Book Review: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Book Stats:
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Format: Hardcover, 236 pages
Publisher: Poppy/ Little Brown
Publication Date: 01/02/2012
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary, Romance

Goodreads Summary: Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything? Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. Having missed her flight, she's stuck at JFK airport and late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon-to-be stepmother Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's sitting in her row. A long night on the plane passes in the blink of an eye, and Hadley and Oliver lose track of each other in the airport chaos upon arrival. Can fate intervene to bring them together once more? Quirks of timing play out in this romantic and cinematic novel about family connections, second chances, and first loves. Set over a twenty-four-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it. 

Before setting my sights on that adorable cover, I already heard a lot of buzz coming from the blogosphere and the Goodreads community about this book and Ms. Smith. I'm not really the type to read YA contemporaries, but I wanted to try something out of my comfort zone. You know when you're reading something that seems so magical and enticing that you desperately wish to be in that person's shoes? This is one of those books. I seriously wanted to go to my nearest airport and hope that I meet my own Oliver. 

The protagonist, Hadley, did get on nerves couple of times. Her feelings and thoughts toward her father became repetitive and a little too whiny. Given, her situation and age but still... those we're the kinds of things why I avoid YA contemporary. No offense to the author. Although, when she's not being the hurt daughter, I like how she was with Oliver.

Which brings me to the light of the book... Oliver. My poor, sweet, british boy. I want him for myself! *teehee. Anyways, our mysterious friend over here has secrets of his own and I enjoyed very much seeing different sides of him throughout the book. He has quite a sense of humor, sounds very attractive and when it comes down to it, knows when to settle some things. I felt for him and I completely loved his character.

I did like the overall story of Oliver and Hadley. It's crazy how this book was set within only 24 hours (maybe, a little bit more). Jennifer E. Smith had me nervous about this couple for a second but she did know how to give a good HEA. Props to her for this wonderful novel! I'm definitely going to check out future books she's going to be releasing.

★★★★

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Book Review: Frostbite by Richelle Mead

Book Stats:
Frostbite by Richelle Mead
(Book #2 of Vampire Academy)
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Format: Paperback, 327 pages
Publisher: RazorBill
Publication Date: 4/10/2008
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Romance

Goodreads Summary: Rose loves Dimitri, Dimitri might love Tasha, and Mason would die to be with Rose... It’s winter break at St. Vladimir’s, but Rose is feeling anything but festive. A massive Strigoi attack has put the school on high alert, and now the Academy’s crawling with Guardians—including Rose’s hard-hitting mother, Janine Hathaway. And if hand-to-hand combat with her mom wasn’t bad enough, Rose’s tutor Dimitri has his eye on someone else, her friend Mason’s got a huge crush on her, and Rose keeps getting stuck in Lissa’s head while she’s making out with her boyfriend, Christian! The Strigoi are closing in, and the Academy’s not taking any risks... This year, St. Vlad’s annual holiday ski trip is mandatory. But the glittering winter landscape and the posh Idaho resort only create the illusion of safety. When three friends run away in an offensive move against the deadly Strigoi, Rose must join forces with Christian to rescue them. But heroism rarely comes without a price...

I started this immediately after reading Vampire Academy which was around March this year. I was only a few pages in before I put the book back down and never picked it up. I only borrowed this so when its due date came, I turned it in and never thought about starting it again. Not that I didn't like the series, I do, it was just one that slipped up from my mind since there are so many books to choose from! Now, I been hearing a lot about the spin-off series, Bloodlines, I really do want to read those books but I don't want to jump into it without finishing this one. So finally, I got back to my Vampire Academy track. Now I wonder why in the hell did I ever steer courses?

This book gripped me as much as its predecessor did. Usually it takes a while for me to warm up to story, even for sequels, but not with this one! I was thankful for the Prologue which reintroduces the events from VA so I didn't have to re-read the first book.

True to her character, Rose is still as stubborn and sassy as ever. Although her hindered romance with Dimitri puts her in a more irritable mood, it's always fun having her around! It was also nice to see the vulnerability play with her character in this novel. 

I liked that other characters we're put into spotlight in this book and that other characters we're introduced like.. Adrian Ivashkov. Just seeing that name makes me want to throw my hands in air and sing love songs. Yeah, that giddy. He was a nice addition to the ever growing set of hot boys in the VA world.

There was lots of love in this book and also, a lot of jealousy which leads to the drama. As I said before this book reminds me of Gossip Girl especially when those aspects kicks in! I'm not complaining, it was rather interesting to see all those interactions. I didn't read much about Dimitri in this book but when he was, he was in mentor mode so it's not a particularly fun thing.

The last few chapters made me tear up! It was action and emotion packed. I was swept away with it. Despite that little sad event, the ending was gratifying. I'm glad Richelle Mead doesn't feel the need to kill her readers with cliffhangers just to make sure her readers will come back for more. I was very pleased.

