Review: Blood Prophecy by Alyxandra Harvey

Blood Prophecy (Drake Chronicles #6)

Alyxandra Harvey

Publication Date: January 8, 2013

Publisher: Walker Childrens 

Paperback: 496 pgs

~YA~

Summary:
Solange Drake has been officially crowned Queen of the Vampires, fulfilling the centuries old prophecy that foretold the rise to power of a daughter born to an ancient vampire line. Except Solange's thoughts and actions are no longer her own-she's been slowly being possessed by the spirit of Viola, the first daughter born into the Drake line, since her bloodchange. And instead of uniting the vampire tribes under the rule of an ancient daughter as the prophecy predicted, Viola would rather destroy them all and enslave humans in a personal vendetta for the devastation both wrought to her life centuries ago. Can Solange break her hold in time to save everyone she loves from a vampire civil war, hunter attack, and each other? Not everyone will survive the prophecy . . . perhaps not even her.(Goodreads)

Review:
     Blood Prophecy is the last book in the Drake Chronicles, I've been dying to see how this series concludes but sad that the series would be over. This book is told mostly from Lucy and Solange's POV with a few other POV's thrown in.

 

     I've mentioned before that in the last couple of books I was completely annoyed by Solange. But I have to say knowing she is possessed alleviated my feelings, especially when we are able to see the real Solange again. Through Solange we see why she was possessed as she fights to get her body and mind back under her control. I loved that even though Lucy and Solange haven't been close lately Lucy is sill determined to figure out what is going on with her best friend. Lucy refuses to believe that her best friend could be so evil. Since most of the books are told from Lucy and Solange's POV we get to find out what is going on with the other Drakes including my favorite Drake, Quinn.

     There were a few moments where I was a little confused as to whose POV I was reading. The two voices were a little too similar at times which was a little annoying. This book also seemed to be in two parts; the fight to save Solange and the fight to save the vampires from an attack by the Hunter's. One thing I loved about this book was all the twists and turns that had me going, WHAT!! I couldn't believe some of the things that happened, as I never saw certain things coming.

     I was completely satisfied with how this series ended. Though I am super sad that I won't get to read any more new adventures about the Drakes. I'm just glad that the final book was so good and I wasn't at all disappointed as I have been with other series ending books. I don't feel like I was left with a ton of unanswered questions.

Cover:
I like this cover though I do think this couple has been on too many covers so I don't think it's highly original. But it's not horrible.

Ever After ( Hollows #11)

Kim Harrison

Publication Date: January 22, 2013 

Publisher: Harper Voyager

Hardcover:  435 pgs

~Adult~

Summary:

The ever after, the demonic realm that parallels the human world, is shrinking. If it disappears completely, so does all magic. It's up to witch-turned-daywalking-demon Rachel Morgan to avert catastrophe and keep life from changing... for the worse.

While saving the world is important, it isn't Rachel's only motivation. There's also the small fact that she caused the ley line to rip in the first place, setting off a chain reaction of unfortunate events. That little mistake has made her life forfeit unless she can fix it. It's also made her more than a few enemies, including the most powerful demon in the ever after—a terrifying entity who eats souls and now has an insatiable appetite for her. He's already kidnapped her friend and goddaughter to lure her out, and if Rachel doesn't give herself up soon, they'll die.

But Rachel has more than a few impressive and frightening skills of her own, and she isn't going to hand over her soul and her life without one hell of a fight. She's also got a surprise: elven tycoon Trent Kalamack. With this unlikely ally beside her—a prospect both thrilling and unnerving—she's going to return to the ever after, kick some demon butt, rescue her loved ones... and prevent an apocalypse before it's too late. Or, at least that's the plan. (Goodreads)

Review:
     Ever After is the 11th installment in the Hollow series. I have been addicted to this series since I first started reading it a couple of years ago. It's intense, the characters are complicated, intriguing and the story has kept me completely entertained. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this latest installment. I can definitely say I was not disappointed by this book. Rachel is once again forced to fight for her life, which of course makes for an exciting action packed read. In each book I have thoroughly enjoyed how Rachel has evolved and has started to learn who she is. She's comes to terms with being a demon and now she's focused on trying to survive being a demon.

