Book Review: The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan & Maureen Johnson

Book Summary: 

It’s not easy being Magnus Bane. As a warlock, he’s often called upon to fix the problems of others. His life has been long, and his loves have been many. And Magnus has a way of making sure he’s at the right place—or perhaps wrong—time. The French Revolution, Prohibition, the great blackout of New York City, the first great battle between Valentine and the New York Institute. . . Magnus was there, and usually in the middle of it. But smuggling Marie Antoinette out of France is nothing compared to loving a vampire like Camille Belcourt—or having a first date with Alec Lightwood. 

Though Magnus’s tale is far from over, these stories shed a little light on his often instructable character. What happens when an immortal warlock goes mad? Are all Herondales as problematic as Will? (Answer: Yes). What exactly happened at the Hotel Dumort? How did Raphael Santiago become a vampire? What do you buy for your Shadowhunter boyfriend when you’re not officially dating? And why was Magnus banned from Peru? 

Magnus will never be able to tell all of his tales. No one would believe him. But here are eleven stories that fill in some of the blanks—stories he probably wishes had never gotten out.

My Rating: 4 stars 

My Review: 

“The Bane Chronicles” was whimsical, funny and definintely intriguing—just like the main character itself, Magnus Bane. If you’ve read the Mortal Instruments and/or The Infernal Devices, then the stories in this book will help you to understand him a bit more. Magnus is... well, magnificent (pun totally intended). He’s charming, funny, often insane, usually over-dramatic, and well... what else can I say? He’s my absolute favourite character in both Mortal Instruments and Infernal Devices. The things he gets himself into had me shaking my head at several points. 

I really enjoyed learning more about the background of my favourite character. Even if he wasn’t my favourite, I probably would’ve loved this book anyway. I found that “What Really Happened in Peru” (the story that opens the book) sort of dragged at first, but it was fun. I really enjoyed “Vampires, Scones, and Edmund Herondale” (which tells the story of Will’s father). But by FAR my favourite stories in this book were “Saving Raphael Santiago” (made me even tear up at several points), and “The Course of True Love [And First Dates]” and, “What To Buy the Shadowhunter Who Has Everything (And Who You’re not ofiically dating anyway). 

Magnus’s history is so very vast, it would need several different books like this to even come close to telling all of Magnus’s tales. I would really like to know what it was like for Magnus in the first several years after the events of his childhood, though I can’t imagine they were pleasant. I really liked the relationships between him, Ragnor and Catarina. I also enjoyed seeing Tessa & Will in “The Midnight Hier”, as well as again in “The Last Stand of the New York Institute” (Also loved little Clary and Tessa moment in here as well.) I believe this might be why Tessa seems familiar to Clary when she first sees her in City of Glass. Also, the mention of Jem “I know a Silent Brother who will keep any secret, if I ask him to” kind of made me break inside all over again. My heart always breaks whenever Jem is mentioned. Seeing him in “The MIdnight Heir” just made me cry. 

There is so much of Magnus to know, and these stories only barely touch the surface. “The Bane Chronicles” is deliciously wonderful, though. I want more Magnus! (I’m really hoping to see him the Dark Artifces, and I can’t wait to see him in Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy). I love Magnus, and I miss him already even though I just finished this book. 

All in all, The Bane Chronicles is definitely a must-add to your growing Shadowhunter collection. I would say that while they are each stand-alone stories and do not have to be read in order, it is definitely necesary to have read The Infernal Devices FIRST, before beginning the Bane Chronicles. There is a lot of stuff from that time period that you will not understand unless you read The Infernal Devices, the mentions of Jem, Will & Tessa, etc. You could possibly get by reading it without having read The Mortal Instruments, though the bits with the Circle & everything to do with Alec will end up being confusing, though you could probably follow along. I still recommend reading both series first before you go reading The Bane Chronicles, else you will end up extremely confused and you just won’t appreciate the deliciousness that is Magnus Bane. (Not that Magnus is something to eat, I’m just referring to his sexiness when I say “delicious”.) 

Magnifcent. Suberb. Wonderful. Absolutely delightful. A MUST READ. 

Side note: I am very pleased to say that I have completely finished ALL of Cassandra Clare’s works that are available to date, including the Shadowhunter’s Codex. This is one of my highest accomplishments. I have finished (devoured might be a better word for it) The Infernal Devices, The Mortal Instruments, The Shadowhunter’s Codex, & The Bane Chronicles, and now I have nothing left of Cassie’s to read. Alas, I must retire to Fanfiction.net, where I must be satisfied with occasionally decent stories featuring the Shadowhunters. I have not succumbed to writing my own, though I have been tempted (especially during that torturously long way between City of Lost Souls, Clockwork Princess, and City of Heavenly Fire). 

This little Shadowhunter is off to bed, where she may dream about being as fabulously dressed as the Magnificent Bane. 

Book Review: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Book Summary: 

When Clara Gardner learns she’s part angel, her entire life changes. She now has a purpose, a specific task that she was put on this earth to accomplish, except she doesn’t know what it is. Her visions of a raging forest fire and a mysterious boy lead her to a new high school in a new town but provide no clear instruction. As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she’d have to make—between the boy in her vision and the boy in her life, between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. . . When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

My Rating: 4.5 stars 

My Review: 

Unearthly is beautiful. I’ve read it three times since I first got the book a year or so ago, and I still love it just as much as I did the first time around. One of the best things about this book is Clara’s Mom. She’s by far the best Mom in any Young Adult book that I’ve read. I loved her Mom so much. I also loved her relationship with her brother, Jeffery. By the way, Jeffery is totally me, eating at every oppurtunity. 

I think another great thing about this book is that it’s still realistic, despite being about angels. It’s not at all cliche, and a lot of the things that happen in the book actually make sense. I love the idea of the purpose. It makes sense, because aren’t we all supposed to have some sort of “purpose”? And the angels are so realistic in this story. I actually love them. 

The only thing about this book that bothered me at first was the love triangle. I hate love triangles. But this one actually works, and it’s not eyeroll-worthy. Both guys would be a good match for Clara, and it’s really hard to pick between the two, though I definitely love Tucker a lot more than Christian. Something about him just irked me, I don’t know what. 

I loved Angela, the best friend. She’s a realistic best friend. I can name several YA books that feature so-called best friends who end up being total bitches, but Angela’s not one of them. She really helps Clara get through one of the hardest times in her life, and she sort of keeps her grounded. It’s nice to see a friendship in a YA book that doesn’t make you want to smack the main character for being friends with said friend. I also really liked Wendy, Tucker’s twin sister, even though she wasn’t in the story that much. 

Another thing that I really liked is that Clara actually already knew about the angels and stuff a long time ago. It wasn’t one of those books where the main character finds out that “surprise, you’re a...”. She was fourteen when she found out, and I like that we didn’t actually know how she found out right away. So many books have the cliche “main character turns sixteen, and discovers that something odd is happening to her. Surprise, you’re some kind of a supernatural being with awesome magic powers!” plot line, which I hate. It is stupid and boring and ruins the good idea you probably would’ve had otherwise. 

