Elixir By: Hilary Duff Book Review

Clea Raymond has felt the glare of the spotlight her entire life. The daughter of a renowned surgeon and a prominent Washington DC politician, she has grown to be a talented photojournalist who takes refuge in a career that allows her to travel to the most exotic parts of the world. But after Clea’s father disappears while on a humanitarian mission, Clea’s photos begin to feature eerie, shadowy images of a strange and beautiful man—a man she has never seen before.

When fate brings Clea and this man together, she is stunned by the immediate and powerful connection she feels with him. As they grow closer, they are drawn deep into the mystery behind her father’s disappearance, and they discover the centuries old truth behind their intense bond. Torn by a dangerous love triangle and haunted by a powerful secret that holds their fates, together they race against time to unravel their pasts in order to save their lives—and their futures.(Summary Thanks to Goodreads.com)
When I found out that Hilary Duff wrote an novel I was intrigued. Once I finally read the description I was so pumped to read it. So I finally picked it up and I was flipping pages and loving it. It only took me a couple of days to finish and I was dumbstruck by the ending. I shall explain. This is one of the reasons it took me a while to rate this novel, because the beginning I would have rated one thing and then ending another. 
I was so surprised that Hilary Duff (with help) could develop a book with so much potential. I adore the idea to a new Paranormal. I liked the characters, my favorite had to be the Protagonist Clea, she wasn't that oblivious girl who sometimes got on my nerves. I liked her from the first pages. I also like Rayna she actually reminded me of me (lol). I adore her friendship with Clea the reason is, because I could relate me and my best friend are that close.  I loved how mysterious Sage and Ben were it was like we thought we knew them, but we don't. The description in the novel were good, there were parts where I could picture what was happening, but then there were times where I had to stop and think.
If you asked if I like the book before the ending I would have said hell yeah. Once I read the ending, it ruined my overall judgement of the overall book. This book was a quick read. I think with time Hilary Duff will be an awesome add to the Young Adult Paranormal Authors. I love the cover. This picture doesn't do any justice to what the book looks like in person. It's has a matte finish. I would recommend giving it a try, but just be prepared for the ending. I don't know for sure if there is a sequel in this book, but with that ending I do see the possibility. 
My Blurb for this Novel: "This book had some awesome potential. Great beginning, but not so good Cliffhanger ending. I did really enjoy the book, and love the new add to Paranormal Characters."
.5Happy Reading  

