REVIEW: Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. Taking out anyone who stands in his way? Done. Burning down the whole world to save her? Gladly. Exposing his alien race to the world? With pleasure.

All Katy can do is survive.

Surrounded by enemies, the only way she can come out of this is to adapt. After all, there are sides of Daedalus that don’t seem entirely crazy, but the group’s goals are frightening and the truths they speak even more disturbing. Who are the real bad guys? Daedalus? Mankind? Or the Luxen?

Together, they can face anything.

But the most dangerous foe has been there all along, and when the truths are exposed and the lies come crumbling down, which side will Daemon and Katy be standing on?

And will they even be together?

MY THOUGHTS…

“Well then, it’s time to introduce the world to a little bit of extraterrestrial awesomeness.” – Luc

First, let me extend my big congratulations to Jennifer L. Armentrout for being able to bring out a series that has a constant, amazing delivery. This book is the latest installment of Lux Series. When I completed this yesterday, I have to admit that I got real crazy. I WANT THE NEXT BOOK! Like, RIGHT NOW!

This book is not making things easy for me. In Opal, I thought I was reading the best action scenes in this series, but I was wrong because in Origin, the action scenes were much even scarier, more electrifying, and absolutely breathtaking! It’s like watching a movie, only the difference is you’re doing it in your imagination. And only Jennifer Armentrout can do that effortlessly.

And let me warn you guys to prepare yourself for some difficult situations here in this book. There are a lot of unexpected things to happen, especially deaths of some characters that will shock the nuts out of you. There are also some scenes that are insanely cruel and gruesome but beautifully crafted. Amazing, Jennifer, amazing!

Now let’s get to my favorite parts of this book. I love everything here, especially when it comes to the newly introduced character like Archer. Heck, you guys shouldn’t miss this incredibly defined man. I think this character stood out the best here, next to Luc who also made an impression during the exhilarating, action-packed scenes. I didn’t expect that there are characters here that are equally as impressive as Daemon. I just love the character-building in this book. Each of them were introduced in a thoroughly spectacular way.

I also love how Daemon and Katy’s relationship grew more and more intense here. Daemon is willing to risk his life and his kind just to save her. And yes, he’s not even kidding.

“There’s only one thing I want.”
“And that is?”
“I want to see Kat.”
Nancy’s smile didn’t fade. “And what are you willing to do to accomplish that?”
“Anything,” I said without hesitation, and I meant it. “I will do anything, but I want to see Kat first and I want to see her now.”

This book also has many surprising twists. And Matthew– oh my God, I didn’t see that coming! I couldn’t even believe that my suspicion about Bethany is indeed true. I’ve guessed it right, I’ve guessed it right!

The plot is too good it will absolutely have you sitting on your heels at the same time drawing a deep, anxious breath in full anticipation on what’s to come next. It’s a grab-you-quick and hold-you-fast book with numerous climaxes. No dull moments in this book. Positive. It’s the book that I can’t really get enough. I. JUST. CAN’T.

And the ending… Yes, expect a cliffhanger ending from Ms. Jennifer. That’s her trademark. But I love her for that. 🙂 Now, I can’t wait to grab the next book called Opposition which will be released next month. It will surely be worth the wait!

The Book Is…

Pros

An excellent blending of action, fantasy, and romance. The desire to find out what happens next keeps you turning pages.

Con

None, I’m very sure of it.

What I Think About the Characters

Katy Swartz

Katy here in this book has greatly improved. We know that she’s brave in previous books, but in Origin, she’s incredibly daring and fearless. I admire her for always asserting her need to fight and be of use and not depending on Daemon at all times.

Daemon Black

I love Daemon’s determination to get Katy back. But there are times that he annoys me, especially when he makes stupid decisions. But, it doesn’t make me like him less.

Archer

Alright, I have to include Archer here since I therefore conclude that he’s already one of my favorite characters. From the moment he was first introduced in this book, I knew exactly that he has a great part here. And I was right. I love his cool, fully-composed attitude. And yes, he’s stronger that expected and can really equal any character’s strength here.