Unearthly was an excellent read, refreshing among the boring/cliche YA angel books. The next two books, Hallowed and Boundless, are just as awesome. This trilogy is definitely worth checking out! Totally recommend it. 

Details about Tales From The Shadowhunter Academy by Cassandra Clare

About: 

Simon Lewis never thought he'd become a Shadowhunter... and now he has the chance. Ten novellas, each released as an individual e-book over the course of ten months, make up Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy. The series will launch with one story a month beginning February 2015. When all the novellas are published, the book will be offered in print format in bookstores, much like the Bane Chronicles.

Story 1: Welcome to Shadowhunter Academy 

After living as a Mundane and a Vampire, Simon never thought he would become a Shadowhunter, but today he begins his training at Shadowhunter Academy.

2) The Lost Herondale: 

Simon learns the worst crime a Shadowhunter can commit: desertion of their comrades. In the early nineteenth century, Tobias Herondale abandoned his fellow Shadowhunters in the heat of battle and left them to die. His life was forfeit, but Tobias never returned, and the Clave claimed his wife's life in exchange for Tobias's. Simon and his fellow students are shocked to learn of this brutality, especially when it is revealed the woman was pregnant.. But what if the child survived, could there be a lost Herondale line out in the world today?

3) The Whitechapel Fiend: 

Simon learns the truth behind the Jack the Ripper murders—"Jack" was stopped by Will Herondale, his former parabati, and his institute of Victorian Shadowhunters.

4) Nothing But Shadows: 

Simon challenges the setup of the Shadowhunter Academy, and in doing so learns the story of James Herondale and Matthew Fairchild, and the unusual way that they became friends and parabati. 

5) The Evil We Love

The story of Valentine's Circle at the Shadowhunter Academy.

6) Fair Kings and Princes

Simon has encounter with Downworlders and is reprimanded for not following the rules for Academy students interacting with Downworlders. A story within a story: Andrew Blackthorn, while a student at the Academy, becomes enthralled by a faerie and has two children with her: Mark and Helen.

7) Bitter of Tongue

When faeries kidnap Simon he encounters a member of the Wild Hunt, the former Shadowhunter Mark Blackthorn. 

8) The Fiery Trial 

Emma Carstairs and Julian Blackthorn become parabati. Simon and Clary both act as their witnesses, so they can see what a parabati bond forming looks liks as they want to become parabati as soon as Simon graduates—and because Emma asked Clary. The ritual goes unexpectedly... 

9) Born to Endless Night: 

Simon, ike the rest of the Academy, is stunned when a navy-skinned warlock baby is found on the Academy steps. They hand the child over to guest lecturer Magnus Bane, who has to bring a child home, temporarily, of course... to his man! 

10) Angels Twice Descending

Someone lives and someone dies at Simon's Ascension ceremony. 

The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare Hardcover Release

Best-selling author Cassandra Clare, author of The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices, released a new book today. The Bane Chronicles, which is a series of short stories co-written by Cassandra Clare, Sarah Rees Brennan, and Maureen Johnson, illuminates the life of the much-loved warlock Magnus Bane. The stories were originally released in e-book form, but are now available as a whole book on paperback. It is one of the books on my Christmas list this year. *nudges Mom; hint hint*

Below is a complete list of the stories in order:

What Really Happened in Peru 

The Runaway Queen 

Vampires, Scones, and Edmund Herondale

The Midnight Heir 

The Rise of the Hotel Dumort

Saving Raphael Santiago 

The Fall of the Hotel Dumort

What To Buy the Shadowhunter Who Has Everything 

The Last Stand of the New York Institute 

The Course of True Love [And First Dates] 

And here are the summaries of each story: 

What Really Happened in Peru: 

There are good reasons Peru is off-limits to Magnus Bane. Follow Magnus's Peruvian escapades as he drags fellow warlocks Ragnor Fell and Catarina Loss into trouble, learns several instruments (which he plays shockingly), dances (which he does shockingly) and disgraces his host nation by doing something unspeakable to the Nazca Lines.

The Runaway Queen 

Magnus Bane has a royal role in the French Revolution—if the angry mobs don't spoil his spells. 

While in France, immortal warlock Magnus Bane finds himself attempting to rescue the royal family from the horros of the French Revolution—after being roped into this mess by a most attractive count. Naturally, the daring escape calls for invisible air balloons... 

Vampires, Scones, and Edmund Herondale 

Magnus leverages his alliances with Downworlders and Shadowhunters on a venture to Victorian London. 

When Immortal warlock Magnus Bane attends the preliminary peace talks between the Shadowhunters and the Downworlders in Victorian London, he is charmed by two very different people: the vampire Camille Belcourt, and the young Shadowhunter, Edmund Herondale. Will winning hearts mean choosing sides? 

The Midnight Heir 

In Edwarian London, Magnus Bane discovers old friends and new enemies—including the son of his former comrade Will Herondale.

Magnus thought he would never return to London, but he is lured by a handsome offer from Tatiana Blackthorn, whose plans —involving her beautiful young ward — are far more sinister than Magnus even suspects. In London at the turn of the century, Magnus finds old friends, and meets a very surprising young man... the sixteen year-old James Herondale. 

The Rise of the Hotel Dumort

In 1920s Manhattan, Magnus Bane hobnobs with the elite at a glamorous Jazz Age hotspot. 

The immortal Magnus Bane is making the most of his time in the Roaring Twenties: He's settled into New York society, and is thriving among the fashionable jazz set. And there is nowhere better to see and be seen than the glamorous Hotel Dumort, a glittering new addition to the Manhattan landscape. But a different type of glamour may be at play...

Saving Raphael Santiago 

A Manhattan teen—Raphael Santiago—is missing, and Magnus Bane must track him down before it's too late.

In 1950s New York City, a distraught mother hires Magnus Bane to find her missing son, Raphael. But even if he can be found, is Raphael beyond saving?

The Fall of the Hotel Dumort

Magnus Bane watches the once-glamorous Hotel Dumort become something else altogether in 1970s New York City.

Fifty years after the Jazz Age rise of the Hotel Dumort, immortal warlock Magnus Bane knows the Manhattan landmark is on the decline. The once-beautiful Hotel Dumort has fallen into a destroyed thing, a ruin, as dead as a place can be. But the vampires don't mind... 

What To Buy the Shadowhunter Who Has Everything

Magnus Bane may or not be dating Alec Lightwood, but he definitely needs to find him the perfect birthday present.

Set in the time between City of Ashes and City of Glass, warlock Magnus Bane is determined to find the best birthday present possible for Alec Lightwood, the Shadowhunter he may or may not be dating. And he's also got to deal with the demon he's conjured up for a very irritating client... 

The Last Stand of the New York Institute

Magnus meets Valentine in the battle as the Circle attacks the Downworlds of New York City. 

In the time of the Uprising, Valentine's Circle goes after Downworlders in New York.. and the Shadowhunters of the Institute must decide whether to join him, or fight with Magnus and his kind. This is the first time Magnus sees Jocelyn, Luke and Stephen—but not the last. It is not long before Jocelyn seeks him out. 

