Review: Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

Beautiful Disaster
(Beautiful #1)
Author: Jamie McGuire
Publisher: Jamie McGuire
Published: May 26, 2011
Genre: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary
My Rating:

Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby wants—and needs—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

MY THOUGHTS…

He was afraid of nothing. Until he’d met me.

I have been meaning to read this book because its synopsis had me really smitten. Not to mention that it’s also one with a beautiful cover.

I love the story but I guess it’s not enough to convince and satisfy me. During the first chapters, I found myself really enjoying Abby and Travis’ push and pull relationship. I was expecting the plot to get even more interesting in the middle and up to the last parts, but sad to say, it didn’t. 😦

The characters were also annoying. Abby, I guess, is not a likeable character. I guess her reservations is too much that it irritates me. Travis, on the other hand, is also annoying. I love how sincere he is when it comes to his feelings with Abby, but gosh, the way he becomes more and more possessive and jealous– it’s NOT at all HEALTHY. I also can’t stand the way he acts so cruel with his school mates and the fact that no one can stop or defy him– not even the university professors or Dean or something? No disciplinary actions whatsoever?

This book is realistic, however, most parts are unbelievable. I can’t also believe how Travis quickly assumed that Abby is really the girl that he is waiting for right when he first set his eyes on her. Why? And how did he know right away?

The co-dependency part. It’s quite abnormal. How Travis becomes too attached to Abby and how he becomes insanely dependent with her presence, as if he can’t breathe without her. Oh my, it’s too excessive a girl could not take it.

“It’s dangerous to need someone that much. You’re trying to save him and he’s hoping you can. You two are a disaster.”

I smiled at the ceiling. “It doesn’t matter what or why it is. When it’s good, Kara… it’s beautiful.”

Some things that also make me wince are the violent parts of the book. The fighting and physical aggressions of the characters, especially Travis, are kind of unsettling. And every time Travis freaks out whenever Abby’s out of his sight– the way he destroys his furniture in his apartment– I guess it’s too much to handle.

I also thought Abby and Travis’ public display of affection is tiring. It’s also a thing that a reader will eventually get used to, that’s why I found myself bored at the last parts, to be honest.

But, anyway, the story is overall enticing. There’s passion and there are lots of dialogues worth highlighting. I think Travis’ devotion to Abby is too perfect and yeah, it’s rare to have such guys like him in real life. Talking about fiction. 🙂

My Rating for this Book: 3 Stars (It was still a great read, somehow.)

Favorite Lines from this Book

“I never get anything right, and I don’t deserve you… but I fucking love you, Abby. I love you more than I’ve loved anyone or anything, ever. When you’re around, I don’t need booze, or money, or the fighting, or the one-night stands… all I need is you. You’re all I think about. You’re all I dream about. You’re all I want.”

REVIEW: A Shade of Vampire by Bella Forrest

On the evening of Sofia Claremont’s seventeenth birthday, she is sucked into a nightmare from which she cannot wake.

A quiet evening walk along a beach brings her face to face with a dangerous pale creature that craves much more than her blood.

She is kidnapped to an island where the sun is eternally forbidden to shine. An island uncharted by any map and ruled by the most powerful vampire coven on the planet. She wakes here as a slave, a captive in chains.

Sofia’s life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn when she is the one selected out of hundreds of girls to join the harem of Derek Novak, the dark royal Prince.

Despite his addiction to power and obsessive thirst for her blood, Sofia soon realizes that the safest place on the island is within his quarters, and she must do all within her power to win him over if she is to survive even one more night.

Will she succeed? …or is she destined to the same fate that all other girls have met at the hands of the Novaks?

MY THOUGHTS…

After reading this book’s description, it instantly hooked me. Always a vampire-themed book fan myself, I decided to give it a try since I’ve always hoped that there’s a better series than Twilight and Vampire Diaries. And I wasn’t disappointed. This book started really well. Its main POVs centered more on the main characters Sofia and Derek.

Sofia is an ordinary girl and a human, while Derek is a Vampire– not just an ordinary vampire but someone everyone in the vampire community looks up as a ruler and a great influence– a dark royal Prince. On the eve of Sofia’s birthday, she was captured by a stranger and ended up in an exotic island called The Shade. She eventually found out that the island is completely resided by vampires. There she met Prince Novak and his siblings. Now I’m not going to tell the whole story ‘coz it will spoil a lot.

This book, anyway, is a charmer. What I appreciate most is the way Ms. Bella Forrest painted beautiful details about the setting. The Shade, although completely conquered with darkness, is a beautiful place. I think it’s a great factor when you’re reading a vampire book. I also love the way the author made it quite unique among other vampire stories.

