BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS AND SNAKES

As a diehard fan of THE HUNGER GAMES I was both excited and apprehensive about another book in this world, especially a book through the eyes of our resident monster, Coriolanus Snow. As I reread THG in anticipation, I got more hyped about it and while I don't mind, and even enjoy, a villain origin story, that's not really what this book is. I went  into this book wanting to like it because of my deep love for the other books. This book focused on the 10th Hunger Games, what the Games were like then, the aftermath of war, and foreshadowed how we get to The Hunger Games as we know them in Katniss and Peeta's story.

The Notes of Rebellion

"Never allow yourself to believe you should be silent."

--Samantha Shannon, The Song Rising

Genre: Adult Fantasy

Publisher: Bloomsbury USA

Pages: 374

Publication Date: March 7th, 2017

Source: ARC provided by publisher

Previous Books in Series: The Bone Season & The Mime Order 
Find on: Goodreads | Amazon

My Thoughts

The Belle
I am a huge fan of this series and have bene eagerly anticipating the next novel since it's predecessor came out. This book did not disappoint. I'll try and stay vague as it is the third book in the series and if you haven't read this yet--why haven't you read this yet?!--I don't want to spoil anything so I'll do my best.

Take The Chance

"Bruises fade. Broken bones heal.
Life's too short, kid."

--Elle Kennedy, Addicted

Genre: Adult Dystopian Erotica

Publisher: Signet

Pages: 368

Publication Date: June 28th, 2016

Source: ARC provided by publisher

Previous Books in Series: Claimed
Find on: Goodreads | Amazon

My Thoughts

The Belle

Wow. Just wow. I read Claimed, the first book in the series, last year and loved it. I was beyond ecstatic when Addicted showed up at my door. I made Claimed my next re-read and Addicted my next read. I legit read both these books in ONE day, people. Once I started Addicted I could not stop...pun intended. Here's why.

War Is Coming

"O'Kanes didn't bend, didn't break.
They were stronger than steel because they held one another up."

--Kit Rocha, Beyond Ruin

Genre: Adult Dystopia Erotca

Publisher: Self-published

Source: ARC provided by authors

Previous Books in Series: Beyond Shame & Beyond Control & Beyond Pain & Beyond Jealousy & Beyond Addiction & Beyond Possession & Beyond Innocence & Beyond Ruin
Find on: Goodreads | Amazon

My Thoughts
The Belle
This latest book in one of my favorite series, Kit Rocha brings it. War is coming and the battles have begun. Picking up where Beyond Ruin left off, my favorite part of this series as if recent has been the ongoing tension between Eden and the Sectors, especially our beloved 4. I loved the continuing plot of the war against Eden. THINGS happen and I was so completely engaged in this story that I could feel my heart racing. I have a thing for books and storylines when the characters are plotting war or rising up against an oppressor. Turns me on. This was no exception.

The More, The Merrier

"You don't throw away someone you love.
If you do, you're not worth having someone to love."

--Kit Rocha, Beyond Ruin

Genre: Adult Dystopian, Erotica

Publisher: Self-published

Publication Date: February 23rd, 2016

Source: eARC provided by authors

Previous Books in Series: Beyond Shame & Beyond Control & Beyond Pain & Beyond Jealousy & Beyond Addiction & Beyond Possession & Beyond Innocence 
Find on: Goodreads | Amazon

Goodreads Description 

Adrian Maddox fled his royal life—and tragic past—in Sector One, choosing instead to join up with the O’Kanes. For years, he’s lived by one rule: love fast, love hard, and always be willing to walk away. He’s managed to guard his heart, keep it whole and untouched—until now.

They couldn’t be more different—Dylan, the brilliant, burned-out doctor from Eden who drowns his pain with drugs and self-destruction. Scarlet, the sensuous, sexy rocker from Three, a woman unafraid to embrace the world. And Jade, the whore turned spy from Sector Two, who battled addiction and came out stronger than anyone he’s ever met.

Separately, they make Mad long to open his heart, to tumble head-first into a sea of possibilities and wild love. Together, they make him burn, inside and out, with lust and unbearable, unimaginable pleasure.

Then one fateful moment shakes their world to its foundations—and leaves the sectors on the verge of all-out war with Eden. It’s the biggest fight the O’Kanes have ever faced, and Mad and his lovers are at the dead center of it. They could end up with everything they never knew they wanted—or lose it all. Including their lives.

