Review ; First Night by Tom Weston

ABOUT THE BOOK/: Alexandra O’Rourke, aged 16, is not a happy camper. It's New Year’s Eve. She should be partying in San Diego with her friends, but instead she is stuck in Boston, with just her younger sister, Jackie, for company. As if that wasn’t bad enough, she is being haunted by Sarah, the ghost of a seventeenth century Puritan. Oh, and there is the small matter of the charge of witchcraft to be sorted out.

Armed only with big shiny buttons and a helping of Boston Cream Pie, the sisters set out to restore the Natural Order. Can Alex solve the mystery of the Devil’s Book? Can Jackie help Sarah beat the sorcery rap? And can they do it before the fireworks display at midnight? Because this is First Night - and this is an Alex and Jackie Adventure.

(taken from tom-weston.com)


THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 8/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 7/10
3. Funny Factor - 9/10
4. Honesty Factor - 8/10
5. Originality Factor - 9/10

and

Narrator's Voice - 8.5/10

Overall conclusion -I didn't know what to expect of this book. I've never been a fan of mysteries or anything ghost related. The first few chapters were dragging but after I got the hang of the story, I finally realised the necessity of the introduction. Tom Weston writes beautifully, his words almost poetic. The conversations are mildly humorous. What I felt very strongly about this book was how strong the characters are. My favourite would be Jackie for her jokes and sarcasm. The plot wasn't very suspensful but its good enough to make you curious about what happens next. When I'm not reading the book, I'm trying to guess how Sarah can prove that she's not into witchcraft. The journey in this novel is a very memorable one. I love how everything connects and while reading, I was very eager to connect the dots. I am thoroughly pleased with the outcome of the book and glad that I picked this novel as a turning point for me to venture in this type of genre. This would be a great pick for those who are trying to venture on the book genre. I look forward for the next Alex and Jackie adventure.

TIQA

Review ; Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers

ABOUT THE BOOK/: Perfect Parker Fadley isn’t so perfect anymore. She’s quit the cheerleading squad, she’s dumped her perfect boyfriend, and she’s failing school. Her parents are on constant suicide watch and her counselors think she’s playing games… but what they don’t know, the real reason for this whole mess, isn’t something she can say out loud. It isn’t even something she can say to herself.
A horrible thing has happened and it just might be her fault.

(taken from courtneysummers.ca)


THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 8/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 7/10
3. Funny Factor - 9.5/10
4. Honesty Factor - 10/10
5. Originality Factor - 9.5/10

and

Narrator's Voice - 9.8/10

Overall conclusion - One thing that really strucked to me while reading this novel was how honest and true the words are. For a debut novel, I find Courtney Summers very brave and for that, I admire her.

Perfection is always an issue and this novel explores the true meaning of perfection and that it isnt as glorious as it sounds. I can't say I enjoyed reading it because this is seriously not a book to enjoy and laugh about (although Parker's sarcasm was really funny). It does speaks to me and it was interesting to read from a different point of view. I can relate to Parker's problem with just wanting to get rid of everything. I think Parker is a great character and I love how she copes on with her problem.

One of the biggest aspect discussed in this novel is support. Although Parker has caused so many troubles, her friends, parent and teachers continue to support her from the start to the end. I find Chris very sweet and although I can't quit figure out his platonic/ romantic relationship with Parker until the middle of the book, I'd say he's very supportive and I'd love to have a friend like him. Jake Gaurdner in the other hand is really something. I'm a sucker for a guy who won't give up and Jake certainly is one. The conversations between Jake and Parker are certainly what aids to the funny part of the book. That and Parker's wit. My favourite part in this novel was the ending because eventhough it isn't a happy ending, I see it as a start to a happy ending.

Cracked Up To Be is a story told in a beautifully raw voice and it will continuously inspire a lot of people.

TIQA

Review ; Across The Pond by Storyheart

ABOUT THE BOOK/: Finding himself packed off to friends in the USA, fifteen-year-old English born Fred Squire is not happy. Then he meets Brittany.