Luc

I also have to include him because I just simply love him. Yes, he’s a clever guy. I love how strong, cool, and wise he is. He’s one of the characters that will simply enthrall you.

My Rating for this Book: 5 Stars (If I could give 6 stars, I will.)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“I want a years-worth of seconds and minutes with you. I want a decade’s worth of hours, so many that I can’t add them up.”

“We all do crazy things to protect the ones we love.”

“I don’t expect a normal life, Daemon. I just expect a life with you.”

REVIEW: Opal by Jennifer L. Armentrout

 

No one is like Daemon Black.

When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn’t fooling around. Doubting him isn’t something I’ll do again, and now that we’ve made it through the rough patches, well… There’s a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.

But even he can’t protect his family from the danger of trying to free those they love.

After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different… And I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.

Together we’re stronger… and they know it.

MY THOUGHTS…

(There’s a bit of spoiler in this review so please be warned.)

After reading the Onyx, I immediately grabbed this. It’s because I was so excited about Dawson’s reappearance and I became curious as of how the Blacks are going to deal with some changes now that their brother is back. I was really happy about their reunion, but at the same time I felt awed when Dawson was no longer the guy he used to be. He was longing for Bethany to be freed from Daedalus knowing that she’s still alive.

In this book, I found a great deal of action. The choice between trusting Blake for the second time after betraying Katy in Onyx and pushing the idea of giving their trust aside is very crucial. I became really anxious the moment Blake returned. It’s like they were visited again by some sort of nightmare.

This book, without a doubt, is different from the previous Lux books. It had my full attention from start to finish. There were a lot of nerve-wreaking scenes and even intriguing parts that will make everything unsettling. In my part, I became really, really anxious the moment the Luxen gang, Katy, and Blake attacked Mount Weather to rescue Bethany and Chris. Seriously, and I’m not even kidding, my heartbeat ran so fast with those scenes. Oh, Jennifer– this author really has the power to bring out this kind of emotion to her readers. I love her for that!

And Daemon and Katy? Well, their chemistry continues to grow in this installment. It even in fact, deepens. I love how protective Daemon is to Katy, especially whenever Blake is around. He’s just too good to be true!

Here’s one of the funniest scenes I couldn’t forget:

Dawson shifted, dropping his head into his hand. “Do you ever stop talking?”

“When I’m sleeping,” Blake replied.

“And when you’re dead,” Daemon threw back. “You’ll stop talking when you’re dead.”

Lol. As usual, the humor Jennifer Armetrout brings in the story is always present. Another thing that also made this book interesting is the appearance of Luc. Oh. My. God. This kid is really something. He’s intriguing and I can sense that he’s a lot more powerful. I knew then that I need to keep track of him and read the next book, hoping that Luc will be highlighted more.

This book is such a roller coaster ride for me. I just love the the twist it brings. There’s so much build up to what you hope the events will be. And the ending? Oh my… I found myself hanging on a cliff. You know what I mean. But all in all, the story was excellent. It really got better and better.

The Book Is…

Pros

Undeniably a page-turner. It’s one with a compelling plot. It has witty characters and clever turn of events. You will find yourself fully entertained up to the very end.

Con

None.

My Rating for this book: 5 Freakin’ Stars! (There’s so much to expect in this book, and you will never be disappointed.)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“He was such an asshole, and I loved him.”

“You really shouldn’t trust a soul in this game. Not when everyone has something to gain or lose.”

“I love you, Katy. Always have. Always will.”

REVIEW: Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Being connected to Daemon Black sucks…

Thanks to his alien mojo, Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarro connection. So I’ve sworn him off, even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But we’ve got bigger problems.

Something worse than the Arum has come to town…

The Department of Defense are here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we’re linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And there’s this new boy in school who’s got a secret of his own. He knows what’s happened to me and he can help, but to do so, I have to lie to Daemon and stay away from him. Like that’s possible. Against all common sense, I’m falling for Daemon. Hard.

