Review: Evermore by Alyson Noël

Title: Evermore (The Immortals, #1)

Author: Alyson Noël

Publication Year: 2009

Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal

Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

After a horrible accident claims the lives of her family, sixteen-year-old Ever Bloom can see people's auras, hear their thoughts, and know someone's entire life by touching them. Going out of her way to avoid human contact and suppress her abilities, she has been branded a freak at her new high school - but everything changes when she meets Damen Auguste. 

Damen is gorgeous, exotic, and wealthy. He's the only one who can silence the noise and random energy in her head - wielding a magic so intense, it is as though he can peer straight into her soul. As Ever is drawn deeper into his enticing world of secrets and mystery, she's left with more questions than answers. And she has no idea just who he really is - or what he is. The only thing she knows to be true is that she's falling deeply and helplessly in love with him.

My two cents: This review is certainly long overdue. But, don't blame me...I've been busy. Where do I start? I admit, I was drawn by the cover. I debated with myself whether to buy this or not until one day, it was on sale and I just couldn't resist the temptation. First few pages into the book, and all I could think was that this is just another 'Twilight' (never been a fan of that series). I was wrong. Damen is not a vampire and Ever is not obsessed to be whatever Damen is. I, at least, enjoyed this one. I have to admit though that an immortal can easily be interchanged with a vampire (he he).

Character-wise, I could totally see why Ever would shut herself out from other people. Her unique abilities were well-explained. But, it's a bit funny how she seems to never care enough to find solutions to her problems. Anyway, that is exactly the point, isn't it? However, Ever's friends are sometimes so one-dimensional. Miley is the typical gay sidekick. And Haven is the typical girlfriend who never heeds her friends' warning. Now, Damen was described as gorgeous, exotic and wealthy. Well, I get the wealthy part...but I can't really find anything exotic and gorgeous about him. I have to admit, it was kinda appealing at the start but it just becomes a bit 'blah' after a while. Having said that, I still enjoy reading about him and Ever. And the antagonist is the antagonist...typical one, cheesy and predictable and stupid!

The story is nothing new...girl is an outcast, new guy comes, they fall in love, things happen. I still enjoyed it immensely though. Kudos to the author for making this an enjoyable read. The dialogues are funny and witty and are exactly what glued me to the page after page of the book. And yeay to the flower reference and all. I am all about the symbolic meaning behind things and the flower thing totally earned a few points from me. But, I do have a few complains about the ending or the built-up towards the ending. Everything just seemed so easy. I would have liked it better if it was a bit more complicated. However, all in all, an interesting start to a series. I already have Book 2 and 3 in my safe-keeping and I certainly can't wait to read them.

My verdict: 3.5/5

Review: After Midnight by Robert Ryan

Title: After Midnight

Author: Robert Ryan

Publication Year: 2005

Genre: Historical Fiction/WW2

Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

In 1944, a Liberator bomber pilot never returns from a mission to Domodossola in Northern Italy. The aircraft and its pilot are seemingly lost for ever.

In 1964, his daughter, Lindy Carr, resolves to find out what happened to her father on that terrible night. She employs the help of motorcycle TT racer Jack Kirby, a man who has his own inner demons to combat. He was a Mosquito fighter pilot during the War and experienced at first hand the astonishing courage of the Italian partisans in the face of Nazi brutality. Jack is keen to find one of the partisans, a woman with a past as dark as the secrets she still holds close to her heart.

My two cents: Robert Ryan is officially one of my favourite authors. If I was impressed with 'The Last Sunrise', this one totally makes him one of my favourites. The book opens with a letter from a pilot posted in Italy to his soon-to-be one-year-old daughter (which was based on an actual letter), written right before he went MIA. Twenty years later, desperate to find out what really happened to her father, Lindy Carr hired Jack Kirby and his one aircraft airline. Soon, Jack Kirby was transported back to the years he spent with the Italian partisans and the role he might have had in the missing of Lindy's father and his Liberator.

I've read plenty of books with Italy as the settings but nothing captures me like this one. The WW2, as fought in Italy and the involvement of partisans in the war are not something I'm familiar with and in the beginning, I had quite a hard time following the events described. I guess a little bit of before hand knowledge would make for a smoother read. 

What I like the most about this book is that the story works at every level, be it the story of Jack's involvement with the partisans during the war, Lindy's search of her father or Jack's post-war life. The building of the pace is neither too slow nor too fast which is just right for my reading. The blurb suggests that this  centred around the missing Liberator and Lindy's search. It's true in a way but the missing Liberator itself is the key to many other unfolding events. The way Ryan intertwined the past (1944) and the present (1964) to build a complete picture is amazing, to say the least. I was totally hooked and I brought this book with me everywhere. The twist was unexpected, especially the one with Lindy and Jack's old love, Francesca.

Jack Kirby is complex. A man with his own demons to combat and the scars that war leave in him, I can't help but feel sorry for him and I keep wishing for things to turn better for him. But, the book is not all dark despite the theme and the story. It's written in a lighthearted way and the dialogs brought smiles to my face on many occasions. My only complain is that this story is quite short (only 300+ pages). The author ended it beautifully, in the wee hours of the dawn. The title might suggest at the darkest hour of the day, that is after midnight before the dawn. After all, the darkest hour is always just before the dawn and did Jack Kirby manage to go through it. 

One of Ryan's many strengths is to create believable settings no matter what the year is and this could only be achieved by extensive research. Though this one leans more towards fiction, the atmosphere portrayed stays close to how one might imagine war and its aftermath are like. If there is one thing that I learned, it is that wars leave scars in everyone and in war, nothing is too personal as people do many things out of desperation and the instinct to survive prevails for most of the times. All in all, an amazing read. 

