"Stalking Jack the Ripper" (a serial-killer of a review by Lexi!)

Hello Amazing Readers,

Here I go again! I've missed blogging so very much. I have a new blog in the works, but seeing the fact that I got new followers on facebook from my last (so-basic) post, I figured starting over is so much harder than just reworking and remodeling this one, especially since I really love all the readers, followers, fan encounters, author convos/encounters, etc. we've had! I'm so grateful to you all, and I hope you guys stick with me through all of this from reviews to random posts to a lot of new content and post layout!

Okay, so today's all about the badassness of the book "Stalking Jack the Ripper" by Kerri Maniscalco.

Now, I've always had this weird fascination with the Jack of Knives (a.k.a. Jack the Ripper). Ever since I first read about it as a kid (I was already reading books for teens/adults, usually on mysterious stuff by, at most, age 6). Plus, this year, scientists have declared the case finally solved, and it only took 131 years! (That they kept on trying all ways to solve it is just true dedication and justice, imho.)

Okay, book time, lol.

Summary: "Seventeen-year-old Audrey Rose Wadsworth was born a lord's daughter, with a life of wealth and privilege stretched out before her. But between the social teas and silk dress fittings, she leads a forbidden secret life.
Against her stern father's wishes and society's expectations, Audrey often slips away to her uncle's laboratory to study the gruesome practice of forensic medicine. When her work on a string of savagely killed corpses drags Audrey into the investigation of a serial murderer, her search for answers brings her close to her own sheltered world." (Thank you, Goodreads!)

Review: So I was hoping that this girl wasn't a) a manicpixiedreamgirl or a Mary Sue, or the new typical nerd/outcast. And she wasn't! This story is written so very well, from the imagery, the words used, just absolutely everything. I have to tip my glitter lipgloss to this chick. The story was also just a great-paced read. The very end is building even more tension, so it gets a little slow, but I loved the characters and story so much, I kept with it. I have no patience with books that get slow, but this book was just way too good to put down!
Audrey is a new kind of heroine. She doesn't fit in her place in society. She loves solving mysteries, helping her uncle dissect cadavers, and more. She's determined, sneaky, and doesn't let men rule her life more than she absolutely has to. It's just so great. I don't want to reveal anything else at all because this book should remain a complete mystery for y'all.
Best part of the book is that I couldn't predict the ending. I grew up incessantly reading (completely and utterly a true story), so predicting endings and what'll happen next is just something I automatically do. This is the first book with a mystery I didn't solve by mid-book. This is just a brilliant, thrilling novel!

Recommendation: Go read it! NOW! Like, RIGHT NOW! Read this if you like a great heroine and a fresh outlook and writing style. Wait till it's dark and/or pouring outside, especially if you like reading creepy/dark subject matter books like I do!

Rating: 7/7 places Jack the Ripper terrorized

XOXO,

Lexi

"Illusions of Fate" (a crowing review by Lexi)

Our Awesome Readers,

Today's novel took my breath away and also took my imagination on a rollercoaster of creativity!!! The amazing novel is Illusions of Fate by Kiersten White.

Summary: "Downton Abbey meets Cassandra Clare in this lush, romantic fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White.

“I did my best to keep you from crossing paths with this world. And I shall do my best to protect you now that you have.”

Jessamin has been an outcast since she moved from her island home of Melei to the dreary country of Albion. Everything changes when she meets Finn, a gorgeous, enigmatic young lord who introduces her to the secret world of Albion’s nobility, a world that has everything Jessamin doesn’t—power, money, status…and magic. But Finn has secrets of his own, dangerous secrets that the vicious Lord Downpike will do anything to possess. Unless Jessamin, armed only with her wits and her determination, can stop him."


You will adore a bird. Yep, you read that correctly. You will adore and want to befriend a bird. One bird in particular, actually.

Anyways, this book was amazing. The imagery took my breath away, and the story had me guessing until the very end! I loved the chemistry and storyline so very much that I zipped through the novel as fast as I could while still savoring every bit of it! I truly loved this book.

The main character, Jessamin, felt like me; I could relate to her in certain ways, and in others, I wanted to be able to. I loved the fact that she was an outcast. As for Finn, I adored him. I loved his awkwardness and his magic. I love the back story as well, and the details in this novel!!! I recommend this novel to everybody and anybody that wants to read something worthwhile.

In Conclusion & Suggestions: Curl up with this novel on a cold day and read till your heart's content. Warning - You'll probably try to read this all in one night, and that's okay.

Rating:

5/5 crows


Till next time!!!


