Rating: 2.8/5

Read: April 19th, 2017

Forbidden was unlike any other book I’ve ever read before, the topic was rarely seen in books, and was quite taboo.

I did enjoy this novel, however found it to be quite boring and repetitive throughout most of it (minus the last 2 or 3 chapters). Despite this, it was still so interesting to read about, and see how these people coped with such a struggle in their lives.

The characters were probably the best part of the book, they had depth to them, and each one made the book that little bit more interesting. Although the main two protagonists irritated me at times, due to their repetitive inner monologue, and constant change in emotions in a split second, I still enjoyed reading from both of their perspectives.

I loved seeing the family who is struggling financially, with a downright bitch for a mother, and how they dealt with all that. Such as Maya and Lochan having to play the parent roles, and all the things they had to deal with in terms of looking after the other kids. I certainly know I would never be able to do half the things they had to do, again because of their absolute moron as a mother. I respect them greatly in that way.

I’m 99% sure that I’ve never cried in a book, maybe one before this, but I had tears rolling down my face throughout the last few chapters. It was so heartbreaking and heart wrenching to see how all of this struggle ended up, oh my heart. It hurts. 

Rating: 2/5

Read: April 18th, 2017

“Sometimes a thought is closer to truth, to reality, than an action. You can say anything, you can do anything, but you can’t fake a thought.” 

Wow, was this a strange book. I don’t even know where to start with this review, but I’ll do my best.

I hate writing negative reviews, but I say my own truth, I say what I think of the book, and I don’t lie. I’m in no way bashing the author, but these are just my feelings.

I guess I’ll start off by saying that I found the premise/plot of this book to be really great (especially once you know the ending), but it was hugely let down by the… uh, really bad execution of it by the author.

I found the writing to be so confusing, and just plain annoying at times, with the same internal dialogue being said over and over again, but in slightly different ways. Although I did decipher the ending after I’d finished reading it, it was still disconcerting that the author wrote it in such a way that made very little sense.

Ultimately, the idea was there, and it was a great idea, but it couldn’t be done in a way that gave it justice. 

“Both fictions and memories are recalled and retold. They’re both forms of stories. Stories are the way we learn. Stories are how we understand each other.” 

Anyway, onto the characters. Aka. people with absolutely no appeal and no substance.

I can’t say too much about the characters without spoiling the ending, so I’ll just say they were underdeveloped, and just plain boring at times.

If theres one thing I did kind-of like about this book, was the ending (even though it was badly written and terribly confusing), it honestly was so creepy that it actually had me turning lights on in my room :’) Okay, okay, it was late at night, give me a break… hahaha

“Just tell your story. Pretty much all memory is fiction and heavily edited. So just keep going.” 

All-in-all, it was a decent book, and I’d say the ending was almost worth it, if it wasn’t so badly executed, but I guess, read at your own discretion. 
You never know if you might really like it, and at least understand it a bit more than I did.

Rating: 4.75/5

Read: April 8th, 2017

Heir of Fire was so different from the first two books, and I loved it. There was a different ‘feel’ with this instalment, and I think a lot of that comes down to where the story took place, which if you’ve read it, you know what I’m talking about.

I’d say this is my favourite book of the series so far, followed by Crown of Midnight, and I hope they continue to get even better!

Heir of Fire kept me completely on edge, and wanting to know what would happen next with the turn of every new page. It was gripping, enthralling and downright crazy towards the end.

I loved how there were so many different perspectives in this book, even more so than the last two.
I think the only thing that slightly annoyed me about the novel was that I found some of ‘Manon’s’ chapters to lag a little, however some of her chapters were fantastic. I’m not quite sure how she fits into the story yet, but I’m guessing I’ll find out sooner or later, in the books to come.

Rowan. Can we say it again? Rowannnnn. He was such a fantastic character addition to the story. Although at times, he was rather hateful, I couldn’t get past how interesting and deep he was. I really hope we get to find out more about him, and that he’s even in the next books (please, and a lot of him, that would be great.)
Perhaps my favourite part of this book was actually the interactions, and growth between Celaena and Rowan. I loved, loved, loved reading about them together.

Celaena was, well theres no nice way to say this, she was basically wallowing in her pity for the entirety of the book, which would normally get annoying, but honestly I didn’t find it annoying. I think this is because I completely understood where she was coming from, and from reading the pervious two books, you really get a sense as to why she acts the way she does in this book, she’s basically just broken, and you can tell why. It’s not pointless pity, which occurs in other novels, but rather it added a lot of depth to her character, and ultimately led to where she is now.

There wasn’t a lot of Chaol and Dorian, I felt, in this book. I mean, they were definitely in it, but it just felt like a lot less than the other two instalments. However, Celaena’s whereabouts probably played a large roll in that. I didn’t mind it, and the last few chapters of theirs were sooo good, that I accepted the lack of them throughout the book as a comeback there.