The Course of True Love [And First Dates]

Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood might fall in love — but first they have a first date.

Whe Magnus Bane, warlock, meetsAlec Lightwood, Shadowhunter, sparks fly. And what happens on their first date lights a flame...

All books in the Bane Chronicles are also available as audiobooks, and can be bought individually as E-books. Personally, I'm waiting until I can get the paperback book so I can add to my Cassandra Clare collection. I'm not sure if I will be able to fit the Dark Artifices and Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy AND The Last Hours with all the other books. I might have to get Tales from the Shadowhunter Academy on my E-reader, but I'm GOING to make TDA and TLH fit... Or at least I'll attempt to. 

Ugh. Cassie, I love your writing, but how many shadowhunter series are you going to write?! Not that I mind... as long as I never get to stop reading about Magnus... ;)

Book Review: Grave Mercy by Robin Lafevers

I recently picked up "Grave Mercy", at my local dollar store, for $1.50. I know, I was totaly amazed, and of COURSE I had to grab it. Here's my thoughts: 

Book Summary: 

Why be the sheep when you can be the wolf? 

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts-- and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assasin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany-- where she finds herself woefully under prepared-- not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death's vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

My Rating: 4.5 stars

My Review:

I absolutely LOVED 'Grace Mercy. It was so much better than I had anticipated. Ismae drew me in from the first sentence, and I loved the world, the politics, the romance... everything about it. I could feel her emotions, see what she was seeing, experience what she was experiencing. 

Let's talk about Duval, shall we? I really loved him, though I admit I was a little hesitant to trust him at first. But like Ismae, it was hard for me to distrust him for too long. The chemistry between Duval and Ismae was perfectly written, and so believable. It's hard to find a book these days where the chemistry is actally realistic. As a writer myself, I struggle with it, too, and know how hard it can be. Their moments together were perfectly written, making you anticipate their next interactions. Both Ismae and Duval were extremely well-written, and in fact, I feel they are the two most real characters I have come across in a long while. The passion wasn't overdone, neither were the characters' personalities. 

Also, I do love the way they spoke. It was definitely realistic for me. Did you know that "merde" means "shit" in French? After the first several times Ismae said the word, I had to look up the translation. I giggled to myself whenever she said it afterwards.

Robin's writing is absolutely amazing. I can honestly not put it into words how great it is. The book is over 500 pages, but it felt less than that with all the action and things happening in between. I finished this book this afternoon (it's currently 11:32pm where I live) and I have not been able to stop thinking about the book, or flipping back and forth to my favourite scenes. I also really liked Anne, the Duchess. She seemed like a really good person in general, and I felt so bad for her at so many points. But she kept her chin up and continued to be strong even though I'm sure the poor girl felt like she was being thrown into a tornado more than once, with all the politics and things going on. 

I really love Grave Mercy. I am going to probably read it again just for the sake of reading, because I am soo in love with the book and I already miss Duval and Ismae. Seriously, I've actually missed them for the better part of the afternoon. That's how fabulous Robin LaFevers is :) Y'all should read this book, cuz it's AMAZING. 

Grave Mercy offers exactly what those looking for strong plots, characters, and fantastc writing, want. Robin LaFevers has crafted what will certainly be one of the most memorable novels you will read, and has left readers highly anticipating what will come next. 

I, for one, cannot wait until I can get my hands on book 2, "Dark Triumph." I have not been so excited to read a book in ages. I wasn't even this excited to read Blood of Olympus (Rick Riordan), Heir of Fire (Sarah J. Maas) or City of Heavenly Fire (Cassandra Clare). I cannot WAIT to read "Dark Triumph". I wonder if I will like Sybella as much as Ismae? From what I have heard of the book so far, and what I have seen of Sybella, I think I will. 

Books Read in September-October 2014

Books I've Read in September & October 2014  (Not including re-reads) 

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass 3) by Sarah J. Maas [Finished on September 6th, 2014]

The Blood of Olympus (The Heroes of Olympus 5) by Rick Riordan [Finished on October 10th 2014]

Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles 1) by Marissa Meyer [Finished October 30th, 2014]

Currently Reading: 

Grave Mercy (His Fair Assassin, 1) by Robin LaFevers [Page 73]

Mockingjay (The Hunger Games, 3) by Suzanne Collins [Page 115]

Book Review: Cinder by Melissa Meyer

I was lucky enough to buy this book at my brother's school book fair for $7. I wouldn't have bought it if it hadn't been cheap, since I was hesitant about reading it. 

Book Summary: 

Even in the future, the story begins with Once Upon a Time.... 

Humans and androids crowd the raueous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl...

Sixteen-year-old Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past and is reviled by her step-mother. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalatic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. 

Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must unravel secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future. Because there is something unusual about Cinder, something that others would kill her for... 

My Rating: 3.5 stars 

My Review: 

To start with, it took me a few days to get past the first inital chapters. I was uncertain about the whole setting, the futuristic Cinderella story, and just the story in general. I'd heard mixed reviews so it set me off, but I was eager to read it.

I liked it. It was different, intriguing. I liked learning about Cinder's "mysterious" past, and her relationships with the other characters. I guessed early on that Cinder was Princess Selene, so that wasn't too surprising for me. I enjoyed her interactions with Kai, and I really liked Peony (only Pearl was the evil step-sister in this story; Peony seemed to generally care about Cinder). I also liked Iko. She made me laugh. I was sad that she had to die.

I did not like the Lunar Queen, Levana or whatever her name was. She was a cold bitch and I hated how she manipulated everyone all the time. I wanted to throttle her. 

I liked Dr. Erland. He was an interesting guy (though I didn't think he was lunar, so that was surprising at least; I hate being able to guess things). I hope he finds the cure for the plague. I really do.

I had mixed feelings about Kai. I liked him well enough, thought his interactions with Cinder were cute, but I wasn't sure about him. There was something about him that just didn't pull me in and make me want to hug him, like usual with the love interests I actually enjoy. I get this "feeling" that Cinder will end up with him though, once her identity as Princess Selene is revealed and Levana's dead (There will be an epic battle of powers between the Princess & the Evil Queen, right? I really want to see that). I just really hope that she doesn't, because it would be too predictible. But I don't want a love triangle either. I'm really sick of love triangles in dystopias, to be honest. 

Anyways, I liked "Cinder". It was a good book, and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel "Scarlet". I don't know why it took me so long to read it, honestly. Maybe it was just those inital first chapters. Alas, I'm glad I gave it a go. 

DIY Mason Jar Candles

The idea for this easy project is from TheFrugalGirls.com, and can be found on Pinterest as well. I, unfortunately, did not come up with it (though I did make a few tweaks to the original) 

The photo above is the original. 