XOXO,

Alexis/Lexi

"Lost In Translation" (a wordy review by Lexi)

Awesome Readers,

Today's review is on a cool, entertaining, cute book that's not a novel or anything, but instead all about words... It's Lost in Translation by Ella Frances Sanders. (Hang in there with me till my review, okay? Trust me on this one.)

IGNORE THE BORING-NESS OF THIS COVER.

Summary: "An artistic collection of more than 50 drawings featuring unique, funny, and poignant foreign words that have no direct translation into English. 

Did you know that the Japanese language has a word to express the way sunlight filters through the leaves of trees? Or that there’s a Finnish word for the distance a reindeer can travel before needing to rest? 

Lost in Translation brings to life more than fifty words that don’t have direct English translations with charming illustrations of their tender, poignant, and humorous definitions. Often these words provide insight into the cultures they come from, such as the Brazilian Portuguese word for running your fingers through a lover’s hair, the Italian word for being moved to tears by a story, or the Swedish word for a third cup of coffee.In this clever and beautifully rendered exploration of the subtleties of communication, you’ll find new ways to express yourself while getting lost in the artistry of imperfect translation." (Thank you, Blogging for Books)

Okay, so the cover and summary kinda suck, but this book is very entertaining for anybody who likes words, to sound smart, etc. Or if you want to be entertained for a day. The book is a compilation of words from other languages that we have no words for... and totally should. There are illustrations with every one, as well as an origin. I love this book, but I totally wish there was a different cover because this one is so blah, and it doesn't reflect the inside at all. It just looks like a boring coffee table book on nothing fun.

Anyways, some of the words are funny, others beautiful, and all will leave you wanting more foreign words, more definitions, and more cute pictures to go with. Check out the author's blog where this all began, and fall in love with (even more) words all over again!

In Conclusion & Suggestions: BUY THIS BOOK IN ITS PHYSICAL FORM AND READ AWAY. Read whenever, really. And be sure to share it with friends!

Rating:

5/5 words


Till next time!!!


XOXO,

Lexi

"Psyched" (a freaky review by Lexi)

Dearest Readers,

I'm so excited to be sharing the next few books with you!!! They've all been great, and I'm in the process of reading yet another wonderful one!!! So get ready to read about some awesome novels!!! Today's is Psyched by Juli Caldwell!

Creepy looking cover, huh?

Summary: "Aisi Turay has it all under control. At least, she thinks she does. Forget that the most popular girl in school hates her guts and will stop at nothing to embarrass her. Forget that her little brother is tormented by the ghosts and demons she sees all the time. Forget that her mom is a con artist who pretends to be psychic to make some cash. Forget that her dad is hiding a secret than can destroy everything she knows about herself. Nope, she's got this one...until that one awful day when she nearly loses it all. With ghost-hunting hottie Vance, a guy who stumbled into her life at the worst possible moment, Aisi must search for the messages hidden in visions and memories to protect her family. Maybe, just maybe, they can reclaim what she thought was lost forever." (Thank you, Goodreads!)

The novel started out with action and did not disappoint from there on! This novel has an interesting background inside, and I'd have never thought of such a fabulous back story! I love how deep the abilities and story goes, and the paranormal ideas inside of it all!

The main character, Aisi, can see spirits, as can her little brother. Seeing what she sees can be terrifying, and her gift can be more of a curse at times. When she thinks she's all alone in this fight, it turns out that she's not, even though her family is broken, and she doesn't have many friends (okay, just the one). This novel had me from the first page, and I know that it'll grab you as well! The paranormal aspects may be fake, but you'll never think that as you're reading. The story and everything is so realistic and creepy! I think y'all will love it as much as me!

In Conclusion & Suggestions: Read it if you want a fast-paced novel that's action-filled but not too scary!

Rating:

4/5 ghosts (only because the novels I read following had me immersed in them more)


Till next time!


XOXO,

Lexi

"Girl Talk" (a gut-busting Lexi review)

Our Awesome Readers,

Hello again! I have a little access to my laptop, so I decided to go ahead and blog! Today's novel is freaking awesome and hilarious! It's Girl Talk by Christie Young.

Summary: "Breaking from the tradition of buttoned-up guides for girls, Girl Talk is an illustrated collection of hysterically funny and necessary reflections on life, love, and making it in the modern world.

Combining etiquette tips with true stories from her own not always quite together life, Christie Young proves herself to be adept around managing life’s vicissitudes. Whether you seek advice on handling running out of booze during the holidays or running into your ex on the subway, Girl Talk offers the keys to coping in a world bereft of rhyme or reason.

