Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #1: Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare

Oh yes. My choice of the best YA novel in 2013. I miss it so much. And I'm still having withdrawals of it.

The first place belongs to:

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare

Synopsis:

Danger and betrayal, secrets and enchantment in the breathtaking conclusion to the Infernal Devices trilogy.

Tessa Gray should be happy – aren't all brides happy? Yet as she prepares for her wedding, a net of shadows begins to tighten around the Shadowhunters of the London Institute.

A new demon appears, one linked by blood and secrecy to Mortmain, the man who plans to use his army of pitiless automatons, the Infernal Devices, to destroy the Shadowhunters. Mortmain needs only one last item to complete his plan. He needs Tessa. And Jem and Will, the boys who lay equal claim to Tessa's heart, will do anything to save her.

***

Date Read: March 20, 2013

Review: 

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/03/clockwork-princess-review.html

My Rating: 11 10/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It: (This is going to be hard, as I love every single thing about it)

1. How it links to other Shadowhunters series

Oh yes. One of the most powerful sources of the feels. I'm not going to explain the details of those links because they will be huge spoilers. But as much as it gives me massive amounts of heartbreak, it's completely brilliant and awe-inducing. There are no words.

2. The ending

The bittersweet ending. It's hard to explain the feelings I have for the ending. To say it vaguely, it's the best ending I've ever read. To say it in detail, well... it's really sad and mind-blowing, knowing that your favorite characters are dead already for several decades (since the ending sets in 2008, no spoilers included, cuz this is officially announced by Cassie). But it's a very nice ending for all the characters that we've grown to love because they get the closure that they want. It's very hard to write this kind of ending, but Cassie did it. And I really love it.

3. The love between Tessa, Will and Jem

Like Tessa said, it might sound mad. But there's no lack of love between the three of them. They're inseparable. It was always the three of them. And it will always be. Yes, it's a love triangle. But for the first time. No jealousy, no ugly emotions between them. Only love and care for each other. I don't understand how Cassie write this kind of relationship and make it one of the best things in the world. There are no words to describe the goodness of the three of them.

4. Cecily and Gabriel

The two of them are awesome and hilarious together. Cecily, new to the Shadow world. And Gabriel, torn between family duty and righteousness. And they collide like two perfect puzzle pieces clicked together. They make the book so much lighter and fill it with happiness. Which is kind of what I need when I read it. Well, intense is nice, but a touch of lightness makes the world a better place.

5. Parabatai

Will and Jem. The two of them will do anything for each other (well, almost anything. Depends on what that thing is). No need to say more. They're just too good to be true.

***

Why I like this book/series:

Okay, am I seriously going to do this? Yes. I love the whole series, and I suggest everyone to try it.

1. It's set in 1878, London (Victorian Era)

Set in Victorian London? This series is destined for greatness. I always have a soft spot for Victorian London because it's like the golden era of London and great stories evolved constantly. And Shadowhunters, in Victorian London? It's like the best thing ever.

2. The series is centered on the ancestors of The Mortal Instruments and The Dark Artifices' characters.

A glimpse of a family's past. This alone is fascinating enough. Not to mention we get to see Jace's, Clary's Alec's ancestors! It's mad cool. The best part is that their ancestors are very likable (I don't have a better word) too (well, most of them at least). 

3. The link between series

Especially the one between The Infernal Devices and The Mortal Instruments. It's mind-blowing, and the wait for an answer is excruciating. The link is addicting like that. You can't miss that one, especially if you are reading both the series.

4. A touch of literature

Okay, maybe not just a touch. I'm totally not an expert on British literature. But I think they're really beautiful. And the fact that the series itself is based on a classic makes everything so much better.

5. Ducks

The hatred for ducks has evolved since I read Clockwork Angel. It's always the best part in the series. Never trust a duck.

There are just so many good things in The Infernal Devices. But I'm not going to list all. Read it yourself. It's one of the best series.

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes:

1. The whole epilogue

See point 2 from Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It. Oh and then there's a certain ex-Silent Brother present. Best closure ever.