My verdict: 4.5/5

Challenges: Historical Fiction Reading Challenge 2011, Historical de Tour Genre Reading Challenge 2011

Review: Hannah (Daughters of the Sea) by Kathryn Lasky

Title: Hannah (Daughters of the Sea, #1)
Author: Kathryn Lasky

Publication Year: 2009

Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy/Historical Fiction

Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

Hannah wants to be normal, but she's not. The sea calls to her, and she can see a delicate tracing of scales on her legs. Billowing waves soothe her, but flat land makes her sick. She knows there's something wild in her that's different, wrong - and deeply thrilling.

Only one person seems to know who - or what - Hannah is. He's a guest in the house where she works as a scullery girl, and his fascinated gaze follows her. She doesn't understand his terrifying allure, or her longing. But even as the mystery deepens, Hannah is sure of one thing. A sea change is coming.

My two cents: I came across this series while looking for something with mermaid to read (since I couldn't locate my 'Selina Penaluna' book). I was a bit reluctant to pick this up because of the mixed reviews it receives but it sounds like something I'd really like.

The book opens in an orphanage in Boston where our protagonist, Hannah had lived most of her life. Now fifteen, she was ready to leave the house but she was deemed unsuitable for the employment and was instead sent to Kansas. But Kansas, being far from the sea, made her sick and soon she returned to the orphanage and found a job as a scullery girl at the Hawleys' house, one of Boston's wealthiest families. It was at this house she began to slowly learn of her true identity and destiny.

I would say that the book is more of a historical fiction with a twist of fantasy rather than the other way round. Most of the book is spent on describing Hannah's life as a scullery girl in the household and the elaborate tradition of what it was like to serve in the 19th century in a house of a wealthy family. Though I would have preferred more if more pages were devoted to the fantasy part of the story, I nevertheless enjoyed it thoroughly. I never really read anything with historical settings that took place in the USA and I was kind of intrigued.

Hannah's true identity is kept secret to the readers for most of the book. Clue is given bits by bits particularly through the remarks of one Stannish Whitman Wheeler, a renowned painter who was working on a piece with the Hawleys. Though it is never made clear until a few last pages, it is very clear from the very beginning what the mystery is and who Stannish really is.

I have to admit that the romance between Hannah and Stannish felt a bit rushed. And I was kinda hoping that Lila (one of the Hawleys' daughters) was more than just evil and lunatic. Rather she is just a convenient means to Hannah discovering her true self. The youngest of Hawleys' daughters, Ettie though likable seems a bit too mature for her age sometimes and it is somehow unbelievable. I, nevertheless, love her for all the love she has for Hannah.

The only complain I have is that the story ended rather abruptly. I'd really like to know what would happen between Stannish and Hannah after all those initial attraction especially when he seems to have the answers to Hannah's many questions. However, I'm glad that there are two more books in the series and I hope some of the unresolved story lines in this one will be addressed. Though it ended abruptly, I have a pretty good idea of where Hannah's life would be intertwined with that of her other sisters.

All in all, 'Hannah' is a pretty good read. A very easy read too. I'd totally recommend it to younger readers.

My verdict: 4/5

Challenge: Historical de Tour Genre Reading Challenge 2011

Review: City of Stars by Mary Hoffman

Title: City of Stars (Stravaganza, #2)
Author: Mary Hoffman
Publication Year: 2003
Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy
Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

Georgia would love nothing more than to ride horses every day and avoid her annoying stepbrother at all costs. But she could never have guessed that a tiny, antique winged horse figurine would be the key to her escape to another world and another time. When Georgia arrives in a 16th-century city called Remora, she is plunged into a dangerous and treacherous world of horse-racing, family honour and deadly rivalry. And there, as a new Stravagante, Georgia will have a dramatic and extraordinary role to play.

My two cents: This review is certainly long overdue. In this second instalment of 'Stravaganza' series, a new city and a new Stravagante are introduced. The new Stravagante, Georgia, a girl from Lucien's past, lives with her mother, stepfather and stepbrother (who would go extra-length to annoy her) and is fond of anything horses. After saving up for and purchasing a statue of a winged-horse she spotted in an antique shop, she fell asleep holding it. Upon waking up, she found herself in a stable in Remora, Talia, the equivalent of Sienna, Italy. Divided into twelve sections, each section of the city is related to a sign of zodiac and everyone in the city was buzzing with excitement for the Stellata, a horse race similar but different to the Palio, the horse race held annually in Sienna. In the stable of Twelfth of the Ram, she saw a living winged horse, the first to be born in Remora in over a century.

Georgia was reunited with Lucien (now Luciano) and had a hard time accepting the growing relationship between Luciano and the Duchessa of Belleza as she once had a crush on him. She also met other Stravaganti including the owner of Twelfth of the Ram stable where she stravagates and she befriended crippled Falco, the youngest son of Duke Niccolo of the Di Chimici's family.

This book maintains the political intrigue surrounding the Di Chimici's family and Talia's city states (in particular, Belleza). This time, the political war between the city states is apparent in the form of the Stellata. There was much lobbying and there were some who believed that the Stellata is rigged every year so that one of the city states under the direct influence of the Di Chimici would win the race. Also, a little more is revealed about the act of stravagazing. It seems that the talisman would find its way to someone who is not happy in our world. Lucien was suffering from brain cancer and Georgia is constantly being bullied by her stepbrother. Often Stravaganti find their way to Talia in times when one of the city states of Talia needs their help.