What you Need (For the Original): 

Mason jars (Can be found at dollar stores if you don't want to spend a fortune, comes in a pack of 3 but they are smaller than the ones shown here)

Epson salt 

Ribbon (any color)

Tealights 

Sticker letters (the kind you might use for a scrapbook)

How To Make: 

Tie ribbon around top of jar 

Stick on stickers to say phrase you like (For example, Let it Snow, O Holy Night, 'tis The Season etc.) 

Fill jar about half way full with epson salt

Place candle on top

Light, and enjoy! 

And here's my version of it. Slightly different, but same idea. 

Here's What You Need (For my Version): 

Mason jars (the ones I got are slightly smaller and rounder, but work fine)

Artifical snow (can be found at a dollar store also, especially during Christmas season; for smaller jars, you only need one bag. A second bag might be needed if you have bigger jars) 

Flameless candles (again, can be bought a dollar store, comes in packs of three) 

Sharpie (for writing on jar)

Nail Polish Remover & Paper Towel/Kleenex (for erasing mistakes)

Ribbon (optional, as you can see I didn't use it)

How To Make: 

Fill jar about half-way with the artificial snow 

Insert flameless candle 

Write message on jar (As you can see, I wrote O Holy Night)

Turn on candle and enjoy!! 

This is a super easy project that only cost about 4 dollars total. $3 dollars for the jars, about $2.50 for the candles and artificial snow. So, cheap and easy and yet totally festive! :D 

The Fault in Our Stars Digital HD release

If you're familiar with iTunes, you probably know that movies tend to be released earlier in digital copy than on DVD. The Fault in Our Stars (based on the novel by John Green) is no different. It was released today, (August 26th, 2014). Both theatrical and extended editions were released, in HD only. I would recommend getting the extended edition, that way you can see all the deleted scenes (there aren't that many, but the ones that are there are important scenes) while watching the movie. I'm not sure how you access deleted scenes through digital, but nevertheless, I would recommend the extended edition, unless you don't want to pay a little bit extra for it.

Speaking of prices, here is the cost of the movie on the iTunes store:

The Fault in Our Stars (Extended Edition), $24.99

The Fault in Our Stars (Theatrical Edition), $19.99

The Fault in Our Stars (Soundtrack), $11.99

The Fault in Our Stars (Score) $13.99


Please note that the movies are only available in HD. If you want to wait and get the SD version instead, you have to wait until September 19th, which is also when the DVD is out. If you get the DVD + Digital Copy then you can just download it that way.


I've already watched the whole movie once, and now I'm listening to the soundtrack on Youtube. :)

Library Run: August 26 2014

I've gone to the library more times in the last few weeks than I care to count. It's just so much easier to go to the library and borrow books for free for a couple weeks than buy them, especially when I'm not totally sure I want to actually spend the money.

Last week, I picked up Elusion by Claudia Gabel and Cheryl Klam. You can find the review on my blog (too lazy to post the link at the moment). I also got Descendant by Lesley Livingston, the sequel to Starling.

This week (today, August 26th) I had a few holds that came in, so I got to pick up those as well  as a few others, which were:


Echo by Alyson Noel (Soul Seekers, book 2)

Tidal by Amanda Hocking (Watersong, Book 3)

The Lovely and the Lost by Page Morgan (The Dispossessed, Book 2)

Deception's Princess by Esther Friesner

Fever by Lauren Destefano (The Chemical Garden, Book 2)

The Fall of Five by Pittacus Lore (Lorien Legacies, Book 4)

Low Red Moon by Ivy Devlin


I have plenty to read for the next couple weeks, as I don't have to return them until the 19th-- I usually return them early, if I can. Low Red Moon is actually for my Mom. (My parents use my library card because I'm the only one in the house who actually has one that works.)

Which of these books have you read? Are you planning to read any? How often do you visit your public library?

Book Review: Elusion by Claudia Gabel & Cheryl Klam

Summary: 


Soon, Elusion® will change the world and life as we know it. 

A new technology called Elusion is sweeping the country. An app, a visor, and a wristband will virtually transport you to an exotic destination where adventure can be pursued without the complications-- or consequences-- of real life.
Regan is an Elusion insider. Or at least she used to be. Her father invented the program, and her best friend, Patrick, heir to the tech giant Orexis, is about to release it nationwide. But ever since her father's unexpected death, Regan can't bear to Escape, especially since waking up from the dream means crashing back to her grim reality.
Still, when there are rumors of trouble in Elusion-- accusations that it's addictive and dangerous-- Regan is determined to defend it. But the critics of Elusion come from surprising sources, including Josh, the handsome skeptic with his own personal stakes. As Regan investigates the claims, she discovers a disturbing web of secrets. She will soon have to choose between love and loyalty... a decision that will affect the lives of millions.
Suspense, thrills, and romance fuel this near-future story about the seductive nature of a perfect virtual world and how far one girl will go to uncover the truth behind the illusions.


My Rating: 2.5 stars


Review: 


I borrowed Elusion from my local library- Thank God. I am so glad that I didn't pay for this book, and I am going to return it as soon as possible. Why, why must the pretty covers lure me into these stories that promise so much and fail so terribly to deliver?

I really wanted to like Elusion. Really. But the world-building was awful. It was so unrealistic, and the lack of descriptions really didn't leave a lot to be imagined. I mean, I've got a pretty good imagination, but when there's no picture there to begin with I can't picture the world that the characters are living in. And in a futuristic novel such as Elusion, descriptions are extremely important. A good setting with a good description is a must, otherwise you can't get a feel of the world these characters are living in.
And speaking of characters, I didn't like any of them. Every single character who was introduced was only there to help the plot along. And of course they were all there to ensure that the odds were entirely in Regan's favor, which is so unrealistic and annoying. In real life, not everything happens to your advantage. Not everything will turn out exactly how you want.
Regan was annoying. I can't describe what was annoying about her- maybe the way she treated Patrick and the people around her. I don't understand why these two guys were in love with her. I get that it was a love triangle and it was supposed to add more "thrill" to the story, but seriously. Guys and girls can just be friends, and there was nothing special about Regan at all. Except that her Dad invented this Elusion program, and she should be popular and whatever but Regan's just ordinary. And she's the only one who doesn't use Elusion, so of course that separates her from everyone else.
She was so... bland. At least to me, anyway. I didn't like her. If you did, well that's fine for you. Maybe you saw something in her that I didn't see, but I didn't like her and nothing will change my opinion.
And let's talk about the main topic of the book: Elusion. So, it's an app, apparently, that transports you to an exotic destination, using a visor and a wristband. I don't know how it does this. It sounds kind of cool, right? Who wouldn't like to visit Disney World without ever actually leaving home? (Uh, me. Duh.) But Elusion, of course, is dangerous. It's addictive. And people end up dead from using it.
Regan is pretty determined in the beginning to prove that this isn't right, that the rumors that Elusion is dangerous are false. But Josh comes along. Josh is skeptic. Josh thinks Elusion has something to do with his sister Nora's disappearance (which it does). Regan defends Elusion at first, but then she second guesses it after her own Escape shuts down and ends up literally deteriorating. And she starts to suspect Patrick. He only makes it worse when he tries to take her tab to stop her from using Elusion, and looks pretty suspicious and won't admit that Elusion may have a problem. Of course he wouldn't. The kid's got a lot of money tucked under his belt thanks to this program and if he gets sued because something's wrong with Elusion, well... then he's screwed. He's in huge trouble, and he looses everything he's gained. Personally I actually don't blame the kid. Do you think any big company would admit that their program messed up? No way. They'd be tripping over themselves trying to cover it up.
Now, Patrick does kind of go about this the wrong way. He gets all jealous when Josh confronts him, and even goes so far as to say that Josh is only trying to sabotage him and that he's the one who's jealous and some nonsense. Of course, it was so pathetic to me I was barely paying attention.
I don't like Josh. I do not know why. He just seems... untrustworthy to me. Maybe I would've liked him if it wasn't for the whole "insta-love" thing. I just didn't like him. I didn't entirely like Patrick either. I almost, almost felt bad for him. I mean, Regan was his best friend for years, and then Josh comes along and within days he's got her wrapped around his finger. Josh gets Regan to betray Patrick, and I don't think that's fair. Obviously Regan wasn't really that good of a friend in the first place if it was so easy to betray Patrick like that.

