Mini-Review: Forbidden by Syrie James

Title: Forbidden

Series: Not Confirmed

Author: Syrie James and Ryan M James

Publisher: HarperCollins Childrens Book Group (US)

Publication Date: 15 Feb 2012

Source: Bought

Rating: 3/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

She should not exist.

He should not love her.

Claire Brennan has been attending Emerson Academy for two years now (the longest she and her mom have remained anywhere) and she's desperate to stay put for the rest of high school. So there's no way she's going to tell her mom about the psychic visions she's been having or the creepy warnings that she's in danger.

Alec MacKenzie is fed up with his duties to watch and, when necessary, eliminate the descendants of his angelic forefathers. He chose Emerson as the ideal hiding place where he could be normal for once. He hadn't factored Claire into his plans. . . .

Their love is forbidden, going against everything Alec has been taught to believe. But when the reason behind Claire's unusual powers is revealed and the threat to her life becomes clear, how far will Alec go to protect her?

REVIEW

So you may have already guessed that I am a complete sucker for angel books. This was a definite case of love at first sight of that cover. Although I did enjoy the story as a whole I can honestly say that there was nothing new here at all and this is reflected in my rating. Don't get me wrong its a fun, light read that is a terrific way of whiling away a few hours and I am definitely interested to see how the story progresses in the next book. 

The dual first person narrative works really well and I found it interesting that the authors are Mother and Son, they are very much in tune as writers and the characters they have created are believable and realistic (well as realistic as angels get anyway).

The best way I can think to describe this book is a mash-up of angel paranormal romance alongside a Da Vinci Code type thriller, with warring angel factions, secret divisions within the factions looking for peace with Claire as a pivotal piece to both sides, creates an engaging plot. The romantic element is compelling; the chemistry between  Claire and Alex added to the overall effect of the plot. The history and origin of the Nephilim is well depicted and believable. There is plenty of action to keep the plot flowing smoothly.

As I said earlier my rating is a reflection that although the book is a nice way to spend a few hours there is nothing new here at all. This does not mean that I'm ready to give up on the series just yet. I'd be interested to see just where this one is going.

Musical Moments: Guest Post: Mercy Series Soundtrack by Rebecca Lim

It is with great pleasure I welcome Rebecca Lim to Book Angel Booktopia today, you may have noticed my reviews this week [ ;D ], with the soundtrack to the Mercy Series it is very eclectic: Over to Rebecca:

When I was writing the books in the Mercy series (Mercy, Exile, Muse and Fury) I had a few songs on high rotation on my iPod, and even name check a few of the choral pieces in some of the books (for those readers who happen to be ex-choir nerds like me!).

The following list isn’t exhaustive, but listening to some of these worked like hanging a magic amulet around my neck when I needed to drop straight into the mood of the storyline:

Symphony No. 8 in E-flat major by Gustav Mahler has a starring role in the first book, Mercy, because it’s the reason Carmen Zappacosta (whose body Mercy is “inhabiting”) has been drawn to Paradise in the first place.

Standing Outside a Broken Phone Booth with Money in My Hand by the Primitive Radio Gods. Chris O’Connor and the band were kind enough to let me extract a portion of the lyrics at the start of Exile as a kind of “mood setter” for the book.

The Flower Duet (Sous le dôme épais) from Léo Delibes' opera Lakmé crops up in Mercy and in Muse as a kind of indicator of how far Mercy’s memory has returned between books 1 and 3.

If This is It by Newton Faulkner. Listen to the bit about “slings and stones and fire” and you’ll get why I loved listening to this.

Anything by the early music group Hesperion XX. Their stuff can instantly transport you to another time.

The Last Day on Earth by Kate Miller-Heidke, an Aussie singer-songwriter. An absolutely haunting song about lost love.

The album Science and Faith by The Script.

Walk On by U2, written about and dedicated to Aung San Suu Kyi.

The 16^th century Corpus Christi Carol (author anonymous). Benjamin Britten as interpreted by Jeff Buckley. Spine-tingling.

Huge thanks to Rebecca for sharing. My favorites are If This Is It which I will be adding to my ipod this evening and I adore The Script, I chose that particular video because I think it goes fabulously with the ending of the series [ ; D ]

Mercy Review HERE                         Exile Review HERE

Muse Review HERE                           Fury Review HERE

Review: Fury by Rebecca Lim

Title: Fury

Series: Mercy #4

Author: Rebecca Lim

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 29 March 2012

Source: Review Copy

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Hell hath no fury like an angel scorned…

Heartbreak. Vengeance. Truth. Betrayal.