But then everything changes…

I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. And I have to tell Daemon, even though I know he’s never going to stop searching until he gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me?

No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies…

MY THOUGHTS…

It’s official! I’m now a 100% certified fan of Jennifer L. Armentrout, and I’m so proud to say it. This author never fails to give me goosebumps, and this book– well, it had my mind seriously blown up! If you have read Obsidian, reading this book will even get you more thrilled you can’t just resist it and stop craving for more.

This book introduces more about Daemon and the Luxens — and the hybrid. It also introduces the new character named Blake– a hottie who became Katy’s new friend and well, Daemon’s rival? The earlier chapters of this book is lighter, so you can’t expect something thrilling to happen. But I tell you, as the story progresses, it becomes more and more interesting.

There are flirtations (as usual) between Daemon and Katy that will make you smile all the way.

“Cookie?” he offered, holding a cookie full of chocolate chips.

Upset tummy or not, there was no way I could refuse that. “Sure.”

His lips tipped up on one side and he leaned toward me, his mouth inches from mine. “Come and get it.”

Come and get…? Daemon placed half of the cookie between those full, totally kissable lips.

Oh, holy alien babies everywhere…

I know. I just love this scene. Lol. (I hope it’s not spoilery, though). But c’mon, these two undeniably have a thing or two for each other. You can feel it!

Honesty, this book didn’t bore me. In fact, it just kept my adrenaline going. It promises a lot of things. There are also parts that will make you feel antsy, especially every time the DOD enters the scene. You can also expect to experience strange twist of events that will absolutely make your spine tingle. As a whole, I found this book really fascinating I ended up craving for moooore!

The book Is…

Pros

Clean and well-written. It has engaging storyline and it’s an adrenaline-boosting book with plenty of humor that will make the reading experience very entertaining.

Con

None.

What I Think About the Characters

Katy Swartz

In this book, I was surprised to find out that she’s tough. I didn’t expect it. She easily adapted to her newly discovered “self” and she didn’t even whine about it. The only thing I hate about her is the bad decisions she has made in this book.

Daemon Black

He’s flirty in Obsidian, and now he becomes even more. And as usual, he’s an alien hotness who’s brave and strong enough to protect Katy.

My Rating for this book: 5 Stars (If you loved Obsidian, you will love Onyx more!)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“Some things are best left…unknown, you know? People search for answers and they don’t always like what they get. Sometimes the truth is worse than the lie.”

“Strange how something good can come from something horrible.”

REVIEW: Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Starting over sucks.

When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I’d pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring… until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.

And then he opened his mouth.

Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something… unexpected happens.

The hot alien living next door marks me.

You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon’s touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I’m getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.

If I don’t kill him first, that is.

Holy crap on a cracker! Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout is freaking too amazing I can’t even think of the words to describe it in this review. Anyway, my mind is seriously blown. I didn’t expect myself to have such a joyous ride with this super alienated book that had me gasp for generous amount of air!

This book talks about seventeen year-old Katy Swartz who moved to a very discreet and rustic place in West Virginia with her mom. Being in that new place kind of sucked for Katy since she was used to the cheerful ambiance of her old home in Florida. But since she’s a book freak, she didn’t exactly care about adapting to the new place because she considered her books as her effective diversions. Now when she met her holy freakin’ hot neighbor Daemon Black, everything changed. Never had she met a guy who’s extremely blessed with ripped physique and undeniably gorgeous face. However, no matter how hot this neighbor was, she found him quite an ass. He always regarded her with pure disgust, to her astonishment. And as they developed an unexpected friendship, she eventually learned some peculiar things about him and his sister, Dee. In the long run, she learned that he was in fact, not a human. He’s an alien. A hot damn alien with insane supernatural powers.