Struggling with his feelings for Brit and the language, Fred is further confused when he meets Brit's flirtatious friend, Angel.

Escaping from a confrontation with Steve Harris, the neighborhood bully, Brit tells Fred her dark secret about Harris, and Fred's world is turned upside down.

Life continues to throw Fred a curveball when he catches a baseball worth a small fortune. Further run-ins with Harris, a crazy family BBQ, and a chase through a mall all add to Fred's American adventure.

"Brit and her Brit", know that their young love will be followed by heartache when Fred has to return to England. But not before some final twists in the tale.

(taken from across-t-pond.com)


THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 8/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 8/.510
3. Funny Factor - 9.3/10
4. Honesty Factor - 9.5/10
5. Originality Factor - 9.5/10

and

Narrator's Voice - 10/10

Overall conclusion - For as long as I've been reading YA, I've only read 3 books from a male perspective. I also wasn't a big fan of the 'exploring a new country' type so I didn't know what to expect from Across The Pond. The only hope I had was that it will change my thoughts on the type. Boy, it sure did.

The first thing I noticed about the book is how easy the word flows out, allowing you to embark on the journey itself and finding yourself discovering new stuffs as well. Fred Squire is a great character. I adored his shyness and I had a great time reading about his experience in USA. Across The Pond is an original twist from your typical YA book.

What I enjoyed the most was discovering the differences of Britain and USA. I live in Malaysia (where we use British English) so in a way, Fred and I are just discovering new things. The dialog and jokes are exceptionally funny. The romance in this novel is a lovely, sweet one. Brit is a great character and the emotions in Across The Pond is mostly genuine. I love how Fred was brave enough and how his character builds up from just one journey. This is one of the books that you will see yourself picking up in the next 10 years. Particularly, I find this novel a fun, easy, out going book and I definitely recommend it to everyone whose looking for a fun good read.

p/s; thanks Barry for the copy.
TIQA

Review ; Something,Maybe by Elizabeth Scott

ABOUT THE BOOK/: I wonder what it would be like to do high school things. To go out on the weekends. To kiss a guy. To have a normal life. A real one.

Everyone thinks their parents are embarrassing, but Hannah knows she's got them all beat. Her dad made a fortune showcasing photos of pretty girls and his party lifestyle all over the Internet, and her mom was once one of her dad's girlfriends and is now the star of her own website. After getting the wrong kind of attention for way too long, Hannah has mastered the art of staying under the radar...and that's just how she likes it.

Of course, that doesn't help her get noticed by her crush. Hannah's sure that gorgeous, sensitive Josh is her soul mate. But trying to get him to notice her; wondering why she suddenly can't stop thinking about another guy, Finn; and dealing with her parents make Hannah feel like she's going crazy. Yet she's determined to make things work out the way she wants -- only what she wants may not be what she needs....

(taken from elizabethwrites.com)


THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 9.5/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 9/10
3. Funny Factor - 8/10
4. Honesty Factor - 9/10
5. Originality Factor - 8.5/10

and

Narrator's Voice - 10/10

Overall conclusion - I've been trying to find the exact words to fully describe this novel when I realised that it's already there, on the book jacket.

Once again, Elizabeth Scott has created a world so painfully funny and a cast of characters so heartbreakingly real that you'll love being a part of it from unexpected start to triumphant finish.

That is true, indeed. Her originality makes you want to read it more of it, until you don't realise that you are actually at school, sitting right in front of the teacher whose babbling about Indices and Logarithms. Trust me, I know. I was smiling so happily when I read 'that certain part' the teacher came and asked "why are you so happy that the homework is due the next day?" (I was hiding the book under my table).

I wanted to read this one since I read the excerpt at the back of Perfect You. Hannah is someone I can relate to, not for her parents (obviously) but because the way she hides herself in oversized clothes. Okay okay. That's not entirely true, but I really prefer wearing oversized clothes because then people would be staring at me for my big clothes and not for who I am. You know what I mean? No? Okay, this is turning up to be a body image post.