Darke Academy: Secret Lives By: Gabriella Poole Book Reveiw

The Darke Academy is a school like no other. An elite establishment that moves to an exotic new city every term, its students are impossibly beautiful, sophisticated and rich. And the more new scholarship girl Cassie Bell learns about the Academy, the more curious she becomes. What sinister secrets are guarded by the Few -- the select group of students who keep outsiders away? Who is the dark stranger prowling the corridors at night? And what really happened a year earlier, when the last scholarship girl died in mysterious circumstances? One thing Cassie will discover is that a little knowledge may be a dangerous thing, but knowing too much can be deadly...(Summary thanks to Goodreads)
This is my first Gabriella Poole novel and I must say I was very impressed. This novel is about Cassie a teen who has just received a scholarship to the Darke Academy. Cassie can't believe that she can leave her life of being bullyied, foster care, and broken family and start over at Darke Academy. This term Darke Academy is being held in Paris, France. Cassie is in for a surprise this may be look like a typical private school, but the secrets the few are keeping are way beyond the regular private school secrets. So join Cassie on this mysterious journey to the unknown and rich and ... :s vampires??
I have to say I am a little bit confused. If anyone can answer the question yes or no to the Vampires question please help?? If you do say vampires I say yes I accept. I shall explain I adore vampires and it shows in my book shelves which majority of my books are Vampire fiction. So the idea that Poole has kicked it up a notch and added a new Vamp to the scene of Paranormal Fiction, I have to say I am intrigued. That shows that Poole can stick with the original Paranormals and yet give it her own twist (even if I still adore the regular vamps). I am sad to say that there are a lot of people that have disliked this novel and there are a lot of people who loved it. I haven't really seen a lot of in between thoughts. What I do say is go in with an open mind and judge the book based on your impression and not an influenced opnion. The reason I am mentioning this is, because a lot of the bad reviews all seem to be the same, as if people were kind of reading these reviews and reading the novel with a closed mind. It is 2011 and I think it's time for change (even if this book was released in 2009). The Secret Lives was a quick read, and with saying that once I read the book i got lost in the pages and it was hard to put down. I really enjoyed Cassie she's all we can ask for in a protagonist she is feisty, and has a rough life. Due to that rough life Cassie has a back bone and it really shows in certain situation she is dealing with. I wasn't fond of Jake at first he was getting on my nerves. I really enjoyed Richard and for some reason he reminded me of Chuck Bass (from Gossip Girls the Show) a British version. Ranjit gave me the willies, but I think thats what Poole wanted us to feel at first. Overall I enjoyed the characters. The on character I really like and found I related to the most has to be the feisty Latin Isabella from Argentina, and Cassie's roommate. I enjoyed Gabriella Pooles' writing and I shall read on. 
One thing I would change was the cover, it's not bad it does represent the novel but so much could have been done. Overall this book is yet another awesome and unique take on vampires. This was a page turner and I can't wait for more. Hope you guys read it soon. If you have read this novel let me know what you think. If you have reviewed it leave me a link below.
My Blurb for this Novel: "This book is a great, and unique addition to the Vamp Paranormal series. Short and sweet this book was a definite page turner. I was hungry for more. Can't wait to see what else Poole is going to share in the next installment in the Darke Academy."
Series Order:
1. Secret Lives2. Blood Ties3. Divided Souls
I would personally rate this Novel:
.5
Happy Reading Guys

Shadow Kiss By: Richelle Mead (Mini Review)

For Rose Hathaway, everything seems out of kilter. Ever since she made her first Strigoi kills, a dark shadow has been creeping over her. Looming in the background, too, is another realization: If she follows her forbidden love for guardian Dimitri Belikov, she might lose her best friend forever. And these sleep-shaking worries couldn't have come at a worse time. The immortal unloving are prowling everywhere, famished for vengeance against her. An adrenaline-laced episode of the teen pop favorite Vampire Academy.

(Summary thanks to Goodreads)
I adored this book it has to be my favorite in the whole series. It was action packed from start to finish. Richelle Meads talent in writing really shone. I really like how with each book the characters grew as people (some books the characters seemed the same not a lot of growth). This book had a lot of Rose which I really enjoyed as she is my favorite character. Rose is awesome feisty, and overall shes is kind of hope for woman Dhampirs, because she shows them that they can be guardians too. Another favorite characters of mine and also my fictional crush has to be Dimitri. I can go on and on why I love him, but like always there isn't enough space on my blog for that. You all know that in a great novel there is always a conflict when romance comes along. This conflict has to be either Rose chooses Lissa or Dimitri. Let me tell you I was very surprised who she did choose. Me I might have done it the other way around (personal opinion). I hated, yet loved the ending, so be prepared Mead will surprise you. Overall this book was awesome third installment. Shadow Kiss was action packed had me turning pages and unable to put down. The ending did have a bit of a cliff hanger.
Series Order:
1. Vampire Academy2. Frostbite3. Shadow Kiss4. Blood Promise5. Spirit Bound6. Last Sacrifice
I personally Rate this Novel:
.5
Happy Reading Guys!!

Accidentally Demonic By: Dakota Cassidy Book Review

When mild-mannered Casey Schwartz wakes up in jail, she has no memory of how she got there. But after her sister, Wanda, bails her out, Casey has more to deal with than a foggy memory-like abrupt mood swings and fireballs shooting from her fingertips. But things really head south when a vampire shows up on her doorstep... Vampire Clayton Gunnersson is seriously hot. And seriously taken - by a demon. In a ritual gone wrong, Clayton tried to get rid of his unwanted bond, but spilled some demonic blood on Casey, getting her possessed in the process. Now, Casey has to share her body and manage to keep her growing attraction to Clayton in check, because falling for her demon's boyfriend just might get Casey killed-from the inside out.

