonely Hearts Club

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Author: Stephanie Perkins
Published December 2nd 2010 by Dutton
372 pages
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near-misses end with the French kiss Anna—and readers—have long awaited?

Review:

This book is a breath of fresh air! I haven't read young adult contemporary books in a while so I'm happy that I decided to read this!

Anna is sent to a boarding school in Paris by her parents. It is her senior year, she feels disappointed because she will leave her best friend in Atlanta and a guy who she thinks is interested with her. She meets this handsome Parisian guy - Etienne St. Claire(love the name!) with a British accent and humor you will surely love. Little does she know, that her stay in Paris is truly worthwhile.

I'm totally thrilled with this book! You can probably feel my excitement to review it. The book is simply adorable. I can't seem to find the right words to describe it. The story can be a typical one where a girl-loves-boy-with-a-girlfriend. I love the love story in it. The characters are real. I mean, they are described just as believable as a live person. The setting of course is my favorite. One of the many reasons I like to read this book is because I'd love to go to Paris someday. I learned some French words as well.

The romance part is wonderfully written. I got addicted to the way the author described their relationship and how it was developed. The love story is not the one you will get tired of. I didn't even want the book to end! I want more! There were moments that I just want to squeal and moments that I was smiling while reading the book. That sounds crazy, but this book really made me feel good that someone loves and adores me.

I consider Anna and the French Kiss as one of the best contemporary books I read so far. This book is highly recommended! Go grab it! ♥

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

Anna and the French Kiss

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

Author: Nicholas Sparks
Published 2009 by Grand Central (first published September 10th 2008)
326 pages
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥

Summary:

After U.S. Marine Logan Thibault finds a photograph of a smiling young woman buried in the dirt during his tour duty in Iraq, he experiences a sudden streak of luck, winning poker games and even surviving deadly combat. Only his best friend, Victor, seems to have an explanation for his good fortune: the photograph - his lucky charm.

Back home in Colorado, Thibault can't seem to get the woman in photograph out of his mind and he sets out on a journey across the country to find her. But Thibault is caught off guard by the storng attraction he feels for the woman he encounters in North Carolina - Elizabeth, a divorced mother with a young son - and he keeps the story of the photo, and his luck, a secret. As he and Elizabeth embark upon a passionate love affair, his secret will soon threaten to tear them apart, destroying not only their love, but also their lives.

Review:

The Lucky One is a story of a marine who was lucky enough to survive war in Iraq. His friend believed it's because of the photo he saw almost buried in the dirt. It was a lucky charm.

I've read Sparks novels before. This one is pretty good although not as good as the other known novels that were adapted into movies. The story is intriguing. Mr. Sparks has the gift to tug readers to his novels. Once you started, you would always want to know the ending.

Since it's more of an adult romance, it didn't really wow me. But of course, the story telling is great most especially towards the end. The characters are well developed and the whole concept of the story is interesting.

This is a typical Sparks novel but with a unique way of informing readers that love moves in mysterious ways. Sounds like a song! I heard this book will be adapted into movie as well with Zac Efron as the lead. Hmmm.. :)

♥ xoxo, Edil ♥

The Lucky One