I must say that this book is incredibly great! No words can ever describe how talented Jennifer Armentrout is. This book is clean, well-written, and with fascinating characters that are nicely drawn. I admire how the author gradually introduced her audience to the strange and amazing alien family of Daemon. Each character has exceptional personality that will quickly capture one’s interest.

I also love the romantic involvement of the story. As well as the witty humor that beats nearly every scene of other books I’ve read. Another thing is the exchange of banter between Katy and Daemon and their unawareness of the sexual tension that’s always there. Ah, they are so amusing I could literally smile and laugh. Usually I really feel sick about “I Hate You” schemes of a love story but this one? I don’t mind at all. I’m fully entertained by these two characters.

Let’s get to the action part. Whoa! What can I say? Bravo, Ms. Jennifer Armentrout! You had my heart beating fast with the way you describe the fighting scenes between the Luxen and the Arum! Superb! I guess this is just the perfect blend of action and romance in a science fiction book.

The Book Is…

Pros

Quick and entertaining, with reasonable plot and interesting world building.

Con

Nothing. At all.

What I Think about the Characters

Katy Swartz

She’s clever and smart. One thing I also admire about her is her love for books. And hey, she’s my ultimate inspiration with this blogging thing. She’s a book blogger– that’s how crazy she is about it and I can totally relate!

Daemon Black

Well, he’s too perfect to be true. Need I say more? And although he’s kind of brute here in this book, I didn’t find it hard to like him. What I also love about him is his protectiveness to his sister and his alien close friends. He’s just too swooning! Okay, I have to stop this. I’m fan-girling enough.

My Rating for this book: 5 Daemon Stars! (It’s a must-read, entertaining story. If you’re looking for a book that will knock your socks off, this one will never, ever fail you.)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“Beautiful face. Beautiful body. Horrible attitude. It was the holy trinity of hot boys.”

“I hate you and your freaky alien powers.”

“I was always able to lose myself in reading. Books were a necessary escape I always gladly jumped into headfirst.”

Rating:

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READ ALL MY REVIEWS HERE

REVIEW: Fifty Shades Freed by E.L. James

 

When unworldly student Anastasia Steele first encountered the driven and dazzling young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both of their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and, ultimately, repelled by Christian’s singular erotic tastes, Ana demands a deeper commitment. Determined to keep her, Christian agrees.

Now, Ana and Christian have it all—love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian’s opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own identity. And Christian must overcome his compulsion to control as he wrestles with the demons of a tormented past.

Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to make Ana’s deepest fears turn to reality.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

MY THOUGHTS…

This book is way BETTER than the second installment. It started off really well. I love the honeymoon part where they traveled to Europe, the gift-giving and generous Christian Grey, the passionate scenes, the jealousy/protectiveness Christian always displays– everything! It’s just too perfect to be true! And if ever this story happens in real life, I’d definitely be crazy!

This book is great. I was about to rate it 5 stars, but then, I was not at all convinced when it comes to its ending. All right, they have a perfect, happy ending and they created a happy family. But — I don’t know. Maybe I was expecting a different conclusion with this trilogy.

I also didn’t like how Ana became pregnant and how EL James incorporated a bit of action in the near-end. I’m not so sure why I wasn’t thrilled. Maybe I was just impassive or something. But all in all, I mostly enjoyed this book. Ana and Christian’s love affair is insanely surreal!

The Book Is…

Pros

Romantically driven. There are sweet moments that will definitely entice you and melt your heart away. It has, as expected, a happy ending.

Con

There are scenes that are superfluous. And some things are also quite unbelievable and exaggerated.

My Rating for this book: 4 Stars (I love this book and I totally recommend it!)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“I want your world to begin and end with me.”

“We always hurt the ones we love, darling.”

REVIEW: Fifty Shades Darker by E.L. James

Daunted by the singular tastes and dark secrets of the beautiful, tormented young entrepreneur Christian Grey, Anastasia Steele has broken off their relationship to start a new career with a Seattle publishing house.