     One of my favorite parts of this series is the ever evolving relationship between Rachel and Trent. I like that we we are getting to know Trent, bit by bit through his interactions with Rachel. Trent has always been one of my favorite characters. It's interesting  to see all these sides of him and how unpredictable he can be. Any Hollows book would not be complete without Jenks, the adorable wisecracking pixie. He always makes me laugh at least once and keeps me smiling throughout these books. Ivy doesn't play a big role in this book, since she's gone for a majority of Ever After. I'm a little sad that some of the characters that I've come to enjoy weren't really in this book, such as Glenn, David and Captain Edden.

     All in all, I have to say Ever After is a great addition to the Hollows series. It's an exciting read full of surprises that I didn't want to put down. I'm eager to see what is next for Rachel in book 12.

Cover:
I love this cover!! The colors as well as the power Rachel is displaying.

Review: "Endure" by Carrie Jones

Endure (Need #4)

Carrie Jones

Publication Date: May 8, 2012

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens

Hardcover 262 pgs

Summary:

Zara is at the center of an all-out war, and an impending apocalypse. True, she’s successfully rescued Nick from Valhalla, but it simply isn’t enough. Bedford is being ravaged by evil pixies and they need much more than one great warrior; they need an army. Zara isn’t sure what her role is anymore. She’s not just fighting for her friends, she’s also a pixie queen. And to align her team of pixies with the humans she loves will be one of her greatest battles yet. Especially since she can’t even reconcile her growing feelings for her pixie king…

Unexpected turns, surprising revelations, and one utterly satisfying romantic finale make Endure a thrilling end to this series of bestsellers.(Goodreads)

Review:
     I was excited to read Endure but sad at the same time since I didn't want this series to end. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, at least that's what they say. Once I started reading I was sucked back into Zara's world of pixies and weres. Everything is coming to a head. Zara must try to prevent the apocalypse so that the world and people she loves won't be destroyed forever. Her town is slowly being destroyed and Zara is doing all that she can to figure out how to stop the apocalypse when the evil pixies always seem to be one step ahead.

     It was sad to see Zara struggle with her relationship with Nick. She fought to get him back from Valhalla yet once he came back the two have struggled to deal with the consequences of what Zara had to do to get him back. I'm a huge fan of the interactions between Zara and Astley in this book. He doesn't hover or treat like she's fragile. Astley, as always is by her side supporting the decisions she makes and giving her comfort when she needs it. She also gets a lot of support from her best friend Issie. Who is just as adorable in this book as she was in the others. We don't see as much of the secondary characters as most of the focus is on Zara, and her quest to stop the apocalypse.

     I really liked the way this series ended. I enjoyed how Zara's story was far from predictable and had me relishing each page to see how her story would conclude. Endure was intense, sad, compelling, with a bit of romance thrown in. I felt as though all my questions were answered leaving me satisfied as I read the last page.

Cover:
     I like how this cover fits in with the other's in this series. I love the bold, gold eye but I wish the head was at a different angle. All in all I think it's very eye catching.

Review of "Poison Princess" by Kresley Cole

Poison Princess (Arcana Chronicles #1)

Kresley Cole

Publication Date: October 2, 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Hardcover 369 pgs

Summary:

She could save the world—or destroy it.
Sixteen year old Evangeline “Evie” Greene leads a charmed life, until she begins experiencing horrifying hallucinations. When an apocalyptic event decimates her Louisiana hometown, Evie realizes her hallucinations were actually visions of the future—and they’re still happening. Fighting for her life and desperate for answers, she must turn to her wrong-side-of-the-bayou classmate: Jack Deveaux.
But she can’t do either alone.
With his mile-long rap sheet, wicked grin, and bad attitude, Jack is like no boy Evie has ever known. Even though he once scorned her and everything she represented, he agrees to protect Evie on her quest. She knows she can’t totally depend on Jack. If he ever cast that wicked grin her way, could she possibly resist him?
Who can Evie trust?
As Jack and Evie race to find the source of her visions, they meet others who have gotten the same call. An ancient prophesy is being played out, and Evie is not the only one with special powers. A group of twenty-two teens has been chosen to reenact the ultimate battle between good and evil. But it’s not always clear who is on which side.(Goodreads)

Review:
     I wasn't sure what to expect form this book. From the synopsis it sounded really interesting. I have to say I was not disappointed. This book had a lot going on such as visions, an Apocalypse, magic, a touch of romance and of course lots of danger. Though there was a lot going on I wasn't ever really confused. I thought the story flowed really well. I was hooked from the first chapter and didn't want to put the book down until I was done reading. I liked the contrast of life before and after the apocalyptic event. I t was interesting to see just how much life had changed for Evie. Poison Princess is a great story full of complicated characters and an interesting mix of magic and danger with a few twists thrown in to make the story that much better.