Everything that has happened to Mercy over millennia has made her who she is. Now she and The Eight wage open war with Luc and his demons, and the earth is their battlefield.

Ryan’s love for Mercy is more powerful than ever, her guiding light in the hour of darkness. But the very love that sustains her, now places Ryan in mortal danger.

Two worlds collide as Mercy approaches her ultimate breathtaking choice.

Hell hath no fury like Mercy

REVIEW

Please bear in mind that this is the last book in the series and the review may therefore contain spoilers for the previous books.

Let me start by saying that there could have been no other possible ending for his series. Although in some ways it can be seen as predictable the accomplishment in bringing all the elements together for the ending was unexpected and should not be diminished. As I stated in my review of Exile (HERE)  all the clues are placed within the narrative to pick up on, oh the benefit of hindsight is a powerful thing.

My favorite thing about this book was the way  'humans' are depicted. Generally dismissed by both angels and demons as inferior; their ingenuity, resourcefulness, adaptability and perseverance are the qualities lacking in the angels and demons; it is these human qualities that really shine through the narrative aiding the fight for good exponentially.

Seeing the world as the devils playground is shudder inducing yet it is nice in a way to be able to lay the blame of the worlds atrocities on the shoulders of an external entity rather than mankind's ability to destroy, hate and hurt.

The way in which the peripheral characters from the previous books that were able to 'see' Mercy for who she really was plays a vital part in the plot in this book. Providing a very clever way of advancing the plot, tying up loose plot threads and developing all the characters. It also highlighted the point that Mercy had touched the lives of the people around her at a fundamental level.

The different countries used in the setting were richly described adding to the world building. It really did feel as if you were seeing the countries through the eyes of the characters themselves. It really did bring the saying ' You can travel the world in a book' to technicolor life. The inclusion of the native Peruvian tribe added depth to the narrative. The detail into their lifestyle and belief system was a comprehensive addition to both the imagery and the plot.

Although I really enjoyed the series I can appreciate the complaints about the large holes within the plot. For one thing Mercy is initially portrayed as Luc's consort in all things evil for which she has to atone. Althugh this plot thread is used extensively in the first two books it did fizzle out in the latter part of the series replaced by a promise that Luc made Mercy before The Fall that binds them together. Again this is another gap in the plot as the promise that binds Luc to Mercy is never fully revealed. Also the reason for keeping Mercy's true name hidden is not fully explained, yes we know something bad will happen but what, to who and why?

So yes the series isn't perfect but it is heart-warming, action packed and optimistic for the future of mankind.  For these reason alone its well worth reading.  

Review: Muse by Rebecca Lim

Title: Muse

Series: Mercy #3

Author: Rebecca Lim

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 27 Oct 2011

Source: Review Copy

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

An angel searching for answers, for her destiny…

In the third MERCY paranormal romance, Mercy wakes in a new unknown host, her love for Ryan and Luc burning stronger than ever. But who will she make the ultimate sacrifice for?

There's something very wrong with me. When I wake up, I could be anyone…

Mercy is thrust into the excessive world of fashion when she awakes in the body of a troubled Russian supermodel, Irina: bitchy, hot-tempered and known to be dabbling in things she shouldn’t, Irina is on the verge of a very public breakdown.

Against the glamorous background of opulent Milan, Mercy continues her increasingly desperate search for Ryan to lead her back to her immortal lover, Luc. But this time Mercy is aware that her memories and powers are growing ever stronger – and she begins to doubt Luc as The Eight reveal more of her mysterious past. Are Luc’s desires as selfless as her own or does he want her for a more terrifying purpose?
The grand scale celestial battle for Mercy’s soul builds to an incredible stormy crescendo as archangels and demons clash in a cataclysmic showdown that not all will survive…

REVIEW

Please bear in mind that this is the third book in the series and may therefore contain spoilers for the previous books.

Following the dramatic ending of Exile (Review HERE) there isn't much time to place Mercy into a new host. When Mercy awakens in the body of Russian super-model Irina she has regained most of her memory. Her own thoughts and feelings although she enigma of Luc and why she is on earth is yet to be revealed. The background detailing into Mercy's character, angels and the interactions of angels, fallen ones and humans really filled out the plot.

 
The insight into the fashion industry especially the life of a super-model was amazing. No wonder some models act like such divas when people fawn over themselves to so anything for you no matter how degrading. How every little detail of your life is made public, true or not, all on display for media vultures to pick over. Plus the tedium they have to endure would be enough to drive me over the edge.

