Tag Archives: standalone
Review: The Hating Game by Sally Thorne || When the Game of Hating becomes more that just a Game
Title: The Hating Game
Author: Sally Thorne
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Adult]
Heat Rating: Pretty warm
Page Count and Format: 387, Ebook
Published: August 9th, 2016 by William Morrow
Nemesis (n.)
1) An opponent or rival whom a person cannot best or overcome;
2) A person's undoing;
3) Joshua Templeman.
Lucy Hutton and Joshua Templeman hate each other. Not dislike. Not begrudgingly tolerate. Hate. And they have no problem displaying their feelings through a series of ritualistic passive-aggressive manoeuvres as they sit across from each other, executive assistants to co-CEOs of a publishing company. Lucy can't understand Joshua's joyless, uptight, meticulous approach to his job. Joshua is clearly baffled by Lucy's overly bright clothes, quirkiness, and Pollyanna attitude.
Now up for the same promotion, their battle of wills has come to a head and Lucy refuses to back down when their latest game could cost her her dream job… But the tension between Lucy and Joshua has also reached its boiling point, and Lucy is discovering that maybe she doesn't hate Joshua. And maybe, he doesn't hate her either. Or maybe this is just another game.
Oooo why didn't I read this earlier!!! My fault, my fault! (The cover might be at a little fault too!) I took ages to pick this one up and oh gosh, I was sooo not expecting how it all turned out. This book was right up my alley, and exactly what I needed after so many fantasy books. Honestly, I wouldn't have picked it up if Raven @ Dreamy Addictions hadn't recommended this to me.
Lucy and Joshua have always hated each other. Since the very first day, they started working face to face. And now they are up for the biggest fight in their working career and the one who loses has to leave the company for good. But this cat and mouse game is on the edge of something else, and they slowly begin to realise what they feel for each other maybe something more than hate.
Oh, my dear gosh!! What a beautiful angsty feel read and hilarious at the same time! I haven't read this kind for quite some time now and I quite enjoyed it! Lucy and Joshua are at each other's throat every day and they have no problem in showing that. They are quite well known in the whole office because of that. They absolutely hate each other's guts. And I loved the continuous banter between the two! Sometimes they were too much, sometimes hilarious. The banter, sassy and witty remarks kept this book pretty interesting throughout its course.
"The trick is to find that one person who can give it back as good as they can take it."
Lucy and Joshua both were amazing characters! Lucy was a cute furball of brightness and Joshua although was quite strict on the front and a jerk, but behind that facade was a caring and such a sweet guy. The tension between them was quite visible even though they were not aware of it from the very first. Although they couldn't tolerate one another, they couldn't stop helping each other at the time of their crisis either and with that began the understanding of new emotions and never had they faced any other who challenged them so much.
"He taught me things in the space of two minutes that the span of my lifetime did not."
Honestly, it was such a fun ride! They figured each other out so perfectly and their chemistry was off the charts! It was like although they hated each other, they could absolutely complete each other's sentences. It took a looot of time for them to catch up but I looooved the slow build up. It was absolutely perfect how everything was executed in the end and Lucy's epic face off with Joshua's father was the very best thing in this book!! Loved it so freaking much. It was bloodydamn hilarious and quirky! And I respected her even more for that.
Overall, The Hating Game was a quick and fun read, full of angst. The plot was executed neatly and I wasn't bored for a second. The characters were amazing and managed to win my heart and I loved Joshua and Lucy together. They were like fire and ice but hella perfect for each other! The writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I am definitely looking forward to reading The Comfort Zone by this author.
So guys, have you read this book yet? What did you think about it? And if you haven't, is it in your tbr? Are you looking forward to it?
Review: This Song Will Save Your Life by Leila Sales || Where DJ'ing Opens Up a Whole New World
Title: This Song Will Save Your Life
Author: Leila Sales
Genre: Contemporary, [Young-Adult]
Page Count and Format: 288, Paperback
Published: October 10th 2013 by Macmillan Children's Books (UK)
All her life, Elise Dembowski has been an outsider. Starting a new school, she dreams of fitting in at last – but when her best attempts at popularity fail, she almost gives up. Then she stumbles upon a secret warehouse party. There, at night, Elise can be a different person, making real friends, falling in love for the first time, and finding her true passion – DJ'ing.
But when her real and secret lives collide, she has to make a decision once and for all: just who is the real Elise?
An irresistible novel about hope, heartbreak and the power of music to bring people together.
I had this book for a looooong time. I can't even remember how long but suddenly I picked up this book a few days ago and it didn't take me much longer to gobble it up though I have to say I had a weird relationship with this book. But I love the cover!!!