It was a bit hard getting into the story at first since I just couldn't picture how the city is divided into twelve parts despite the wonderful description by the author. Add to it, all the rivalries and alliances among the twelve parts. Each Twelfth owes allegiance to another city states of Talia though they are located in Remora. This is quite confusing and often I lost track of who are the allies and who are the rivals of each Twelfth. But, as the story progressed, things did become clearer.

Of all the characters, including those newly introduced, I found Falco very moving. The relationship between him and his brother, Gaetano reminds me of those moving stories we often heard about siblings making sacrifices for each other. The decision taken by Falco, though, have consequences on more people than just himself and not just on the lives of those from Talia.

It is easy to see the parallel between what happened to Lucien in the first book and the adventures gone through by Georgia in this one, though their adventures are different in nature. All in all, a great sequel to its first instalment.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: Sleeping Arrangements by Madeleine Wickham

Title: Sleeping Arrangements

Author: Madeleine Wickham
Publication Year: 2001
Genre: Chick lit
Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

Chloe needs a holiday. She's sick of making wedding dresses, her partner, Philip, has troubles at work, and the whole family wants a break. Her wealthy friend Gerard has offered the loan of his luxury villa in Spain. Perfect.

Hugh is not a happy man. His immaculate wife, Amanda, seems more interested in her new kitchen than him, and he works so hard to pay for it, he barely has time for his children. Maybe he'll have the chance to bond with them on holiday. His old friend Gerard has lent them a luxury villa in Spain. Perfect.

When both families arrive at the villa, they realize the awful truth: Gerard has double-booked them for the same week. What no one else realizes is that Chloe and Hugh have a history, and it seems Gerard's accidental double-booking may not have been accidental after all.

My two cents: Okay, in short I wasn't really impressed with the book. It's okay but I don't love it. It's definitely not one of those books which stay with me long after I'm done reading.

I think I'm going to make this one short and straight to the points. To be honest, I picked this one up as the synopsis mentioned it took place in Spain and I'm intrigued with anything Spain/Spanish-related. However, there's not enough touch of Spain. Of course, there were a few Spanish words and sceneries thrown in...but that's about it. But, where they were thrown in, each scenery is well explained and I could almost picture it in my head. I guess that is why I was left wanting more. And of course, the book is about two families sharing a villa. I guess I shouldn't expect it to turn out like a Lonely Planet guide on Spain.

The book might have one major plot but it splits into many sub-plots. There's the story of Sam and the nanny, Jenna. Also of Philip and his job, of Hugh and his families etc. The characters are likable and funny especially the kids. And I love Philip to bits. I however really dislike Chloe and Hugh, Hugh especially. At times, both seem so selfish and think of no one but themselves. But Chloe at least, has lil' more sense than Hugh does. I particularly hate they way they handled one particular situation. Now, I find it a bit odd that Philip and Chloe are not married. I mean, they have been together for 13 years or so. But, whether you're married or not, once you've committed yourself to your partner, I'm all about being faithful. Also, I can't help feeling like there's too many coincidences. And it somehow feels so unrealistic at times. The ending too seems a bit rushed. I'd like it if it's more detailed.

All in all, the book is okay. It's not something I'd be shouting at the top of my voice to get people to read. However, if you're looking for a book to read on your long holiday and have nothing better to do, then by all means pick it up.

My verdict: 3/5

Review: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Title: The Shadow of the Wind (La Sombra del Viento)

Author: Carlos Ruiz Zafón (Translated by Lucia Graves)
Publication Year: 2001 (Translated in 2004)

Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery

Links: Goodreads | Amazon (Paperback) | Amazon (Kindle)

Hidden in the heart of the old city of Barcelona is the 'Cemetery of Forgotten Books', a labyrinthine library of obscure and forgotten titles. To this library, a man brings his 10-year-old son, Daniel, one cold morning in 1945. Daniel is allowed to choose one book and from the dusty shelves pulls The Shadow of the Wind by Julian Carax. But as Daniel grows up, several people seem inordinately interested in his find. What begins as a case of literary curiosity turns into a race to find out the truth behind the life and death of Julian Carax and to save those he left behind.

My two cents: Greatly amazing! I don't really have any words to describe how I feel about this book but those two words seem inadequate. It is just simply outstanding and beautiful. Once in a while, you come across a book that leaves you speechless and wanting more. This book does just that to me.

It opens in post-Spanish Civil War Barcelona, where young Daniel woke up one dawn screaming as he couldn't remember his mother's face. In his effort to soothe Daniel, his father took him to 'Cemetery of Forgotten Books' where he picked up The Shadow of the Wind by Julian Carax. Enthralled by the beauty of the book, Daniel started looking for other books by Julian Carax. Soon, he found himself entangled in a web of mystery, affecting himself and those he knew and those he would know.

I have to admit, though I've heard good reviews and my friend said it's really good, I was a bit skeptical as I would be picking up a translated copy (my friend read it in its original language). I've read enough of works in my own language which had been translated into English and the end results are mostly disappointing. The beauty of the language and its expression is often lost somewhere in the translation. Somehow, as soon as I started reading, I knew I would not put this down until I finished it. The translation is beautiful. I guess I would never know whether it has done justice to the original text. But it's really good and it didn't really feel like I was reading a translated work.

The characters are complex. Daniel is likable. But the one character that really stole my heart is Fermin Romero de Torres. He's funny, witty, full of expression and dramatic. I just gotta love the guy. At some points, I questioned the introduction of the characters into the story. One such character is Clara Barcelo. At the introduction, I was deceived into thinking she played a key role in the story. But, as the story progressed, it's clear the purpose of her character is to warn the readers of the danger of unrequited puppy love. The lives of the characters are intertwined with each other in such a beautiful and twisted way I could never guess what was going to happen next. People from both past and present are related in ways so complex making the story more interesting.