The theme of looks being deceiving is dramatically portrayed. The imagery within this book was outstanding, not only the glitz and glamor of the fashion industry hiding depravity.The use of the weather reflecting the actions and battle of good versus evil was a stroke of imagery genius.

Revelations come thick and fast in this book, the action speeds up as Mercy remembers more and more of her own history. The background into Mercy's confinement and the necessity of keeping her hidden from Luc comes together piece by piece. Sympathy for Mercy abounds through these revelations,  trapped in other peoples bodies to atone for something she had no control over, her only 'sin' being naivety especially where Luc was concerned. 

The introduction of two pivotal characters in this book provided a fresh appreciation of the main characters and their actions as viewed from an outside perspective. I especially adored Gia, Irina's PA, although Irina treats her like dirt she comes bouncing back, not because she adores Irina its because she is an absolute professional. Gia is tough and genuinely likeable especially for her straight forwardness. Gia is very perceptive and identifies Mercy underneath Irina pretty quickly. Her efficiency is something I covet (lol), her decency shines through as well as her optimism (although she tries to hide it under a coating of snark)  Gia really is a terrific character and addition to the book as a whole.

This is probably my favorite book in the series so far.

Mini-Review: Exile by Rebecca LIm

Title: Exile

Series: Mercy #2

Author: Rebecca Lim

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 9 June 2011

Source: Bought

Rating: 4/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

There's something very wrong with me. When I wake up, I could be anyone…

An angel in exile, Mercy is doomed to return repeatedly to Earth, taking on a new human form each time she does. Now she "wakes" as unhappy teen Lela, a girl caring for a dying mother but never herself.

As her shattered memory begins to return, Mercy remembers Ryan, the boy she fell in love with in another life, and Luc, the angel haunting her dreams. Will Mercy risk Lela’s life to be reunited with her heart’s true desire?

REVIEW

I must start by saying that this is book 2 in the series and this review may therefore contain spoilers to Book 1 Mercy (Review HERE). I will also state that I am writing this review after finishing the whole series, therefore I have added insight into the plot due to the benefit of hindsight ( my superpower of need alongside time travel [ ; D ] ) 

There is very important information revealed in this book, something that doesn't automatically click into place until the very end. In this book Mercy finds herself in the body of Lela, desperately unhappy with her life, stuck in a dead end job taking care of her terminally ill mother. Underneath all the misery and despair in Lela's life you can tell that she generally cares for people. Mercy heightens this quality and it is heart warming to follow just how Mercy touches peoples lives. Improving not only the quality of life but putting their futures back on track, in essence saving them from themselves. It is this essential goodness that enables people to see beneath the surface of the body Mercy is inhabiting to the real her.

Although Mercy is starting to remember fragments of 'her' life there are still huge gaps in her memory. She is still unaware of what she truly is and therefore who Luc is. The introduction of more of the archangels and background details as to their powers and place in the world not just guarding Mercy, really add depth to the plot. The connection and similarity between Ryan and Luc has yet to be fully explored, keeping the continual tension within the plot.

The seedier side of life is unerringly depicted and unfortunately all to realistic. The inner workings of a psychopaths mind were disturbingly portrayed. The undercurrent of evil being hidden is a continuing theme flowing through the books.

The way random acts of kindness benefit society as a whole via their ripple effect was amazing to picture similar to that of the butterfly effect (the theoretical physics not the movie) A truly fantastic concept that would benefit the world if it was put into practice. 

There is still so much more to be revealed about Mercy herself, the circumstances of her 'imprisonment', her relationships and the battle of good versus evil even on the smallest scale. A terrific addition to the series.

Review: Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Title: Insurgent

Series: Divergent #2

Author: Veronica Roth

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 1 May 2012

Source: Review Copy 

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

War looms in sixteen-year-old Tris’s dark dystopian world as disputes between the factions grow. Tris must now fight against all odds to discover the truth that can save her and the people she loves. Sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge – and the choices she makes will have devastating and unexpected consequences.

REVIEW

Bear with me as I am going to take a slightly different approach to this review. You will have seen a LOT of reviews for this book this week with all the UK factions going head to head to get their reviews up. Therefore, the something different as I don't have to recap the story. If you need an update Veronica Roth has put a fabulous recap post up HERE be warned it contains spoilers. 

If you remember my review of Divergent (HERE) I state that Veronica Roth's perception of human nature and the insight into the nature versus nurture debate is profound. Insurgent takes these underlying themes and blows them out of the water. I find myself days after finishing the book remembering little pieces that slot into the puzzle that is human nature, the role people play in shaping society. Mankind's insistence on dominating the things around him even other people. Are we just pre-programmed to annihilate everything in our paths even if it means our own destruction.