Eliza has been a loner and outsider for as long as she remembers. She attempts a final try to gain popularity among her peers by taking one of the most dangerous and foolish methods that one can do but it doesn't go the way she planned it. When she accidentally stumbles upon an underground party (Wish I would too. Ha!), she finds a passion in DJ'ing and she finally starts to feel as if she belongs but will that last long enough?
I had read so many mixed reviews about this book, so I was quite apprehensive at first. Also, I felt that book started pretty horribly. I immediately wanted to put it down, infact I was ready to DNF it but I just read to give a couple of more pages before I put an end to it. Thankfully I did so because as everything proceeded, I began enjoying this book.
"Don't you ever want to have just one thing that no one else knows about, so no one can ruin it for you?"
Eliza was a flawed character. She was so desperate to fit in, that she forgot to be herself. Which is definitely the most important thing. #LifeLessonkids. Anyway, she didn't even try to socialize but when it came to gaining popularity, she was ready to go down a horrendous path without thinking about the consequences. I was really angry with her character, in the beginning, I mean I understood but I still wanted her to stand up and face the problems head on but she always chose the easier way out.
"That's the problem with life. You never get enough time to stare at your ceiling and try to figure out what's going on."
Finally, when she stumbles upon the nightclub and discovers DJ'ing (that was accidental too, kind of) she begins to feel a certain amount of joy and passion about it.
It was from then onwards I could see the real Eliza. Among Pippa and Vicky, I definitely loved Vicky. She didn't judge and was really a good friend to Eliza. The romance aspect was little in this book and kind of weird, I didn't like Char at all, he was all kinds of wrong, especially for Eliza. She deserved so much better.
"Throughout it all, you are still, always, you: beautiful and bruised, known and unknowable."
Anyway, I loved how the book escalated. Eliza DJ'ing was one of the best parts of this book. She finally finds herself. And I loooooved the parents!! And how supportive they were of Eliza and protective at the same time.
Overall, This Song Will Save Your Life was a fun and quick read. The plot could have been a little better but I enjoyed the execution nonetheless. Also, I enjoyed Eliza's character growth throughout the whole book. She was not exactly rude but too guarded and DJ'ing bought out the real her. I loved the friendship aspect of this book too and what Eliza did for Vicky!! The writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book.
Review: NSFW by Piper Lawson || A fun and sassy read!
Title: NSFW
Author: Piper Lawson
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Expected Publcation: October 16th, 2017
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Being bad never felt so good…
The office is full of rules. Everything is off-limits. Making a charity calendar of the sexy guys on your floor? Not allowed. Shrinking your boss' underwear when he sends it for dry-cleaning? Can't do that either.
But those things keep the natural balance. See, Avery Banks, our resident rising star, is a shark. The tall, blond, and gorgeous kind with zero patience and even less forgiveness.
Good thing I'm the Mae West of executive assistants. I live to put grown men in their place.
He wasn't supposed to find out…
Now he's made it his personal vendetta to screw me the way I screwed him. I'm at his beck and call, 24/7, for every humiliating, meaningless request.
Until we stumble on a new game. One we both want to play. One we both need to win.
And once we start…I'm not sure Avery wants to replace me.
I'm not sure I want him to.
All I want is more of this. The fire under the ice. What happens behind closed doors.
It's twisted and so damn hot. But he's my boss. And with the company coming off a scandal even I couldn't engineer? What we're doing is strictly NSFW.
Lucky for me, Avery and I have one thing in common…
We both suck at following the rules.
I was really looking forward to reading Avery and Charlotte's story since I read PLAY a year ago. Charlotte managed to grasp my attention from that very book and to see her full in action was a treat!
Charlotte aka Charlie has been notorious in the department of pulling pranks in her office, especially upon her boss for quite some time without his knowledge but the tables turn when Avery finds out. They have always been on the opposite poles but the chemistry between them becomes undeniable as each day passes. Will they be able to get over their respective boundaries and have something together?
The plot was pretty fun to read! I haven't read enemies to friends book for some time now and this was a solid read considering it as one of the tropes I love. Charlie's job gets in danger when Avery, her boss finds out what she has been doing behind his back. I didn't like Avery from the glimpse we were given in PLAY but here we get to see a new side of him and he slowly grew on me. Their constant banters and Charlie's sassy remarks were so fun to read. Also, I loved the chemistry between their characters. The romance although not completely slow-burn but was quite similar and I enjoyed it even more. Though Avery's phobia of relationships seemed like a typical cliche, though I didn't mind it much.
One of the things I love about Piper's books are her female characters, they are pretty awesome! Not only they are sassy and beautiful but they have the ability to do something rather than just sprout meaningless words. Charlie was no different. And on top of that, she had a mischevious side to her which was a bonus and added a layer to her character. I really enjoyed Charlie's growth throughout the book, she is someone who has a job but isn't satisfied in her role, throughout the book we see her challenge herself and finally do what she wanted to do and find a purpose in life!