I don't really know what else to say about this book. I didn't like it, and by the time I got to chapter 10 I was mostly reading it just to finish it, not really actually enjoying it at all. I do give credit to the authors. The idea was good. It could've been great even, if they'd done a bit more world-building and character developing. I probably won't pick up the sequel, and I will be returning this book to the library ASAP.

August Reads So Far

What I've Read So Far in August 2014 




The Golden Lily (Bloodlines, 2) by Richelle Mead

The Indigo Spell (Bloodlines, 3) by Richelle Mead

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, 2) by Sarah J. Maas

The Rise of Nine (I Am Number Four, 3) by Pittacus Lore

Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, 1) by Cassandra Clare

Currently Reading as of August 10: 

Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices, 2) by Cassandra Clare, Page 65

*Note: Pretty much all of these are re-reads, except for "The Rise of Nine"  by Pittacus Lore. 

#ThrowbackThursday Favorite Books As A Kid

My parents read books to me from the time I was born, so I'm a life-long reader. If my parents didn't read at least one book to me before bed, then I couldn't sleep. Some of my favorites were the Dr. Seuss books, the Franklin books, and many others. I loved them all.

But two of my favorites are two classics that you'll probably recognize.

Go Dog Go by P.D. Eastman 

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss 

Growing up, "Go Dog Go" was a book that was read pretty much every night, unless it was replaced by a Franklin book or a Seuss book. It was my older brother's favorite, my favorite, and my two younger siblings favorite. I read it so often by the time I was six that I could almost recite it from memory. Even my cousins loved it. My aunts all had it in their houses. In fact, my one Aunt has it put in a display box in her living room, along with a couple of other favorites, like "Are You My Mother?"
Dr. Seuss is always a classic, and Green Eggs and Ham was one that made my siblings and I laugh every time we read it, especially since my Dad is really great at doing the different voices. I still haven't had actual Green Eggs, but one day. Maybe when I have children of my own.


What was your favorite book when you were a kid?

May Thru November YA Book Releases

MAY RELEASES: 

The Falconer (Falconer, 1) by Elizabeth May, released on May 6th 

The Lovely and the Lost (The Dispossessed, 2) by Page Morgan, released on May 13th 

City of Heavenly Fire (The Mortal Instruments, 6) by Cassandra Clare, released on May 27th 

The Dark World (Dark World, 1) by Cara Lynn Schultz, released on May 27th 

JULY RELEASES: 

Midnight Thief by Livia Blackburne, released on July 8th

Dissonance (Dissonance, 1) by Erica O'Rourke, released on July 22nd 

Silver Shadows (Bloodlines, 5) by Richelle Mead, released on July 29th 

AUGUST RELEASES: 

Gates of Thread and Stone by Lori M. Lee, to be released on August 5th 

The Islands at the End of the World by Austin Aslan, to be released on August 5h 

SEPTEMBER RELEASES: 

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, 3) by Sarah J. Maas, to be released on September 2nd 

The Iron Trial (Magisterium, 1) by Cassandra Clare and Holly Black, to be released on September 9th 

Winterspell by Claire Legrand, to be released on September 30th 

Menagerie by Rachel Vincent, to be released on September 30th 

OCTOBER RELEASES: 

Prophecy of Oz (Prophecy of Oz, 1) by Megan Shan, to be released on October 5th 

The Blood of Olympus (The Heroes of Olympus, 5) by Rick Riordan, to be released on October 7th 

NOVEMBER RELEASES: 

The Bane Chronicles by Cassandra Clare, to be released on November 11th 

**

Please comment below if I got a date/title/author wrong. I was going off the book list I have on my computer, but I could be wrong. Note this does not include all books, or adult books, only Young Adult books that I have on my list. 

Review for the "Birthmarked" trilogy by Caragh M O'Brien

Summary (Birthmarked, Book 1) 

In the future, in a world baked dry by the harsh sun, there are those who live inside the walled Enclave and those, like sixteen-year-old Gaia Stone, who live outside. Following in her mother's footsteps Gaia has become a midwife, delivering babies in the world outside the wall and handing a quota over to be "advanced" into the privileged society of the Enclave. Gaia has always believed this is her duty, until the night her mother and father are arrested by the very people they so loyally serve. 

Now Gaia is forced to question everything she's been taught, but her choice is simple: Enter the world of the Enclave, or die trying. 

My Rating: 4 stars (Book 1) 

Summary (Prized, Book 2) 

Striking out into the wasteland with nothing but her baby sister, a handful of supplies, and a rumor to guide her, 16-year-old midwife Gaia Stone survives, only to be captured by the people of Sylum, a dystopian society where women rule the men who drastically outnumber them, and a kiss is a crime. In order to see her sister again, Gaia must submit to their strict social code and the oppressive rules of Matrarc Olivia. Meanwhile, two brothers claim her attention as they attempt to understand the environmental trap that keeps the people of Sylum captive, and suddenly Gaia must contend with the exciting, uncomfortable, and altogether new feeling of being desired. 

My rating: 3 stars (Book 2) 

Summary (Promised, Book 3) 

After defying the ruthless Enclave, surviving the wastleland, and overthrowing Sylum, Gaia Stone now faces her greatest challenge yet-- to lead the people of Sylum back to the Enclave and persuade the Protectorat to grant them refuge. But in Gaia's absence, the Enclave has become even more ruthless, picking girls from outside the wall to serve in an experimental baby factory. Babies with the right genes are now a priceless commodity with the potential to reshape life inside the wall and redefine humanity. The key to it all comes back to one fearless, young midwife. When negotiations devolve into terrorist threats, Gaia finds herself at the crux of an insupportable decision. 

My rating: 3 stars (Book 3)

My review: 

While I was hesitant to read the sequels, I finally bought them. I sped through Prized, and Promised, in less than three days. They were both good books, and definitely unique. I was trying to explain to my mother some of the things that happened in Prized, and she was so confused, especially with the fact that kissing is a crime in Sylum.