(Summary thanks to Goodreads)
I adore this series it might be my favorite Paranormal Romance Adult series. If you do not know who Dakota Cassidy look her up she is AWESOME. Anyways lets get on to my review.
Accidentally Demonic was as good as I presumed it was going to be. Casey is a girl who's living like a slave, a slave that would put other people before her self. Casey job is to cleans these other peoples messes as if it was nothing. Then one day Casey wakes up and doesn't remember why she is currently in jail (yep thats right she wakes up in jail not knowing why she was arrested). Casey no only woke up in a jail cell she also wakes up with a hot temper, literally. I really liked Casey and the reason is that she reminded me a lot of Nina who is also my favorite. I thought Nina was feisty, but I think Casey topped her in this book. Another character I loved had to be Clayton oh I totally developed a crush on him. I totally dig the vampire hotties. Lets just say one of Casey regular day at work turned into a night of hell. Not only is she starting fires she is also falling for a man that is dating her other half the demon half. I know weirdddd.
This was my first Demon related novel and I am glad it was Dakota book that was my first. I totally love how she writers her books they are so easy to relate to the character (even under the circumstances). She also described certain situation so vividly I sometime could imagine the things happening. I also like how these books can be independant novels and or read in a series format. In Accidentally Demonic not only did we have the original three Dakota also introduced new character, she also re introduced Clayton. Clayton which was originally from Accidentally Dead. I really liked that because not only are we getting to know Casey our protagonist we also get to know Clayton better. This book is a bundle of joy at times there are serious moments, then there is romance, sarcastic and witty moments, and then there are moment that make you wonder. Not only is it a bundle of joy it is also a full house we get a lot of the awesome Paranormals in one book. I adore this cover (actually all her covers) it is so eye catching, as well the colors are so bright and I hate orange. I can keep going on about how much I adored this book, but there isn't enough room on my blog. This book had to be my favorite in the whole series. I can't wait to see what Dakota does with Accidentally Catty to bad that the release date seems so far. 
Just a reminder this book is an Adult series and is not attend for teens. I just felt like i was introducing a movie. "This book is not attend for teens, it may contain coarse language, and sexual content readers please be advised." (As I say that last thought in a broadcasters voice He he he he :) ).
My Blurb for this novel: "Dakota Cassidy has not failed in added yet another great addition to the Accidental Friends series. Hope you are ready for yet another sarcastically funny, yet romantic 4th installment."
Series Order:
1. The Accidental Werewolf2. Accidentally Dead3. The Accidental Human4. Accidentally Demonic5. Accidentally Catty (To be released March 1st.)
.5
Happy Reading Guys!!

Poison Study by: Maria V. Snyder Book Review

About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered an extraordinary reprieve. She'll eat the best meals, have rooms in the palace-- and risk assassination by anyone trying to kill the Commander of Ixia.

And so Yelena chooses to become a food taster. But the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, deliberately feeds her Butterfly's Dust and only by appearing for her daily antidote will she delay an agonizing death from the poison. As Yelena tries to escape her new dilemma, disasters keep mounting. Rebels plot to seize Ixia and Yelena develops magical powers she can't control. Her life is threatened again and choices must be made. But this time the outcomes aren't so clear....

(Summary Thanks to Goodreads)

Before I start this review I have to say that I'm so mad I wait this long to read this book. I bought Poison Study a while ago and if I knew this book was going to be this awesome I would have read it once received it. Poison Study was even better then the description lead on. For those of you who read my blog post regularly you know I love Witches and Witchcraft. So I eat this book up.

Yelena is a character who is in a sticky situation she is about to be hung for murder. Wait don't get disappointed yet Yelena then gets offered a once in a life time position (Literally, like a get out of hanging card... get it monopoly). This once in the life time position may be a life saver for Yelena, or is it. Sorry I'm having way too much fun with all these sarcastic jokes it's just so easy. Anyways back on track (I get distracted very easily). Would you prefer a death thats is set such as date and time, or a death that could occur at any time? Well thats the chance Yelena gets is either get hanged, or be the food tester for the Commander, and never know when she'll get poisoned. 