Overall, NSFW was a quick and a fun read and it didn't take me much time to gobble it up! The plot although a bit cliched was executed neatly and I enjoyed every bit of it and the characters were the most fun to read about. I loved the romance between the two main leads and I enjoyed seeing glimpses of my favourite characters from the previous book. The writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I definitely look forward to reading more books by this author.
So guys, what do you think about this book? Is it something you would pick up? have you read any other book by this author?
Review: The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon || Where the universe failed me, epically
Title: The Sun Is Also a Star
Author: Nicola Yoon
Page Count and Format: 344 pages, Paperback
Published: November 1st, 2016 by Corgi Childrens
Natasha: I'm a girl who believes in science and facts. Not fate. Not destiny. Or dreams that will never come true. I'm definitely not the kind of girl who meets a cute boy on a crowded New York City street and falls in love with him. Not when my family is twelve hours away from being deported to Jamaica. Falling in love with him won't be my story.
Daniel: I've always been the good son, the good student, living up to my parents' high expectations. Never the poet. Or the dreamer. But when I see her, I forget about all that. Something about Natasha makes me think that fate has something much more extraordinary in store – for both of us.
The Universe: Every moment in our lives has brought us to this single moment. A million futures lie before us. Which one will come true?
After reading Everything, Everything which I adored very much, this book was rather a letdown. But there were still some parts that I enjoyed, so I decided not to make this review long but write a simple line review with what I liked and disliked instead!
Basically, Natasha along with her family is being deported to Jamaica as they are illegal immigrants and Natasha holds onto the one tiny bit of a hope to stop the deportation. She doesn't want to leave her life, her friends behind in the US. In that one fateful day, she meets Daniel and somehow their worlds collide. Will they be able to have a future or will their first day together be their last?
What I liked:
The diverse representation. Our main leads, Natasha is Jamaican and Daniel is Korean. Whereas Natasha loves science and facts, Daniel is the complete opposite, a foremost poet whose imaginations knows no bounds.
The immigration representation. Both Natasha and Daniel are immigrants. The only difference is Natasha's family came illegally and thus are being forced to go back after the truth gets revealed in front of officials. Natasha's desperation and struggle felt real and also the official problem of immigration was handled realistically.
Usually, the middle portions of many books lag behind but I surprisingly found myself enjoying that very part in this book. Though I was not a fan of the beginning or the end.
The coincidences were rather sweet. Sometimes they were a bit too obvious but I found myself enjoying those.
The insta-love didn't bother me much but I didn't end up enjoying it either.
What I didn't like:
The narration. The way the story is narrated made it much more hard to like it and connect with the story and some parts felt like a complete bore.
Daniel was okay but I found Natasha a bit annoying sometimes. Overall, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. Although there were some aspects I liked but mostly the characters failed to make its mark on me.
I completely felt irritated with both Natasha's family members as well as Daniel's. Whereas Daniel's family members were simply prejudiced and didn't like anything other than their culture, Natasha's parents didn't even try understanding her, especially her father who was a complete failure at his role as a father.
Daniel's brother who gets a special mention because I've never met a complete asshole like him before! I just didn't understand his purpose in the story. I wanted to hit him with a frying pan! Also, his relationship with Daniel was a complete mess, although did try but a relationship can't be mended from only one side.
The ending felt weird. Simply weird. I mean what was that?!!! I was so not satisfied with the abrupt ending, I wanted more from it but alas, I didn't get that satisfaction either.
Basically me after finishing this book. Also, I love my bias!
Overall, The Sun Is Also A Star was an okay read. I felt the story had more potential but it fell flat for me. I didn't enjoy the plot or the characters much. I couldn't connect with the writing and the pace felt unstructured throughout the book.
So guys, have you read this book yet? What did you think about it?
Review: Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia || Where everything was so freaking relatable!
Title: Eliza and Her Monsters
Author: Francesca Zappia
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Mental health, [Young-Adult]
Published: May 30th, 2017 by Greenwillow Books
Eighteen-year-old Eliza Mirk is the anonymous creator of Monstrous Sea, a wildly popular webcomic, but when a new boy at school tempts her to live a life offline, everything she's worked for begins to crumble.
Scott Westerfeld's Afterworlds meets Nimona in this novel about art, fandom, and finding the courage to be yourself. Features illustrations by the author throughout. Perfect for readers of Rainbow Rowell's Fangirl, this is the second novel by the acclaimed author of Made You Up.
In the real world, Eliza Mirk is shy, weird, smart, and friendless. Online, Eliza is LadyConstellation, the anonymous creator of a popular webcomic called Monstrous Sea. With millions of followers and fans throughout the world, Eliza's persona is popular. Eliza can't imagine enjoying the real world as much as she loves her digital community. Then Wallace Warland transfers to her school, and Eliza begins to wonder if a life offline might be worthwhile. But when Eliza's secret is accidentally shared with the world, everything she's built—her story, her relationship with Wallace, and even her sanity—begins to fall apart.