I’m so looking forward to continuing on with this series, and seeing where in the world it’s going to go from here. Also, yay for almost being caught up with everyone else in the world!

Rating: 4.5/5

Read: March 18th, 2017

Ahhh, Crown of Midnight. I loved this book!
It was so much better than Throne of Glass, in my opinion.

I felt like I connected a lot more to the characters, the world, and even just the story line in this instalment, rather than the first. It was fantastic.

There was so much that happened throughout this book that writing this review a day after finishing it is proving difficult, because I can’t entirely remember/separate everything that went down.

Usually, with Fantasy’s, they get a little boring for me because of all the world building, and lack of ‘action’ until the end, but there was no boringness in this!
It constantly had me on edge, wondering what was going to happen, plotting my own ideas, and trying failing to come up with theories about where it was all going.

I loved the characters in this novel, I really connected and understood them more, discovering who I like and don’t like. As for the Dorian/Chaol dilemma, I really enjoyed Chaol and Celaena’s time together throughout majority of the book, but kind of… maybe… sort of… found myself still falling for Dorian!
I think I’ll have to continue on with the series to truly decide what team I’m on once and for all.

Another aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was the multiple perspectives. Sometimes in books that can be annoying, or just downright pointless, but I loved reading from all these different POV’s, especially in this crazy world Sarah J. Maas thought up.

The action scenes were crazy in this book! I just loved the assassination scenes (as weird and wrong as that may sound) haha, and the scene in the library, which if you’ve read this, you know what I’m talking about.

Overall, I thought this was a fantastic instalment in the Throne of Glass series, and I can’t wait to see what happens from here! Especially with how Crown of Midnight ended (shocker!)

Rating: 2.8/5

Read: Feb 17th, 2017

This review is probably going to be my shortest review ever, and that mightttt be because I read this book days ago and forgot to write my review, oops. But, let’s try this.

The low rating is based a lot on enjoyment level in this case, because I felt like I both enjoyed and got annoyed at this book. There would be really great moments and then long stretches of, just kinda, boringness. 

I truly think having seen the movie many years ago, that effected my view on the novel a lot, in terms of knowing what was going to happen, and having preconceived thoughts about the characters.

However, I also think the book was quite a lot different than the movie. I’m not sure if that’s because I haven’t watched the movie in so long, and I was much younger when I did watch it. Orrr simply because it actually was different. I’m really excited to be able to re-watch the movie now.

The characters, I found were, ummm, less dimensional than I went into the book expecting them to be. I don’t know, I just feel like I didn’t really connect with the characters how I normally would in books, or how I wanted to. Even though I related to some of their feelings and issues, that still didn’t make me feel closer to them, unfortunately.

My feelings towards this book are very strange in a way because I both enjoyed it, and didn’t. I’d say maybe 40% / 60%, respectively.

The writing, more so to do with all the wonderful quotes, and passages from this novel, were by farrrr the best parts! I highlighted so much, and definitely did feel enlightened and connected to Chbosky’s own thoughts that were so beautifully written down on the page.

If I could take one thing out of this book that I truly loved, it would definitely be the ‘quoteworthy’ aspect, but sadly, I didn’t really fully enjoy too much else.

Rating: 4/5

Read: Feb 8th, 2017

**Possible trigger warning for sexual assault**

All in Pieces , although a little slow at the start, was fantastic.

I thought for sure I was going to rate this a 3 star book, but the middle and the end, just wow, it really picked up!

Seriously, I finished it at 2am. Does that need more explanation? *heart eyes*

———-

There were so many different aspects and things that were dealt with in this novel, and I believe they were done really well.

When Savannah felt heartbreak, so did I. When she felt helpless, I did too. When she swooned over Cameron, boy did I swoon with her.

Young did so well in terms of characters. I loved (and loved to hate) them.
You know that an author has built characters really well, when you put yourself in their shoes, which is what I did.

The characters were definitely the biggest highlight of the novel for me, I loved it.

Savannah was just so interesting, and although a little…um… testy at times, I found myself not minding because you gradually discover and come to understand why she is like that. I really enjoyed her character, I admire her for her bravery, and ability to persevere when literally everything (except my baby Cameron) has turned to crap.

Also, sidenote: I think Cameron may be my #1 book boyfriend now, I mean, if you’ve read the book, you wouldn’t ask me why. He is definitely at the top, if not the first on that list now. I loved love him.

Another character related aspect I really enjoyed was Cameron’s parents, especially his mother, it was just so great to see her helping out when some other particular characters needed it the most.

———-

I found it so interesting to see how people live when faced with such devastating life events, including poverty, and how that contrast with say, people who are more well off.