But desire for Christian still dominates her every waking thought, and when he proposes a new arrangement, Anastasia cannot resist. They rekindle their searing sensual affair, and Anastasia learns more about the harrowing past of her damaged, driven and demanding Fifty Shades.

While Christian wrestles with his inner demons, Anastasia must confront the anger and envy of the women who came before her, and make the most important decision of her life.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

MY THOUGHTS…

This book is indeed a lot darker than the first. No offense, but I have to say I’m a bit bored with this second installment of E.L. James. The storyline seems a bit slow-paced and there are also repetitive scenes that show dullness and monotony. The only interesting part of this book is Christian’s revelation as of why he became fifty shades of f*cked up. Other than that, the story was not thoroughly given with substances that will make you feel engrossed.

To better give you the entire scenario of the book, these scenes are what you will certainly encounter: They’ll make love today, they’ll have misunderstanding later, they’ll make love tomorrow, they’ll become okay the next day– and then repeat from the top. It’s like a bizarre routine and yes, it happens until the end of the book. I hate to admit it, but it has a lot of major cliches.

However, I still managed to get the gist of it and eventually reached the end of the book. Didn’t regret it, though. It was still a great book. Christian Grey continues to be domineering and romantic and generous to Ana, and Ana is– well, her character development improves here. *smirks. We can see her blossom into a beautiful, stunning woman. Not like the Ana we’ve met in Fifty Shades of Grey.

The Book Is…

Pros

Just like the first installment, it has interesting parts. Also, you will discover a lot more about the characters especially Christian’s dark past.

Con

The scenes are quite repetitive.

What I Think About the Characters

Ana Steele

Well, as mentioned, Ana grew more stunning and classy here. She no longer borrows dress from Kate. Lol 😀 And the way she approaches situation is a lot more different compared to the first book. I think she really developed a lot here.

Christian Grey

I’m glad he finally opened up and revealed his fears and imperfect struggles to Ana. This made me understand him even better. I think it’s also a good start for both of them. And as usual, this man never fails to entice me. The way he communicates with Ana through text and email is kind of gasp-inducing. 🙂

My Rating for this book: 3 stars (It’s a great book, but not nearly as good as the first book.)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“You’re the only person I’d fly three thousand miles to see.” – Christian Grey

“We have to learn to walk before we can run”

REVIEW: Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James

When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.

Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.

Erotic, amusing, and deeply moving, the Fifty Shades Trilogy is a tale that will obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

MY THOUGHTS…

Okay, so I read this book out of curiosity since this had gone viral two years ago that even celebrities made a big deal about it. Surprisingly, I found myself engrossed with this book. I love how E.L. James particularly described the characters from the very beginning. They are kind of fascinating, especially Christian Grey. I know for some people this book is a piece of trash but I cannot simply put it down, for the very exact reason with anybody else who were getting hyped with this book– it’s interesting.

How Christian and Ana became attracted to each other and how Ana wasn’t able to stop herself from thinking about him after their first encounter was already one of its key scenes. You see, Christian, a dominant character, searched for his submissive and basically found it on Ana. At first, I was a bit apprehensive about it but as the story went, I realized that it isn’t just all about kinkiness or whatever sexual exploits we all expected. The story was all about how their attraction to each other grew into something else.

Ana particularly went through the point where she was confused about her feelings toward Christian. There is no denying that she’s not only attracted to him but it seems like she was slowly building that kind of emotion that she couldn’t easily deal– not with Christian who only became interested with her because of her potential for a “rare” relationship.

“The only man I’ve been attracted to, and he comes with a bloody contract, a flogger, and a whole world of issues.”

I admit that the only thing that makes me wince about this story are the scenes that introduce detailed descriptions about how Christian uses those sort of things (ropes, ties, etc.) while they are making out. But that’s understandable since it’s an erotic genre and we’re expecting that from the beginning, right? That’s what made the book a real buzz to begin with.