I really like Yelena, lately in the books I have been reading the protagonists do not really catch my attention, but Yelena did. Then there is Valek who at first I really disliked, but after we start seeing his true colors I end up falling for him (he actually reminds me of a person in my life!). My other favorites characters in this novel have to be hands down Ari and Janco they were like big brothers and I loved how they were there for Yelena and how she gained their trust with one simple gesture (sorry I'm not going to spoil this book). 

I loved Poison Study, but there were some predictable aspects and that is the reasoning behind the rating I gave this book. Overall it was well written good transitions and characters were well developed, but also with some mystery behind others. I liked how descriptive some aspect of the book were. I highly recommend Poison Study. Last but not least this book did not have a cliffhanger ending you can choose to continue the journey with Yelena or not (preferably yes). Speaking of the end I hated it, but loved it the reasoning behind that is that I wanted it to go one way the "predictable way" but Snyder turned it around. 

My Blurb for this Novel: "A well written, love-able book that could have you up all night wanting more. Yelena is an awesome feisty character that will have you on your toes through her journey. This bundle of joy is a must read Young Adult Fantasy fiction."

I would Personally Rate this Novel:

.5
Series Order:
1. Poison Study2. Magic Study3. Fire Study

Happy Reading Guys

Majix By: Douglas Rees Book Review

My name is Kestrel.

Kestrel Murphy.

Never call me Susan.

Who ever heard of a witch named Susan?

A year ago, I was on the white-magic side. Lately, I've been leaning toward the black. I blame the universe. What's the point in being a nice little white witch in the universe I've got? If I could choose my own universe, I'd be a white witch in it. But black makes a lot more sense inthis universe.

Not that I'm complaining. A witch never complains. But if I did, I'd have a lot to complain about. For instance: Richard Milhous Nixon High.

What's a teen witch to do when she's stuck in the most unmagical high school in the universe? Create her own "majix." Take notes. And above all, avoid nasty classmates, heartless grown-ups and boys who may prove a little too distracting for a serious teen witch to handle….

(Summary Thanks to Goodreads)
I was very excited for this one when I read the description it totally reeled me in. I really like the cover as well. The problem is that the book is very different then what I expected. I thought this book was Young Adult novel, but I find its more Middle Grade. When I read the description I perceived this book was about paranormal witches from the description. The truth is this book is more about Witchcraft and Wiccan type magic. Don't get me wrong there are things I liked. I liked the fact that Rees added this touch of witchcraft to Kestrel (Susan) personal problems. I liked how the main plot about Kestrels father and her moving in with her aunt and all the personal problems she is dealing with. I have a friend who was also put through a situation very similar situation to this one. My friend was a bit younger when she was moved in with her Godmother, but she too reacted the same as Kestrel did all the anger she had towards her parent had realistic aspects. So I liked how Rees was able to describe this situation, and get us to feel how mad Kestrel was about that decision. I do find she does get annoying in the novel especially about her and this book about her, but I have never been in her situation to know how to react. I would say my Favorite Characters of this book is Kestrels aunt Ariel. Ariel helps Kestrel develop and even grow in this book. I really did enjoy the the supporting Characters. Overall this was a quick read. Would I read a second in this series... Maybe. Just a heads up again this is more of a middle grade novel as well this is not a paranormal fiction. I would say give it a try. You never know.
P.S. I know short review sorry. I didn't want to spoil. If you have read this book please feel free let me know what you thought and even leave a link to your review. I would love to see your opinion on this book. 
I would Personally Rate this Novel:

Happy Reading

Stargazer By: Claudia Gray Book Review

The vampire in me was closer to the surface... 
Evernight Academy: an exclusive boarding school for the most beautiful, dangerous students of all—vampires. Bianca, born to two vampires, has always been told her destiny is to become one of them.

But Bianca fell in love with Lucas—a vampire hunter sworn to destroy her kind. They were torn apart when his true identity was revealed, forcing him to flee the school.

Although they may be separated, Bianca and Lucas will not give each other up. She will risk anything for the chance to see him again, even if it means coming face-to-face with the vampire hunters of Black Cross—or deceiving the powerful vampires of Evernight. Bianca's secrets will force her to live a life of lies.