2. The cave scene

Ah, a Tessa/Will scene. Well, if you recall, in this year's YA Crush Tourney, Cassie promised us a short story written in Will's point of view about the cave scene if Will won the final round. He didn't. But that's not the point. I'm DYING to read his perspective concerning the cave scene!!!!!!!!!!! Hot, sweet, emotional, and completely perfect. I love the scene.

3. The Measure of Love (Chapter 24)

The whole chapter is filled with joy. And I really need some joy in the series. Like I said, intense is nice, but a touch of lightness makes the world better.

***

OTP:

OTP means One True Pairing. But this is not a pair.

Because my OTP is:

Will/Jem/Tessa.

***

P.S. Tomorrow is the last day of 2013. And it's time for listopia!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #2: Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Oh, I'm still having withdrawal from this book. It's the one of the best ending ever!

The second place belongs to:

Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Synopsis:

It's a beautiful day for a war.

As the mortal world slowly slips into chaos of the godly kind, Alexandria Andros must overcome a stunning defeat that has left her shaken and in doubt of their ability to end this war once and for all.

And with all the obstacles between Alex and her happily-ever-after with the swoonworthy Aiden St. Delphi, they must now trust a deadly foe as they travel deep into the Underworld to release one of the most dangerous gods of all time.

In the stunning, action-packed climax to the bestselling Covenant series, Alex must face a terrible choice: the destruction of everything and everyone she holds dear… or the end of herself.

***

Date Read: November 3, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/11/sentinel-review.html

My Rating: 10/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. Seth's sanity is back

Finally! You have no idea how much I want the real him be back! Even though he's always a punk, I still like him. I'm so happy to see him back on Team Good/Team Not So Insane

2. Titan

Yep, a mother-freaking Titan. And one hell of a badass Titan. Damn, I wish I can see more of them in Sentinel. But hey, we'll see them in Seth's spin-off series. So that kind of makes it up. Nice twist, Jennifer.

3. Aiden

Well, Covenant series won't be Covenant series with Aiden here, right? In Sentinel he finally opens up completely. And it's beautiful. I miss him so much along with Alex. They're one of the best couples ever. (I guess I don't even need to list how awesome Aiden is, right? That's understood XD)

4. The ending

Ah, the comfort and sadness of the closure. Since it's the ending, I won't spoil you on it (that is, unless you've read the book, then you wouldn't need any spoiling). But I couldn't drop my satisfied and happy grin on my face when I first read that part. I still can't drop the grin whenever I re-read the part. :) I'm so sad the series is over. It's one of the best I've read so far.

5. Apollo

Yes, the surprisingly annoying god. I kinda like that guy, even though sometimes he's just so annoying I have to roll my eyes. (Sorry, Apollo. But it's the truth. Please don't strike me with a god bolt) He's funny and a little smart-mouthed. He makes the series infinitely more interesting. 

***

Why I recommend this book/series:

A lot of people say that Half-Blood is kind of like a Greek-gods version of Vampire Academy. And I can't deny it. It's a little sad, to be honest. But even though Half-Blood is like a make-over of Vampire Academy, I still think the characters are completely likable. And throughout the Covenant series Jennifer develops her own story (at least, according to some fans who read both the sequels of Vampire Academy and Covenant series. I didn't finish VA). And if you are asking my opinion, the story is badass and awesome. The humor, the romance, the stakes... they're like a magnet for brilliance. It's a series that can't be missed. The series will just get better and better until it ends with a glorious bang.

P.S. About the VA part... well, please don't hit me. But after I finished the first book, I just couldn't get on with it. And that has nothing to do with any other series that even remotely resembles VA in any way. Guess I'm just not a fan of academies (except Mythos Academy, which is pretty nice, especially the students and the creatures are like a mix of all kinds of mythological legends)

***

Do I like the cover?

I have mixed feelings about the cover. If you are judging by the beauty of it, it's quite good but it's a little bit plain. But if you are judging by the meaning of the cover, it's brilliant. The silver tulip. And tulip means eternal love. You get the rest :)

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes: (Beware Spoilers)

1. The ending

Duh, this is like one of the best endings ever. How can I not like it?