The ending was also astonishing. I didn’t exactly expect that. I guess what Ana did in the end was just right. It left me hanging with lots of questions that can only be answered in the next book.

The Book Is…

Pros

Unique, exciting, and intriguing. The storyline also promises real romance between the characters.

Con

Some people will never appreciate the kinky sexual adventures of this book and may also find them unsuitable in any way.

What I Think About the Characters

Ana Steele

She was described as an innocent college girl. I think she’s basically naive in an amusing way. She easily fell with Christian and I couldn’t even blame her for that. In this book, I also admire how she interacts and deals with Christian. I love her for her smart mouth!

Christian Grey

Well, does anyone here find him unattractive? I don’t think so. He’s unreal and he basically does not exist in real life. Lol. He was described as a dignified man with an extremely attractive face and a real hot physique. And incredibly rich. But he has an ultimate drawback and that’s all about him being accustomed to his BDSM dom/sub lifestyle.

My Rating for this book: 4 Stars

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“Never trust a man who can dance.”

“We aim to please Miss Steele”

“Later’s, baby.”

REVIEW: Dear John by Nicholas Sparks

An angry rebel, John dropped out of school and enlisted in the Army, not knowing what else to do with his life–until he meets the girl of his dreams, Savannah. Their mutual attraction quickly grows into the kind of love that leaves Savannah waiting for John to finish his tour of duty, and John wanting to settle down with the woman who has captured his heart.

But 9/11 changes everything. John feels it is his duty to re-enlist. And sadly, the long separation finds Savannah falling in love with someone else.

Dear John, the letter read… and with those two words, a heart was broken and two lives were changed forever. Returning home, John must come to grips with the fact that Savannah, now married, is still his true love—and face the hardest decision of his life.

MY THOUGHTS…

Well hello there, Nicholas Sparks! I can now finally make a review for your book after what, three? Four years? This is actually my first ever Nicholas Sparks read. I have grabbed and read this book in 2010 and I can still remember how it made me feel, and here I am, about to be reminded again of how my heart has been shattered four years ago and how I was such an emotional mess after finishing it.

Dear John is a story that talks about John Tyree, the guy who grew up in a single parent home in Wilmington, North Carolina. He was raised by his father who had a problem with his growth and development, and who was so fond of collecting coins. As he grew, John was not entirely enthusiastic with life. Knowing he could make a difference if he joins the US army, he applied for it and was able to successfully land a promising career in the military. But when he met the beautiful and vibrant Savannah Lynn Curtis, of course, his life changed and confusions about his career and love life quickly developed. While he chose his calling, he left Savannah behind though their relationship continued in a form of “love letters”. At first their communication was great. There was consistency and I really thought and hoped that their LDR thing will survive. Of course, it didn’t happen as (*Spoiler’s alert) Savannah fell in love with her friend, Tim. And there, the drama began… And so was my heart being broken.

This story is quite remarkable. The fact that it’s far more real made it become sensational. It’s reality-based. What happened in this book also happens in real life.

It’s just that… 😦 I knew everyone doesn’t always have a happy ending love story –but ugh, this one’s just too heart-shattering. It took me a while to compose myself after reading this.

But surprisingly, although Nicholas Sparks didn’t provide the happy ending the characters at least deserved, he totally earned my respect. He’s the kind of author who gives straight forward plot with a blend of Christian theme– very impressive. And hey, did I tell you that men’s POV is rather different and emotionally driven? This book proves it. Overall, the book is entirely great. It’s compelling, you will really find yourself fully engaged up to its very end.

The Book Is…

Pros

Realistic, emotional, captivating, and well-written. The characters are also remarkable and very well defined.

Con

The ending will really rip your heart apart. You might cry in spite of yourself.

What I think about the Characters

John Tyree

I love this character. He makes me admire the bravery and heroic acts of the military men — sacrificing emotions for the sake of their dedication for the country and fellow countrymen.