Let’s talk about:

   • Realizing you look exactly like your boyfriend’s sister
   • Overthinking text messages and analyzing emoticons
   • Looking calm in a bar alone (without the help an iPhone)
   • Accidentally stealing something from the farmer’s market
   • Choosing between getting to work on time or showering
   • Responding to a sexy text your uncle meant to send to his girlfriend
   • Organizing your wardrobe, from crop tops to bolo ties
   • Handling a roommate who rents out your living room to strangers
   • Kicking your Netflix sci-fi marathon habit

And much, much more." (Thank you, Barnes & Noble!!!)

So this novel is an unconventional advice book that actually is helpful, but will have you giggling on page one! You'll learn how to deal with being out on your own, where to find your own life, friends, and best spots for music and life in general. You'll learn how to throw a great party as well. It teaches while you're laughing! This is awesome because I've read TONS of books with advice for young women, from things like this to those with manners, but NEVER have I ever read something this hilarious and with actually things I wanted to know. So I'll take this book's advice, smiling through life.

Rating:

6+/5 smiles


Till next time!!!

XOXO,
Lexi

"The Secret of Isobel Key" (a Scottish Lexi review)

Our Awesome Readers,

Hello again!

Ever had one of those novels that takes you into them, those ones that you absorb yourself into? This was one of them for me. It was the perfect combination of the past, the present, and some spooky coincidences. It's The Secret of Isobel Key by Jen McConnel.

Summary: "Lou is in the middle of a quarter-life crisis. Fresh out of college, she’s unemployed and unsure of herself. But when she gets the chance to escape to Scotland with her best friend, it could be the answer to her quest for self-discovery. The trip is not at all what she expected, especially when her tour guide turns out to be the dreamy historian Brian, and together they embark on a hunt for information about Isobel Key, a woman accused of witchcraft in the seventeenth century.

They set out to learn the truth of the condemned witch, but Lou isn’t prepared for the knowledge that awaits her. She must face her own demons if she has any hope of righting the wrongs of the past.
Flashing between seventeenth century Scotland and a contemporary romance, THE SECRET OF ISOBEL KEY is a mystery that will please readers of all ages." (All thanks to Goodreads for this summary!)

So Lou was easy to relate to. See, she was in a quarter-life crisis after graduating college, which is a big, normal phenomenon these days. When you're confused on what to do next in your life, when you know you have a purpose and that something big is about to happen, but you just don't know what either is. This is what Lou experiences when she quits what was supposed to be a temporary job that turned into a full-time one (we've all been there, huh, twenty-somethings?). Then she's surprised with a trip to Scotland, which she tries to embrace fully. While being immersed into the mysteries and past injustices of Scotland, it doesn't hurt that there's a hott Scottish guy that walks into the picture.

I was hooked immediately. This novel was soooooo good, and made me want to travel to Scotland myself, ASAP. (Okay, some actors I love are Scottish, so this book just amped up my need. I love those accents!) Anyways, this novel seriously had me reading it as much as I could, which hadn't happened in this manner in a long time! It's such a marvelous book!

In Conclusion: READ THIS NOVEL. This is especially if you're in your teens, twenties, or even early thirties!

Suggestions: If you have some wanderlust, but are not sure how to get to it, or just questioning yourself, go for this book. If you want to learn something, read this novel. If you want an AMAZING and developed story with characters who are more than worth it, read this novel. In other words, read this whenever you want, wherever you can. Stormy days are always great though!

Rating:

5/5 Scottish Pounds

Till next time!


XOXO,
Lexi

"Perfected" (a dolly review by Lexi)

Dearest Readers,

Hi! Thanks for joining us today! I promise you won't regret it!

Today's novel makes a person think about no only the future, but the present. It's Perfected by Kate Jarvik Birch.

Summary: "Perfection comes at a price.

As soon as the government passed legislation allowing humans to be genetically engineered and sold as pets, the rich and powerful rushed to own beautiful girls like Ella. Trained from birth to be graceful, demure, and above all, perfect, these “family companions” enter their masters’ homes prepared to live a life of idle luxury.

Ella is happy with her new role as playmate for a congressman’s bubbly young daughter, but she doesn’t expect Penn, the congressman’s handsome and rebellious son. He’s the only person who sees beyond the perfect exterior to the girl within. Falling for him goes against every rule she knows…and the freedom she finds with him is intoxicating.
But when Ella is kidnapped and thrust into the dark underworld lurking beneath her pampered life, she’s faced with an unthinkable choice. Because the only thing more dangerous than staying with Penn’s family is leaving…and if she’s unsuccessful, she’ll face a fate far worse than death." (Yay, Goodreads!!!)