2. The Alex/Aiden scene after Alex is free of the creepy hold of the two sons of Ares.

I don't like crap standing in a relationship's way. So I like confessions. At least the truth is out and the road is clear.

3. Killing Ares

It's glorious. Literally. And surprisingly hilarious. That humor lasts... until a certain tragedy happens. But the killing part is still awesome.

***

OTP:

Duh. Alex and Aiden of course!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #3: Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Aha! This is one hell of a controversy. Some said that it has the best ending. Some said that it's not and it's unnecessary to end it like this. Some said that it's heart-breaking but at least the characters have their kind of closure they need. I'm more of the third type. And this book, however hard the ending is for us to accept, is still pretty good.

The third place belongs to:

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Synopsis:

The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories.

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love.

Told from a riveting dual perspective, Allegiant, by #1 New York Times best-selling author Veronica Roth, brings the Divergent series to a powerful conclusion while revealing the secrets of the dystopian world that has captivated millions of readers in Divergent and Insurgent.

***

Date Read: October 23, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/10/allegiant-review.html

My Rating: 9.5/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. The ending

Yes, you heard me right. A lot of fans doesn't like the ending but I do. I get that why they don't like it because they think it's unnecessary for... um, a certain death to happen. I don't like deaths either, but as much as it's heartbreaking, I really like it. It shows completely what this series really is about: courage, love and ultimate sacrifice. 

2. The truth

Not that the truth is exceptionally explosive. Because genetically alteration is nothing too explosive. But it's unexpected, and that's good enough. I like unexpected things.

3. Nothing is as it seems

When you think the world outside Chicago is better than the world inside no matter what, the danger the characters encountered has proven them wrong. And there are a hundred other things that are not what we're expecting them to be. And I'm a girl who loves uncovering secrets underneath layers of faux goodness.

4. Digging deeper into the characters' hearts

In Allegiant, we know more about the characters internal fears and strength. Tris' fear of her love ones getting hurt, Tris' sacrifice. Tobias' fear of being not good enough, and his determination to make it right... We know so much more about them in Allegiant. I'm tired of seeing only one side of a character.

5. Christina

Christina is actually my favorite character in Allegiant. She's been so strong for both Tris and Tobias when they're going through their hard times. I'd love to have her as friend.

***

Why I recommend this book/series:

Easy. The factions, the dangers, the sacrifices... It's just an excellent model for a dystopian novel. Especially the first book, which is pretty awesome, as the whole concept of bravery dawns on Tris and us.

***

Do I like the cover?

The orange background seems a little odd first, but I've got used to it. The water is awesome.

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes:

1. When Tris and her friends finally escaped

I was all like, "Yes! Yes! Yes! Finally! Let's go outside and see what it really is!".

2. The ending

Like I said, this ending brings closure the characters need. Loss is hard, but this mends our hearts.

3. Various heart-to-heart scenes between Tris and Tobias

Yes, their confession is endearing, especially when they're clearing out nasty stuff standing between their relationship.

***

OTP:

None

Reason: I like Tris/Tobias, but this time they ticked me off a little too much. 

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #4: Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Ooh, another book from one of my favorite authors of all time! And this is a sexy one.

The fourth place belongs to:

Origin by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Synopsis:

Daemon will do anything to get Katy back.

After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. Taking out anyone who stands in his way? Done. Burning down the whole world to save her? Gladly. Exposing his alien race to the world? With pleasure.

All Katy can do is survive.

Surrounded by enemies, the only way she can come out of this is to adapt. After all, there are sides of Daedalus that don’t seem entirely crazy, but the group’s goals are frightening and the truths they speak even more disturbing. Who are the real bad guys? Daedalus? Mankind? Or the Luxen?

Together, they can face anything.

But the most dangerous foe has been there all along, and when the truths are exposed and the lies come crumbling down, which side will Daemon and Katy be standing on?

And will they even be together?

***

Date Read: August 28, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/08/origin-review.html

My Rating: 9.5/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. How Daemon and Kat still manage to be humorous in an organization as crazy as Daedalus

Yes, this talent of theirs is jaw-dropping. I mean, after a series of "tests", crazy stuff, torture, watching your love being tortured and all the things that normal people never see, and they still manage to be a little light about it, at least on the surface? It's admirable.