One person is not naturally just one thing, they are a complex mix of all the attributes of the factions, some will obviously be more dominant than others but it will still be a mix. When I joined Facebook I had to put in a caption for want of a better word. This is what I put, I believe it is my own words, if it isn't please let me know and I will credit the person who said it:

Like the ebb and flow of the tide change is inevitable. It is how we cope with the change that defines us.

This caption just fits so perfectly with Tris journey in this book. People may start out as one thing but during the course of our lives and the challenges we have to face alter our perception of not only the world around us but of ourselves. The saying 'What doesn't kill you makes you stronger' is very apt. It is Tris's understanding and compassion gained from the challenges she has had to face that stands out within the narrative. Adversity can have the benefit of empathy and appreciation when viewed in retrospect. Obviously a little difficult to have that clarity of thought when you are in the process of experiencing the adversity.

The inclusion of fascinating insight into the workings of the brain within the narrative added to the nature versus nurture debate. The fact that certain chemical compounds alter personalities was engrossing. ( I am Erudite after all [ ; D ] ) the theory that society can be enriched by the use of chemical stimuli to alter brain chemistry brings its own argument.  Would it aid in making everyone equal, could utopia be achieved if we actually did this or would it just be another form of control?

Character interactions and development added to the underlying plot. I absolutely adore Tris and Tobias they evoke powerful emotions with their relationship. Their relationship isn't plain sailing but it is realistic in its portrayal, outside influences are bound to affect any relationship. Peripheral characters gained a lot more depth in this book, giving understanding to their actions and reactions as well as rounding out the plot.

Insurgent is a book that makes you question society as a whole as well as your place in it. Alongside high octane action, jaw dropping plot twists and one of the best fictional couples today. A fabulous and fascinating read.

Tantalising Trailers: Meet Skulduggery Pleasant

For those of you that know me well you know how much I love sarcasm. Let me tell you how much I love Skulduggery Pleasant - Derek Landy does sarcasm like nobody else <3

There are a number of rumours that Skulduggery is going to be made into a movie. I for one really hope that happens [ : D ]
I have read all the books (at this moment in time I am planning on reading book 5 and 6 before March so I can review them as part of my Celtic Crush)

Try Skulduggery for yourself with free short stories on kindle.

Title: The Lost Art of World Domination

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant

Author: Derek Landy

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 26 Aug 2011

Synopsis From Amazon

A shot of Skulduggery action for free.It isn’t easy to take over the world. First you need the scheme. Then you need the muscle. Then you need to come up with a system for ruling six billion people and keeping them from revolting. It takes a certain kind of man to take over the world.Scaramouch Van Dreg, however, is not that man.But he has one thing going for him. He has his arch enemy, Skulduggery Pleasant, chained up in his dungeon, and the only person who is coming to save him is the skeleton detective’s 13 year old sidekick.What could possibly go wrong?

Title: Gold, Babies and Brothers Muldoon

Series: Skulduggery Pleasant

Author: Derek Landy

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication Date: 26 Aug 2011

Synopsis from Amazon

A jolt of Skulduggery Pleasant action for free.Midnight. Valkyrie Cain approaches an old, ramshackle church to make a delicate deal with a trio of ugly, hairy goblins. To her absolute non-surprise, the goblins have no intention of honouring that deal- but not to worry. Skulduggery Pleasant is standing by to deliver a surprise of their own.Things, however, don’t go exactly according to plan. Not least because the goblins have a sister. A very big, very strong sister. Who might just have a TINY crush on one of our heroes…

Enjoy - your life will never be the same again [ : D ]

MG Monday: Guest Mini Review: Scary School by Derek the Ghost

Title: Scary School

Series: Scary School

Author: Derek the Ghost

Publisher: Harper Collins

Publication Date: 21 Jun 2011

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

You think your school's scary?

Get a load of these teachers:

Ms. Fang, an 850-year-old vampire

Dr. Dragonbreath, who just might eat you before recess

Mr. Snakeskin—science class is so much more fun when it's taught by someone who's half zombie
Mrs. T—break the rules and spend your detention with a hungryTyrannosaurus rex!

Plus

Gargoyles, goblins, and Frankenstein's monster on the loose The world's most frighteningly delicious school lunch

And

The narrator's an eleven-year-old ghost!

Join Charles "New Kid" Nukid as he makes some very Scary friends—including Petunia, Johnny, and Peter the Wolf—and figures out that Scary School can be just as funny as it is spooky!