I was actually horrified at the whole way Sylum was run and their laws. They were ridiculous, and several times I had to put the book down and re-read a scene because I didn't understand what was going on. There were several moments when I felt like I liked Gaia, but then there were moments where I wanted to shake her. I wonder why it always has to be a girl, a sixteen-year-old girl to be exact, that starts a rebellion, in dystopian novels. What is it with 16-year-old girls? When I read Birthmarked the first time, I thought she was at least eighteen, because she just sounds more mature. But no. Gaia's only sixteen. And of course, she's unique, she's strong, she's brave, she's stubborn.

Don't get me wrong. I liked Gaia. And I understand that a girl in her situation would be forced to mature a little quicker. But this isn't a review on Gaia Stone, although she's the main character, so I won't get into it right now. 

All in all, I did like the Birthmarked trilogy. Caragh M. O'Brien does some great world-building, and the setting is pretty interesting. Speaking of settings, anyone notice that in dystopias the world tends to go backwards, like having minimal technology and no cars, etc., instead of advancing? With all the technology, I imagine we'll be quite advanced in the future, unless something drastic happens and we're actually forced to go backwards. But I guess it's just a book, right? As long as we're not all zombies, I'll be happy. 

Birthmarked, Prized, and Promised, are good books. I liked them. I even loved them at some points. I'll probably read them again, since it's so hard to find any decent dystopias these days. I've pretty much given up on Dystopia, though. 

Now, if you want an absolutely fantastic dystopia series that is totally different, try Angelfall by Susan Ee. It's an excellent read, and the sequel, World After, is amazing. Penryn is one of the most realistic characters in a dystopia that I've come across thus far, and the world is so unique. I love it. According to the Goodreads site, there's to be 5 books, so it will be a lot longer than most dystopias. I can't wait for the third book to be released. 

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year....

Summer is officially here, folks! Now, if you're like me, your younger siblings are probably still in school, meaning it's not "actually" summer. My baby sister is graduating from Public School on the 25th, and I am so excited. Also, I tried on the shoes I wore for my grad, and they still fit, which is awesome because my feet have definitely grown since I was 14. I am now a size 7, and these were a 6 1/2 and I was amazed that they fit!
But, back to the topic, SUMMER! If you're like my family, you might be doing a lot of camping. And if you are, you know that means bugs! Mosquitos, spiders, etc. This morning, I woke up and my feet were literally covered in mosquito bites, and under my knees and my legs. Luckily, we have this amazing Minigan Cream that I put on that will help the bites heal, and I also used Calamine Lotion, which is also miracle stuff.
Really, bug bites are one of the main reasons why I dread summer. Actually, it's probably the only reason because who doesn't love summer? Summer is freedom. Summer is joy, and happy memories. Summer is... well, just perfect. My family got a tent trailer a few years ago, and since then we've been able to camp a lot more, because of my health and my Mom's health, the tent just wasn't an option anymore. It'd be truly lovely to have a cottage, but we like to go different places. This year we're going to Bass Lake & Sauble Falls, but those are just two of the locations. Both are beautiful campgrounds, and we've been there before so obviously we enjoyed them if we're going again.
A lot of people find summer to be their favorite season, and although I love summer because it's warm, it's not my ultimate favorite. My ultimate favorite season is probably Fall/Autumn, because it's still cool but it's also warm enough that you can just wear a light sweater. I hate Winter, and this winter was especially long and therefore dreadful.

But summer is probably my second favorite season. I do love camping, and all the fun things that come with summer.

What are your views on the season?

Rant

So, one thing that really bothers me about some writers- especially those that are posting their works on a site like Wattpad or Harry Potter Fanfiction- is when they don't reply to their readers' reviews. I also hate when people demand votes/likes, whatever it is. You know the ones. I'll only post a new chapter when I get this many votes/reads, whatever.
Now, this upsets me. I have never done this to my readers. If I have readers, great. I'm thankful and I appreciate it if they do vote, but I don't insist on it. What if I have silent readers? The ones who don't have an account or whatnot? That only gets people really pissed off, and sometimes mad enough to leave my story. I value my readers, even if they don't comment or vote at all. It is enough to me that they have read my story, that they've taken the time out of their lives to read it.
Another thing I hate is when people don't reply to their reviews. If a story has over a hundred reviews or whatever, I get it. It's hard to reply to every single one of them. But that's what authors notes are for. In the beginning or end of a chapter, you can say "thank you to everyone who has reviewed my story so far" or something like that. It's not that hard to write a simple author's note. Especially when said author can write an author's note asking for votes and comments, but they can't seem to say thank you to their readers. I hate when people just take their readers for granted. If someone tells you they like your story, then you, as a writer, should be grateful and at least write a thank you in your author's note. But not replying at all seems rude and really unprofessional. Even in published books, there is normally an acknowledgements page at the beginning or end of a book, when authors sometimes thank their readers. Occasionally an author will even dedicate a book to their readers, saying how grateful they are for their continued support and whatnot.
Really, how hard is it to say a simple thanks? Even if you comment yourself saying "thanks everyone", or do an author's note like I said, it is not that hard. If you can take time to beg people for votes and comments or whatever it is, then you can thank your existing readers.


*deep breath* Okay. So, rant over. Sorry 'bout that. I hope I didn't offend anyone with this, and my apologies if I did. That was not my intention.

Disney Favorites

So, whether its characters or parks or movies, Disney certainly has something for everyone to enjoy. I love Disney. I've loved Disney since I was a little girl, and I still love it. I've been to Disney World twice. Technically three times, but that was only a daytrip so it really didn't count. Florida is one of my favorite places in the world.


And these are a few of my favorite Disney-related things.


Characters 

Princess Ariel (When I was three, I told her that my Dad needed a kiss. He was expecting a kiss on the cheek, but she kissed him right on the mouth!

Princess Merida (Merida is my favorite because she's so sassy and I just love that red hair.)

Minnie Mouse (When I was about 13, I had this really awesome spider-web hairdo, and Minnie Mouse kept playing with my hair. She wouldn't let me stand next to her to take pictures, she loved it so much. It was kind of awesome.)

Tinkerbell (Tink has always had a special place in my heart. I have more Tinkerbell T-shirts than I do other T-shirts. I just love her.)

Dopey (I love Dopey. I've never met him, but he's my favorite anyway)

Grumpy (Grumpy is also equally awesome. He reminds me of my sister.)

Piglet (I love Piglet. He's my favorite of all the Winnie the Pooh Characters.)

Dory (Just keep swimming, just keep swimming. Who doesn't love Dory?)

Eeyore (Another of my favorite Winnie the Pooh characters. Eeyore really needs a hug. I really love Eeyore.)

Flynn Rider (Ah.. Flynn. The only Disney character to ever question why everyone is singing. I do love the smoulder as well. Maybe Rapunzel wouldn't mind letting me borrow him for a bit?)