I'm obsessed with this series. It is no secret here that I have loved this series since its inception. While I didn't particularly get on with the last book, this book felt like home in Sector Four. And I won't lie, I went into with trepidation. I'm not into polyamory, I don't really buy it and you guys know I don't bullshit here, I didn't love the menage polyamory deal in Beyond Jealousy. Loved the book overall, don't get me wrong. With that said, I was skeptical with four people. I was pleasantly surprised.

I'm going to start off with the one negative criticism I have to get it out of the way and move on. While I really liked how the Mad, Dylan, Jade, and Scarlet complemented each other overall...if I'm being honest, Scarlet didn't work for me. She just didn't seem to complement the others as they did for each other. I can actually really see how the interconnections of Jade and Mad and Dylan fit together but Scarlet just didn't do that for me. I felt like she wasn't as vital to the dynamic as the other three. I might be the black sheep on this but she just didn't work for me.

Overall, though, I liked it. I loved the dynamic between Jade and Dylan especially, and even more than that the characterization of Jade specifically. She is so incredibly complex and I loved how Rocha developed her characters. I was impressed and shocked in the best way. Jade is probably one of my favorite females to date because she is feminine yet powerful and NOT one to fuck with. Fucking adored her. She is the shit. She was the most fascinating and favorite part of the book for me.  Dylan, Doc, was my other favorite character. Him and Jade together were on another level of hot but Dylan in the group setting was inferno status. Holy. Fucking. Shit. Doc McSexy is more like it. Or maybe McBossy. Rawr. The Best. Mad was, per usual, fantastic. I love his hero complex as the fallen prince from Sector One and thought how his story progressed was on point.

The conflict between the sectors and Eden continues and shit really starts to go down. I loved the progression of this plot. It's brutal and dark and scary. And at the core of all this rebellion is love. The quiet moments between the O'Kanes and what they will die for and who they will stand up for is beautiful. It melts my heart, it makes my chest ache, I love them all so hard that I just want to dive into this war with them. #OKaneForLife

This series is one of my favorites, I can't get enough and I am SO excited for the next book! OMG the tension between Hawk and Jeni ALREADY is so thick! The small vignettes we get of them have me more excited than I've been since probably the beginning of the series for the next book. I have a good feeling, can't wait to see them fall for each other. *le sigh*

Reserved Seating
If you love hot, dirty sex, rebellion, and rising up from your own past...this book is for you.

If you haven't started the series yet, you have a chance to win the first 3 books below! You don't want to miss out on starting this awesome series!

May the odds be ever in your favor.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Claim Me

"No shame, no fear,
just people letting go of their inhibitions and gong in to...
everything."

--Elle Kennedy, Claimed

Genre: Adult Dystopia, Erotica, Post-Apocalyptic 

Publisher: Signet

Pages: 368

Publication Date: October 6th, 2015

Source: Bought

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: First in series

Goodreads Description 

The bestselling author of the Killer Instincts novels “knows how to write scorching sexual tension” (USA Today). Now she really sets it on fire in a new series about men and women living on the edge of violence, sex, and life and death.

After a devastating war decimated most of the world, Hudson Lane has only known the oppressive life under her own father’s tyranny. She finally escapes, branding herself an outlaw and hunted by the Enforcers. Her best chance at survival is Connor Mackenzie, an aggressively sensual fugitive who opens her eyes to the wicked possibilities of a world without rules.

As the leader of a band of outlaw fighters, Connor can’t resist the beautiful stranger who asks for his protection. Despite his reservations, he agrees to introduce her to a whole new way of life. But when Connor discovers Hudson’s connection to the enemies of liberty, he wonders how far he can trust the woman who has abandoned all inhibitions to challenge every forbidden desire.

After reading this book, there is something seriously lacking in the book world. That being adult dystopia erotica. FOR REALZ! I am obsessed with the Beyond series by Kit Rocha which has a similar genre so I was beyond excited for this book and it did NOT disappoint!

CLAIMED is a world ravaged by war and natural disasters and a totalitarian government has risen up in its demise. There are people who follow the government and there are people who live outside called 'outcasts.' Connor is reluctant leader of a band of 5 men on the outside who are trying to survive and stick it to the government whenever they can by raiding their supply outlets for food. Connor also has a vendetta against a certain high ranking official that drives him to stay alive in order to one day seek vengeance. Hudson is woman also on the outside...but has she always been there? Her story unravels piece by piece but it is clear early on she is not an outsider.

This outside world is harsh and...overt. There's no such thing as privacy and people take pleasure when they can. Hudson learns this fact quickly when she encounters more people and how Connor and his band of merry men live. It's enlightening and awakening for her to finally be able to feel free to explore her sexuality. I LOVE stories like this! Love love love adore obsess can't get enough of. Women's sexuality is so oppressed and forced down in our culture that I love reading about world's where it is celebrated.