This book was so serious freaking relatable, in so many ways. Although some parts were predictable yet this book did not fail to surprise me in numerous ways and I enjoyed the ride throughout the book!
In real life, Eliza is a shy and quiet teen who mostly prefers staying in her room rather than going out but online, she is a sensation. Eliza is the anonymous creator of a successful web comic known as Monstrous Sea. Her life shakes up a little when a new guy joins her school who she surprisingly finds a huge fan of her comic. But when her anonymous life clashes with the real one, will Eliza be able to bring back sanity in her life?
Relatable characters!
I seriously freaking loved this book so much! The plot of Eliza and Her Monsters was refreshing although a bit predictable but I loved how everything was executed. Eliza is a pretty famous person online being the creator of a successful web comic in contrast to her real life. Eliza simply loves creating and her comic, Monstrous Sea is read by people all over the world.
"I made Monstrous Sea because it's the story I wanted. I wanted a story like it, and I couldn't find one, so I created it myself."
And it's not limited to that, there are fan-fictions and even merchandise in accord of her comic. But to avoid being too anxious about everything, being anonymous helped a lot. I sooo could understand that.
Adorable romance!
I really enjoyed how the story took its turn when Wallace enrolls in Eliza's school. Things start changing for her, especially after she finds out he is a huge fan of her comics. Wallace also has selective mutism, another great rep! Anyway, he is such an adorable character, a perfect combo of a nerd and jock! And I loved his passion for writing.
"You found me in a constellation."
Eliza and Wallace's friendship starts off awkwardly but turns into something beautiful. They truly understood each other and balanced each other out. The romance as predicted was really adorable too!!
Positive Internet rep!
And, hands off to the internet rep in this book! Many parents, including mine, don't agree that internet friends are real friends. They don't even have an idea how much wrong they are. I found my freaking best friend on the internet, someone who understands me more than my real life friends but try telling my parents that! And this front was so much relatable because Eliza's parents pretty much think the same way but they didn't realise how much precious her online relationships were. I LOOOVED the relationship Eliza had with her online group which included Emmy and Max and the three of them were of different age groups, it really showed how age didn't really matter when it comes to friendship. Also, the representation of parents was reeeally done well. I could relate so freaking much. Again. And I really loved that although they didn't totally understand Eliza and they promised to try and that's what counts the most.
Mental Illness represented right!
During the last quarter of the book when Eliza's life exploded after her real identity got revealed, it really did a number on her. Kudos to the accurate representation of anxiety in this book. It's really well done.
"There is a small monster in my brain that controls my doubt.
The doubt itself is a stupid thing, without sense or feeling, blind and straining at the end of a long chain. The monster though, is smart. It's always watching, and when I am completely sure of myself, it unchains the doubt and lets it run wild. even when I know it's coming, I can't stop it."
I thought the revelation was going to be pretty soon in the book as it's given in the blurb but it happens pretty much during the end. Anyway, although things got too much for her, she was still brave and I admired that so much. It took a lot of courage after what she did next and I was cheering for her till the very end. She couldn't have done it all without the support of her friends, family and Wallace. The ending didn't fail to bring a smile on my face.
Eliza and Her Monsters was a pretty awesome read. The plot although predictable was executed neatly and I fell in love with the characters. I loved the romance between Eliza and Wallace and I really wanted more! The writing was beautiful and smooth and the pace was even throughout the book. I am definitely looking forward to reading more by this author!
So guys, what are your thoughts on this book? Did you enjoy it or is it still in your tbr?
Review: Boomerang Boyfriend by Chris Cannon || Enjoyable but same old, same old
Title: Boomerang Boyfriend
Author: Chris Cannon
Expected Publication: September 11th, 2017 by Entangled: Crush
Working with her best friend's brother at Betty's Burgers, free-spirited Delia starts to see Jack in a new light. Not only has Jack-the-Jerk turned into a hottie, he's even acting like a nice guy, who rescues dogs and knows how she likes her coffee. But if Jack is into her, then why is he keeping her a secret? Of course, if her best friend doesn't approve, Delia could lose the only family she's ever known.
Seeing Delia in her retro waitress uniform throws Jack's world out of whack. She's always been just another pain in the butt little sister…not a datable female. But she's rockin' the Pie Princess tiara, and even her hot-pink striped hair is sexy. What's that about? He needs to get his head on straight because artsy, funky Delia and her nonconformist ways don't fit in his safe and ordered world.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains kisses that make the world fall away and snarky humor that may cause you to LOL in public places.