2. Humor

Jennifer takes humor to a whole new level here. I'm not gonna spoil you here because there will be no fun if you don't read the book yourself. But the book had me grinning from ear to ear by the time I ALMOST finished the book (almost, because the ending... is unnerving)

3. Craziness

Unimaginable craziness. Daedalus' ways to torture, Daedalus' final goal, And the Luxen's final goal... it's just unfathomable how Jennifer can put all these crazy stuff together without seeming too awkward.

4. Daemon!

Of course, we need our swoon-worthy, sexy, cocky, caring, sweet, and a hundred other stuff Daemon here. The book will not be the same without Daemon here. <3 <3

5. The twists

You will never guess what will happen next in Origin. Every time you think you grasp a clue about what might actually happen, Jennifer will surprise you with another result. Yep, by the time I finish the book, all I can think about is, "why is this happening!? You can't end it like this!!!"

*** 

Why I recommend this book/series:

The whole Lux series is awesome. Starting from Obsidian. You can't help but fall in love with our main protagonist, Katy, and the cocky, sexy Daemon. And the whole alien concept is kinda new, not because this series is about aliens, but because of the uniqueness of how Jennifer portray this concept. And with each book, the levels of craziness just keep ascending. Onyx is the start of all the crazy poop hitting the fan, and then Opal is the sort-of peace before Origin, and now Origin is the catalyst of the big bad final battle... the series just keeps getting better and better. I wonder what will happen in the final book, Opposition. Anyway, the series is just plain awesome. You should really try it out, like right now.

***

Do I like the cover?

Hell yes I do! It's sexy and hot. And it's very different from the previous three books. The shades of the sky are lighter, much lighter than the previous three books, except the background is like the start of an apocalypse, unlike the natural backgrounds in the previous books. So yeah, it's different, and it's hot.

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes: (Beware Spoilers!)

1. Daemon and Kat's reunion in the Daedalus (Chapter 10)

Reunion tastes the sweetest. More so when Daemon and Kat reunites :)

2. The Wedding Scene (Chapter 25)

It's like the best thing in the world. So yeah, that explains it all.

3. Daemon's proposal (Chapter 24)

This one has me going all fangirl crazy:

“I want to spend every second, every minute, every hour with you.” Part of me couldn’t believe something that cheesy had come out of my mouth, but it was also so beautifully true. “I want a year’s worth of seconds and minutes with you. I want a decade’s worth of hours, so many that I can’t add them up.” -- Daemon

That explains it all. I just freaking love this book.

***

OTP:

Duh. Daemon and Kat!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #5: The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa

For some reason it's hard to believe I'm announcing my top 5 choice of YA novels this year! This is one that has me gone to withdrawl for... about 2 months or so.

The fifth place belongs to:

The Eternity Cure by Julie Kagawa

Synopsis:

Allison Sekemoto has vowed to rescue her creator, Kanin, who is being held hostage and tortured by the psychotic vampire Sarren. The call of blood leads her back to the beginning—New Covington and the Fringe, and a vampire prince who wants her dead yet may become her wary ally.

Even as Allie faces shocking revelations and heartbreak like she’s never known, a new strain of the Red Lung virus that decimated humanity is rising to threaten human and vampire alike.

***

Date Read: March 17, 2013

My Review: 

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-eternity-cure-review.html

My Rating: 9/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. Red Lung's Evolution

As if the original Red Lung Disease isn't bad enough, a certain crazy vampire modified it into a virus that attacks vampires and humans alike. It just takes dangerous to a whole new level.

2. Jackal

He's infuriating. But he's very funny and surprisingly noble, even though he will never admit it. So yeah, I'd love to see more Jackal in The Forever Song.

3. Zeke!!!

One of my favorite characters in all YA series of all time. He's stronger and more mature in The Eternity Cure. But he's still sweet, caring, and loyal. He's just too good. I hope... well, I have a theory about what happened to him at the end of The Eternity Cure. I just hope that one way or another, Zeke and Allie will be together.