This novel seriously had me contemplating whether this will ever happen or not. Will we see/breed humans as pets one day? Will it have the same effect as it does in this novel? It was seriously a great thing to consider the meaning of it all.

The characters were good. I liked Ella, the main character, and how I got to experience everything new all over again. She could be tedious at times, but maybe that was just the book itself. Some of it I felt was unnecessary. Anywho, Penn was adorable, as was Ruby, his little sister. I think that we can relate to Ella, as a female, and in some of the things that she's feeling and going through. I think that makes the novel an easy read.

In Conclusion & Suggestions: Read it on your own time, and stick with it because the ending is actually pretty good.

Rating:

3/5 gowns


Till next time!

XOXO,
Lexi

"Faces of the Dead" (a ghastly Lexi review)

Dear Readers,

I was worried I wouldn't really get into today's book because it's a historical fiction novel, but I was wrong! It's Faces of the Dead by Suzanne Weyn. (She's seriously an awesome author...)

Summary: "When Marie-Therese, daughter of Marie Antoinette, slips into the streets of Paris at the height of the French Revolution, she finds a world much darker than what she's ever known.

When Marie-Thérèse Charlotte of France learns of the powerful rebellion sweeping her country, the sheltered princess is determined to see the revolution for herself. Switching places with a chambermaid, the princess sneaks out of the safety of the royal palace and into the heart of a city in strife.
Soon the princess is brushing shoulders with revolutionaries and activists. One boy in particular, Henri, befriends her and has her questioning the only life she's known. When the princess returns to the palace one night to find an angry mob storming its walls, she's forced into hiding in Paris. Henri brings her to the workshop of one Mademoiselle Grosholtz, whose wax figures seem to bring the famous back from the dead, and who looks at Marie-Thérèse as if she can see all of her secrets. There, the princess quickly discovers there's much more to the outside world - and to the mysterious woman's wax figures - than meets the eye." (Thank you, Goodreads!)

Okay, so the book was a bit slow in a couple of places (at least to me, but I know others may argue with me about this). This novel taught me a lot about Marie Antoinette and the rest of her family, and the revolution/uprising. I also loved the spooky parts, and think that the beginnings of some of the most well-known people in history that were suggested in here were just great! The characters were well-developed and fun. The main character was daring for a princess, and was strong, so I truly respected her. Her story was just fun and intriguing, and I loved it. Her love interest was a great one, and working with who would eventually be Madame Tussaud was fun! I hope y'all like it as much as I did!

In Conclusion and Suggestions: Read this novel. It's a great one, so stick with it. Read it when you want something a bit spooky, but also sweet and daring.


Rating:

4/5 wax figures (hard to rate)


Till next time!


XOXO,
Lexi

"Before I Die" (a long-term review by Lexi)

Dear Loverly Readers,

(If you got the "loverly" reference, awesome! lol)

I'm currently watching "Torchwood" for the first/second time, and am loving it. This has nothing at all to do with this novel I'm about to review, but it's an awesome show, so go watch it on BBC America.

Anywho, today's novel scared me at first. I knew what it was about before I read it, and I was terrified that it would put me into a depression, or make me cry. It was a difficult read because I was waiting for the show to drop and for me to bawl for a few days, but thankfully, it didn't! It's Before I Die by Jenny Downham.

Summary: "Tessa has just months to live. Fighting back against hospital visits, endless tests, drugs with excruciating side-effects, Tessa compiles a list. It's her To Do Before I Die list. And number one is Sex. Released from the constraints of normal life, Tessa tastes new experiences to make her feel alive while her failing body struggles to keep up. Tessa's feelings, her relationships with her father and brother, her estranged mother, her best friend, and her new boyfriend, all are painfully crystallised in the precious weeks before Tessa's time finally runs out." (A huge thank you to Goodreads!!!)

This novel is very inspiring. As a girl with not much more time to live, Tessa experiences very realistic emotions, wanting to live as much as she can before she withers away. She's a hero in a novel full of hardships, and she's so inspirational. This novel shows that we should live out our dreams and wants with no one stopping us while we still can! The story is sweet and great and full of emotion, and I loved it a lot. I don't want to give anything away, so I'm going to stop here and let you guys read this and figure it out. (By the way, it is so great, and you won't go into a depression because of it; I promise.)

In Conclusion & Suggestions: This novel is a great one, so go for it! It'll inspire you! I say read it whenever you want; there's no bad time to read it.

Rating:

5/5 syringes


Till next time!

XOXO,
Lexi

"Faking Faith" (a religious review by Lexi)

Dear Readers,

Hello again! If you're new to this blog, welcome! You're all already our blog family once you clicked on any of our links!