Back to the review. I've only recently realize that I really really really love how Elizabeth Scott writes. Her words are so relaxing that you don't find yourself rushing through the book but still so eager to know what happens. I love the present tense she writes in instead of the usual past tense. It makes it more real. Nuff said about that. I really love how the characters develops to the end. Also, Scott's good on giving hints about something without you even realising it until you reach the part (if youve read the book, you'd know). Of course, like so many others I love Finn. Will (from Perfect You) is my favourite though but Finn is special. He's adorable and exactly the kind of person you want to spend your life with. He's the underdog, that guy right in front of your face without you ever realising it (cliche, I know but still good). The family problems here is more original and I like how Scott gives every character their own identity thus making the novel more interesting. I also realize that I've been saying 'I love..' a lot in this review which can only mean one thing : I love this book!! This is a light-hearted fun read. Something, Maybe is really something.


My only conflict is that : What does Something, Maybe has anything to do with the book? Maybe I'm just really slow at metaphors and hidden meanings but I still don't get. If you do, please lemme know.


TIQA

Review ; Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols

ABOUT THE BOOK/: HOW FAR WOULD YOU GO?

All Meg has ever wanted is to get away. Away from high school. Away from her backwater town. Away from her parents who seem determined to keep her imprisoned in their dead-end lives. But one crazy evening involving a dare and forbidden railroad tracks, she goes way too far...and almost doesn’t make it back.

John made a choice to stay. To enforce the rules. To serve and protect. He has nothing but contempt for what he sees as childish rebellion, and he wants to teach Meg a lesson she won’t soon forget. But Meg pushes him to the limit by questioning everything he learned at the police academy. And when he pushes back, demanding to know why she won’t be tied down, they will drive each other to the edge—and over...

(taken from jennifer-echols.com)


THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 8.5/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 9.5/10
3. Funny Factor - 8.5/10
4. Honesty Factor - 10/10
5. Originality Factor - 10/10

and

Narrator's Voice - 9.7/10

Overall conclusion - I read this book through one sitting, but that doesnt mean a thing. What matters is that, the moment I finish reading it, (while grinning like an idiot) I re-read it again. I agree with most of the other reviews I've come across with because this book is hot! It's real, fast and it'll take up your whole heart until you never want to let go. Going Too Far is really, simply about how everything happens for a reason. Meg is wild, she's unruly, she's fierce and she hates to be tied down. The book is similar to her. What I don't like : the beginning-of-the-ending is too rushed and abrupt. One minute they are blaming each other, and in the next they are planning their future. Another 3 pages or so wouldn't hurt. I've read in an interview that Echols was tentative on writing Chapter 14. Well, I'm glad she did. Its one of the chapter where I could really connect with Meg.


Meg is going to be one of my favourite character from now on, if only because she is so outspoken, powerful yet complicated. The complexity and intensity of John and Meg's relationship is the main reason you won't be able to put the book down. This novel deals with matters close to heart like holding back, giving up and trust. This is one of those novels that you could always relate to even if you won't ever get arrested or don't have blue hair.


My favourite thing about the book would be for how 'jarring and in-your-face' it is. Although I've known from the start that John is 19, Meg was so convincing that I really believed he's 40. And that is a good thing, because sometimes books are so plain obvious you just want to smack the character for not realising it from the beginning. Really. Jennifer Echols did a great job on ringing the truth in Meg's voice. I also adore John's character, especially his over-protectiveness over Meg. Echols really knows how to create adorable boys that you can't resist. (just look at Adam in The Boys Next Door) This book is definitely on my all time favourite list.