GUEST REVIEW BY SEREN YEAR 5 (age 9)

Scary School is about Charles Nukid starting a new school, this was funny as his last name is a play on words with him also being a New Kid. It is really funny to follow his start in the school especially as he is nearly gobbled up within the first few weeks.

There is nothing in this book I didn't like, I giggled my way through it from the beginning to the end. It is so colorful to picture all of the characters. There wasn't a single character I didn't like. My favorite character was Penny, I wanted to tell you why but Mum told me it would give away the plot *dramatic sigh*.

I cannot wait to read more books by this author, his stories are adventurous with a sprinkling of spooky. I highly recommend it.

Musical Moments: Book Theme Songs: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Title: Divergent

Series: Divergent #1

Author: Veronica Roth

Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books

Publication  Date: 3 May 2011

Synopsis: From Goodreads

Beatrice "Tris" Prior has reached the fateful age of sixteen, the stage at which teenagers in Veronica Roth's dystopian Chicago must select which of five factions to join for life. Each faction represents a virtue: Candor, Abnegation, Dauntless, Amity, and Erudite. To the surprise of herself and her selfless Abnegation family, she chooses Dauntless, the path of courage. Her choice exposes her to the demanding, violent initiation rites of this group, but it also threatens to expose a personal secret that could place in mortal danger. Veronica Roth's young adult Divergent trilogy launches with a captivating adventure about love and loyalty playing out under most extreme circumstances.

Review here

MG Monday: Guest Mini Review: A Million Angels by Kate Maryon

Title: A Million Angels
Author: Kate Maryon
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 9 Jun 2011
Source: Library

Synopsis from Amazon

The sparkling new novel from the author of SHINE and GLITTER.

“We talk about everything, Dad and me.
About all the mysteries inside of us. About all our wonderings of the world.
But tomorrow my dad goes to war. Then what will I do?”

Jemima’s dad’s in the Army and he’s off to Afghanistan again for six whole months.
Her mum’s about to have another baby and hasn’t got the energy to worry about anything else.
Gran is staying to help out, but her head is filled with her own wartime memories.
So while Mima is sending Dad millions of guardian angels every night to keep him safe, who is looking out for her?

The third novel from Kate Maryon – a sparkling new voice for tween girls.

GUEST MINI REVIEW BY AMBER YEAR 6

The main story in this book is about Jemima, lots of things happen to Jemima within this book but I have been told I am not allowed to say what they are as it would spoil the story for other people. The main elements is that Jemima is bullied and how much she misses her father when he is away in the Army.

Jemima is an amazing character, really unique and she stood out the most for me in the story. I really connected with Jemima and felt sad at parts when she was sad.

I thought this this book was amazing and there was nothing at all I would change about it. I would recommend it to all my friends and am going to look for more books by this author as it was a brilliant book.  

Guest Review: Dark Angels by Katherine Langrish

Title: Dark Angels
Author: Katherine Langrish
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 30 April 2009

Synopsis from Goodreads

When Wolf runs away from the monastery where he grew up, he finds himself lost on Devil's Edge - a hill riddled with old mine shafts, said to be infested with ghosts, boggarts, elves, and perhaps even the Devil himself. Wolf meets a local knight out hunting, who offers him work and shelter in his castle - a place inhabited by a host of unexpected characters - a hearth hob, a ghostly white lady and a mysterious wandering juggler...Together Wolf and Nest, the knight's daughter, become embroiled in a mystery which leads Wolf into the very darkest depths of Devil's Edge...

GUEST REVIEW BY SUSAN K MANN

If you are looking for a gripping book, which will suck you in from the start, then Dark Angels is the book for you. The book is quite dark and has a creepy setting, the imagery Katherine uses will have the hairs on the back of your neck standing on edge at times.

Dark Angels is a great fantasy novel, a genre I am fussy about. I either like or hate them, this I liked. Set in the time of the Crusades, when people saw things differently. They feared elves and demons; this is what the book is drawn on. These mysterious creatures which are caught somewhere between Heaven and Hell.

The characters are ones you will fall in love with Elfgift the elf child and Wolf, you will empathise and root for them throughout. Not forgetting the heroine of the story Nest, who speaks to the Hearth Hob as natural as we speak to our friends. She was my favourite character, the daughter of a knight, who wanted to do something special with her life.

Katherine’s descriptions of the world are so vivid and wonderful you can’t help being caught up in them. It is as if you can smell the wood burning stove, taste the food and feel the wind on your face.

The ending was unexpected, but a great way to end it, one I very much enjoyed. A great book for early teen readers upwards and perfect for both boys and girls, with its strong characters of both genders. One I would highly recommend.