Yet Bianca isn't the only one keeping secrets. When Evernight is attacked by an evil force that seems to target her, she discovers the truth she thought she knew is only the beginning. (Summary thanks to Goodreads)
I must say I'm usually hesitant reading the second novels to any series. The reason behind that is that I find that most authors hit all the right notes in there first and then when it comes to delivering the second they kind of coast by. Don't get me wrong I think a job as an author is hard so I'm not trying to offend anyone. Anyways thats besides the point (I swear totally got side tracked) this book was better then I expected. I thought it was a good second. Evernight was hard to beat but this one wasn't to far behind. Saying that, let me go into more details. 
Stargazer starts off with a little adventure as Bianca is breaking into Mrs. Bethany's cabin. Then the mystery begins. So in this novel a new paranormal was introduced "Wraiths" which I dislike calling them that, I prefer Ghost. These Wraiths are no Casper the friendly ghost. NO, no, no these ghost may be mysterious at times, but as well there are nights where they could keep you up. These Wraiths even begin attacking the school. So back to Bianca she comes up with the ultimate plan, she has been missing Lucas a lot since he was forced to escape Evernight Academy. The reason she needs a plan is because Mrs. Bethany is Mrs Bethany un-trusting, sneaky, and the fact the Bianca dated a person within the Black Cross she is definitely watching Bianca closely. Let me give you a hint this plan involves Bianca and my favorite fiction crush Balthazar and a relationship!! Dum dum dum dum dummmmm. Yep thats correct I said relationship, well you must be wondering why, well I got the perfect answer. Read it and find out. 
Stargazer is a roller coaster ride one you don't want to miss. There is a new kind of evil that will haunt you, and have you asking for more details. New relationship, and lets not forget the old ones as well. At Evernight people Bianca thought she could trust are not what she expected. This was a good book and I can't wait to read Hourglass, especially with a table turning ending. Hope you enjoy this one as well.
Series Order
EvernightStargazerHourglassAfterlife (set to release Mar 2011)
Happy Reading

Manifest By: Artist Arthur Book Review

When fifteen-year-old Krystal Bentley moves to Lincoln, Connecticut, her mom's hometown, she assumes her biggest drama will be adjusting to the burbs after living in New York City.

But Lincoln is nothing like Krystal imagined. The weirdness begins when Ricky Watson starts confiding in her. He's cute, funny, a good listener—and everything she'd ever want—except that he was killed nearly a year ago. Krystal's ghost-whispering talents soon lead other "freaks" to her door—Sasha, a rich girl who can literally disappear, and Jake, who moves objects with his mind. All three share a distinctive birthmark in the shape of an M and, fittingly, call themselves the Mystyx. They set out to learn what really happened to Ricky, only to realize that they aren't the only ones with mysterious powers. But if Krystal succeeds in finding out the truth about Ricky's death, will she lose him for good?

(Summary thanks to Goodreads)

I must say some books surprise me. This book is definitely one of them. I was kind of nervous when I agreed to review this book. The reason is I have never heard of the author (sorry Ms. Arthur). I have to say what a hit this book was. For Artist's first teen novel she did an awesome job the story line did have a slow start, but once it did get going I just couldn't put this book down. The concept of the book was new and exciting, even if I love my vampires and other paranormal character the Mystyx's are Paranormals I would love to add to my list of loves.

This books is based around Krystal a girl who has been put through a lot, you would think it would get better... You guessed it just gets worse. Krystal's a teen who's parents were recently divorced (she blames this on her mother) they moved from New York back to her moms small home town of Lincoln. Oh wait it gets better Krystal's mom re-married a man named Gerald, a man Krystal really dislikes. Ever since the divorce Krystal takes everything out on her mom Janet she barely talks to her and when she does shes a brat, she is on first name basis with her mom talk about disrespectful. You think thats bad out of nowhere ghosts start approaching her, especially a very cute one named Ricky. This is when the story gets juicy Krystal then meets other teens that also have weird things happening to them. The three of them embark on a mysterious hunt to help Ricky solve his death. One thing I really disliked about Krystal was that she was so terribly rude to her mother. I come from a very European family so if I was ever this rude to my mother all hell would break lose, no matter what she could have possibly have done. I have to say I don't know what Krystal could possibly be feeling, but my roommate and best friend has also gone through very similar situation and they did not act at all like Krystal did. Once you start seeing the softer side to Krystal I liked her, and sometimes was able to relate to her. Sasha and Jake are total opposites but fun and very easy to like. 