Speaking of sex...uality. This book is hot. I'm talking 5 alarms, take a cold shower, put the kids to bed early kinds of hot. Connor and his boys don't shy away from taking pleasure and very graciously always are in the mood to give it. While this book focuses on Connor, you can't help but notice Pike (mine, bitches back off), Rylan, Xander, and Kade. I already cannot wait to see what shenanigans and type of women these men find to knock them on their asses.

But like I said, this story focuses on Hudson and Connor and I ADORE THEM!!! Hudson is so totally kickass and smart and a NURSE! Holla at ya girl! What starts off as a purely physical relationship *cough* we all know these two are drawn to each other for more than their bodies. Both are stubborn mules, well no, Connor is a stubborn mule and refuses to acknowledge his feelings and Hudson knows she has feelings and is trying to play by his rules the right way. I liked that she didn't seek out trying to change his mind, she just did because she was herself.  Their dynamic is hot and sarcastic with the best side helping of dominance.

The end of this book had twists I didn't see coming and I LOVED how it all came together. Character reveals, emotional declarations, maybe even a stolen helicopter or two brings to you a wild ride at the end. I loved every second of reading this book and I legit read it in one sitting in about 4 hours. Can't stop, won't stop. Connor can claim me any time, day or night. Mine mine mine. 

Backstage Pass
If you love hot as hell love stories, dystopian worlds, and hot men...this book's for you.

The End Is Here: YA Finale Wrap-Ups

"Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds."

--Gennifer Albin, Unraveled

Genre: YA Dystopia
Publisher: Farrar, Straus, Giroux

Pages: 304

Publication Date: October 7th, 2014

Source: Borrowed from library

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: Crewel & Altered

Goodreads Description

Autonomous. Independent. Dangerous. They tried to control her. Now she’ll destroy them.

Things have changed behind the walls of the Coventry and new threats lurk in its twisted corridors. When Adelice returns to Arras, she quickly learns that something rotten has taken hold of the world and Cormac Patton needs her to help him reestablish order. However, peace comes at a terrible price. As the Guild manipulates the citizens of Arras, Adelice discovers that she’s not alone, and she must let go of her past to fight for mankind’s future. She will have to choose between an unimaginable alliance and a deadly war that could destroy everyone she loves.

I have been anticipating Unraveled since I read Crewel years ago. Crewel was a top ten favorite book of that year and I still love it. The world building of Genn Albin’s sci-fi society is killer with vivid imagery. I had such high hopes for this series finale because I LOVE this series so much and I was moderately disappointed. Why? The pacing. The book spent WAY too long back at the spire with little to no plot progression and then the last third of the book was on warp speed to finish and tie up loose ends. Adelice regressed in her badass status to me in that she was back to being who she was in the first book, stuck in an ivory tower with no way to fight. I understand her impossible situation but I felt like the story would have benefited from more rebel involvement earlier on. We see very little of this crewel, crewel world outside of Adelice’s golden cage. And this is just a personal gripe, so little romance. C’mon!! The last book had a HUGE turnaround of Adelice’s feelings and we see hardly anything of the two of them together! The ending felt choppy and while the very end was a head tilter and I saw was Albin was trying to do, I feel like the significance was lost on a lot of readers because the foundation for what happens isn’t built. There is ONE line that I know can be used as a foreshadowing but that’s it. Ugh, I just felt for a world so beautifully constructed in the first book, this fell flat…no pun intended. I liked it and it was a quick read, but I wanted so much more than what I was given.

Standing in Line Outside 

"I agree with you. Now let’s put on our big-girl panties and go convince Mr. Always Right that he’s seriously wrong."

--Gena Showalter, The Queen of Zombie Hearts

Genre: YA Paranormal

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Pages: 464

Publication Date: September 30th, 2014

Source: Borrowed from library

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: Alice in Zombieland & Through The Zombie Glass

Goodreads Description

I have a plan.

We'll either destroy them for good, or they'll destroy us.

Either way, only one of us is walking away.

In the stunning conclusion to the wildly popular White Rabbit Chronicles, Alice "Ali" Bell thinks the worst is behind her. She's ready to take the next step with boyfriend Cole Holland, the leader of the zombie slayers…until Anima Industries, the agency controlling the zombies, launches a sneak attack, killing four of her friends. It's then she realizes that humans can be more dangerous than monsters…and the worst has only begun.

As the surviving slayers prepare for war, Ali discovers she, too, can control the zombies…and she isn't the girl she thought she was. She's connected to the woman responsible for killing—and turning—Cole's mother. How can their relationship endure? As secrets come to light, and more slayers are taken or killed, Ali will fight harder than ever to bring down Anima—even sacrificing her own life for those she loves.