Today's book is Faking Faith by Josie Bloss.

Summary: "Dylan Mahoney is living one big unholy lie.

Thanks to a humiliating and painfully public sexting incident, Dylan has become the social pariah at her suburban Chicago high school. She's ignored by everyone--when she's not being taunted--and estranged from her two best friends. So when Dylan discovers the blogs of homeschooled fundamentalist Christian girls, she's immediately drawn into their fascinating world of hope chests, chaperoned courtships, and wifely submission.Blogging as Faith, her devout and wholesome alter ego, Dylan befriends Abigail, the online group's queen bee. After staying with Abigail and her family for a few days, Dylan begins to grow closer to Abigail (and her intriguingly complicated older brother). Soon, Dylan is forced to choose: keep living a lie . . . or come clean and face the consequences." (Thanks, Goodreads!!!)

This book was very interesting! It was slow in one part, but mostly it was wonderful! I was into the book, not believing that there are families out there, girls out there, that were like the ones in the book. It made me feel very thankful for the friends and family I have.

The characters were whole with great background stories, and this book was completely believable. I loved how Dylan made a new persona and got to live a whole new life, because I know that, at one point or another, we've all wanted to do that. Her making it up after the big "uh-oh" in her life was understandable, as was her new obsession with certain blogs. Faith was the perfect new person to invent, and visiting Abigail was just what she needed in her life.

As for the ending, it was superb.

In Conclusion & Suggestions: Read it, especially if you've ever dreamt of a new life, and/or you want an inside look into a family like the Duggars (but even stricter and no acceptance). You'll end up comparing your life to the ones in the book, and you'll also compare both of the girls' lives, coming to conclusions on which aspects are good and which aren't. I recommend reading this on any day, really. It's a good, fast read!


Rating:

4.5/5 crosses


Till next time!

XOXO,
Lexi

"Reasons My Kid Is Crying" (a silly Lexi review)

Hello, Readers,

Today's book is amazing! It's based on a blog that a dad started, and it's great, so let's get on with it! It's Reasons My Kid Is Crying by Greg Pembroke.

Summary: "It all started when busy father Greg Pembroke posted a few pictures online of his three-year-old son, mid-tantrum, alongside the reason his son was crying: He had broken his bit of cheese in half. In Reasons My Kid is Crying, Greg collects together photos sent from parents around the world, documenting the many, completely logical reasons why small children cry.  Among them: “I let him play on the grass” . . . “He ran out of toys to throw into his pool” . . . “The neighbor’s dog isn’t outside”.  The result is both an affectionate portrait of the universal, baffling logic of toddlers—and a reminder for burned-out parents everywhere that they are not alone." (Thank you, Goodreads!!!)

This book was great! It kept me and my family laughing for awhile. Looking at each picture and seeing how toddlers are reacting to little things may be scary for those who don't have kids or have one on the way, but it's still hilarious. I can't say anything else, because it's just great. I'm speechless.

Rating:

5/5 screaming kids


Till next time!

XOXO,

Lexi

"Dear Luke, We Need to Talk, Darth" (a hilarious review by Lexi)

Hello, Lovelies!!!

Lexi again! Today's book is a little out of the norm for me, as I usually focus on YA books. However, this book needs a spotlight on here. It's Dear Luke, We Need to Talk, Darth: And Other Pop Culture Correspondences by John Moe.

Summary: "We all know how Darth Vader shared his big secret with Luke Skywalker, but what if he had delivered the news in a handwritten note instead? And what if someone found that letter, as well as all of the drafts that landed in the Dark Lord’s trash can? In the riotously funny collection Dear Luke, We Need to Talk. Darth, John Moe finally reveals these lost notes alongside all the imagined letters, e-mails, text messages, and other correspondences your favorite pop culture icons never meant for you to see.
 From The Walking Dead to The Wizard of Oz, from Billy Joel to Breaking Bad, no reference escapes Moe’s imaginative wit and keen sense of nostalgia." (Thank you, Goodreads!!!)

This entire book was hilarious. I literally laughed out loud, and I couldn't stop smiling! I loved every single thing in this book, from the many attempts at a letter by Darth to Luke, to the Yelp! ad for The Bates Motel (from "Psycho")! There were so many gems in here that will make you laugh until you cry! Everything is relevant, and they even have "Breaking Bad" and "The Wizard of Oz" (Dorthy to Glenda). Even if you're not a fan of the movies or shows, you'll still think this book is hilarious.

In Conclusion: Warning: Read at your own risk; you may die laughing!

Rating:

5/5 people laughing


Till next time, y'all!