Now, I've never been to Barcelona, the main setting of this book. It was quite difficult getting into the story at first since the names of the streets are all alien to me. But, the vivid description of the city and its streets helped. As the story progressed and I get more familiar with the names of places and streets, I can slowly picture the beauty of the city and the rich heritage it embraces. At the end of the book, I fall in love with the city and it is my hope to one day set foot in Barcelona. I can certainly feel the author's fondness towards the city.

My review could never do justice to this book. I'd say it certainly fits for bibliophiles. It's a book about books. And the twists are unpredictable. Just when you think the story is going in one direction, it changes its course. There's mystery, horror, romance and humour, all in one book. All in all, it is really a must read. The book stayed with me long after I finished reading it. I couldn't help thinking about the characters and the lives they led. Never before a book touches me the way this book does.

Some memorable quotes:

"Every book, every volume you see here, has a soul. The soul of the person who wrote it and of those who read it and lived and dreamed with it. Every time a book changes hands, every time someone runs his eyes down its pages, its spirit grows and strengthens."

"Wars have no memory, and nobody has the courage to understand them until there no voices left to tell what really happened, until the moment comes when we no longer recognize them and they return, with another face and another name, to devour everything they left behind."

"There are worse prisons than words."

My verdict: 5/5

Challenges: Historical de Tour Genre Reading Challenge 2011, Historical Fiction Reading Challenge 2011

Review: Someone Like You by Sarah Dessen

Title: Someone Like You

Author: Sarah Dessen
Publication Year: 1998

Genre: Teen Chick Lit

Halley and Scarlett have been best friends ever since they met. Halley has always been the quiet one, Scarlett braver and more outgoing. Halley has always turned to Scarlett when things get rough, and Scarlett has always known just what to do. It's the perfect setup. But everything changes at the beginning of their junior year, Scarlett's boyfriend is killed in a motorcycle accident; then Scarlett finds out that she is carrying his baby. For the first time ever, Scarlett really needs Halley. Now Halley has to learn how to be strong for Scarlett. It won't be easy, but Halley knows that she can't let Scarlett down. Because a true friend is a promise you keep forever.

My two cents: Okay, I'm back to reviewing books and I must apologize for the lack of updates in the past two weeks. Life happens and things get hectic. I bought this after I went to my first interview for pupilage position and I was hoping to finish it by the weekend of the same week. But I ended up taking more than 1 week.

The reasons? Well, for one...I got so busy with Civil Advocacy and assignments I barely had time to read anything that's not related to them. And second of all, I have to admit that I struggled a bit through the book. The blurb sounds like something I would have liked but it really wasn't what I was expecting. I was expecting the book to be entirely about the two best friends. But, it was also about Halley's high school crush (Macon) and how she rebelled against her mum and everyone around her (Scarlett included) to be with him. I guess it's just a phase every teenager goes through and there would come a time when it would just pass, but at some points, Halley managed to annoy me so much. But just like every story with a happy ending, our girl gained her senses back before it was too late. All's well that ends well.

It is also a story about self-discovery, those moments when you discover yourself bit by bit and be surprised by it. Halley is no different. One mistake by Scarlett changed their lives forever and I have to say, the way Halley handled the changes is not at all times with maturity. With Halley, I can totally see that everyone has to make their own mistakes before they can learn from it. Scarlett is likable but I feel like the readers could do with more background story concerning her. Macon is weird, to say the least. I was hoping that the reason behind his rebellious nature would be explained by the end of the book but there really was no explanation offered. He seems to be a rebel without cause.

To say I didn't enjoy it at all would be wrong as I did enjoy the book for most part of it. It's just that my reading got interrupted so many times by things I commit my life to. I guess, I can't really complain. There are a few quotes from the book that I really liked but my favourite has to be the one on its back cover, "Life is an ugly, awful place not to have a best friend". It is true in every sense because at the end of the day, no matter what happened, Halley and Scarlett will always have each other and they will stand for each other through thick and thin and I believe, that is the message the book is trying to convey.

I don't really like the way it ended. It feels incomplete and so many questions are left unanswered. I honestly don't know how I really feel about this book. Maybe I read it at a wrong time. Perhaps one day I'll pick it up again and my opinion will change.

A few of my favourite quotes:

"There are some things in this world you rely on, like a sure bet. And when they let you down, shifting from where you've carefully placed them, it shakes your faith, right where you stand."

"...I wondered again why the right thing always seemed to be met with so much resistance, when you'd think it would be the easier path. You had to fight to be virtuous, or so I was noticing."

"Life is an ugly, awful place not to have a best friend."

My verdict: 3/5

Review: City of Masks by Mary Hoffman

Title: City of Masks (Stravaganza, #1)
Author: Mary Hoffman
Publication Year: 2002
Genre: Young Adult/Fantasy

One moment Lucien is in this world and the next he is transported to the 16th-century city of Bellezza, a world that is filled with deception, treachery and glamour. At first it feels as if only his mind is visiting Bellezza, but Lucien soon discovers that he is in fact a Stravagante - someone who, with the help of a talisman, can transport himself in time and place. Lucien may be the one person able to save Bellezza from political intrigue surrounding the city's ruler. But there is always the chance that he will get stuck on the other side of time, never able to return to his own world.

My two cents: Finally, I got to read this book! It had been on my wishlist since I first saw it. It offers a really wonderful premise - a parallel dimension of our world. The country of Talia is both like and unlike the Italy of this world and exists in a parallel world similar to a 16th-century Italy. In this alternate universe, magic as we know in our world is science and science as we know is magic.