This is my BFF Betty’s absolute favorite series and she is not wrong when recommending it. This series is fun, sexy, snarky, and all things kickass. The finale to this series dose not disappoint. The action is intense and non-stop, the revelations are shocking, the Cole is hot, and the Ali remains kickass. What I really like is that while action is a major component of this book it never felt rushed nor did the character development lack. My biggest pet peeve with final books is the misinterpretation that it has to be a sprint to the finish line to answer all our previously unanswered questions. This book has a solid plot and works towards a conclusion without leaving us with more questions. While the action is awesome, what kept me reading was the characters. Ali, Cole, Frosty, Kat, Reeve, Bronx, and Mr Holland and Mr Ank are just my favorites. I loved seeing the relationships continue and grow and while everything concludes in a concise way, I would not be disappointed to read a book focusing on Reeve and Bronx. ESPECIALLY Bronx. That badass mother fucker who rarely speaks. Rawr. Sign me up. Keep Cole, Betty. I call Bronx. My only disappointment was the dialogue. While this would seem to be a huge detriment to the book it didn’t change my overall thoughts except I eye-rolled A LOT when Ali was talking, especially to Kat. It was over-the-top confidence about kicking ass and just didn’t feel realistic or how teenagers speak. It felt like the dialogue was written by a ‘cool’ mom trying to fit in with the in crowd. Didn’t work for me at all. But overall, fabulous conclusion to a kickass series…and I don’t do zombies.

Reserved Seating

"Insanity is the most pristine clarity…Let lunacy in. 
Let it be your guide."

--A.G. Howard, Ensnared

Genre: YA Fantasy

Publisher: Abrams

Pages: 416

Publication Date: January 6th, 2015

Source: Borrowed from library

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: Splintered & Unhinged

Goodreads Description

After surviving a disastrous battle at prom, Alyssa has embraced her madness and gained perspective. She’s determined to rescue her two worlds and the people and netherlings she loves. Even if it means challenging Queen Red to a final battle of wills and wiles . . . and even if the only way to Wonderland, now that the rabbit hole is closed, is through the looking-glass world—-a parallel dimension filled with mutated and sadistic netherling outcasts.

In the final installment of the Splintered trilogy, Alyssa and her dad journey into the heart of magic and mayhem in search of her mom and to set right all that’s gone wrong. Together with Jeb and Morpheus, they must salvage Wonderland from the decay and destruction that has ensnared it. But even if everyone succeeds and comes out alive, can they all truly have their happily ever after?

A.G. Howard’s Wonderland is honestly a masterpiece of descriptive writing. Splintered is a fan-freaking-tastic book and while Unhinged fell a little flat for me, Ensnared brought us back down the rabbit hole. It is going to be really hard not to reveal anything of the plot so I won’t. I will tell you that we are back at home with vivid imagery and imaginative worlds. I cannot say enough about how this world come to life right before your eyes. The plot progression was consistent and I felt like the pacing was right on. We have a conflict that coincides with the previous books and all craziness of the Wonderland variety ensues. I loved how our characters stayed true to themselves and worked through their problems. And while this is definitely a positive, it turned to a negative for me on the ending. I dislike this kind of ending HOWEVER I can objectively say that how Howard sets up her characters, it makes perfect sense. A similar type of ending occurred in a different book that I so do not condone, but I will say I can see how it works for this one. The book didn’t blow me away like Splintered did but it wraps up wonderfully (see what I did there?) and fans of the series won’t be disappointed.

General Admission 

A Promise for a Better Tomorrow...Round Two

Genre: YA Dystopia

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Pages: 356

Publication Date: November 8th, 2011

Source: Bought
Goodreads   
Previous Posts: Birthmarked Review, Prized Review, Promised Review, Birthmarked Re-Read, Prized Re-Read

Goodreads Description

After defying the ruthless Enclave, surviving the wasteland, 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.

As a leader, a woman, and an idealist in love, Gaia must decide if she can sacrifice what--or whom--she values most.

WHEN I First Read

October 17th, 2012

WHAT I Remember

Embarrassing enough, I really only remember the final big scene of this novel. I remember bits and pieces of things that happen but really don't remember a lot. So I was excited to get into this book and read what led up to the big finale which is the only thing I remember.