XOXO,
Lexi

"Landry Park" (a Lexi review)

Dear Reader,

Hello, again! Happy Saturday! Hope yours is going well!

God, I love this cover! One of the best in awhile!

Summary: "Downton Abbey meets The Selection in this dystopian tale of love and betrayal

In a fragmented future United States ruled by the lavish gentry, seventeen-year-old Madeline Landry dreams of going to the university. Unfortunately, gentry decorum and her domineering father won't allow that. Madeline must marry, like a good Landry woman, and run the family estate. But her world is turned upside down when she discovers the devastating consequences her lifestyle is having on those less fortunate. As Madeline begins to question everything she has ever learned, she finds herself increasingly drawn to handsome, beguiling David Dana. Soon, rumors of war and rebellion start to spread, and Madeline finds herself and David at the center of it all. Ultimately, she must make a choice between duty - her family and the estate she loves dearly - and desire." (Gratzi, Goodreads!)

I really liked this novel. From the characters who were interesting and surprising, to the awesome plot, it's like this novel transports you both back and forward in time at the same time! Think Victorian age, but in the present/future. The caste system is still alive, but there's more technology. I love that Madeline -- the main character -- challenges the life she's always lived. From the very beginning, she's wanting more than being given away in marriage by her father, wanting more in her life than what she was to have. I liked how the characters were relatable in a sense. I love how you feel connected to this story through Madeline, cheering for her from moment one when she's declaring she wants to go to university. The story is summed up beautifully above, so I'm stepping cautiously around what's going to happen. So I'm going to stop here. All I can say is that this novel is great.

In Conclusion: Read it! It's awesome!


Rating:

4/5 Victorian houses


Till next time!!!


Yours truly,

Lexi

"The Haunting of Tabitha Grey" (a terrifying Lexi review)

Dear Reader,

Do you like watching scary things? Maybe just mildly scary? If so, today's book is for you. It's truly not terrifying, but it does have some (maybe) ghosts in it, as well as some creepy twists and turns! It's The Haunting of Tabitha Grey by Vanessa Curtis.

Summary: "Set in a sprawling Victorian manor, a classic ghost story with a stunning twist

I look up at the dark, unblinking eyes of the house and I get the weirdest feeling . . . It's the feeling of being pulled into something and being unable to stop it happening . . .Tabitha is used to changing schools and moving to different houses. But when her family moves into Weston Manor, something is different. It's as if the house has been waiting for her. There are lavender smells which come from nowhere, the old servants' bells ring in the night, and she can hear crying in empty rooms. Tabitha's always been imaginative. Even her best friend Gemma knows that. But this time, could she actually be telling the truth?" (Gracias, Goodreads!)

Okay, so not only does this novel delve into Tabitha's insecurities, especially about seeing ghosts, but also into a damaged family life. I kept waiting for a ghost to attack or the proof of her being insane solidified or just something happening, but I did have to wait awhile. This novel is truly good, just not as creepy as I expected it to be, nor a huge build-up of action. However, the twist in the end is completely worth it!

In Conclusion: Why not?

Rating:

3.5/5 Victorian women


Till next time!

XOXO,
Lexi

"Pills and Starships" (a medicated Lexi review, lol)

Dear Readers,

Today's book is a dystopian novel! This one sounds a bit more realistic than others I've read, so check it out! It's Pills and Starships by Lydia Millet. In fact, I was sucked in by this cover! Look:

Summary: "In this richly imagined dystopic future brought by global warming, seventeen-year-old Nat and her hacker brother Sam have come by ship to the Big Island of Hawaii for their parents' Final Week. The few Americans who still live well also live long—so long that older adults bow out not by natural means but by buying death contracts from the corporates who now run the disintegrating society by keeping the people happy through a constant diet of "pharma." Nat's family is spending their pharma-guided last week at a luxury resort complex called the Twilight Island Acropolis.

Deeply conflicted about her parents' decision, Nat spends her time keeping a record of everything her family does in the company-supplied diary that came in the hotel's care package..." (Thanks, Goodreads!)

This novel delve into what life would truly be like for a normal person in a dystopian world. Nat is an everyday teen that is coping with her parents' death, except it hasn't happened yet and there are pills to subdue those feelings. She doesn't want her parents to die, but is more passive, just writing her true feelings in a journal provided to her from the hotel to help her heal. However, her little brother is taking more of an active stance on their society in general. When Nat starts seeing society at work, she questions everything, and when she finds out what's really going on in the world, she has to choose to go along with everything or make a stand. You'll be able to relate to Nat and her brother a lot, and may start looking at our world now in a whole new light.