Lucien, our protagonist lives in 21st-century London and is ill with cancer. But, one day after falling asleep hugging a new notebook given by his father, he found himself in Bellezza, a city in Talia with his illness gone. It was in Bellezza he discovered the secret of stravagazing, an act which enables certain people to travel between the two worlds. These people are called Stravaganti and Lucien is one of them.

The description of the city as well as of the Bellezzan culture are very well-detailed by the author. There are masks, mandolas (or known as gondolas in our world) and politics of the court. The similarities and differences between Bellezza and Venice are very well compared. As someone who doesn't know much about Italy and its history, I found myself drawn to the culture and the beauty of it. It kinda motivates me to read more on Italy especially on Venice, very much like how Lucien was motivated to learn as much as he could about Venice after his first visit to Bellezza.

Most of the characters are likable. The depiction of Lucien's parents as parents struggling to keep their cancerous child alive felt very realistic. Lucien's mentor and master in Bellezza, Rodolfo does not lack of depth either. However, I found it difficult to relate to the Duchessa and to understand the motives behind her sometimes ruthless action. But she is, no doubt, very clever and a great schemer and doesn't hesitate even a bit to do anything to protect the city and the people she loves.

Though the book is a part of Stravaganza series, it certainly stands on its own and the author ends Lucien's story on a beautiful note. You don't really need to read subsequent books to find out what happened to Lucien and the people he has come to love.

My only complain is there seems to be no clear explanation as to what Stravaganti do and why they do what they do except that they can travel between the worlds and they have to guard the journeys from the people with oblique motives. Maybe there is some explanation offered in subsequent books and I'll try to read them to see if there is any.

All in all, a very enjoyable read. Something light for a change after all the WW2 novels I've been reading lately. I'm certainly looking forward to reading the second book, 'City of Stars'.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: Wish Upon a Star by Martina Reilly

Title: Wish Upon a Star

Author: Martina Reilly

Publication Year: 2006

Genre: Chick lit

It's hard for Lucy, being the sister of supermodel Tracy Gleeson. It's hard because Tracy is gorgeous and Lucy feels distinctly average; Tracy is famous and Lucy works as a receptionist in a vet's clinic; Tracy has just landed a part in a major Hollywood movie and all Lucy has ever wanted to do is act. Worse than that, Lucy's daughter wants to get to know her father - only Lucy never told him she was pregnant. So, against the advice of her best friends and her doom-laden mother, Lucy begins the search to trace the boy she has tried so hard to forget...

My two cents: This is the first book from Martina Reilly that I read. At first, I was a bit hesitant to read this. I rarely read chick lit and I didn't know what to expect from the author. I just bought the book because it was on a good bargain. Anyway, I decided to give it a try and I'm delighted that I did.

It's a really fun read and a quick one too. I finished this in 5 days. It's funny, witty, sad and eye-opening all in one. Credit has to be given to the author for combining all these without losing the pace and manage to keep things interesting.

The book follows the main character, Lucy as she deals with her day-to-day life and regrets of the past. The story of the past is told in the format of Lucy's diary and the present is told from Lucy's POV. To be honest, I don't really know how to describe Lucy. She's sometimes funny and witty and sometimes passionate and emotional. For most part of the story, I felt sorry for her and kept hoping that she would have a happy ending. But, she did become a bit of a bitch towards the end. Maybe it was necessary since it was this occasion that finally opened her eyes. Before, she never really knew what she wanted, except that she wanted to be an actress. However, a little taste of popularity changed that. She finally realized that everything she ever wanted and wished for, she already had.

I found the portrayal of the characters to be really believable. The vet Lucy works for portrays everything wrong with stereotyping. There is no rich vet with fabulous sense of fashion in this book. Lucy's best friends, both Gray and Maddie, are very likable. Lucy's parents are hilarious, especially her mum with her remarks. Lucy's daughter, Fainne is very clever and has some of the best lines. The story might be about Lucy's search for the father of her daughter. But, there are so much more than that. It is also about sibling rivalry between Lucy and Tracy. And also the self-discovery and self-realization by Lucy following the search.

One thing I don't really like is that there are too much usage of the 'f' word. I can't help but feel that the book can do without so much of it. But halfway through, it seemed to tone down a bit.

I'm hoping that this won't be the first and the last time I read something from Martina Reilly. I'm already eyeing 'Something Borrowed' and 'Wedded Blitz' from her. I'm really glad that I discovered this book.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: The Last Sunrise by Robert Ryan

Title: The Last Sunrise

Author: Robert Ryan

Publication Year: 2006

Genre: Historical Fiction/WW2

1948: INDO-CHINA: Lee Crane is an American pilot flying transport planes across South-East Asia for the highest bidder. He'll fly anywhere, carry anything, if the money is right. But his experiences during World War Two still haunt him, and when he meets a woman from the past, memories of a time when his innocence was shattered threaten to ground him.

1941: BURMA: Crane is a young and carefree pilot flying fighter planes for the notorious Flying Tigers against the Japanese. He's one of the best pilots in the air. But when he falls for the charms of a beautiful Anglo-Indian girl, she has a devastating effect on him. As the war ignites across the region, Crane is separated from her, and, caught up in a world of death and corruption, he desperately needs to return to find his lover, no matter what the cost.

My two cents: I was surprised by this novel. It is no doubt that the writer had put a lot of efforts and extensive research in writing it. The Last Sunrise follows the story of Lee Crane, a young pilot in American Volunteer Group (AVG). Posted in Burma for training, he met Kitten Mahindra, an Anglo-Indian woman who took him as her lover. But tragedy struck and they were separated. The book then follows Lee for the next few years as he tried to survive the life as a pilot and to find Kitten.