In this sequel, vampires are set in a different world. They don’t mix with humans like any other vampires in other books. They have their own niche and sanctuary and they hunt humans outside the island, giving a little mystery as of how those humans suddenly disappear.

“What’s on your mind, Derek?” she whispered.

“You…” I saw no reason to lie. “How I can’t imagine life without you.”

I also love the romance between Sofia and Derek, too. How their first encounter developed into a strange attraction that is so adorable! Also, the ending– it’s unique and unexpected. It simply promises so many things that will happen on the second book.

Pros

Heart-melting and interesting, with characters that are well-described. It’s an engaging book especially since it has an extraordinary fast and intriguing plot.

Con

It has a number of POVs. It may cause a little confusion at first.

What I Think About the Characters

Sofia Claremont

I love how strong-willed she is. She’s also not annoying. She makes good decisions and she’s not a stupid, angsty character like any other characters in a book.

Derek Novak

Well, ladies… Meet your new book boyfriend! Derek Novak is a dangerously a HAWT vampire Prince. But apart from being a cold-hearted specimen, this guy has a soft spot. And the way he cares about Sofia and protects her? Ah, he’s simply more than just likeable character!

“I found myself intrigued by Derek – even more so than I was before. He was a paradox, a walking contradiction. How he could perform such a violent act with no hesitation in one moment and be as gentle as he was with me right afterwards, was something that left me completely unnerved.” – Sofia

My Rating for this Book: 4 Stars (A piece of reminder: Prepare to be swooned!)

 

REVIEW: Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught

In this classic novel of two willful lovers caught in a breathless adventure of deception and betrayal, #1 New York Times bestselling author Judith McNaught has created a powerful and unforgettable masterpiece.

ELIZABETH CAMERON

The Countess of Havenhurst possessed a rare gentleness and fierce courage to match her exquisite beauty. But her reputation is shattered when she is discovered in the arms of Ian Thornton, a notorious gambler and social outcast.

IAN THORNTON

A dangerously handsome man of secret wealth and mysterious lineage, his voyage to Elizabeth’s heart is fraught with intrigue, scandal, and a venomous revenge.

Destined for each other, yet wary of each other’s motives, Elizabeth and Ian engage in a dance of suspicion and passion that tests the very soul of their star-crossed love. As a twisting path of secrets takes them from London’s drawing rooms to the mysterious Scottish Highlands, Elizabeth must learn the truth: is Ian merely a ruthless fortune hunter at heart?

MY THOUGHTS…

Okay, I know it’s a bit late to write a review for this book, but since this is one of my favorite books up to date, I thought I’d share how I felt about this wonderful tale and how it made me think about a perfect, true love.

For me, this book is McNaught’s ultimate masterpiece next to Whitney, My Love. I’m glad it’s the first historical romance book that I’ve read since I found it really unforgettable. This book has everything. It has an A-factor storyline. It’s classy. It’s bewitching and truly a book that historical romance lovers can’t dare to put down.

“Look, Elizabeth, isn’t he divine in a sort of mysterious, wicked way?”

The characters here are remarkable. Ian Thornton, the unacknowledged son of a Duke, met Lady Elizabeth Cameron few years ago at a London ball. Their first meeting was a whirlwind romance. Unfortunately, it didn’t end well but instead, their ‘affair’ turned into a memory both of them didn’t want to remember at all. After few years, fate led them back together but this time, Elizabeth needed him for marriage. And so their romantic past was eventually rekindled in some sort of wicked way.

I know it’s a typical romance plot, but how can I ever explain how wonderful their dialogues were? The witty banter, the undeniable chemistry both characters exude, and the romantic twist Judith is famous for. And of course, the way McNaught makes you feel as though she’s taking you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. All of these are what everyone will expect from this book.

The Book Is…

Pros

Extremely romantic. A fascinating and compelling read, with beautiful settings that are well-defined.

Con

It has events that will make you feel anxious and heart-broken at the same time.

What I Think about the Characters

Elizabeth Cameron

I love this character. She possesses a rare gentleness which Ian fell in love with. I also love how McNaught defined her physical features. I can imagine that she’s really beautiful inside and out.

Ian Thornton

He appears to be a dangerously handsome man. I also admire how he became wealthy not because he is the son of a Duke but because he attained it on his own. He’s also a guy every woman dreams of.

My Rating for this book: 5 Stars (It’s worth re-reading!)

Favorite Quote from this Book

“Why did happy memories fade and blur until one could scarcely recall them at all, while horrible memories seemed to retain their blinding clarity and painful sharpness?”

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 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: 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.”