Review : When It Happens by Susane Colasanti

ABOUT THE BOOK/: At the start of her senior year, Sara wants two things: to get into a top college and to find true love. Tobey also wants two things in his senior year: to win Battle of the Bands and to make Sara fall in love with him. A popular jock named Dave, though, moves in on Sara first. But Tobey's quirky wit and big blue eyes are hard for Sara to ignore. Plus, he gets the little things that matter to her - like why she loves the Lloyd Dobler boom-box scene in the movie Say Anything....Can a slacker rock-star wanna be win the heart of a pretty class brain like Sara?Hilariously and movingly told through Tobey's and Sara's authentic voices, Susane Colasanti's debut novel sizzles in its portrayal of two young people searching for the one.


(taken from susanecolasanti.com)



THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;


1. Shocking Factor - 7/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 8/10
3. Funny Factor - 8.5/10
4. Honesty Factor - 9/10
5. Originality Factor - 7.5/10


and


Narrator's Voice - 8/10

Overall conclusion - Truth be told, I wanted to read this book just for the pretty cover. I was at the cashier when suddenly I caught my sight on When It Happens. Of course, I could only buy one book so I rushed home, called my friend and made her promise she'd buy it. I haven't even read the book jacket, but I just know its something I'd like. And I was right, partly. I didn't just like it, I loved it.


This book is fun, fresh and honest! When It Happens is the ultimate romance read. From the narrative voice, I prefer reading Sara's than Tobey because it seems like Tobey tries too hard to sound tough. I can somehow relate to Sara. She's just looking for something real because sometimes life/ highschool could get a bit over-rated. Tobey is a cute guy, he's adorable and charming, so I get how Sara can't resist him. I was rooting for Tobey since the first. I'm so happy at how Sara's and Tobey's relationship turned out. My favourite character though, would be Maggie. She's hilarious. Scenes with Sara and Tobey are sweet, romantic and well-written. I personally love the remake of the scene in Say Anything with the boom box and all. The funny and easy-going dialogue was what really got to me.

Colasanti connects the main characters through music, thus educating to those of us who needs help in that field. It's fun to read from two perspectives regarding the same situation. Although I can tell how the story goes, its great to explore the book and find some of my prediction wrong. I marvelled at the thought that this is actually a debut novel. Such an inspiring writing. The realistic take on this novel shows how high school really is. When It Happens would definitely suck you in and after you've finished the book, you'd find yourself wide awake, wishing you'd have that something 'real' too.

TIQA

Review ; The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

ABOUT THE BOOK/: Katniss is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister in the poorest district of Panem, the remains of what used be the United States. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, "The Hunger Games." The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed. When her sister is chosen by lottery, Katniss steps up to go in her place.

(taken from suzannecollinsbooks.com)

THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;


1. Shocking Factor - 8/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 8.5/10
3. Funny Factor - 5/10
4. Honesty Factor - 6/10
5. Originality Factor - 10/10


and


Narrator's Voice - 10/10

Overall conclusion - I've read so many great reviews that I was eager to pick this one up. The great reviews made me buy the book, but I still wasn't convinced. So I just sat there, and stare at the book. Wondering if reading it would change my life. In the back of my mind, I remembered this review from this boy who hated The Hunger Games. (he's the only one who hated it, as far as my google searching skills could stretch) I started to believe that maybe he's right. Maybe I won't be impressed. But deep inside, I know that I need to read it to find out. The first few pages went in but I was still hesitant. I kept closing the book, not sure if I want to continue. I finally gave in, and by the time I reached page 30, I was already gripped. I couldn't put the book down. 6 hours later, I finally put the book down. I stayed awake the whole night just to finish it up. And yet, I wasnt tired at all. That was what The Hunger Games did to me.

I absolutely loved how the words are easy flowed. Katniss voice is so calming to read, even during suspense moments. Suzanne Collins really knows how to get the story going. I adore the determination Katnis had at the arena. The love triangle and Katniss doubt over her feelings, priceless! Collins made everyone seems vulnerable. I can't even begin to tell you how much I love the ending. I enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward for the next on, Catching Fire!

This is a winner, indeed.