Guys. *huge pause* I think I am getting over Contemporary YA (and dystopia too). *sad face* Because lately, I haven't read any book in that genre that I reaaaally enjoyed. Anyway, back to this review, Boomerang Boyfriend was definitely an enjoyable read though were some aspects that bothered me.
Delia and Jack have always been at the opposite ends of each other. Jack has always seen her as his sister's annoying best friend and Delia too saw Jack the same way until she begins to work in the same place as Jack's where she finally gets to see a whole different side of him. Both of them feel the chemistry between them but they are both afraid to take a step forward. Will they be ever able to have something real?
The plot of Boomerang Boyfriend, although enjoyable was too predictable. Delia and Zoe have been friends forever and she has been a part of that family for as long as Jack remembers. Delia has mostly seen the jerk version of Jack but when she starts working as the Pastry Princess where Jack works as well, they both begin to see each other in a different light. Their perspective towards each other change.
I liked Delia's character but sometimes her attitude bothered me, especially towards Aiden. It felt like just because he wasn't interested in her, she treated him poorly, even after knowing the truth. He truly trusted her and she did keep that trust but still, I was bothered by the fact how she simply blamed him and didn't try to understand his situation. I dunno, it felt weird. Anyway, Jack was a really sweet guy but he really took his time in deciding what he wanted and kept running away! And his over-reaction towards Delia's secret of Aiden's showed how he didn't trust her, it felt too much at times though I was glad when he managed to make up to her, I enjoyed the chemistry between those two. Though again, Zoe's reaction was too much when she learned about their relationship. Anyway, I enjoyed how the everything was wrapped up at the end.
Overall, Boomerang Boyfriend was a good read. The plot was executed neatly and I liked the romance between Jack and Delia. The writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book.
So guys, what are your thoughts on this book? Are you looking forward to it?
Review: Carry On by Rainbow Rowell || Where my feelings turned into a mushy gushy mess!
Title: Carry On
Author: Rainbow Rowell
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, LGBT, [Young-Adult]
Published: October 8th, 2015 by Macmillan
Simon Snow is the worst chosen one who's ever been chosen
That's what his roommate, Baz, says. And Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he's probably right.
Half the time Simon can't even make his wand work, and the other half, he sets something on fire. His mentor's avoiding him, his girlfriend broke up with him, and there's a magic-eating monster running around wearing Simon's face. Baz would be having a field day with all this, if he were here – it's their last year at Watford School of Magicks, and Simon's infuriating nemesis didn't even bother to show up.
Carry On is a love letter to love stories and the power of words – to every 'chosen one' who ever had more on their mind than saving the world…
This book was my 3rd Rainbow Rowell read and I looooved it so freaking much!! Though I wish I would have bought this book a little later because the new cover is sooo amazing and beautiful!! You would already know this if you have read Fangirl, Carry On originally started as fanfiction by the protagonist Cath in Fangirl and I enjoyed the snippets of the story so much while reading that book and I was so freaking excited when this came out as whole story instead (not anyway related to Fangirl). Anyhooo, this book was really a ride I won't ever forget!
Simon Snow has to deal with a lot being the chosen one and everything becomes more chaotic in his life with his girlfriend breaks up with him and he realises he has feelings for his enemy, Baz! And then there's the Humdrum who has been after Simon since forever and his mentor has been keen on avoiding him for the last few months. With everything going on, how will Simon face the ultimate challenge when he comes face to face with the truth?
Credit: Source
This book was a blast! I think I decided to pick it up later because of the similarities with Harry Potter. And I could see why other reviewers were saying so but I only felt that only felt during the beginning of the book because a whole new story develops as the plot proceeds. Though I definitely have to say it's a book heaven for Drarry shippers! Anyway, let's come back to the plot! Simon Snow is the chosen one, destined to be the greatest mage of all times and the one to be able to defeat the Humdrum. But his life isn't that simple, although he is the chosen one he is not able to control his magic and he sometimes just "blows off" when things become too hard to handle. This book definitely started off strong and managed to keep my interest throughout the book.
Simon is just an adorable mushy character and I loved him to death! Although Baz, his roommate who he doubted was a vampire and he was his mortal enemy, still Simon was worried sick when he didn't show up when the term started. I was so giddy with excitement, I could see how much he cared for Baz with realising it himself. The only complaint I have is that I really wished Baz would have shown up much earlier, it would have been awesome to see more of their bantering it was really hilarious at times and laced with humour.