The book opens in 1948 Singapore where our hero was preparing himself to leave South East Asia. A blast from the past stopped him and he was caught in a scheme he wanted no part in. I won't tell much, but let's just say...it's an Italian job during WW2, with planes and Himalayan ranges. The author managed to write a beautiful novel with vivid description of China-Burma-India as seen from the air and during the WW2. The story is told interchangeably between the present (1948 in this book) and the past (1941-1944). The present is told in first person's POV (Lee Crane) while the past is told in third person's POV.

For me, this novel works at every level. I can feel the longing and the pain in Lee when he lost Kitten, whom he thought he loved. And the air combat scenes were beautifully written. I could feel the tension and the suspense reading 'em. Also, I have to say that I'm very pleased that the author included a few Malay words in the novel. I might be bias since I'm a Malay but it's apparent from the setting that our hero would pick up a few local words. It felt so surreal, reading about Singapore in 1948 and a few references made to Malaya since I never really wanted to imagine how they must had been like back then.

All in all, the book pleases me. It was a smooth read. Throughout the novel, I couldn't help but wonder what does the title refer to. I found out the answer at the end of the novel. It left me wanting more of Lee Crane and his adventures, as well as what could have been. I could certainly feel the desperation the war brought. I formed a quick opinion on Elsa, as a woman who was clouded by her greed. But, there are always two sides to a story. At the end of the novel, I didn't really know what to think of her, just like Lee couldn't form a concrete opinion on her. I was, however, hoping the author included more of Lee and Kitten's times together. Anyway, it's still a beautiful read. And now I can't wait to get my hands on 'Dying Day', which picked up a certain story from where it left in this novel.

Note: I read the acknowledgment section and was surprised to find out that the backgrounds of most characters are influenced by real persons who fought the war.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: Here Lies Arthur by Philip Reeve

Title: Here Lies Arthur

Author: Philip Reeve
Publication Year: 2007
Genre: Young Adult/Historical Fiction

Arthur fights giants, rescues maidens and tricks the Devil with his words - or so they say. Gwyna is overwhelmed. She's only a slave-girl and he's a king. Soon Arthur's magician, Myrddin, will show her the real secret behind Arthur's power...

My two cents: Brilliant! I think that one word sums up the whole book pretty well. This was on my wish list for a very long time. I finally managed to get my hands on it last Wednesday.

The book tells the story of Gwyna, a young slave-girl who was taken in by Myrddin. It was through her eyes and mind that the story unfolds. This Arthur is not the Arthur we know from the legend. The whole book, in short, is based on the premise "everyone's heard of King Arthur but no one's ever heard the truth".

Though King Arthur's story has been told many times in hundreds different ways, this is certainly one of the best that I've ever read. It stays true to the legend but with its own twists to every occurrence found in the legend. Arthur wasn't a king or a hero, but just a warlord, motivated by greed and pride to take as much as he could from other warlords. But, it was Myrddin, his advisor as well as a story-spinner, who turned Arthur's struggles into something heroic and magical. These stories told around campfires at nights were convincing enough that people started to believe in Myrddin's Arthur and ignored the fact that the real Arthur was nothing more than just a tyrant.

Kudos to Reeve for writing a very compelling read. Written in a journal-style, it wasn't hard getting into it for it didn't waste time on unnecessary stuff. The author got to the story right on and brilliantly. The main events in the legend were fantastically explained. You can easily see how all the magical and fantasy stuff surrounding the legend came into being.

It is a refreshing take on the legend and in all honesty, I'm glad that it sheds some new light on King Arthur and his knights. If they ever existed, perhaps they were not very much like what has been passed on in legend. Perhaps they were more as depicted in the book. Gwenhywfar might not be a beautiful princess. Bedwyr might not be a strong knight. Medrawt might not be a heartless traitor. And Cei might not be boorish. But does it really matter what the truth was? The people needed a hero, and they got one...known as King Arthur. And he will live on in the stories, no matter what the truth had been. This is exactly the message this book is trying to relay....that in the end, what matters about him was the stories.

A few of my favourite quotes:

"...it didn't matter any longer what the truth had been. The real Arthur had been just a little tyrant in an age of tyrants. What mattered about him was the stories."

"People see what they expect to see, and believe what you tell them to believe."

My verdict: 4.5/5

Review: After the Break by Penny Smith

Title: After the Break

Author: Penny Smith
Publication Year: 2009
Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Katie Fisher, former breakfast TV star is a little down in the dumps. She may be dating drop-dead gorgeous Adam but her career has screeched to a halt, and there seems to be no light, at the end of the tunnel. But then she gets a call from Celebrity X-Treme, TV’s reality show, where ten washed-up celebs try desperately to revive their careers in a freezing Norwegian cabin. Scheming producers, ratings-crazed directors, a Page-3 model, an out-of-work soap actor and some woman who had an affair with a politician. What could possibly go wrong?

My two cents: I started reading this book without having read the author’s first book, 'Coming Up Next' which features the same heroine, Katie Fisher. Getting into it wasn’t difficult even without reading the first book. It certainly can be read as standalone. Events previously happened in Katie’s life were well-explained which served as well to avoid any confusion which might arise from not reading the first book.

To be honest, I enjoyed this book though there are a few minus points. Katie was described as obsessed with words and language. She would utter big words and play around with the language at the most random of times. It was funny and witty at some times and at other times, it was just plain confusing. There were a few phrases which I didn’t really get but I decided not to dwell on since they didn’t really have any significance to the storyline. It was repeatedly stated in the book that Katie thought of herself as funny when in reality, she really was not. Hence, all those lines which sometimes didn’t make sense (or at least to me, they didn’t). I read that Penny Smith herself is a newsreader. I actually wonder if she based Katie on herself.

