Flash Reviews - August Edition!

1. The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender

What I liked about it: Basically, it is Magical Realism at its best. It takes you on an unexpected and heart-wrenching journey of self-discovery and the true nature of humans. This novel is whimsical and unique. Even though it might be the strangest book I've ever read, I enjoyed it immensely. It follows multiple generations of the same family, ending with Ava, the girl with wings. Her story will make you cry, cringe, and most importantly, it'll make you think. 

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5





2. Isla and the Happily Ever After

What I liked about it: Like the two novels before it, Isla is adorable and quirky. I love the romance in these novels because it makes me smile and break into a song. The (short) visit to Barcelona left me on cloud nine. Stephanie Perkins knows how to make the setting shine and I love her for it. 

What I didn't like about it: Unlike the previous novels, this one felt a little flat and weak. For the most part, I liked Isla and Josh. However, I rolled my eyes way too many times to fully love this novel and I REALLY wanted to love it.

Rating: 3/5

3. Love, Rosie

What I liked about it: In case you don't know, this novel is about two friends who could be more than friends but life keeps them apart. I wasn't expecting much from this one but I was pleasantly surprised. It takes place during a long span of time, and when I say long I mean over forty years. I loved the relationship between Rosie and Alex and how it develops very naturally. I really enjoyed the story and the format (emails, letters, etc.)  

What I didn't like about it: I drags on forever and a day. I don't necessarily mind this but I feel like the novel could've been shorter. 

Rating: 4/5





4. Hold Still

What I liked about it: Hold Still is my first Nina LaCour novel and it won't be my last. LaCour's writing is stunning. I didn't just read Caitlin's story, I lived it. I feel like this novel doesn't sugarcoat suicide. It deals with it head-on and that makes the story that much more important. The characters, the setting, the letters, the beautiful illustrations, the importance of photography in Caitlin's healing process...I loved it all.  

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5




5. A Monster Calls

What I liked about it: Hmmm, everything? I received this beauty for my birthday and I had to read it immediately. The story is so unique and incredibly touching. Patrick Ness does a wonderful job with the fantasy element of the novel. I particularly loved the illustrations. They complemented the story perfectly.  What do you get when beautiful illustrations and a flawlessly written story come together? You get a magnificent reading experience.

What I didn't like about it: n/a
Rating: 5/5

Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta - Just Couldn't Put It Down July Giveaway Hop!

I knew from the very start that I wanted to give away something by Melina Marchetta. All of her books definitely classify as "unputdownable."  I've been on a Marchetta binge for weeks now. Even though I can recommend them all---at least the ones I've read---one stands out. The first one I ever read by this author was Saving Francesca, which led to the Lumatere Chronicles, Jellicoe Road, and most recently The Piper's Son. That fact alone makes it really special. Without it, I wouldn't have fangirled on Twitter, which means I wouldn't have read any of her other books quite so soon. 

So, because I love you all so much and I want what's best for you, I'm giving away a copy of Saving Francesca. Don't know if you're interested(you are)? Here's all you need to know:

Francesca is stuck at St. Sebastians, a boys' school that's pretends it's coed by giving the girls their own bathroom. Her only female companions are an ultra-feminist, a rumored slut, and an an impossibly dorky accordion player. The boys are no better, from Thomas who specializes in musical burping to Will, the perpetually frowning, smug moron that Francesca can't seem to stop thinking about.  

Then there's Francesca's mother, who always thinks she knows what's best for Francesca—until she is suddenly stricken with acute depression, leaving Francesca lost, alone, and without an inkling who she really is. Simultaneously humorous, poignant, and impossible to put down, this is the story of a girl who must summon the strength to save her family, her social life and—hardest of all—herself.

This novel is truly beautiful. I wanted to write a review about it but I couldn't put my love for this book into words. Now one of you is going to get a copy, which is way better than just telling you to read it! 

The giveaway is open to anyone in the US. Just fill out the Rafflecopter below. Good luck! :) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Flash Review - January Edition

More Than This by Patrick Ness

What I liked about it: This one must be the most confusing novel I've ever read. However, that made me love it so much more. I wasn't prepared for everything that happened in this book--trust me, it is an adventure--so you'll love the twists and turns and the unpredictable nature of this novel. 

What I didn't like about it: I had a hard time getting into the story at first. Once you really immerse yourself in the story, there's no way you'll be able to put it down.

Similar to: This one is so unique I'm having a hard time comparing it to another novel. Just read anything by Patrick Ness. That man is a genius. 

Don't Breathe a Word by Holly Cupala

What I liked about it: This story is beautiful. The characters are complex and interesting. I love how the themes of the book---homeless teens and abuse--are represented in such a raw and heartbreaking way. 

What I didn't like about it: The ending is weak compared to the rest of the story. I'm not a fan of stories that tie every loose end, especially in books with such a strong message. 

Similar to: Easy by Tammara Webber, The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay, and Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson. 

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

What I liked about it:  I really enjoyed some elements of this story: strong female character, good world building, and possibly one of my favorite male characters (Chaol).

What I didn't like about it: It had a lot less action than I was expecting. And it took me over a month to read. That's a deal breaker right there. 

Similar to: Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Sanctum (Guards of the Shadowlands #1) by Sarah Fine, and Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor.

The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King

What I liked about it: I took a piracy class in college and I really enjoyed putting that knowledge to use. 

What I didn't like about it: To be honest, this one really made me uncomfortable. Some scenes---including rape and animal abuse--were really tough to read.

Similar to: This is the first Pirate Fiction I've ever read so I can't recommend another. However, a good non-fiction read is If a Pirate I Must Be: The True Story of Black Bart, "King of the Caribbean Pirates" by Richard Sanders. 

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

What I liked about it: I loved every single page. The Rosie Project touched my heart in so many ways. Don Tillman is by far the most interesting characters I've ever come across. His voice is so unique and remarkably witty. I'm familiar with Asperger's and I think Graeme Simsion did a really fantastic job at representing Don's world and the way his brain functions. His behavioral patterns and his social interactions were fascinating to read. As far as the plot itself, I enjoyed it immensely. It was light, funny, and heartwarming. I can't wait to read more novels from this author in the future

What I didn't like about it: Honestly, this one is a five star novel for me. 

Similar to: This novel is not YA but I'll compare it to Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell--based on the feel-good awesomeness--and I think it is a perfect Contemporary novel for any John Green fan.