WHY I Wanted to Re-Read

Birthmarked and the rest of the series holds a special place in my heart. I was going through some things that made me question my own character and personality and ability to be loved. Gaia is one of the strongest heroines I have ever read about and I drew strength from her and from Leon who loved her BECAUSE of her fiery strength and fierce personality. I read these all together and so quickly I will most likely use this exact paragraph in the future re-read posts of the next books. Sorry not sorry. (Yep, leaving that same paragraph as from the last re-read.) I remember this book specifically because I could not stop reading and the ending was...heart-breaking in it's conclusion. It shares a very similar scene to one of my favorite books ever so I was excited to re-live that emotional component.

HOW I Felt After Re-Reading

I loved it. The first time I read this book and series I was so intent on reading and finishing because I HAD to know what happened so the gist of details was a little jumbled in books 2 and 3. Re-reading helped me solidify the plot, pick up a few details I missed, and really enjoy being with the characters. 

WOULD You Re-Read Again?

Yes! This is one of my favorite series and one of the best dystopians out there, in my opinion. With the dystopian genre becoming a a such a fad there is a big saturation of books in the genre. I've read a ton of dystopians and this is a shining star. It is brutal, heart-wrenching, honest, and raw in the best and worst way. It is intelligent and heroic and I just can't say enough good things about this series.

A Love Square...Round Two

Genre: YA Dystopia

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Pages: 356

Publication Date: November 8th, 2011

Source: Bought
Goodreads   
Previous Posts: Birthmarked Review, Prized Review, Birthmarked Re-Read

Goodreads Description

Striking out into the wasteland with nothing but her baby sister, a handful of supplies, and a rumor to guide her, sixteen-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.

But when someone from her past shows up, Gaia discovers that survival alone is not enough and that justice requires sacrifice.

WHEN I First Read

October 13th, 2012

WHAT I Remember

A really crazy new society that Gaia ends up finding past the forest. Not one, not two, but THREE guys vying for her attention to which I think, 'Fuck you Enclave and labeling her a freak just because she has a scar.' Heart-pounding anxiety as to WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. Bribing my charge nurse to let me leave work early so I could finish reading this book...no joke...that happened. Leon...so much feeling for Leon. Gaia having to find her fiery heart. Lots of feels. Lots and lots of feels.

WHY I Wanted to Re-Read

Birthmarked and the rest of the series holds a special place in my heart. I was going through some things that made me question my own character and personality and ability to be loved. Gaia is one of the strongest heroines I have ever read about and I drew strength from her and from Leon who loved her BECAUSE of her fiery strength and fierce personality. I read these all together and so quickly I will most likely use this exact paragraph in the future re-read posts of the next books. Sorry not sorry. (Yep, leaving that same paragraph as from the last re-read.) I remember this book specifically because I could not stop reading. My stomach was in knots with anticipation and there is a crazy amount of drama that I just loved. Other people might not but I loved it! Can't wait to get back into it!

HOW I Felt After Re-Reading

I loved it even more! I remembered there was a ton of drama but re-reading it made me see it wasn't all that crazy. I mean, it was, but in a good way. The society that Gaia finds herself in in Sylum is very different from anything she (or I) am used to. Lots of anger I remember feeling at one particular character is still present but I love re-living the swoons. This book has a lot of complex emotions so while it hurt at times to read Leon and Gaia's anger and pain, it was so worth it in the end.

WOULD You Re-Read Again?

Yes, yes, yes, yes, YES!!! I liked it even more on the second read because the drama I thought I remembered as a little far-fetched actually made a lot more sense on this read. I loved it. I loved it so hard because the situations and drama just felt so real to me and I loved the romance that occurred.

Scars Make Us Who We Are...Round Two

Genre: YA Dystopia

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Pages: 369 

Publication Date: April 1st, 2010

Source: Bought
Goodreads   
Previous Posts: Birthmarked Review

Goodreads Description

IN THE ENCLAVE, YOUR SCARS SET YOU APART, and the newly born will change the future.
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 has been taught, but her choice is simple: enter the world of the Enclave to rescue her parents, or die trying.
A stunning adventure brought to life by a memorable heroine, this dystopian debut will have readers racing all the way to the dramatic finish.

WHEN I First Read

October 12th, 2012

WHAT I Remember

A fiery heroine. A hot solider. A forbidden romance. Standing up for your beliefs. Loving your family fiercely. A fucked-up society that makes people give up their babies...good luck prying my kids from my hands, you rat bastards.

WHY I Wanted to Re-Read

Birthmarked and the rest of the series holds a special place in my heart. I was going through some things that made me question my own character and personality and ability to be loved. Gaia is one of the strongest heroines I have ever read about and I drew strength from her and from Leon who loved her BECAUSE of her fiery strength and fierce personality. I read these all together and so quickly I will most likely use this exact paragraph in the future re-read posts of the next two books. Sorry not sorry.