This is yet another book I went into having no idea at all of what it was about, and I truly think that’s such a great way to read. If I knew what it was about, who knows if I would’ve picked it up, but I consider myself lucky I did.

Rating: 4.8/5

Read: Jan 31st, 2017

This was the first full book I’ve read on my kindle, without having it in physical form also, (I kinda want it in physical now though, *sigh*, can’t escape being ‘real’ book obsessed).

Quite plainly…

I loved this book.

Although I feel like it took a few chapters to really get into (but that could’ve been me because I was distracted), the two times I read it after that, yes two, I got really into it and couldn’t put this book down!

To think this is Zappia’s debut novel, I have to give her major props for how fantastic this book was! I will definitely be reading her future work.



I really enjoyed reading from Alex’s point of view, it was so interesting to see how she viewed the world, and what was going on inside her head. I cannot wait to read more novels from the p.o.v of people with mental illness, it’s so fascinating to me. I feel like I’m being educated on ‘normal’ people with mental illness, as they’re so often depicted as ‘inhumane’ in the media, especially in relation to schizophrenia, like in this novel.



Other than Alex, I loved the characters of Alex’s friends, especially one certain ‘friend’ 😉
Each one was so interesting, and each had problems of their own that were equally explored. I especially loved seeing Mile’s background, and what made him the person he is.

I basically just loved Miles, and his relationship with Alex. It was one of the best aspects of the novel, and I could read it over and over again. (even more reason to buy it in physical form, right?)

There was one thing that happened in the book that made me just go whattttttt. I think it was a real turning point for Alex. 


In my opinion, the ending/last section of the novel was so, what I’d expect to be, realistic. I just believe it was really well done by Zappia.

I don’t want to say much else because I feel like you should go into this book not knowing anything, like I did.

So, all I’ll say is, read this book.

You will not regret it. 

Rating: 4.5/5

Read: Dec 31st, 2016

Well, Well, Well. Queen Hoover has done it again. Not that I ever doubted her.
Another masterpiece to add to the shelves.

It Ends With Us is quite a different story for Hoover, but still had the unmistakable essence of her beautifully poetic writing, and brilliantly written characters.

First of all, I applaud Colleen on her risk of branching out and tackling an issue that can be quite controversial. I feel extremely strongly about domestic violence, not that I have ever experienced it myself, but I have always, for whatever reason, felt the need to care a lot about it. I hope one day, that I can play my part in prevention of such horror, in some way.

Anyway, back to the novel…

Apart from the writing, the one thing I love the most about Colleens books are the incredibly vivid characters she creates. They all leave an imprint in some way, from Layken and Will, to Tate and Miles, Fallon and Ben, Auburn and Owen, Sydney and Ridge, you name it. Now, I have Lily, Ryle and Atlas to add to that ever growing list. Not to mention the amazing side characters, but lets leave that for another day.

I loved this book, so much. It was raw, unapologetic and heart wrenching.
The characters were some of the best yet, from the main characters, to Lily’s mum, Atlas’s friends, Allysa and Marshall, they were all brilliant, each bringing their own uniqueness to the story.

I felt like I was Lily at times, that’s how good this writing is. I put myself in her shoes, and was transported into her world. Beyond that, this book really made me understand the struggles that domestic violence victims have. I even felt the ‘oh, but what if…no he’s good, no he’s bad,’ feelings that Lily went through. I was just as conflicted as her, yet ultimately wanting her to come to the same decision as I did, which happened. Yes.

Ryle, oh Ryle. He has got to be one of Hoovers most confusing and emotion inducing character to date. Half the time I couldn’t figure out if I loved him or hated him, pitied him, or wanting to scream at him. However, I was extremely happy with the way in which the story ended in regards to his character.

Atlas! I love him! He added such substance and longing to the story. Ahh, it wouldn’t have been the same without him. I really wish we got to see more of him. Some sort of mini sequel, please Colleen?

Every Hoover book seems to have an extra sort of content, and in this novel, it was the letters to Ellen. I loved that aspect of the story, and as always, those extra bits are just what make Colleens books that much better.

I don’t really know what else to say, except I loved it. I loved it from the very first sentence, I loved Lily, I loved the career aspects of all the characters, friendships, the different paths in which the story went, deviating from the ‘normal’ Colleen stories.

However, may favourite part may just be the final sentence…

“You can stop swimming now, Lily. We finally reached the shore.”

Rating: 3.5/5

Read: Dec 28th, 2016

What a crazy, exhilarating ride this book was. Not to mention a great mixture of emotions.
Filled with action from start to finish, Cursed Child welcomed new characters, and allowed us to fall in love all over again with the ones we know so well already.

Surprisingly, the character that I took to the most in the script was Scorpius. I loved that kid. I also loved seeing the development of Draco, and sadly how his life has played out. I’ve always had a soft spot for him, and this story both made, and broke my heart in regards to him.