Tantalising Trailers: Dark Days of Supernatural Fall 2011

Swoonalicious I want to hug all of these books.

Please click the link to read an excerpt:

Supernaturally by Kiersten White

A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

Fateful by Claudia Gray

Cold Kiss by Amy Garvey

Eve by Anna Carey

I seriously need more hours in the day to be able to read all of these fantastic books.

Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

Title: Divergent
Series: Divergent
Author: Veronica Roth
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 3 May 2011

Synopsis: From Goodreads

Beatrice "Tris" Prior has reached the fateful age of sixteen, the stage at which teenagers in Veronica Roth's dystopian Chicago must select which of five factions to join for life. Each faction represents a virtue: Candor, Abnegation, Dauntless, Amity, and Erudite. To the surprise of herself and her selfless Abnegation family, she chooses Dauntless, the path of courage. Her choice exposes her to the demanding, violent initiation rites of this group, but it also threatens to expose a personal secret that could place in mortal danger.

REVIEW:

I have had this book on my tbr shelf for ages and was put off reading it by all the hype. Yes, it does have the opposite effect for me, instead of pushing it up the pile the more people raved about it I buried it until the fuss died down. I am now kicking myself for waiting for so long. Honestly, in this instance the hype is perfectly justified. This book is utterly awesome and I will probably gush like a geyser in my review so you have been warned.

I have specifically used the Goodreads synopsis in order to show the different factions that exist within this society and the virtue it represents. I couldn't help but picture each faction as a different religion, and if the conflicts depicted in the news daily are anything to go by, different religions tend to think that theirs is the only true religion even though they all have the same fundamentals. I am getting very deep and philosophical but this is exactly what was running through my mind at the time. And where does this lead us, to conflict. What really stood out for me within each faction there is no room for freewill, the depiction of the group/gang behaviour there is absolutely no individuality. Making a very volatile repressed society on the whole. The creation of the factions was supposed to being peace to the society yet the way in which each faction tries to undermine each other is vividly portrayed within the narrative.Bringing to mind the question - is it mankind's nature to continually try to assert its authority over all things via conflict.

Written in first person narrative form Beatrice's (Tris) perspective, at 16 she starts off as seeming so much younger due to her petite appearance and inconspicuous demeanour, always trying to blend into the background, this is probably due to her sheltered upbringing. Tris has a superb narrative voice and her inner monologues make her very relateable, we all question who we are and what it is we want from life at points. She is very conflicted (which does make her a typical teenager). Tris seems to be one of the only people so far within the story to realise that people aren't just one virtue or another but a mixture of all of them, making her very astute and perceptive.

I am not going to go into details about the plot as I think it will spoil your reading experience as just take my word for it YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK. I will say that there are some thrill ride-esque twists within the plot. Revelations unfold dramatically I can only describe it like a cold bucket of water being poured over your head; shocking and bringing instant alertness.

The description of the tattoos was completely awesome. I read this book shortly after getting my own tattoo and can identify with the idea that the tattoo you choose is a visual symbol of who you are on the inside. Plus yes it is completely addictive, it is like having artwork on your skin. The adrenaline rushes were palpable via the narrative. The notion that being pierced and tattooed instantly makes you a Dauntless which in the eyes of the other factions is the equivalent of being a rebel made me giggle so hard, there is obviously no hope for me [ : D ]

I have always been a girl that goes for the bad boy, OMG, this bad boy is also a geek on the inside. So completely adorable. I am utterly in love with Tobias. *swoonarrific* More than that the relationship that blossoms is equal, they save each other in different and completely amazing ways. The scene from Pretty Woman comes to mind where at the end Richard Gere climbs the fire escape to rescue the damsel and she recues him right back. (Again I am showing my age in my reviews *sigh*)

Instead of telling you about the plot I will say this book is about finding where you belong. Although it might not necessarily be where you envisioned. It's about building friendships/relationships. It's about learning to trust other people; this can be one of the hardest things to do if you haven't had particularly good role models. It's about learning to work together and how important it is.

This isn't just one of those books that gets under your skin - it goes way beyond that. It made me question who I am and where I belong. For me, I think, I really am a mix of all the factions, obviously some are more dominant than others. Where would you belong??????