Olaf (Everyone's favorite Snowman, of course. Olaf likes warm hugs. I wonder if his hugs are actually warm though.)

Sebastian the Crab (also a favorite.)

Captain Jack Sparrow (Although I'm not sure if I actually like Jack himself or Johnny Depp who plays him....)

Will Turner (Again, not sure if I like Will himself or Orlando Bloom. It remains undecided.)

The Mad Hatter (Ah... The Mad Hatter. So crazy, yet so funny at the same time. Why is a raven like a writing desk?)

Peter Pan (The boy who never wanted to grow up. Also, Peter Pan is the reason we were introduced to Tinkerbell in the first place, so he gets brownie points for that.)



Movies 

Snow White (1937)

Bambi (1941)

Cinderella (1950)

Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Sleeping Beauty (1959)

The Jungle Book (1967)

The Little Mermaid (1989)

Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Aladdin (1992)

The Lion King (1994)

Toy Story (1995)

Mulan (1998)

Tarzan (1999)

Toy Story 2 (1999)

Monster's Inc (2001)

Lilo & Stitch (2002)

Finding Nemo (2003)

Brother Bear (2003)

The Incredibles (2005)

Up (2009)

Tinkerbell and the Lost Treasure (2009)

The Princess and the Frog (2009)

Toy Story 3 (2010)

Tangled (2010)

Brave (2012)

Secret of the Wings (2012)

Monsters University (2013)

Frozen (2013)

Disney Parks 


Magic Kingdom (particularly Fantasyland and Adventureland)

Downtown Disney

Epcot World Showcase

Animal Kingdom

My Favorite Movies & TV Shows

So, since I happen to have a lot of time on my hands, I love watching movies and T.V. This is a list of all of my favorite Shows and movies. The movie list will not include ones that are in Theatres, as I need three lists to do that. 

Shows 

1. HBO's Game of Thrones. Season 4 simply does not feel long enough. We have 2 episodes left, and after last week's, I feel that I need more than that! I'm also going to hopefully be seeing Season 4's final episode in a movie theatre! Yay!
2. TLC'S The Little Couple. Mostly because I adore Jen and Bill, and their kids are so cute! It just sucks that it's so late on a Tuesday night, because I usually am exhausted and end up recording it so I can watch it the next day instead. 
3. ABC'S The Bachelorette. I am really liking Andi's season so far. Love Marquel! I feel that she has a really good group of guys. And Andi's real. Even if the dates have an element of princess to them, they are still realistic. I also love that she tries to get to know them all. She's just really genuine. 
4. Criminal Minds. I haven't watched the new episodes, because I forget what channel and night they're on, but I watch the reruns all the time. Mmm... Derek. 
5. CSI: Miami. Another crime show that I watch reruns of, but some how I never get tired of it. I love this show. 
6. FOOD Network's The Pioneer Woman. I normally can't watch shows like this because they make me hungry, but I love watching this one. 
7. FOOD Network's Chef at Home. Michael Smith is one of my favorite chefs. Again, makes me hungry, but so worth it. 
8. TLC's 19 Kids and Counting. Another of my favorite shows, because I simply love the Duggars. Although there's no way I can keep up with their names. Jim Bob, Michelle... Josh, Anna, John David, Jessa.... Jana, Jinger.... Josie...
9. The Big Bang Theory. Again, I mostly watch old episodes of it, but I love it. Even if I've seen the episode 5 times, I still laugh! Soft kitty, warm kitty, little ball of fur...
10. SPACE's Bitten. Ah. I can't wait for Season 2. This show did twist things from the book by Kelley Armstrong, but they did a good job, and I love it. 

Movies

1. The Hunger Games & Catching Fire. Absolute favorites. But mostly the second one, because Francis Lawrence is a gift from God to us Tributes. :')
2. The Lord of the Rings trilogy & The Hobbit Part One and Two. I'll admit that I still haven't watched all of the Lord of The Rings, mostly because I can never seem to find the time to have a full blown marathon, but I love them anyway. 
3. The Harry Potter series. I actually started reading them right after the Deathly Hallows was released, and I remember watching them and being terrified during the Goblet of Fire. Still, though, I adore the movies, even if they did leave things out. They were fantastic. I cried when it ended. 
4. The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones. Different from the book, but still awesome. I love it. And after reading City of Heavenly Fire, I've basically just been watching it over and over. 
5. Letters to Juliet. I love Amanda Seyfried. And this movie is so awesome. It's like, one of my favorites. I haven't watched it in a while, but I still love it. It's a great story. 
6. Mamma Mia. Again, Amanda Seyfried. But I can't watch this movie without singing along! And kind of tearing up with "Slipping Through My Fingers". One of these days, I'm going to get my Mom to take me to the live musical. Maybe for my 21st birthday? 
7. Anything Disney, especially: Tangled, Frozen, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Mulan, Lilo & Stitch, and Finding Nemo. I also really adore Brother Bear. 
8. The Heat & The Identity Thief. Both of them are absolutely hilarious! Although I think I love the Heat more. Sandra Bullock was so awesome in that movie. Also, Melissa McCarthy is the best. 
9. The Blind Side. I'll admit, I cry a bit when I see this one, but I love it. The Blind Side is such an awesome movie. Probably one of my absolute favorites. 
10. Ella Enchanted, & Ever After: A Cinderella Story. I can't decide between these two, because I love them both. But probably Ever After is my favorite. It's my favorite of all the Cinderella retellings. I also can't wait to see the new remake of it in 2015, starring Richard Madden from Game of Thrones as Prince Charming, and Helena Bonham Carter as The Fairy Godmother. 

Mythical Creatures that Would Make Awesome Pets

Admit it. There's been a magical creature or two that we've wanted as pets at one point. Whether it be unicorns or dragons or a flying horse, we've all wanted one. This is a list of creatures that would be awesome pets.

,

1. Dragon

Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon 

Daenerys Targaryen's Dragons from Game of Thrones  

The Hungarian Horntail from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire 

Particularly the dragons from Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, or Harry Potter, but the animated Toothless from How to Train your Dragon would do just fine. The perks: Imagine showing up on a fire-breathing beast to school! You'd be feared by everyone. The downfalls: Dragons might start a fire, which could burn down your house or even your city! Dragons are also huge, and they need lots of space to fly and they eat lots of food (particularly meat!) But they're gorgeous and it'd be totally awesome to have a pet dragon. It'd be a totally badass pet. 

    

    2. Unicorn 

Unicorn 

How awesome would it be to have a pet unicorn? It's like having a horse, but better! Unicorns are totally magical. Also, their horns have healing powers!! Sort of awesome, right? You won't need BandAid anymore, thats' for sure!! In Harry Potter, unicorn blood can also prolong death, if you drink it. It's also silvery so you won't be grossed out! Unicorns are also totally gorgeous.