One of the things that irked me about this story, and quite frankly made me sad, was the relationship between Harry and Albus. I guess it’s just not what I expected their father-son relationship to be like.
Also, I have never really, truly gotten used to the idea of Harry and Ginny. I have no idea why, but their relationship has never quite gelled with me, and that didn’t change by reading this.

What I did love, however, was Ron and Hermione! Oh how those two make my heart swell. It was so great to see how their love, and banter, has carried on throughout the years.

My favourite aspect of this book/play, was the scenes when they went back in time and we got to see some of the characters we wouldn’t get to see in present time.
I just loved seeing Snape, and the different side of him, especially his reaction to finding out Harry’s sons middle name Albus Severus. Such a sweet moment.
I also really loved the whole ending/Godrics Hollow scene, as well as all the Voldemort elements woven throughout the story.

Oo, oo, and the Dumbledore scene between him and Harry. Oh my emotions. My heart. Too much…

Although I felt this lacked in a solid plot line, meaning I found the plot to be quite… hmm, plain I guess. Just, that the whole reasoning for going back in timed seemed very pointless to me. But, all-in-all I enjoyed it anyway!

Rating: 5/5

Read: Dec 26th, 2016

Well, I had written half of this review and it just decided to delete itself, so heres take 2 I guess. It was much more poetic the first time… *fumes*

I usually don’t know where to start with reviews, however this time I feel both like I’ll never be able to start, as much as I feel like I’ll never be able to stop.

I guess I’ll just start by simply saying:

I love Harry Potter. 

I would, without a doubt, not be the person I am today without it.
I grew up with the films, and read the books later on in life, which I do not regret, as I believe it allowed me to have full understanding and appreciation for the novels, at this age.
Anyway, this is not a shrine, it’s a review, sooo, here we go.

This book was incredible. More so than I ever imagined. I loved it, and it’s going straight to the favourites of all time shelf.

I don’t even really know exactly what to say, all I know is it was amazing from start to finish, but I’ll try to form coherent sentences through my shock that I’ve actually finished reading these now…

Looking back on the novel whilst trying to write this review has made me realise how every chapter is like a mini book. Each named appropriately to it’s contents, which have taken up little places in my mind, as if they’ve been filed into categories.

From the very beginning, when Harry finally departed from the Dursleys, my heart swelled. Rowling could not have written that scene any better. I just feel it was done perfectly to solidify the way in which they and Harry felt about each other, truly, in the end.

I found the entire quest for the horcruxes to be so enthralling. The three friends and their voyage to take down Voldemort, as well as help each other. Especially Hermione and Harry’s time in Godric’s Hollow, that swelled my heart.

The Tale of the Three Brothers. The Deathly Hallows! I have always been fascinated with this, and have never quite fully understood them simply through the film, but reading about it just gave me this whole new insight into the stories and history behind this brilliant idea Rowling had. I absolutely loved this huge aspect of the novel.

Severus! The worldly conflict, the never ending debate on whether or not he was a good man… I have finally made up my mind on whether I love him or hate him, and have decided that I love him. Yep. One of the other millions of favourite moments throughout this book has to be the Pensieve scene, surrounding Snapes memories. Harry’s journey through Snapes mind was so incredibly interesting, and certainly both made and broke my heart. To finally understand why Snape was the way he was, ahh, just, yes.

The Battle of Hogwarts. Do I really need to say more? Wow. The ending, the whole last section was just brilliant. I think it may even be my favourite last part of a book ever. It was executed so well, and tied everything together so well. 

Once again, the appreciation for Fred and Georges humour, even in times of sorrow, was one of the many highlights of this entire series. As well as Harry, Hermione and Ron’s friendship. Their friendship, I believe, is one of the most, if not the most, important aspects of the entire series. I am obsessed with them, in-fact all of the relationships Rowling manages to create are so intricate, and really tug on the heart strings.

We got to see the continued relationship between Harry and Dumbledore, which was so nice. I even found myself warming to Kreacher! Oh how unexpected, but lovely.

19 years later…
Ahhh, I could not deal with this part! It was everything. I feel so lucky to have finally been able to read it. Also, to now be able to continue on with The Cursed Child.

Anyway, this is definitely the longest review I have ever done, and I think it’s time to stop.
If you made it this far, thank you for reading, and I hope (I’m sure) you loved this book as much as I did (or are excited to read it).
I’m going to go wipe my tears, watch the Deathly Hallows movies, and fantasise about starting the whole series again… I might just do that. Bye!

Order of favourite to least favourite HP book:
1. Deathly Hallows
2. Half Blood Prince
3. Order of the Phoenix
4. Philosophers Stone
5. Prisoner of Azkaban
6. Goblet of Fire
7. Chamber of Secrets