TIQA

Review ; Gettin' Lucky by Micol Ostow

ABOUT THE BOOK/: Cass Parker is a big believer in luck, fate, and all things cosmic. So she's devastated when she walks in on her supposed best friend macking with Jesse, the guy she's in total "like" with. Talk about bad karma. Vegas is just full of cheaters, Cass concludes -- even the locals.
Cass refuses to sulk. She finds new friends and even gets invited to their weekly poker night -- totally casual and not-for-profit, of course. They seem pretty chill, and Cass definitely needs to get out more. So after consulting her horoscope, she gets in the game.
But when Jesse turns up for a final showdown, it turns out that Cass isn't so good at bluffing -- not when it comes to matters of the heart . . .

(taken from micolostow.com)





THE REVIEW /:



Elements ;


1. Shocking Factor - 6/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 7/10
3. Funny Factor - 6/10
4. Honesty Factor - 4/10
5. Originality Factor - 5/10


and


Narrator's Voice - 8/10

Overall conclusion - This is the first book I've read by Micol Ostow. To be frank, it didnt really impressed me. The storyline is just the typical storyline, and halfway through the book, you can already predict the ending. By the time you reach the ending, you'd find out that you were right. No surprises. The cosmic part of it, however was fun to read. The way Cassandra remembers everything about horoscopes shows that she ain't a fool when it comes to it. The love story didn't actually gave me a thrill. Elliott does remind me of Matt in Smart Boys and Fast Girls, though. I guess its the way that both of them are nerds who has beautiful eyes. Alana (supposedly to be the wicked witch from the West) doesn't really sound like one. Maybe because Micol Ostow has put too much teenager vibe in it. You know, girl gets the jock, girl's bestfiend is the head cheerleader. The jock cheats on the girl with the cheerleader. Girl's out for revenge. Yeah, like I said. Predictable.Despite that, the narrator's voice shows some originality. Cassandra's voice was fun to read. In conclusion, this book is a good read if 'just for passing by time but if you're looking for an adrenaline rush read, this book isn't great.



TIQA

Review ; FADE by Lisa McMann

ABOUT THE BOOK /: For Janie and Cabel, real life is getting tougher than the dreams. They're just trying to carve out a little (secret) time together, but no such luck. Disturbing things are happening at Fieldridge High, yet nobody's talking. When Janie taps into a classmate's violent nightmares, the case finally breaks open--but nothing goes as planned. Not even close. Janie's in way over her head, and Cabe's shocking behavior has grave consequences for them both.

Worse yet, Janie learns the truth about herself and her ability. And it's bleak. Seriously, brutally bleak. Not only is her fate as a Dream Catcher sealed, but what's to come is way darker than she'd even feared...

(taken from LisaMcmann.com)





THE REVIEW /:

Elements ;

1. Shocking Factor - 7/10
2. Thrilling Factor - 8.5/10
3. Funny Factor - 6/10
4. Honesty Factor - 5/10
5. Originality Factor - 10/10

and

Narrator's Voice - as this book was written in present tense, there isnt a narrator but I would say that the words are all straight forward making it easier for readers to understand the situation.

Overall conclusion - Lisa Mcmann writes in a manner that she captivates readers with the revelation of mysteries. You grow more and more curious by each page. She is truly good messing with our feelings. Cabel Strumheller's character is the one that got to me. He is dark and shady but turns out to be funny at times, you can't help but wish you had a boyfriend like him. In Fade, I love how Janie is independent and although she does relies on Cabel some of the time, she makes her own decision and stands by on it. I had to admire that strength and courage she had. She is totally inspirational. As I am a softie at heart, yes I admit. I was pretty glad of how Cabel/Janie's relationship worked out. (is that considered a spoiler?) The ending of the book, truly is haunting. It shows that you can be happy even in a sorrowful situation. You might have an idea how Gone would start with but Lisa Mcmann is always surprising you. If you haven't read this book yet, I suggest you do. (start with WAKE, though) It tells you that life isnt always a trip to the amusement park.

So, grit your teeth while you wait for the much anticipated book out next year!


TIQA