    3. Three Headed Dog 

Cerberus, Greek Mythology

"Fluffy" from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone 

Say goodbye to the average guard-dog who is easily fooled by treats and a good belly rub! Have no fear of break-ins when you have a three-headed dog guarding your house and your possessions. There's even one called Cerberus in Greek Mythology. And one called 'Fluffy' in Harry Potter. These dogs may not be the adorable little Chihuahuas you can carry around in your purse, but they're sure to give any thieves a good scare! Perks: Don't worry about locking your doors. Any burglars will probably pee their pants and run away screaming. Downfalls: You may have a heart-attack if this doggy needs to go pee and you wake up in the middle of the night to find it standing next to your bed. Also, don't forget to feed this three-headed monster, or you may end up his dinner!

      4. Pegasus 

Pegasus: The Flying Horse 

Also known as a flying horse. These winged horses are quite fantastic, and featured in many fantasy books and movies. Pegasus is also one of the most known creatures in Greek Mythology. They are beautiful. And how awesome would it be to have a flying horse to take you to work/school etc? All your friends and coworkers would definitely be jealous! And you can forget about gas money and taxis and bus passes too. (Although you may need a barn or something for it to "park" in)

      5. House Elf 

Dobby the House Elf, from Harry Potter 

Though technically not a pet, a House Elf would be a perfect companion, and they are magical! They're very handy for house work, and cooking and cleaning, and they would keep you company if you were bored. They are also obligated to do whatever you wish. I would, of course, pay them, because I don't like the idea of having a slave. Also, Dobby is one of my favorite characters in the Harry Potter series. 

     6.  The Cheshire Cat 

   

Cheshire Cat from "Alice in Wonderland" 

You definitely won't be called a crazy cat lady with this smiling kitty as your pet. The Cheshire cat is a character in the "Alice in Wonderland" book by Lewis Carroll. It's a talking cat, so if you think cats are bad enough with their sassy attitudes, imagine having a talking cat! He also smiles! And Cheshire is also very wise. 

      7. Phoenix 

A phoenix 

Phoenixes are very beautiful, immortal birds. When they die, they burn, and they are reborn from their ashes again. Phoenix tears also have healing powers. A phoenix is very rare. Fawkes the Phoenix is Dumbledore's bird in Harry Potter. 

      8. Giant Eagles

The Great Eagles from "The Lord of the Rings"

Giant Eagles are so much better than regular eagles because you can actually ride on them. How cool is that!? They are also very, very beautiful, of course. And well, who wouldn't want a great eagle as a pet? 

   9. Hippogriff 

Buckbeak the Hippogriff from Harry Potter 

Buckbeak is a Hippogriff from the Harry Potter series. A Hippogriff resembles a winged horse, but with the upper body of an eagle. They are extremely fast and are presented as being able to fly around the world and to the moon. When humans approach the Hippogriff, a proper etiquette must be maintained to avoid danger. They are proud creatures, and an individual must show proper respect by bowing to them and waiting for them to bow back before approaching. Eye contact must be maintained at all times, without blinking. The Hippogriff should be allowed to make the first move, as it is polite. If offended, a Hippogriff will attack. Although proud, Hippogriffs are also fiercely loyal and protective of those who have earned their trust.

      10. Direwolf 

Ghost, Jon Snow's Direwolf from Game of Thrones 

A direwolf is a relative of a wolf, but faster and stronger. Adult direwolves can be as small as a horse, and are able to rip a man's arm from its socket. Even a juvenile direwolf is capable of ripping out a man's throat. Direwolves can have a litter of up to six puppies. A direwolf would make an awesome pet, but I would want Ghost, as he's the biggest and prettiest color. Also, I'd be exceptionally delighted if Jon Snow was included ;) They are by far my favorite creatures.

That concludes this post. Comment below and tell me what creature you'd like as a pet, even if it's not listed here! 

 

The Fault in Our Stars: Spoiler-Free movie review

As far as movie adaptions went, I actually liked this one. It was close to the book, had several book quotes, and made me bawl. Actually, about every girl that was in the theatre was sobbing, especially at the end...
I was not, and I am pleased to say, disappointed. Alright, Van Houten wasn't how I pictured him (I thought he'd be a fat man, honestly) but I thought Willem Dafoe played him perfectly, and I adore Shailene Woodley (Hazel) and Ansel Elgort (Augustus.) It was a bit strange watching them make out when they just played brother/sister in Divergent, though, I must admit. My Mum and I kind of chuckled about that.

The movie was excellent. The cast was perfect. I loved Isaac even more than I loved him in the book. (I love Augustus, too, of course.) I was so pleased that they had actual quotes from the book, almost word-for-word. The same cannot be said for certain movies (except for Catching Fire, because that was perfection), so I was definitely happy about that.
The only issue I had was that it wasn't long enough. :'(


(I wonder if I can get my Mum to take me again...)

Cassandra Clare's Complete Collection (For NOW... Muahahaha!)

So, as many of you know, the last book in the Mortal Instruments, City of Heavenly Fire, was released on May 27th. And while it was the end of TMI, we'll be seeing more of the Shadowhunter series soon, with the release of Lady Midnight, the first of the Dark Artifices in 2015. Cassandra Clare has also said that there will be a series called the Last Hours, which is set in 1903 and deals with the generation after the Infernal Devices. The series takes it's name from Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens, and the direct quote (which is straight from Cassie's website) is this:

You have been in every line I have ever read, since I first came here, the rough common boy whose poor heart you wounded even then. You have been in every prospect I have ever seen since — on the river, on the sails of the ships, on the marshes, in the clouds, in the light, in the darkness, in the wind, in the woods, in the sea, in the streets. You have been the embodiment of every graceful fancy that my mind has ever become acquainted with. The stones of which the strongest London buildings are made, are not more real, or more impossible to be displaced by your hands, than your presence and influence have been to me, there and everywhere, and will be. Estella, to the last hours of my life, you cannot choose but remain part of my character, part of the little good in me, part of the evil. — Great Expectations, Charles Dickens

The Last Hours series is to have three books, as with the Infernal Devices, called Chain of Thorns, Chain of Gold, and Chain of Iron, which is also a reference to Great Expectations.
("Imagine one selected day struck out of it, and think how different its course would have been. Pause you who read this, and think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold, of thorns or flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day.” — Great Expectations)

Cassie's website also says that the books will interconnect with The Dark Artifices trilogy as two separate trilogies that are also the stories of Blackthorns, Herondales, and Carstairs, much like TMI and The Infernal Devices interconnected despite taking place in different time periods and locations. The exact order of publication isn't decided yet. Lady Midnight will be the next Shadowhunter book coming out, though. And least ye forget, The Bane Chronicles, which is coming out November 11th in a complete collection. You can, however, buy the separate e-Books, but I'm waiting until they're released on paperback. There is The Shadowhunter's Codex as well. 

I, for one, am excited about the new books, though I am sad that The Mortal Instruments is over. Though, Cassie says that we might see some of the characters in the Dark Artifices, but they aren't main characters. Alas, either way, it's sure to be heart-stoppingly excellent.. 

Cassandra Clare's "The Mortal Instruments", "The Infernal Devices", and "The Shadowhunter's Codex" (though you can't see it very clearly) completed and proudly displayed on my bookshelf