#Basicallythewholebook XD Credit: Source
Carry On was divided into multiple POVs, though it mostly consisted of Simon's voice, it was pretty interesting to read other POVs too, especially Baz's though I really didn't understand the need to include Agatha's POV because her chapters were bland and boring just like her personality. Her sudden crush on Baz and then suddenly realising he was bad and childish, I didn't quite understand her change of feelings. Simon's obsession, well not quite obsession but the thing he had with Agatha was quite weird too because it was so clear they didn't have any true feelings for each other but were just together because it was perfect in everybody's eyes and Simon's urge to have Agatha back in her life was extremely weird. Again. That's the only time I wanted to shake him hard enough until those thoughts flew out of his pretty brain. Though I think it was because he saw things the same way as everybody else and did not realise his true need until he got out of that relationship and began to see things differently with the help of a certain someone. *Ahem!*
On the other hand, Penelope was a great character. She reminded me of Hermione and she was quite fun to read about, I loved the friendship she shared with Simon and from the very start, you get the feeling that it's a kind of friendship that lasts a lifetime, maybe even more. Anyway, Baz's chapter were the ones I loved the most! He had a wicked sense of humour and for the first time, I didn't feel irritated when he was doing the exact opposite of what he was feeling because I understood where he was coming from and gosh ALL THE FEELS!! I was silently cheering when they finally started working together to solve a particular case and thus, the actual journey between them started. The chemistry between them was GAAAH!!! Too much, too good! And when they finally kissed, my feelings were everywhere, I had to re-read that particular page a couple to times to make sure it was really happening because it caught me off-guard, I definitely hadn't expected that to happen but OMG, it was just sooo good!
The plot twist was another thing which caught me off-caught and it was definitely was one of the wow factors of this book because yep, did not see that coming either! I really loved how the entire thing with the Humdrum was executed, it definitely made things more intriguing. Also, the thing with the mage and Lucy's POV were interesting enough to keep me glued to the pages. But the spells stuff was quite silly though, I would have enjoyed that part more if there was a different yet a unique aspect to that part. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed how the things were tied in the end, although it was a little bitter sweet, I was completely satisfied with the ending!
Overall, Carry On was a freaking fantastic read! The plot was executed neatly and I fell in love with the characters. I soooo loved the romance between Simon and Baz which left me wanting for more. The writing was quirky and fun to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I really needed this book in my life, I seriously didn't think I would enjoy it this much but it was so worth it!
So guys, have you read this book yet? What did you think? Did you love it or was it just meh for you? Or is it still waiting in your tbr?
Review: When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon || Love in an unexpected arrangement
Title: When Dimple Met Rishi
Author: Sandhya Menon
Heat Rating: Slightly warm
Published: May 30th, 2017 by Simon Pulse
Dimple Shah has it all figured out. With graduation behind her, she's more than ready for a break from her family, from Mamma's inexplicable obsession with her finding the "Ideal Indian Husband." Ugh. Dimple knows they must respect her principles on some level, though. If they truly believed she needed a husband right now, they wouldn't have paid for her to attend a summer program for aspiring web developers…right?
Rishi Patel is a hopeless romantic. So when his parents tell him that his future wife will be attending the same summer program as him—wherein he'll have to woo her—he's totally on board. Because as silly as it sounds to most people in his life, Rishi wants to be arranged, believes in the power of tradition, stability, and being a part of something much bigger than himself.
The Shahs and Patels didn't mean to start turning the wheels on this "suggested arrangement" so early in their children's lives, but when they noticed them both gravitate toward the same summer program, they figured, Why not?
Dimple and Rishi may think they have each other figured out. But when opposites clash, love works hard to prove itself in the most unexpected ways.
This was such a cuuuute read! I went into this book with no expectations because I sooo freaking afraid it wasn't going to live up to my expectations, I didn't want to get my hopes up despite the raving reviews everywhere. There were ups and downs but in the end, this book won me over and I absolutely fell in love with it!
Dimple wants nothing more in her life than to go to Insomnia Con, a web developing convention which would be judged her by icon this year and when her parents agree, she's over the moon. Of course, there's a catch, she finds out she is supposed to meet her "future husband" aka Rishi when she reaches there. Although she wants nothing more than to focus on her career and when they are paired on the same team, they are forced to work together. Dimple finds out Rishi is not so bad either and a friendship is formed between the two which slowly develops into something more. But they are two people on the opposite pole, would love be enough to hold them together?
This book is seriously so cute! The plot was cliched but it was executed perfectly! And so many things were relatable! Dimple Shah has her life figured out, she is so passionate and an independent girl who wants to build a career for herself before anything else. Love and marriage are the farthest thoughts on her mind, unlike her mother who wants her to find the ideal husband. She is bewildered when Rishi comes sauntering in and declaring his eternal love for her. It was seriously hilarious!! And that was an epic entry! XD I couldn't stop laughing!