     I really liked Evie. She's sweet, naive, and a little unsettled because of her hallucinations. The things she sees are frightening but when they come true her life changes forever. On top of the visions she's also started to hear voices. There is only one person who can help her and she's not sure this person is still even alive. Though Evie isn't used to having to fight for survival she'd do anything to make sure her and her mother survive including turning to a guy she's not sure she can trust. There is something about Jackson that draws Evie in and at the same time makes her want to run away. The two have a complicated relationship that had me hooked and wanting more.

    Another main character is Jackson Deveaux. He's mysterious, dangerous and did I mention...hot. What I wouldn't give to know what is going on in his head. Jackson can be very hot and cold. One minute he seems to care about Evie and the next he seems to act as though she's a burden.On the plus side he seems to be very dependable with really good survival instincts. Sometimes I really like Jackson and at other times I think he's a bit of a jerk. I'm definitely interested to know more about him.

Cover:
I'm really liking this cover. I love the darkness and destruction in the background. It contrasts well with the the awesomely dressed characters on the cover.
   

Review of "The Evolution of Mara Dyer" by Michelle Hodkin

The Evolution of Mara Dyer (Mara Dyer #2)

Michelle Hodkin

Publication Date: October 23, 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

ARC 530pgs 

Summary:

     Things aren't looking good for Mara Dyer. After what many believe is a mental breakdown Mara is forced into an outpatient psychiatric program. While there she is forced to hid what she can do, not only from the other patients but also from the doctors that are treating her. To add to her problems someone from her past is out to get her which no one is willing to believe. No one except the seductively hot, Noah Shaw. Together they will try and figure out what is going on, and who is out to get them.  

Review:

     What can you expect from the second installment of the Mara Dyer trilogy? How about more drama, mystery and, definitely more romance. I have to say I still have no idea who the bad guy is or where Mara's power comes from and I have no clue how it's all going to end. Which of course is great! I don't like it when a book is too predicable and a reader is able to tell who the bad guy is and can see all the twists and turns a story takes pages before it happens. I love that this book is full of mystery and I'm reading in state of total anticipation wondering what's going to happen next.

     Mara definitely has to find her inner strength as her life becomes even more complicated than it was before. Most of the issues she is dealing with she has to deal with on her own since her family believes she is slightly unstable. But of course she has Noah by her side which is a huge plus. He's not only comforting and supportive he has the resources to help Mara. Then there's that cocky attitude and cute accent and what more could a girl ask for? I loved the interactions between Mara and Noah. They play well off each other and seem to have what the other needs. Honestly, some of my favorite parts of the book were when the two of them were having a conversation. I may have had a huge smile on my face at times.

     We definitely learn more background information of  the two main characters as well as a few other characters. I was glad to see a character from the first book return. He added some snark to Mara's life but was also a source of friendship for her. Some of the information that was revealed I found to be very surprising and it had me wondering how things were going to connect in the end. This is definitely a must read especially if you liked the first book. At times this book is sad but at the same time I believe that Mara shows that she can't be held down. She has chosen to fight. I can't wait to see how her story concludes in the last book in the this trilogy.

Cover:

     I like the cover but I wish that it was a little brighter so that we could see the characters a bit more. Though the murkiness does fit how dark Mara and Noah's lives seem to be. I also like that I can't tell if the couple's hands are drifting apart or coming together.

Review of "Into the Deep" by Lauryn April

Into the Deep

Lauryn April

Publication Date: August 10, 2012

Kindle Edition

Summary:

     Ivy Daniels is an average teen until the day she nearly drowns. After her accident she develops a new ability. Is she going crazy, did her accident cause brain damage, or is her ability actually real? Because of her new found ability Ivy "overhears" someones really dark thoughts. Ivy will have to use her ability as well as depend on others around her to help solve the mystery. If she doesn't figure out who the dangerous "voice" belongs to in time, her whole school could blow up with everyone in it.