★★★★

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Book Review: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Book Stats:
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
(Book #1 of Vampire Academy)
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Format: Paperback, 332 pages
Publisher: RazorBill
Publication Date: 8/16/2007
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Romance

Goodreads Summary: St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger... Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

I was fairly surprised to find myself as engrossed in this novel as much I did. It certainly did a good job gripping my attention from the beginning to its end. It's a fast paced novel, complete with action, steamy-romance and teenage angst. No boring feature but not really much stood out either.

I liked Rose Hathaway. When I read about her, she was definitely a breath of fresh air that I desperately needed. She was strong, both physically and mentally. The type who will kick ass but still manage to get out looking fabulous and SAY that's she's fabulous. I loved her confidence! She had a good sense of who she is, what she wants and what she'll do to make sure she get is. Her sassy and fierce nature is really entertaining, although that doesn't always work out.

Lissa Dragomir was a part of this novel as much as Rose was but her presence was merely a shadow for me here. Her relationship with Rose that sometimes went beyond "normal" bestfriend duties we're unusual but it was sweet to witness that sisterly love that they had. I felt bad for her because she's the opposite of Rose, being shy and polite but I think she might be one to watch out for future badassness!

The romance was tricky, what with the guy being 5 years older than Rose but it worked for this book. The romantic or should I say, sexual tension, between Rose and Dimitri was just sizzling! I didn't necessarily liked Dimitri but I could tell why Rose would take such interest. I hope I'll see more of him and that he lightens up throughout the series.

I also loved the other characters in the book. They just added more quirk to the story. Mason and his unrequited love for Rose. Christian and his family drama was a sympathizer. Mia and the whole "Mean Girls" war. I never honestly read the books Vampire Diaries and Gossip Girl, I only saw the series, but Vampire Academy seemed like the perfect cross between the two. I really liked those series so go figure! Though the plot itself was very predictable, I did enjoy reading this book and I look forward to how the future events unfold in the next installment.

★★★★

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Book Review: City Of Glass by Cassandra Clare

Book Stats:
City Of Glass by Cassandra Clare
(Book #3 of The Mortal Instruments)
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardcover, 541 pages
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publication Date: 3/24/2009
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Romance

Goodreads Summary: To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters - never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight. As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadowhunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadowhunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City - whatever the cost? Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Timesbestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.

After the earth-shattering events that unraveled both in City of Bones and City of Ashes, City of Glass has finally put me at ease.. but only for a second. This was supposed to be the final book in The Mortal Instruments series but as we all know, there are more and It's just getting better and better with every page turned. 

We see a lot of growth in our characters in this book especially with Clary. There was more emotion in this book than all the books before combined. Lots of losses and secrets being bared out to for everyone to see. Not to mention, the truth that I've been waiting for to resurface has finally come out and it's been like a splinter being pulled out.  I was so emotionally invested in this book after such heartbreaking turn of events in the past and this book did not dissappoint. Although my heart did stop more than once but that's okay, I still managed to restart it. 

The book was 500+ pages long. I did devour it for the most part but there we're some parts that could have been omitted to keep the story pace as lively as possible. I did enjoy the adventure, the action and especially the romantic tension between Jace and Clary.
I loved that we we're brought to the world of Shadowhunters this time. It was a nice change of scenery to be brought into the walls of Idris, the image of it was so vivid in my mind. I never once been to Prague or Paris but that's how it appeared to my mind. As well as the movie, Pride and Prejudice.

With the death of an old, comes in the new. Yes, well, Cassandra Clare was a little sneaky here. She did manage to perfectly yet subtly set up a whole new dilemma for the next books without giving away too much. The series could have properly ended here if she chose to do so but I'm really glad she didn't! The Mortal Instruments series are just consuming and it always leaves you wanting more.

★★★★★

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Book Review: City Of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Book Stats:
City Of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
(Book #2 of The Mortal Instruments)
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardcover, 453 pages
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publication Date: 3/25/2008
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Romance

Goodreads Summary: Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father. To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father? In this breathtaking sequel to City of Bones, Cassandra Clare lures her readers back into the dark grip of New York City's Downworld, where love is never safe and power becomes the deadliest temptation.

Whereas, I only liked City Of Bones, I loved City Of Ashes. Maybe it had to do with being less confused because I got the gist of the major characters and the world from its predecessor but I also found the story more consistent in this one. I loved the action, the tension, the twists and the turns! The characters we're given more depth and more difficulties that would keep you flipping from page to page.

After that rather breathtaking cliffhanger from City Of Bones, I immediately dove into reading this one. I was dying to know what happens next to characters I had fallen in love with. Clary despite her commendable character improvement, you can feel for her when she's feeling inadequate to fit in the Shadowhunter's world. Also, the confusion between her feelings for her alleged-brother, Jace and the growing attraction from her bestfriend, Simon. If you take out the fairies, angels and warlocks, It almost sounded like realistic fiction to me which is good. It makes them more relatable. 

I loved the Unseelie court scene, it was pretty heartbreaking especially from Jace's POV. To some, it might be a little bit of turn off considering what they found out in City Of Bones but I honestly didn't! I had faith in Cassandra Clare that she wouldn't leave one of my favorite couples hanging like that. This book was pretty heavy on the emotions when it came to the romance department!