The competition in the Insomnia Con was also handled realistically because it showed how most probably things actually would have happened. Dimple's parents especially her mom sometimes felt too overbearing about the marriage and finding the ideal husband thingy, I know she meant well but sometimes I just wanted her to stop. Thank goodness my family isn't like that, at all otherwise I would have gone crazy! 😂😂 But I did love how her father encouraged her later on and Dimple's confidence boosted up.
"It was his damn fool heart. Ever optimistic, always looking for a sliver of sunshine in a sky clotted with thunder clouds."
The friendship between Dimple and Rishi evolved with time and I seriously adored them. Rishi was gone from the moment he met Dimple but it took some time for Dimple to see what was really in front of her. Rishi was such a hopeless romantic and I kind of loved that aspect about him but he put his family's words first instead of his dreams. And even though Dimple encouraged him to face the reality and follow his dreams, I understood where he was coming from because I have been there and unlike him, I didn't have the luxury to move forward with my dreams (although I am counting on the future…). Rishi was a gentleman and completely swoon-worthy! He was definitely a success in wooing Dimple with his ways and c'mon who wouldn't with his awkward charm!
The thing with Rishi's brother, Ashish and Dimple's roommate Celia felt too sudden and random. Also, sometimes Dimple's decision irked me but seriously, Rishi was so patient and understand! Anyway, I loved how the arranged marriage was treated in a positive light.
Overall, When Dimple Met Rishi was a really fun read! I loved how the plot was executed and I fell in love with the characters! I simply loved the romance between Dimple and Rishi and how adooorable they were together! The writing was beautiful and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I can't wait to read mooore by this author!!
So, guys what are your thoughts on this book? Did you enjoy it as much as I did or was it just meh for you?
Review: Just Friends by Tiffany Pitcock || Blog Tour || Where my heart struggled to be only friends
Welcome to my tour stop of Just Friends by Tiffany Pitcock hosted by Xpresso Book Tours. You can view the full tour schedule here.
Title: Just Friends
Author: Tiffany Pitcock
Published: August 1st 2017 by Swoon Reads
Source: I received an eARC of this book for the blog tour in exchange for an honest review.
A new spin on the classic smart-girl-and-bad-boy setup, this witty contemporary romance shows how easily a friendship – even one built on an elaborate lie – can become so much more.
Jenny meets Chance for the very first time when she is assigned as his partner in their Junior Oral Communications class. But after they rescue a doomed assignment with one clever lie, the whole school is suddenly convinced that Little-Miss-Really-Likes-Having-A's and the most scandalous heartbreaker in school have been best friends forever. It's amazing how quickly a lie can grow―especially when you really, really want it to be the truth.
With Jenny, Chance can live the normal life he's always kind of wanted. And with Chance, Jenny can have the exciting teen experiences that TV shows and movies have always promised. Through it all, they hold on to the fact that they are "just friends." But that might be the biggest lie of all.
Debut author Tiffany Pitcock delivers a spot-on depiction of first love and the high school rumor mill in Just Friends, chosen by readers like you for Macmillan's young adult imprint Swoon Reads.
Just Friends was one of my most anticipated books for this year. Although I was terrified at the first 5% and thought it wouldn't meet my expectations but surprisingly in the end it did. I ended up falling in love with this book and Chance and Jenny's story.
When a class assignment brings Chance and Jenny together, they are both surprised how they are able to create a fake story about both of them in minutes to ace that class. And with the fake story starts their fake friendship which doesn't take much time to turn into something more. But Chance doesn't do relationships and Jenny is altogether new to these growing feelings. When fake starts to turn real, what will they do?
The story starts off with Chance and Jenny paired off in a class assignment where they quickly take a different turn and surprisingly their fake story comes out flawlessly. The plot although slightly clichéd was definitely enjoyable. Though I have to admit I did not quite enjoy the first 5-10% of the story because I didn't like how their friendship started with a fake past when in reality that was the first day they actually talked to each other. But soon enough I found myself falling in love with their story. Their fake friendship slowly turns into a real and strong one which I adored so much. It was clear how much they cared for each other. But the thing that felt off was how everybody believed their fake story so easily, I mean those two characters interact all of a sudden and they tell everybody they have been bffs for life and nobody even bats an eyelash, it was damn unrealistic.
Anyway, both Chance and Jenny were genuine characters but not devoid of flaws. I seriously loooved Chance so freaking much. He went through a lot at home, his parents were constantly fighting and his big brother left him in their mercy. But he didn't show that part of his life to anyone except Jenny. I loved how much he trusted her to show her that vulnerable part of his life and I loved how Jenny welcomed him to hers. I loved how their story started off as best friends before that feeling turned into something much more. I loved their chemistry together and I sooo wish they would have confessed their actually feelings instead of going round and round about it. Some parts were seriously hilarious and I enjoyed it so much!