HOW I Felt After Re-Reading

I loved it even more! I thought it would be a less visceral read the second time around because I KNEW what would happen but no. My chest still hurt. My heart was exploding with feels and I still found myself re-reading (see what I did there?) several passages over and over again. I also felt like I appreciated the simplistic complexity of the writing more. Marie Rutkoski's writing is intricate and deeply layered in a way that while the words might be few, the meaning is plentiful. I LOVED this. I found it brilliant and poetic and found meaning in things I missed the first time around. 

WOULD You Re-Read Again?

Yes. I read this book so thoroughly and intensely the first time that I remembered a lot of the plot...so of course what I was really after was the kissing because I remembered a lot of the plot details. With that said I did forget that Leon really wasn't too present in the novel until the last quarter of the book. Disappointed about that but I know how it ends and I know what comes up next. Which is both good and bad. Read this book people if you haven't yet...seriously. Dystopians are a huge fad now and I'm super picky with which ones I push and this is most definitely one of them.

Dream On

"I missed night."

--Caragh O'Brien, The Vault of Dreamers

Genre: YA Dystopia

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Pages: 432

Publication Date: September 16th, 2014

Source: ARC provided via publisher in exchange for an honest review

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: First in the series

Goodreads Description

From the author of the Birthmarked trilogy comes a fast-paced, psychologically thrilling novel about what happens when your dreams are not your own.

The Forge School is the most prestigious arts school in the country. The secret to its success: every moment of the students' lives is televised as part of the insanely popular Forge Show, and the students' schedule includes twelve hours of induced sleep meant to enhance creativity. But when first year student Rosie Sinclair skips her sleeping pill, she discovers there is something off about Forge. In fact, she suspects that there are sinister things going on deep below the reaches of the cameras in the school. What's worse is, she starts to notice that the edges of her consciousness do not feel quite right. And soon, she unearths the ghastly secret that the Forge School is hiding—and what it truly means to dream there.

Rosie 

I loved this girl. She is fierce in a way that isn't obvious in that she does what she believes is right. She is resolute in her belief that something is amiss at the Forge School and will not back down in her convictions to find out what is it. She is an understated girl just trying to survive in this popularity based system of rank. Her growth from wallflower to pursuer of truth was really great to see.

The Premise 

Ok y'all. This is not a horror genre book by any means but holy hell did this book scare the shit out of me. The idea that while you're awake cameras are ALWAYS on you and then to think you're not even safe while you sleep is terrifying. I was literally getting the chills from the thought of being in a situation like this.

The Arc 

The ending is a shocker in that it's a little ambiguous EXACTLY what is going on and how we got here but I love the fact that the story can go in so many different directions. The possibilities of where this story could go are endless. I feel like a lot of series that the reader will have a basic idea of the story arc and what needs resolution and what will happen and with this...fuggedaboutit. I have zero idea what can happen and Caragh O'Brien is a master of taking stories to places you never see coming. *coughREADTHEBIRTHMARKEDSERIEScough*

The Social Experiment 

Caragh's take on reality television and the level it could evolve to was also a little scary. The Big Brother type idea of this school felt both realistic and a little scary. The scientific aspect that goes along with it *No spoilers* fit perfectly with the plot. I really liked how both aspects ended up we

The Relationships 

I know for a fact that Caragh can write one HELL of a romance so it was a little bit of a surprise that I didn't feel a huge connection to the small romance we have. This is due in large part to my expectations and we still have two more books to go but I really wanted a love story involved because Caragh created one of my favorite romances and book boyfriends of all time so I'm really eager to see if something more happens.

General Admission

I loved the idea of this story and I really liked the main character but I wish I had a little more connection to our other characters. I love the take on the reality TV and how this aspect of our society could be evolved. 

Worth Dying For Or Worth Living For?

"I don't know how to make friends"

--Kit Rocha, Beyond Addiction

Genre: Adult Dystopia, Erotica, Post-Apocalyptic

Publisher: Kit Rocha

Publication Date: August , 2014

Source: ARC provided by authors in exchange for an honest review

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: Beyond Shame & Beyond Control & Beyond Pain & Beyond Jealousy

Goodreads Description

She’s fought like hell to leave the past behind.

Trix changed her name and her life when she got clean four years ago. Now, she has a new family and a job she loves—tending bar and dancing at the Broken Circle. As an O’Kane, she’s happy, untouchable. Until a nightmare from her old life tears her away from her home and drags her back to Hell—also known as Sector Five.

He’s still living—and dying—in it.