City of Ashes was really a beautiful sequel and it was no question I was going to start City Of Glass after reading it. Cassandra Clare is probably the master of masters with cliffhangers! The ending makes me want to shake her and hug her after.

★★★★★

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(Mini) Book Review: Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa

Book Stats:
Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa
(Book #3.5 of The Iron Fey)
Source: Purchased
Format: Kindle, 72 pages
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Publication Date: 6/1/2011
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Adventure, Romance

Goodreads Summary: A Midsummer's Nightmare? Robin Goodfellow. Puck. Summer Court prankster, King Oberon's right hand, bane of many a faery queen's existence—and secret friend to Prince Ash of the Winter Court. Until one girl's death came between them, and another girl stole both their hearts. Now Ash has granted one favor too many and someone's come to collect, forcing the prince to a place he cannot go without Puck's help—into the heart of the Summer Court. And Puck faces the ultimate choice—betray Ash and possibly win the girl they both love, or help his former friend turned bitter enemy pull off a deception that no true faery prankster could possibly resist. An ebook exclusive novella from Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series.

Have I ever mentioned I love Puck? No? Well then, I love Puck! Although, I'm Team Ash all the way, Puck will always have a place in my heart. Shoot, if there's applications available to be his girlfriend, sign me up. How can you not love him? He's humorous, adorable, noble and not to mention, very witty. It's really unfortunate that the past rifted Ash and Puck apart because they could have been such a wonderful duo! Robin Goodfellow is a light-hearted character despite his own battles. As I said before, he is the perfect counterpart for our dark and mysterious Unseelie Prince.

Summer's Crossing happens after the breathtaking ending of The Iron Queen. Ash is setting out to find Grimalkin and Puck invites himself along. Although, their uncertain plans have been put to a stop by none other the Queen of Exiles, Leanansidhe. She came in to call an upaid favor from The Unseelie Prince. I didn't remember Ash calling in a favor but apparently he did and I was as shocked as Puck was. I loved that this book really focused on Puck's wishes and abilities. It was so heartbreakingly sweet that he was doing this for Meghan but I believe he also wanted redemption as well.

This was so much better than Winter's Passage and I really want more Puck books, even just little novellas would be nice! Also, the ending sounds really ominous to me. I can't wait to get started on The Iron Knight.

★★★★★

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Book Review: City Of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Book Stats:
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
(Book #1 of The Mortal Instruments)
Source: Purchased
Format: Hardcover, 485 pages
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Publication Date: 3/27/2007
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Paranormal, Romance, Adventure

Goodreads Summary: When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy? This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know... Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

Well, it has been awhile since I've read this book so my thoughts might be a little clouded and might be a little biased now considering I've already read the next 4 books in the series. But here goes nothing!

At first, I must admit, I wasn't entirely in love with the world that's introduced by Cassandra Clare in City Of Bones. I wasn't much of paranormal junkie before, after coming off a Hunger Games and Divergent high, I was still in search of another dystopian and that's when I stumbled into this. I know, how wrong was I? I'm laughing at my mere innocence and lack of knowledge with YA literature, thankfully now I know better.

The world still confuses me up till this date but its undeniable that it's very interesting and genius. City Of Bones is set in busy streets of New York! When I first read this, that's what fascinated me. I was like, "It's in freaking New York!". 

We follow the story of Clarissa Fray, a normal teenager out for a night with her best friend Simon... or so she thought. They we're in a club called Pandemonium and suddenly, things got a little weird. She suddenly sees things moving out of the shadows and witness a killing with her own eyes. Only this wasn't entirely murder and the person wasn't entirely a person.  We then meet an angel look-a-like Jace, Isabelle and Alec Lightwood. A set of unusual siblings who are trained to fight demons called Shadowhunters. Being able to see them opens up a whole new world for Clary, which she has been hidden from by none other than her mother. We later than find that she's been kidnapped. She finds herself getting more involved in a world she never knew existed and with a boy that might have nothing to offer her but heartbreak.

I really did like MOST of the characters but there's just some I could have lived without reading about. There we're a lot extras that made it confusing! Clary was ok, a little bit of a whiner but what can you expect from a 16 year old girl being thrusted upon a whole new world with angels and demons? I loved the Lightwood siblings especially our cocky little jerk, Jace. Despite that playful shell, he was really a tormented soul and I really loved that flawed part of him. I also liked Simon and Magnus. One major problem that I had was the villain, Valentine. Sure he made a lot of twists but he just wasn't evil enough for me to consider a threat for a happily ever after, you know? The story was really enticing but the dialogues we're pretty dull and repetitive for me. I did like Simon and Jace's banter but sometimes it just gets really exasperating.

The beginning was a little slow for me but it did pick up. That's where the romance kicks in! I won't say much but City of Bones introduced me to one of my favorite YA couples. Boy, Cassandra Clare definitely knows what she's doing in that department! This was a really nice starter for The Mortal Instruments. I have stucked around for the next 4 books, will read City of Lost Souls and City of Heavenly Fire plus The Infernal Devices and possibly, the spin-off series as well so I guess that could speak for itself!

★★★★

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