The plot is thorough, and there's plenty of humor. However, there are dark things as well (obviously). If you want to think, and you want to know what it truly would be like living in a realistic dystopian society, read this novel. See both the ruin and the hope for our future.

In Conclusion: If you don't mind it being a bit slow at parts, I do recommend reading this novel.

Rating:

4/5 pills


Till next time!!!

XOXO,

Lexi

AMAZING NOVEL!!!!! "Curses and Smoke" (an erupting Lexi review)

Our dearest readers,

Hello! For now (at least), I will be the sole chica writing this blog. Ash's schedule is much busier than my own, but keep an eye out for her comeback!

Today's novel took me by surprise thrice for the following reasons: it's a YA/teen book (adults, too) that is written during the Mt. Vesuvius eruption; it's amazing in every way possible; and it kept reminding me of an episode of "Doctor Who." (Okay, so the last one was a personal thing, but still!) I truly couldn't get enough of this novel!

It's Curses and Smoke by Vicky Alvear Shecter.

Such a gorgeous cover, too!!!

Summary: "When your world blows apart, what will you hold onto?

TAG is a medical slave, doomed to spend his life healing his master's injured gladiators. But his warrior's heart yearns to fight in the gladiator ring himself and earn enough money to win his freedom.

LUCIA is the daughter of Tag's owner, doomed by her father's greed to marry a much older Roman man. But she loves studying the natural world around her home in Pompeii, and lately she's been noticing some odd occurrences in the landscape: small lakes disappearing; a sulfurous smell in the air. . . .

When the two childhood friends reconnect, each with their own longings, they fall passionately in love. But as they plot their escape from the city, a patrician fighter reveals his own plans for them -- to Lucia's father, who imprisons Tag as punishment. Then an earthquake shakes Pompeii, in the first sign of the chaos to come. Will they be able to find each other again before the volcano destroys their whole world?" (Thank you, Goodreads!)

O. M. G. This novel is so amazing!!! Not only is the story, plot, twists, and characters grab me and didn't let go, but the deep, lush history actually taught me a lot about this time in history. See, I am ALWAYS looking for something (or someone) who can tell me something that I've never heard before. If it can, I'm all for it. However, it doesn't necessarily keep my attention when it is a book or movie. This novel is great because it took care of the rest of my criteria, which includes developed and deep characters that are super realistic (and act so); a complete, great plot; and amazing twists that I couldn't have predicted. (You guys know how I am about the last one! If I can't predict the ending or twists and turns, the novel is a winner!)

Lucia is not just some poor little rich girl, and Tag isn't just from "the wrong side of the tracks." It's just not something that is that superficial like that. Their story goes deeper; they were friends who grew up together, neither of whom are whiny and expect the other to "save" them; they're more developed and realistic than that. They're strong. Even the "extras" in the book are developed and have back stories.

The story is addictive and it's not like anything that I have read before in any novel in any genre. I think it's because of the plot and history and how they were carried out, to be honest. The plot is put into days that count down to the eruption, alternating the point of view between Tag and Lucia. This can go very well in a book, or it can go swimmingly. This time, it was great. You get to see two completely separate and different lives from that point in time. Then comes the history. The rich history just completes the entire novel. How did people live back then? Were there warning signs? Were they anything like us? (The last answer in this book is yes, and you'll feel like you're there!) You'll want to learn more about the eruption and what came of it. I am trying not to give any part of this story away, because I want you to feel the surprises and everything with clear wonderment and enthusiasm of reading such a unique, new book!

In Conclusion: OMG! READ THIS NOVEL! TEENS AND ADULTS!

Rating: 5/5 volcanoes

XOXO,

Lexi

"Cinderella's Dress" (a retro Lexi review)

Hello, our lovely readers!!!

I've gotten to read an awesome book lately; one I was iffy on reading. It turned out to be so unique of a story that it was moved up in the list of books to review! In fact, it's today's book: Cinderella's Dress by Shonna Slayton!

Summary: "Being seventeen during World War II is tough. Finding out you’re the next keeper of the real Cinderella’s dresses is even tougher.
Kate simply wants to create window displays at the department store where she's working, trying to help out with the war effort. But when long-lost relatives from Poland arrive with a steamer trunk they claim holds the Cinderella’s dresses, life gets complicated.
Now, with a father missing in action, her new sweetheart, Johnny, stuck in the middle of battle, and her great aunt losing her wits, Kate has to unravel the mystery before it’s too late.After all, the descendants of the wicked stepsisters will stop at nothing to get what they think they deserve." (Thank you so much, Goodreads!)