Losing Trix was the kick in the head Finn needed to get sober, but working as an enforcer for a man he hates is slowly crushing his soul. The only thing that keeps him going is his determination to destroy Sector Five from the inside. Then Trix comes back into his life—alive, in danger—and nothing else matters.

Getting her home could be a suicide mission. The only thing deadlier is the old spark that flares to life between them. Soon, Finn and Trix are battling the one addiction neither of them ever managed to kick—each other. And it could cost them everything.

The Romance

Ok, OBVIOUSLY this is not a Kit Rocha book without an amazing romance. Beyond Addiction gives us Trix and Finn's story. Their history is that of so many things. Addiction, necessity, need, desire, so many things! It's so complex and their characterizations are done so well. Trix left Sector Five years ago, Finn thought she was dead, when she's kidnapped back into Five, it's Finn last will and testament to make sure she gets home. Le sigh. But that's not the whole story. Here's what made this romance different than the other ones and why I loved that Rocha went this direction. This overall story was less about the hero and heroine getting together and so much more about staying together. Making a choice to be with that person and accept them and love them. I felt like the last book focused a little too much on just the romance and their personal issues so I thought this book was a perfect change. While I love a good tension filled build-up to the relationship, I personally feel this is exactly what this book needed to be in order for the series to progress. See more below. The entire focus of the story was not on will they or won't they figure out their shit and get together. It was a delicate dance and balance of seeing a person's flaws, battle wounds, and emotional scars and still loving the person they are inside. We all do the best we can and sometimes it's good enough, but what happens when it's not? THIS is why I loved this romance. I loved that it felt different from the other ones and it was change of pace and perspective in the series.

The Sector War

Because the focus wasn't solely on the romance, there was such a huge leap in all the politics and overall picture of the Sectors. Love love loved this. I love getting glimpses of the other Sector leaders. I love that we get to see how Dallas (SWOON FUCKING SWOON) interacts with the other leaders. I especially love how he takes no shit from anybody. I could talk all day about how much I love Dallas but I digress. OH! I also thought the hints of future battle between the Sectors was great. We get a glimpse of where the story is going to go and what could potentially happen to life outside of Eden. I think this book did a great job of broadening the focus of the story and really taking us back into the bigger picture of life after the lights went out.

Sector Four Love

I will never stop being amazed at the loyalty and love these men and women have for one another. They literally live and die for each other and are happy to do so. They fight for one another and have their backs. I love this theme and the unfailing certainty that comes from a family that truly has each other's love. It was also super interesting to see Sector Four from an outsider's perspective. Finn has fantastic insight as to what his perceptions of Sector Four was and how he analyzed life there compared to Five. I knew it was the best Sector to live in, obviously, but hearing his viewpoint on what a 'fairy tale' Dallas was promoting was really intriguing because I never thought about it that way or that people outside it would never believe the sort of organized system he runs. Makes me love our King even more...le sigh...

Umm...

Well, I don't really think I have anything negative to say...except maybe I'll take another Dallas and Lex book? That's really all I got. However, I thoroughly enjoy that the King and Queen do get their own chapter here and there. Can't stop, won't stop loving them.

Backstage Pass

If you love dirty, snarky, don't take shit from nobody kind of characters and like your sexy times BEYOND sexy then you'll love these books. Proceed with caution...things can get out of control pretty quickly...but in the best way possible. 

You're The One That I Want

"The best people all have some kind of scar."

--Kiera Cass, The One

Genre: YA Dystopia

Publisher: Harper Teen

Pages: 323

Publication Date: May 6th, 2014

Source: Bought

Find on Goodreads

Previous Books in Series: The Selection & The Elite

Goodreads Description

The Selection changed the lives of thirty-five girls forever. And now, the time has come for one winner to be chosen.

America never dreamed she would find herself anywhere close to the crown—or to Prince Maxon's heart. But as the competition approaches its end and the threats outside the palace walls grow more vicious, America realizes just how much she stands to lose—and how hard she'll have to fight for the future she wants.

From the very first page of The Selection, this #1 New York Times bestselling series has captured readers' hearts and swept them away on a captivating journey... Now, in The One, Kiera Cass delivers a satisfying and unforgettable conclusion that will keep readers sighing over this electrifying fairy-tale long after the final page is turned.

The Story 

How the story plays out with America and Maxon and the competition is pure fun. I loved the overall progression of the entire series' story arc. I know this story is not perfect and I can understand the issues people have with the story but, dude, I don't know! I almost feel a little protective of this story and these characters because I found their actions, idiotic and otherwise, to be realistic. These ARE teenagers we're talking about here people and how much stupid shit did you do at 16, 17, 18 years old? I'm not attacking anyone with these issues because they are legit. A LOT of stupid decisions are made, I guess what I'm saying is they didn't bother me. It didn't detract from the overall story and it gave some ridiculous drama added to the mix.