Review:

     Into the Deep is the debut novel from author, Lauryn April. Into the Deep is one of those books that I found myself getting lost in. The main character, Ivy, is quite likable, easy to relate to, and I was able to get caught up in her life as she dealt with her new ability. Another aspect I enjoyed about Into the Deep were the sensory details, they weren't overwhelming but they did allow me to feel as though I could envision the scene being described. 

     One of my favorite parts of this novel were the characters. Ivy is a bit quiet and tends to be a follower. But after nearly drowning she begins to change. I liked the way that Ivy grew and developed as a character throughout the story. Her new found ability allowed her to discover who she wanted to be as well as who she wanted to be friends with. She was able to see past peoples exteriors to see what they were truly like. She soon learns that people are not always as the appear. Ivy also struggles to control what she can do. Sometimes her ability becomes overwhelming and at times she learns things she doesn't want to know. Ivy's distress made her seem more believable as a character. She just didn't accept what she could do. She fought it and then tried to learn to control it.

     Another character in Into the Deep is Brant. He is the type of guy who can be found smoking or skipping class, he's not known as being dependable. But as Ivy is coming to find out people aren't always as they appear. I liked Brant. He has a sad back-story and is completely misunderstood by most of his classmates. But we see that there is more to him than everyone thought. I found Brant to be very likable and I couldn't wait to read about him.

     Into the Deep has all of the things I look for in a novel a great story that's easy to get caught up in. Enjoyable characters that I can root for. It also has a little mystery, some paranormal aspects, and a touch of romance. I especially liked the epilogue and was quite satisfied with the ending of this novel. I felt as though everything was wrapped up quite nicely and I wasn't left with any lingering questions. I will definitely be on the lookout for more from author, Lauryn April. 

Cover:

     I really really like this cover. It's eye catching and relates to what the book is about. I love the way the bubbles are streaming from the girls mouth as well as the way her her hair is floating up. It's not filled with a ton of graphics. It has just enough detail to make me want to pick this book up to see what this book is all  about. Very stunning!! 

Review "Pure" by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Pure (Covenant #2)

Jennifer L. Armentrout 

Publication Date: April 3, 2012

Publisher: Spencer Hill Press

Paperback: 329 pgs

Summary:

     Pure is the second installment in the Covenant series. Alex's life is extremly complicated. She's set to be the second Apollyon, she has feelings for a guy that's off-limits, and she has to spend time with Seth the Apollyon, and on top of all of that she has school work. Things get even more insane when furies attack after daimons ambush one of the Covenants. How will Alex deal with everything in her life especially when it seems a new threat arises to complicate her life even more?

Review:

     I was so excited to be back in Alex's world for several reasons. She's such an amazing character, still quite young but willing to do what she believes is right, which doesn't always work out that well. Then there is the mythology aspect of these books which I love. Plus there is Alex's complicated love life and what more could a reader ask for, not much.

     Alex is one of those characters that I can't help but root for. Her life is messy and seems to get more so the more her story continues. She is a teenage girl but has to deal with the supernatural on top of everything else a teenager has to deal with. What I really like about Alex is that she is strong, not just physically but emotionally too. She doesn't fall about at the slightest problem even if most others would. But luckily for Alex  she has plenty of people that care about her and are willing to help her out when she needs it. I also like that Alex is feisty and has a touch of snark, making her more likable in my book. 

     Besides being an Alex fan I am also a huge Aiden fan. I really liked him after reading Half-Blood and I liked him even more after reading Pure. He has a deep sense of honor that makes him really likable. He's a really great guy, caring, strong, and very protective of those he cares about. I love the way he interacts with Alex. He's tough on her but occasionally he shows his softer side. Seth, as we know is the Apollyon. He is training Alex so that she will be prepared once she becomes the other Apollyon. He does take care of Alex during some really difficult moments in her life but there is just something about him I'm not sure about. Maybe I don't trust him because I'm a giant Aiden fan so I automatically have to dislike the other guy, who knows?

     This is such a great book. It's full of action, mystery, relationship drama, and plenty of heartache. After reading Pure I'm more than ready to read Deity to see what happens next, especially after the ending of this book. Can anyone say intense?

Cover:

     I love this cover!! It's one of my favorites. The blue is very vibrant and the white, smokey flower stands out against other covers.