Trailer Tuesday: Dark Angels by Katherine Langrish

Title: Dark Angels
Author: Katherine Langrish
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 30 April 2009

Synopsis: From Amazon

A gripping and wonderfully spooky standalone adventure from critically acclaimed author Katherine Langrish. When Wolf runs away from the monastery where he grew up, he finds himself lost on Devil's Edge -- a hill riddled with old mine shafts, said to be infested with ghosts, boggarts, elves, and perhaps even the Devil himself. Wolf meets a local knight out hunting, who offers him work and shelter in his castle -- a place inhabited by a host of unexpected characters -- a hearth hob, a ghostly white lady and a mysterious wandering juggler...Together Wolf and Nest, the knight's daughter, become embroiled in a mystery which leads Wolf into the very darkest depths of Devil's Edge...

Isn't it fantastic. The music is just so haunting. 

MG Monday: Review: Sophie and The Shadow Woods: The Goblin King by Linda Chapman and Lee Weatherly

Title: The Goblin King

Series: Sophie and The Shadow Woods

Author: Linda Chapman and Lee Weatherly
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 28 April 2011

Synopsis: From Amazon

Exciting new 6 book character-led series for 7+ girls who love adventure!

Very few people ever enter the Shadow Woods, for these woods are like no others. Hidden deep within them is the Gateway to the Shadow Realm – a dark and chaotic world where all kinds of gruesome creatures live…

On her tenth birthday, tomboy Sophie learns she is the Guardian of the magical gateway, and that her destiny is to protect the human world from the goblins, trolls and evil sprites that inhabit the Shadow Woods.

Each book sees Sophie having to outwit weird and terrifying creatures from the Shadow Woods, starting with the gruesome Goblins!

Review:

Today we have something completely different for you – a three way review [ : D ] My 8 year old was so excited about this series when she saw it advertised in a magazine in school. She literary raved about it. I looked up the synopsis and thought, yep that sounds pretty good I am tempted to read it myself. Unable to locate the book anywhere I was so very lucky to receive a copy from the publisher. S started it straight away; she made a valiant effort not to tell me the story as she was reading it, but she kept saying ‘WOW this is so good’ which in turn persuaded the 10 year old to read it. So I obviously had to read it then.

Review by S Age 8

This book is very funny.

My favorite part was when Sophie was shown The Shadow Files, Sophie wrote a joke and Grandpa Bob wrote ‘Not good enough Sophie’ lol.

My favorite character is Sophie because she is fierce and won’t back down. I didn’t like her twin brother Anthony though; he is always mean to Sophie.

This book is great; it is exciting and full of adventure.

Review by A1 Age 10

I think this book is amazing. I especially liked the part where Sophie became The Guardian.

My favorite character was Sophie, she seriously kicked some Goblin butt and she was never scared.

I didn’t like Anthony, Sophie’s twin brother; because he annoyed me almost as much as he annoyed Sophie, he was always boasting about the stuff he did with Grandpa Bob and what he had been given. I also didn’t like Grandpa Bob as he never believed in Sophie just because she is a girl.

A great book for everyone to read

Review by Book Angel Emma Age 40 [ : D ]

Beautiful illustrations add to the dynamics of the plot.

Written in third person narrative but focalized from Sophie’s perspective. Sophie has an incredible imagination, is a loyal and fierce friend to her best friend Sam. Sophie is a wonderful example that girls should not be dismissed as the ‘weaker sex’ I was going to describe her as a tom-boy but didn’t feel as if that would be a fair description; she is so much more than assigned gender roles. This point is eloquently asserted within the narrative. Sophie provides a brilliant role-model for girls today.

One slight gripe I have is that parents of amazing children are usually depicted with fabulous jobs, Sophie’s are archaeologists, it shouldn’t matter what job a parent has as to whether a child develops well.

Back to the subject of gender discrimination, highlighted specifically by the way in which Grandpa Bob treats Sophie and Anthony differently. Anthony, Sophie’s twin brother is the polar opposite of Sophie in personality and attitude. I wondered if this was enhanced by the way in which he had been spoiled by Grandpa Bob. Visions of Indiana Jones as Grandpa Bob kept popping into my head as I was reading the book.

The ingenious recapping of the history of the Shadow Realm added depth and believability to the story. My 8 year old has even started making up her own games with her little sister about the Shadow Woods, she plays Sophie of course [ ; D ]

The inclusion of pages from The Shadow File at the back of the book really brought the story to life. The images and jokes especially about the Goblins provided some laugh out loud moments.

A fantastic book with multi-age appeal as our 3 way review has shown. A fantastic role model for girls; in the shape of Sophie; and boys in the shape of Sam. I am currently waiting for S to finish the next book so I can continue the journey with Sophie. I have to make sure I get to it before A1.