The Message 

I love the idea of this dystopia. The caste system and monarchy and the fight for equality are all things that make me salivate. I will always love a story that fights the man and the oppression and while the basis of this story is Bachelor-esque, there really is a LOT of fantastic political elements to discuss and think about. I loved the idea of this story and the message behind it.

The Dresses 

These covers?....THESE COVERS?! I mean c'mon! Not only that but every description of wardrobe I got have my drooling. Love love love.

The Romance

....I mean, no spoilers but how can you NOT love America and ....Gotcha! I love how this element plays out...I'll just say that :)

America 

Good or bad, smart or stupid, this bitch does what her moral compass thinks is due North. It is not always executed in the most graceful manner but regardless of what you might think of her, I love that she will always follow her heart and do what she believes is right. Ya can't fault her for that. :)

The Writing 

There were definite elements of the plot that I felt were a little trying and contrived. I understand the device and how it was needed to progress the plot and get the story to a certain climax but it was a little eye-rolling at times towards the end. There were also some liberties taking in explanation of situations or easy resolving of some points.

Reserved Seating

I really love this series. The premise starts off light and fun but then morphs into this legit political discussion and debate. I think the overall series and final book is extremely satisfying and I loved reading these. They are not perfect. You want to equally hug and punch the characters but to me, it is their flaws that make this story real. 

The Choice Is Yours

"Either way, it was the hand you were dealt.
Your choice what to do with it."

--Amy Tintera, Rebel

Genre: YA Dystopia
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 352
Publication Date: May 13th, 2014
Source: eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Find on Goodreads
Previous Books in Series: Reboot

Goodreads Description

 After coming back from death as Reboots and being trained by HARC as soldiers, Wren and Callum have finally escaped north, where they hope to find a life of freedom. But when they arrive at the Reboot Reservation, it isn't what they expected. Under the rule of a bloodthirsty leader, Micah, the Reboots are about to wage an all-out war on the humans. Although Wren's instincts are telling her to set off into the wilderness on their own and leave the battle far behind, Callum is unwilling to let his human family be murdered. When Micah commits the ultimate betrayal, the choice is made for them. But Micah has also made a fatal mistake . . . he's underestimated Wren and Callum.

The explosive finale to the Reboot duology is full of riveting action and steamy love scenes as Wren and Callum become rebels against their own kind.

The Action. This book is pretty non-stop in the action department. I haven't read a high intensity dystopia for a while so this was a very welcomed change of pace. What I love about this is that the action doesn't drag, it doesn't get heavy in description page after page, it is concise and to the point and right amount throughout the story. The story progresses and twists in a way that is completely realistic and consistent with the story that Amy Tintera builds for us in Reboot. I feel sometimes with second books or conclusion books that the story fragments from the original plot of the story and that isn't the case here. It builds upon the foundation and goes further into the core of the central problem.

The Characters. Wren and Callum make a FANTASTIC team that is built on trust and their individual strengths. They know what they are good at and what they are not. I LOVED seeing them depend on one another for their respective strengths. It was refreshing to read about a couple who communicated and worked through their issues and recognized their flaws and sought to work on them. These two are mature and rational and passionate characters that strive to be their best self at the end of the day. Wren, especially, grows so much in this book and I loved reading about her journey to get to know herself. It was beautiful to see her realize that she is not what she has been conditioned to believe.

The Redemption. The political aspect of the novel includes the Reboots, the humans, and HARC. While I will not give away plot points, I do want to say I loved the interactions between the Reboots and the humans and what is explored here. I think Amy does a fantastic job of exploring the topic of prejudice and judgments in a way the fits perfectly with her storyline. As Wren says in the novel, not everything is black and white and I think the discussion of this topic is perfect for this book.

The Pacing While I was very invested in what was happening, I didn't feel the 'oh my gosh I can't read fast enough.' feeling. There was a lot of action to move the plot forward but the direction felt a little off sometimes. I didn't really know what we were working towards or what our main objective is. It felt a little erratic at times where the story was going to go and what direction it was going to take. I also thought the ending was a little much in regards to the conclusion. No spoilers though.

General Admission

This is a fantastic follow-up and conclusion to the Reboot series. A set of books characterized by a strong female heroine, an empathetic and likable hero, and a plot that will keep the pages turning. Check this out if you like dystopia and kickass heroines. And bonus, it's only 2 books. No trilogy here. Am I the only one sick of trilogies?