But there were a few things I didn't like about Jenny, she was a great character but sometimes her decision were simply too bad. Somewhere deep down in her heart she knew having a relationship with Drake wasn't something she wanted but she still went for it when she heard Chance didn't do relationships. I especially hated the moment when she realised she was in love Chance but instead of talking it out with him, she decided to do the deed the very next moment with Drake (who I didn't like for a single moment) to get over it. I mean seriously?!! And another thing was how she completely forgot about her actual best friend, Kelsey who had been there for her for years. Kelsey knew how much reserved Jenny was and although she didn't mind much, I hated the fact that she stopped hanging out with her since Drake and Chance stepped into her life. I seriously loved Kelsey, she was such a great friend and defended Jenny when the whole thing blew up, I seriously need a book about her!
Overall, Just Friends was a great read. The plot was executed neatly and although there were ups and downs in the story, I fell in love with it. I loved Chance and Jenny together so much. But the ending felt rushed, another chapter or an epilogue would definitely had been a great addition. Nonetheless, the writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the whole book. I am definitely looking forward to read more by this author.
23. Writer. Reader. Sarcastic.
I was born and raised in Arkansas, which isn't terribly exciting. I've wanted to be a writer for as long as I can remember. I used to sit in class and write stories in my notebooks, thinking that everyone did. It turns out, everyone didn't. I love writing because it means I'm putting my thoughts, feelings, and soul out there for someone else to read – for someone else to feel. The fact that someone can read my words, and empathize with my characters – characters that wouldn't exist with out me, that I created from my mind – is such a wonderful concept to me. I could happily write for the rest of my life as long as there was one person out there who was affected by my words.
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Tour-wide giveaway (US/CAN), ends August 10th: Print copy of Just Friends by Tiffany Pitcock.
So guys, have you picked this up yet? What are your thoughts on this book? Is it in your tbr?
Review: Mirror Me by Tara St. Pierre || Creepy and intriguing
Title: Mirror Me
Author: Tara St. Pierre
Genre: Paranormal, [Young-Adult]
Hannah McCauley doesn't look at herself in the mirror anymore.
After a rebellious past, she now attends a strict private school in a new town, where her recently divorced mother has put her on social lockdown. No driving. No bad grades. No skipping classes. No unapproved friends. No makeup. No boys. And the subject of her best friend from her old school is definitely forbidden.
Hannah is being punished for something that happened a year earlier, something that she would like to put behind her. But strange occurrences frighten her, and she's accused of breaking rules and doing other terrible things without any recollection of them. No one believes her, so she starts distrusting everything, even her own reflection.
Is she being haunted by her past? Stalked by someone with a grudge? Or is it all in her head? If she doesn't figure out what's happening fast, her existence could end up irreparably shattered.
I had read the author's debut novel, Just a Few Inches (you can read my review here) and absolutely fell in love with it, so when she asked me to review her 2nd book, I jumped at the opportunity. Although this book didn't manage to wow me, it was still an enjoyable and a creepy read and like her first book, a moral to understand and learn for ourselves.
After a particular incident that totally changed Hannah's life, her mother doesn't trust her and neither does she trust herself anymore. But soon strange things start happening which is out of her control. She can't remember things and she is afraid to look into her mirror. When all hell breaks loose, will Hannah be able to save herself in time or will she be lost forever?
The plot was pretty intriguing and the mystery aspect was maintained well throughout the book. Hannah is being punished by her mother she committed a year ago, she has her on high alert and even little things make her mother angry. She, herself can't get over the past incident due to which she had to change school and completely change herself. As we read the book, we get glimpses of Hannah's past from which we can understand that she was a completely different and notorious person from whom she is now. Although the author kept referring to the "past incident" throughout the entire book, it isn't until the very end that the actual truth is revealed, so that was a bit repetitive indeed.
What intrigued me the most was when the strange things begin happening to her. She would wake up and find her things placed in different spots than she did last time and not remembering specific incidents. It was obvious that there was definitely something to do with the mirror and hence the title. This book definitely had its creepy moments and I was really concerned for her but as the story proceeded, it didn't take much time for me to solve the riddle about why everything was going on which did dampen my enthusiasm a little, making it a bit predictable but it was still a fun read.
I enjoyed the other minor characters and the parts they had to play. Although Grace came up as a little bit too stuck up at first but when Hannah needed her help, she was there, though it did feel a little weird how everybody accepted the situation so easily. I wanted more of Cole which unfortunately Hannah didn't get much either but he was a sweet character! On the other hand, I seriously didn't like her mother, I knew she had to face things because of her but she didn't try to understand her or cut her some slack but I did enjoy how everything wrapped up in the end.
Overall, Mirror Me was an interesting read. The plot could have been a little more fleshed out but it was executed neatly. The writing was beautiful and smooth and the pace was even throughout the book. I can't wait to read more by this author!
So guys, what are your thoughts on this book?