This book surely has a lot of characters. There are those celebs who participated in Celebrity X-Treme, Katie’s former colleagues who she still maintained good relationships with, people involved behind Celebrity X-Treme, people from Katie’s family and random characters who were in a way or another related to the main characters. I found Dee, the weather presenter at Hello Britain! and Katie’s closest friend to be very likable and funny. Then, there was Keera Keethley, the ultimate bimbo who took over Katie as the main presenter of Hello Britain! Her character was good for laughs and in a way presented the most stereotype of celebrities. There are a whole bunch of other characters such as Siobhan Stamp (the scheming producer of Celebrity X-Treme), Adam (Katie’s current boyfriend who happened to be the director of a production company), Bob (Katie’s ex and her parents’ friend), Paul Martin (fellow reality TV participant who was a part of Siobhan’s scheme to bring down Adam and to bring up the rating of the programme) etc. As I told you, the book is in no way lacking of characters.

The book shifted between its many characters so much that I sometimes lost track but the way all the characters were well connected to each other helped to bring it back. Anyway, I believe it could do with proper descriptions of the more prominent characters. Also, I wish that the author had focused more on the reality TV. I found that those few scenes, though hilarious at best, felt rather inadequate. In fact, I found that the rift between Katie’s parents to be better written than the whole reality TV’s affairs.

All in all, an OK read when you are reading just for fun. Really, I picked it up just because it was on a very good Christmas bargain. But I found myself quite enjoying it. I guess there was no harm done.

My verdict: 2/5

Review: Blood Feud by Alyxandra Harvey

Title: Blood Feud (Drake Chronicles #2)
Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Publication Year: 2010
Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal

It’s been centuries since Isabeau St. Croix survived the French Revolution. Now she’s made her way back to the living, and must face the ultimate test by confronting the evil British lord who turned her into a vampire and left her buried for two hundred years. That’s if she can control her affection for Logan Drake, a vampire whose bite is a sweet as the revenge she seeks.

My two cents: This second instalment in the Drake Chronicles is told from Logan’s and Isabeau’s perspectives. Isabeau first appeared at the Royal Court at the end of the first book and helped save Solange but she was not then named. Isabeau is a Hound princess and was sent to the Royal Court for negotiations between the two tribes. But, there was something else. A prophecy also told her that she would find her mate at the Royal Court.

I’m really glad to get the insight of Logan’s funny mind. And I can totally see why Isabeau thought the Drakes family is weird…for vampires. To be honest, when the first book ended, I was hoping for more Nicholas and Lucy. This book gives me that. Nicholas and Lucy are ever present as well as Kieran who is now dating Solange. Seeing from the perspectives of our two narrators, it is easy to appreciate the humors and ironies in their relationships.

The book maintains the antagonist from the first book, Montmartre as well as introduces to us another antagonist, Greyhaven, Montmartre’s second in command who was responsible for turning Isabeau and who was planning a coup against Montmartre. But, I can gladly say that by the end of the book, all conflicts are resolved including the one between Logan and Isabeau. This book also functions to change the Drakes’ and Lucy’s view (also mine) on the Hounds, a tribe which was said to be ruthless and savage in the first book. Love is indeed the best revenge

All in all, Blood Feud was an easy and enjoyable read. Unlike when I first started reading the first book, I no longer had confusion over the characters and also the various vampire tribes featured. I finished this one in less than two days (and hey, that’s achievement enough for me). If you’ve read the first book, I’m sure you wouldn’t want to miss this one.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: My Love Lies Bleeding by Alyxandra Harvey

Title: My Love Lies Bleeding (Drake Chronicles #1)
Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Publication Year: 2010
Genre: Young Adult/Paranormal

Solange has always known she is a vampire. And as the only female vampire ever born, not initiated, she is surrounded by danger on all sides – from other vampire tribes who want to take her blood into their lineage, and from the bounty hunter who are set on destroying her and her family. When she is kidnapped, it’s up to her elder brother, Nicholas, and her best friend, Lucy, save her. But can Lucy save herself from Nicholas, who tempts her with every look – what will be her own fate if she surrenders her heart to a vampire?

My two cents: In all honesty, I had no intention to read this series. But as I was browsing through the bookstore, I came across this first book and it was on such a good bargain. And I thought I should give it a try.

The story is nothing new. In a way, it reminds me of Vampire Academy. The Drakes are one of the royal families though have since been exiled from the Royal Court. And I can’t help but see Lucy as Rose and Solange as Lissa…except that Lucy is really human and Solange can really kick some asses. But the way the story was written kept me interested. It has humors as well as action and romance. I really liked the way the tension between Nicholas and Lucy was presented. And I could straightaway guess that Solange and Kieran would be something something by the end of this book from the moment Kieran was introduced. Then, there is the whole drama involving the vampires’ Royal Court and Queen. I have to say that Solange’s seven brothers really help to keep the mood light…especially Nicholas and Logan.

I’m glad that it was told from the perspective of two people instead of one. This way, it prevented the book from becoming one dimensional and offered more insides of what the characters felt and saw. I would have liked it more if it was longer. But in a way, the author managed to not waste time going round background stories which might be or might not be boring. The author jumped straight into the issues at heart and it helped me not to lose focus. I think it’s because of this that I managed to finish this book in less than two days (I’m usually a slow reader…a very slow one). All in all, a good read if you’re looking for something to help you laugh and at the same time keep your heart beating fast.