Savannah Lynn Curtis

I admire how Savannah held on to their relationship in spite of the distance and how she actually tried to make an effort to make their relationship work. But in the end, I wish she pushed more. I mean, I know it was difficult, but she could’ve extended more of her patience and waited for him– if she truly loved him. But well, who am I to judge? Lol.

My rating for this book: 5 well-deserved stars! 🙂

(I also watched its movie adaptation. But, of course! How could I miss Channing Tatum on big screen? That wouldn’t happen! *laughs. For me though, I prefer the book’s sequence and emotional approach rather than the film’s. 🙂

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“I finally understood what true love meant…love meant that you care for another person’s happiness more than your own, no matter how painful the choices you face might be.”

“When you’re struggling with something, look at all the people around you and realize that every single person you see is struggling with something, and to them, it’s just as hard as what you’re going through.”

“Our story has three parts: a beginning, a middle, and an end. And although this is the way all stories unfold, I still can’t believe that ours didn’t go on forever.”

REVIEW: The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen

 

In Boston, there’s a killer on the loose. A killer who targets lone women, who breaks into their apartments and performs terrifying ritualistic acts of torture on them before finishing them off. His surgical skills lead police to suspect he is a physician – a physician who, instead of saving lives, takes them.

But as homicide detective Thomas Moore and his partner Jane Rizzoli begin their investigation, they make a startling discovery. Closely linked to these killings is Catherine Cordell, a beautiful medic with a mysterious past. Two years ago she was subjected to a horrifying rape and attempted murder but she shot her attacker dead. Now she is being targeted by the new killer who seems to know all about her past, her work, and where she lives.

The man she believes she killed seems to be stalking her once again, and this time he knows exactly where to find her…

MY THOUGHTS…

I was never a fan of thriller and suspense genre books, but because a co-worker of mine lent me this book simply because she wants to share its story, I read it out of obligation. Lol. However, there was a part of me which became curious because of the fact that the story is medically-based and yeah, I thought I can relate.

The story involves a rape victim named Catherine Cordell who happened to be a physician. She had an awfully horrible past I couldn’t even imagine which had something to do with a serial killer who violated her and even attempted to take away her– ugh, uterus (womb). Sounds strange? For me, it’s creepy! And a little unnerving. How can somebody take away anyone’s intimate organ? Gross. But the book explained it later. It was because the serial killer hated women, and to satisfy his desire to destroy women, he needed to remove something that proves them their femininity.

“He identifies and removes only the organ he wants. Nothing more. And what he wants is the womb.”

I don’t know but I find this story a bit disturbing. Somehow I managed to finish it (thank God!). Perhaps the only thing that kept me from reading it is the medical involvement in the story. I admit I was curious as of how these detectives do their job when it comes to medical crime investigation. It was pretty cool and very detailed. That’s what makes me get along with it until the very end. But the storyline? Nope. Not even by the way the author particularly incorporated a bit of romance between Catherine and homicide detective Thomas Moore. It wasn’t convincing, and that’s also a problem. What’s worse, (*Spoiler’s Alert) Thomas was not even able to personally save Catherine right on the climax part– when she needed him. It was Rizzoli who’s there. Well. *sigh

Overall the book was entertaining. There was action but not what I was really expecting. It was a good suspense/thriller story. It’s just that this book didn’t get me. However, if you guys want to just read something that connects well with the medical world, it wouldn’t be bad to spare a little bit of your time with this book. 🙂 It’s still a recommended one.

The Book Is…

Pros

Action-packed. The settings, especially the medical and crime labs, are well-detailed.

Con

I find the plot not appealing. There are foul scenes which might not also work for you.

What I Think About the Characters

Catherine Cordell

She’s a physician. Confident and very composed, but deep down inside she’s not self-assured– which is understandable because of her traumatic past. Yet often times she annoys me. There was a time when she blamed herself and every woman for being raped. Wait, what?