So the main character has this dream of being a window dresser, which I didn't know was unusual for a woman to do back then. I also didn't know how important and immensely creative that profession is. It's so cool to learn. I also learned a lot more about people, and the War, and also just little details in general. It's truly like being back in the WWII era, working and dreaming with Katie!

So take that and add on the fairytale dresses of Cinderella, and the mystery of it all. Is it true? Is it just a fantasy? What is going on? All of the questions are asked and answered wonderfully in this novel. I loved the magic of it all, and how this novel makes it feel like magic and fairytales can be true; we'd never know. I love that feeling, and truly, this novel has done it better than the novels I've been reading/have read.

The only downside for me is that I wanted to reach the conclusion and figure it all out faster than I did. However, stay patient, because it's all worth it.

In Conclusion: Please read this, even if you don't like historical fiction. It's so creative and fun!

Rating:

4/5 dresses


Till next time!!!

XOXO,

Alexis

"Royally Lost" (a mapped-out review by Lexi)

Hey, readers!

Oh how I've missed this blog. Starting a job has been insane! I love it, and it's part-time, but on top of regular life, it's very time-consuming... But more money, so no issues there!!!

Okay, so let's get to the review! Today's book is Royally Lost by Angie Stanton.

Summary: "Dragged on a family trip to Europe’s ancient cities, Becca wants nothing more than to go home. Trapped with her emotionally distant father, over-eager stepmother, and a brother who only wants to hook up with European hotties, Becca is miserable. That is until she meets Nikolai, a guy as mysterious as he is handsome. And she unknowingly finds herself with a runaway prince.

Nikolai has everything a guy could ask for-he's crown prince, heir to the throne, and girls adore him. But the one thing he doesn't have...is freedom. Staging a coup, he flees his kingdom and goes undercover on his own European tour.
When Nikolai and Becca meet, it’s their differences that draw them together. Sparks fly as they share a whirlwind of adventures, all the while dodging his royal guard. But Becca's family vacation ends in a matter of days. Will Nikolai and Becca be forced to say goodbye forever, will his destiny catch up to him, or will they change history forever?" (Thank you so much, Goodreads!)

I loved this novel! As a shy girl, I could relate to Becca. Meeting a cute guy -- let alone a PRINCE! -- on vacation took her by surprise just as much as it would me! However, she eases into the situation as much as she can. She's strong though, not this wimpy girl who swoons at every turn, or cannot take care of herself. It's awesome!

Then take the story; so many people have done this kind of idea, but it's always campy. This novel definitely isn't! This is a truthfully great novel! It's very convincing, relatable, fun, and believable! The story takes some twists and turns, and it also is a story of family as much as adventure.

It's a great novel; I was super impressed; and I can't wait to reread it again and again!

This is definitely this summer's classic! I name this The Ultimate Summer Novel so far in 2014...

In Conclusion: Read, read, read! I recommend laying on a towel or chair, toes in the sand, and ocean waves lulling you into a trance as you read this novel. Or, be on the deck of a cruise ship, letting the sun hit you (or just relaxing in the lobby chair after a swim) while you read this! It's seriously a great summer vacation read!!!

Rating:

5/5 maps


Till next time!!!


XOXO,

Alexis (a.k.a. Lexi)

"Plus One" (a daytime Lexi review)

Hi, Readers!

So I got a new puppy for my birthday, and had to share a pic.

In bluebonnets, because she's a true Texan!!!

Okay, now that's I've bragged, it's time for today's review! The novel is Plus One by Elizabeth Fama.

Summary: "Divided by day and night and on the run from authorities, star-crossed young lovers unearth a sinister conspiracy in this compelling romantic thriller.

Seventeen-year-old Soleil Le Coeur is a Smudge—a night dweller prohibited by law from going out during the day. When she fakes an injury in order to get access to and kidnap her newborn niece—a day dweller, or Ray—she sets in motion a fast-paced adventure that will bring her into conflict with the powerful lawmakers who order her world, and draw her together with the boy she was destined to fall in love with, but who is also a Ray." Thank you, Goodreads!
This novel was very unique in that it wasn't based on romance, as it was more of a love your family book. It also focused a lot on the society that they were in, and it ensured that you don't have any questions about any of it.

Sol is amazing. See, she is very easy to get along with and to relate to. If you felt you had one chance to make your loving grandfather happy before he dies, you would probably do anything to ensure it happens. She was very crafty in doing so, showing that she can think on her feet fast. Some parts can be long, and you can be like "get to the action already!!!," but this novel is still really good, and I have to say that it's very inventive as well. It's easy to slip yourself right into the book, the imagery ensuring the complete package is delivered.

In Conclusion: It's good! Read it!


Rating:

4/5 moons


XOXO,

Lexi