My verdict: 4/5

Review: Pictures of Lily by Paige Toon

Title: Pictures of Lily
Author: Paige Toon
Publication Year: 2010
Genre: Chick lit

Ten years ago when Lily was just sixteen, she fell in love with someone she really shouldn't have fallen in love with. Now, living in Sydney and engaged to another man, she can't forget the one that got away. Then her past comes back to haunt her, and she has to make a decision that will break her heart - and the heart of at least one of the men who love her.

My two cents: Chick lit is not really my cup of tea. If I be honest, this is the first time I ever finished a chick lit novel. People say not to judge a book by its cover but I picked up this book initially because I was attracted to its cover. It is just so beautiful I couldn't bring myself to put it down. I was delighted when I read the synopsis. I've always liked stories where the main characters are not supposed to love someone but they do anyway.

I've never read any of Paige Toon's previous writings, so I don't really know about her usual style. But this book is divided into two parts. For the first half of the book, it is about 16-year-old Lily who just arrived from London, England in Adelaide, Australia with her mom. There, staying with the man her mum met on the Internet, Michael and his son, Josh, she ended up accompanying Michael to the conservation park where he worked. It was at this conservation she first met Ben, who was 12 years older. As soon as Ben was introduced, I knew that he was the one Lily referred to in the prologue. Right after Ben left, the story moves to 10 years later where 26-year-old Lily was now living in Sydney and had a boyfriend of two years, Richard. Soon after Richard proposed to marry her, she was reunited with Ben who was now working in Sydney Zoo.

Lily's emotions are well described and though I never fell for an older guy when I was 16, I could totally feel the pain Lily had to go through and it was easy to understand why she was still hooked on Ben. If I have to be honest, I cannot help but feel that the second half of the book is quite rushed. I didn't get enough time to form my opinion on Richard before Ben was brought back into the picture. Surprisingly, I find Richard to be likable. But, I can't connect with him as much as I do with Ben. But then again, maybe this is purposely done.

The story follows not only the main character's life in two different cities but it also provides the readers with vivid description of the settings. The beauty of Adelaide is well described and I couldn't help but wish to be on the ferry Lily took everyday to commute in Sydney.

All in all, a pretty good read. An easy one too. It isn't hard to get into the story just as soon as the novel starts. I'm glad my first chick lit read was a pleasant one. The story is just as beautiful as the cover.

My verdict: 3.5/5

Review: Postcards from No Man's Land by Aidan Chambers

Title: Postcards from No Man's Land

Author: Aidan Chambers
Publication Year: 1999
Genre: Young Adult/Historical Fiction

Jacon's plan is to go to Amsterdam to honor his grandfather who died during WW2. He expects to go, set flowers on his grandfather's tombstone, and explore the city. But nothing goes as planned. Jacob is not prepared for love - or to face question about his sexuality. Most of all, he is not prepared to hear what Geertrui, the woman who nursed his grandfather during the war, has to say about their relationship. Geertrui had always been known as Jacob's grandfather's kind and generous nurse. But it seems that in the midst of terrible danger, Geertrui and Jacob's grandfather's time together blossomed into something more than a girl caring for a wounded soldier.

My two cents: This novel is about two stories, one is that of the young Jacob in the present day Amsterdam (well, in 1995) and another of Geertrui in the war-stricken Oostorbeek in 1944. These two stories, separated by 50 years in time, are told interchangeably between chapters.

I'll be honest. For the first few chapters, it wasn't an easy read. It was rather confusing, all over the place and left me trying to figure out the connection between one sentence to another. But it was purposely written in that way...and as the book progressed, I found it became easier and easier to relate each character to the main stories. Life in time of war is told from Geertrui's perspective and it wasn't easy reading all she had to go through during the war. Somehow, it makes me realise how lucky I am to live somewhere where war is just a history. As for the modern day Amsterdam, it is told from the perspective of a visiting English teenager who is yet to discover himself. It shows us the cultures and customs of Dutch as well as an English boy's perspective on the city and its people.

Originally, I picked up this book because I wanted to read something about love during WW2. And, was I disappointed? I'd have to say, not at all. There is love, self-discovery and sacrifice all in one book...in both stories of young Jacob and of young Geetrui. Though, if I had to choose between the two, I loved Geertrui's story a bit more. Her story was truly tragic yet beautiful. Her love for soldier Jacob and how she dealt with losing the people she loved to war are the aspects that touched me the most.

And I have to say, there's a lot of history in this book, from WW2 and its famous Anne Frank to Rembrandt to the history of the two families featured. Also, the book is full of philosophical quotes about life and memories. All in all, the author managed to intertwine the lives of two main characters, Jacob Todd and Geertrui in a very beautiful, clever and awesome sort of way.

At the back cover of the book, it is written "...teens may remember not only that they read it, but also where and when they read it." This is particularly true in my case. I still remember that I read most of this book while I was sitting in the food court of Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre waiting for WCOA session for that particular day to end.

My words would never be enough to describe this book. Just go and pick it up whenever you have time. I believe it won't be a disappointment.

A few of my favourite quotes:

"You have to know your own truth and stick to it. And never despair. Never give up. There's always hope."

"Here is memory. For me now there is only memory. Memory and pain. All life is memory. Pain is of now, forgotten as soon as gone. But memory lives. And grows. And changes too."

"Events separate people quite as much as time and distance. What has happened to one in the absence of the other makes foreigners of them."

There are more but I can't seem to locate them now. Don't blame me for being too lazy to go through each chapter, it is 3.30 in the morning.

Note: According to the author, this book is a part of 'The Dance Sequence' which consisted of 6 books. But, it can be read as standalone.

My verdict: 5/5