Thomas Moore

I think he’s a competent detective, and smart. But there are times when I think he’s not acting reasonably. I also find him– useless. I mean, he wasn’t even there to protect Catherine especially (*Spoiler’s Alert) during the final chapters. 😦

My Rating for this book: 3 Stars. (It’s a great book, but lacks some factors which would’ve gotten more stars.)

Favorite Quotes from this Book

“The most intimate feeling people can share is neither love nor hate, but pain.”

“We never know until the beast of opportunity is staring us in the face.”

 

REVIEW: Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas

She stood at danger’s threshold—then love beckoned her in.

In the shelter of her country cottage, Sara Feilding puts pen to paper to create dreams. But curiosity has enticed the prim, well-bred gentlewoman out of her safe haven—and into Derek Craven’s dangerous world.

A handsome, tough and tenacious Cockney, he rose from poverty to become lord of London’s most exclusive gambling house—a struggle that has left Derek Craven fabulously wealthy, but hardened and suspicious. And now duty demands he allow Sara Fielding into his world—with her impeccable manners and her infuriating innocence. But here, in a perilous shadow-realm of ever-shifting fortunes, even a proper “mouse” can be transformed into a breathtaking enchantress—and a world-weary gambler can be shaken to his cynical core by the power of passion…and the promise of love.

MY THOUGHTS

So this is my first Lisa Kleypas novel and I have to admit that this author basically owned me after reading this. She writes the best characters– both male and female and a romantic twist that really sits well on me. Dreaming of You is one of a kind. I always have an undeniable taste in historical romances from the moment I encountered a Judith McNaught book. And now, Lisa Kleypas– she’s made of awesomeness!

This book talks about the beautiful country girl Sara Fielding who works as a novelist, and of course, the hot-damn sexy owner of a gambling house Derek Craven. They both met when Sara rescued Derek from a fateful attack. Sara, who went to London for the sake of research for her upcoming novel, eventually landed in Derek’s infamous underworld of gambling — only to fall for him in the long run. Being known as one of London’s notorious and wealthiest men, Derek wasn’t really the perfect man Lisa defined here. He’s one with a broken soul because of his unfortunate and painful childhood, which led him to be somewhat cautious when it comes to getting his heart involved with a woman. Realizing that he was also slowly falling for Sara, he intentionally let her go and sent her back to her local place, and basically tried to forget about her. But fate played irony on both of them as they met again and together, they battled their emotions whether to keep the attraction going or just let it slip away.

What I love about this book is the way Lisa made every scene unforgettable. The romance is alive, the sexual tension obviously exists, and the storyline is neatly done. Honestly, I’ve been through a whirlwind of emotions with this book. It has the right mix of romance and action all at the same time.

The setting is also worth noting. I love how Lisa described the beautiful countryside Sara was residing. I was also engrossed with the details the author described when it came to Derek’s gambling house. Everything was sophisticated! Totally love it!

The Book Is…

Pros

Superb. One with an unforgettable ending and a dramatic climax. Each character was presented with clear and well-defined personality. It’s also full of romantic and sweet scenes.

Cons

There weren’t any, in my opinion.

What I Think About the Characters

Sara Fielding

She’s actually a very admirable character. I didn’t have a hard time liking her. She’s plain and simple and yet very smart and headstrong. She’s not pretentious when it comes to showing her emotions and feelings for Derek.

Derek Craven

I have to admit that I wasn’t smitten with this man at first. But as the story went, I slowly developed a huge liking on him. He’s kind of aloof at first but eventually, I found out that he’s a sweet guy as he bared his soft side. He’s also very protective and passionate. He’s an ultimate book beau!

My Rating for this book: 5 awesome stars! 😀

Favorite Quotes

“Separately they had different strengths. Together they were complete.”

“I didn’t want to give you the one last part of myself that I couldn’t take back. And then you were gone… And I realized it was already yours. It had been since the beginning. Except that I hadn’t told you. It drove me mad, the thought that you would never know.”