Review: Betrayal by Gillian Shields

Title: Betrayal

Series: Immortal
Author: Gillian Shields
Publisher: Harper Collins Children’s Book Group
Publication Date: 15 Aug 2010

Synopsis: From GoodReads

When Evie Johnson started at Wyldcliffe Abbey School for Young Ladies, her life changed in ways she couldn't possibly have envisioned: the discovery of her link with Lady Agnes, her special bond with Helen and Sarah, and their sisterhood in the astonishing secrets of the Mystic Way. Above all, Evie's love for Sebastian has turned her world upside down. Now Evie returns to Wyldcliffe for another term and more danger. Surrounded by enemies, she lives every day in fear that Sebastian will fall into the darkness of servitude to the Unconquered Lords. The Wyldcliffe coven is plotting to destroy Evie and use Sebastian to secure their own immortality. Evie and her sisters must master the power of the Talisman before it is too late. But could it be Sebastian himself who will ultimately betray Evie?

Review: May contain spoilers from Immortal

Following on from Immortal (review here) we join Evie just before she heads back to the oppressive, evil witch coven ran girls boarding school. At first there were nice little re-caps of the events from Immortal; however, these did get quite repetitive as the book progressed. In truth it would not be necessary to read the first book in order to understand all the elements and characters in this book.

The first person narrative from Evie’s perspective gives the story a personal quality re-enforced by extracts from Sebastian’s journal placed between some of the chapters. The extracts give added insight into the plot and characterizations.

The writing style has a beautiful lyrical quality to it, alongside some vivid gothic imagery and atmospheric descriptions. Rich use of simile and metaphor give a Brontesque feel to the story.

The surprise character introduction in the form of Harriet, and the direction we are forced to take with regards Harriet’s relationship to Lady Agnes felt out of place. For someone that is a self-confessed ‘nice’ person, Evie is very petty and jealous of Harriet. Revelations, that I must say were a little obvious, give an explanation to Evie’s behavior.

The portrayal of the strong friendship formed under such terrible circumstances was uplifting; alongside the impressive expansion of the girls ‘powers’. The divide between rich and poor was poignantly expressed, showing how little times had changed in attitude and values.

Evie appeared quite insular in her attitude, not making any effort to get to know the people around her as she was too wrapped up in her own problems. The answers were right in front of her all the time but she was too blind/stupid to see it – so much so that I wanted to give her a good shake.

The use of the Romany heritage was interesting and added another dimension to the plot. A saying kept running through my head while I was reading this book:

“With great power comes great responsibility”

It took me ages to remember where I had heard it – Spiderman lol.

I found the ending to be anti-climatic and truthfully think that Immortal should have been left as a stand-alone novel.

Saturday Spotlight: Ocean of Blood by Darren Shan

Title: Ocean of Blood

Series: The Saga of Larten Crepsley
Author: Darren Shan
Publisher: Harper Collins Children's Books
Publication Date: 28 April 2011

Synopsis: From Amazon

The epic tale of the vampire Larten Crepsley continues. The question is – how far can Larten go… alone?

Free from their mentor Seba Nile, Larten Crepsley and Wester Flack join the Cubs – wild young vampires with little respect for human life, and a taste for mindless enjoyment.

For the Cubs, everything is easy. But nothing has ever been easy for Larten, and soon fate throws his life into another spin. With dark paths to travel, Larten finds himself far from the Vampire Mountain and its rules. A long way from home, sick and alone, he must decide what kind of vampire he will be. Whether he will stand firm, be true to his master and his princples – or whether he will lose himself in blood…

This is such a fun idea I had to share it. Here is the press release from Harper Collins:

Do something amazing today..........GIVE BLOOD.........TO DARREN SHAN

To celebrate the release of the second book in the Saga of Larten Crepsley series, ‘OCEAN  OF BLOOD’, HarperCollins Children’s Books have teamed up with FIREBELLY, a creative agency specialising in the entertainment industry, to help teen horror author DARREN SHAN collect 1 MILLION virtual drops of blood from his dedicated followers.

Darren is thirsty for your blood, and here’s how he’s going to get it:

Simply donate a drop of blood to the virtual ocean with a click of your mouse and be in with a chance to win one of 1,000 prizes instantly. These vary from free wallpapers, to signed books, iTunes vouchers and iPod Nanos. If users are unsuccessful first time round, they have the chance to donate as many drops as they like in order to win an instant prize, so keep bleeding to win!

Once the 1 MILLION drops have been donated and the ocean is full, one user will win the top prize of an iPad 2 with all of Darren’s teen books pre-loaded and a personalised Saga of Larten Crespley book cover framed and signed by Darren.

What are you waiting for?

It won’t hurt...much!

Visit www.facebook.com/darrenshanofficial.

Please give generously.