Well back on track this book was an awesome roller coaster ride which I did not regret getting on. This book was a fast read but was detailed enough for its pace. Artist brought a new look into paranormals and I think she's here to stay. This books ending had you wanting more, but not necessarily a cliffhanger. One thing I must say before I end this long review is that the ending was definitely very unpredictable, but I totally loved it. 

My Blurb for this novel: "A great add to Teen Paranormal Genre. A roller coaster ride that I did not regret at all. Can't wait for more novels from Artist Arthur"

Series Order

1. Manifest

2. Mystify (Out Jan. 18. 2011)

3. Mayhem (Out Aug. 2011)

I would personally Rate this novel:

Moon Light By: Rachel Hawthorne Book Review

I see him and knows what this turmoil inside of me means: He's the one. My forever. 

KAYLA is the nature lover, the all-American beauty who can't understand why she's so drawn to distant, brooding Lucas. Adopted as a young child, she has no way of knowing that she's inherited a terrifying-and thrilling-gene that will change her life forever. 

LUCASis dangerous, gorgeous ... and a werewolf. As leader of the Dark Guardians, shape-shifters who gather deep within the state park, he has sworn to protect his pack. But when Lucas finds his true soul mate, his love could put them all in harm's way. 

As Lucas and Kayla struggle with their feelings for each other, a greater danger lurks: Humans have discovered the Dark Guardians and are planning their destruction. Kayla must choose between the life she knows and the love she feels certain is her destiny. 

(Summary Thanks to Goodreads)

Moonlight was a novel that I have heard a lot about for a while, not all good so I had some hesitation in picking up this novel. I thought I would give it a try. I was very surprised on how this book captivated me, had me wanting more. Moonlight is the first in the Dark Guardian series. Which after this book I am proud to say I want more and actually bought the rest of the series once completing Moonlight. I have never read any of Rachel Hawthorne books before this one and I was very surprised how she hit all the right note in writing a unique paranormal plot.

I found the characters in this novel very well thought out and very easy to understand while still being mysterious. I'm not a big fan of werewolves I dunno why, but my friend and some family are very team werewolves when it comes to reading paranormal. After Moonlight I think I might look into more novels involving Werewolves (any good recommendation?). Anyways we will start off with Kayla poor, poor Kayla who has had a very unfortunate past, because of that past she is know in the middle of the forest. Kayla is very out there (personal information wise), but yet distant and mystery to her. Lucas at first I thought he was a stalker, and a bit creepy, might I add. Lucas does then become my book crush for this novel, and no other man in this book wins that little. Mason, I dunno I get bad feelings that all I can say, and Kayla maybe be right about him being the safer option (or is she:). Lindsey is awesome and reminds me of my friend Linds.  I love how this book kind of introduces us to what happens after Moonlight. Evil in this book is another kind of evil no the typical evil kill take over the world good against bad (somewhat) this book touches on other issues.

This book overall was a good read I really enjoyed it. Somethings I disliked were there were some transition that had me a bit confused nothing major. The beginning of this book took a while to actually get in to. So when you do start stick with it, because the best part of the book is coming soon. I like the cover to this novel. Rachel Hawthrone did all the right things in this plot. So if your looking for a quick and great read be sure to pick this book up. Can't wait to see Lindsey's point of view. 

My Blurb for this Novel: "Quick, addictive, mysterious new touch to werewolf young adult novels with a bite".

Series Order

1. Moonlight

2. Full Moon

3.Dark of the Moon

4. Shadow of the Moon

I would Personally rate this Novel:

The reasoning behind this rating is the end part made up for the dislikes.

Happy Reading