4. Blood-soaked, brutal, heart-stopping

No exaggeration whatsoever. It's a little hard to catch a breath while reading this book because... well, I can't explain it without revealing too many spoilers. You'd have to read it yourself. I promise you will be awed.

5. Kanin

Yes, he's finally back. He's mysterious and brooding. Sometimes I really wonder if he has feelings for Allie (I will always ship Zeke/Allie. But it's an interesting guess). But no matter what, I'm very glad that he's back to action.

***

Why I recommend this book/series

The series is awesome. First, vampires are not pretty things who are loyal anymore. Their heart's ugly. They are monsters, predators who wants and needs blood. They are, FINALLY, vampires. And then there's the concept of Red Lung Disease leading to the rabids, which is both terrifying and fascinating. And then there are vampire cities, post-apocalyptic violence. And then there's a rumored place called Eden, where there are no vampires or rabids. It's bloody, terrifying and awesome at the same time. A perfect apocalypse for great stories.

***

Do I like the cover?

Not really. It doesn't show anything about the book itself. You wouldn't think this is a brutal book just by looking at the cover.

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes:

1. When Kanin finally gains his sanity and returns to Allie (P. 230-237)

It's very touching. And it's one of the few scenes that actually brings tears to my eyes (Though they don't fall down)

2. Starting over scene (P. 260-267)

Another heartrending Allison/Zeke scene. I swear the two of them are going to make me cry.

3. The stopping-Allie-from-killing-Stick scene (P. 292-294)

It's not very pretty, but for some reason I really like to read that scene.

***

OTP:

Allison and Zeke!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #6: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

I think Throne of Glass series has six books, right? And hard as it is to believe, the second book is already crazy as hell. I cannot imagine how much crazier will the series be in the following books.

The sixth place belongs to:

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

Synopsis:

An assassin’s loyalties are always in doubt.
But her heart never wavers.

After a year of hard labor in the Salt Mines of Endovier, eighteen-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien has won the king's contest to become the new royal assassin. Yet Celaena is far from loyal to the crown – a secret she hides from even her most intimate confidantes.

Keeping up the deadly charade—while pretending to do the king's bidding—will test her in frightening new ways, especially when she's given a task that could jeopardize everything she's come to care for. And there are far more dangerous forces gathering on the horizon -- forces that threaten to destroy her entire world, and will surely force Celaena to make a choice.

Where do the assassin’s loyalties lie, and who is she most willing to fight for?

***

Date Read: July 30, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/07/crown-of-midnight-review.html

My Rating: 9/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. Celaena Sardothien

When it comes to the assassin, almost nothing is unlikable about her. She's extremely smart, brave, and cares for those she loves very much. Though her loyalties might not be where people expected her to be, like the synopsis said, "an assassin's loyalties are always in doubt.". To top it all off, Celaena can definitely kick ass. She's kind of like a new generation of heroine.

2. The ending

Yep. The ending. It's freaking killing me! You can't just end it like that! And the most jaw-dropping part is, this is only the second freaking book and you already throw that cliffhanger to us. I can't imagine how crazy it will be in the second half of the series. But I always like a cliffhanger ending, even if it's killing me.

3. Chaol Westfall!

That's right. The captain. Sweet, loyal, and all the good stuff you can think of. Oh, how I ship Chaolaena. Except... it doesn't end well, so far.

4. There is no shortage of blades here

I love battles or duos or fights. And while I also love guns, my favorite is and will always be blades. Swords, daggers, you name it. And in a book like Crown of Midnight, There will also be blades. I mean, Celaena is an assassin, for crying out loud. 

5. (Spoilers) the whole Dorian-might-actually-have-magi thing

Yes, this just make the whole book more interesting. The king despises magic. And yet his son - his own son, with his own blood - can apparently use magic. Ironic. Really, truly ironic. I can't wait to see what will happen next for Dorian.

***

Why I recommend this book/series.

It's the whole series that I recommend, including all the prequel short stories. I read the prequels first before dwelling into the first book. It's slightly different from the main series. But no matter what, once you dive into the world of Adarlan, of how dark and corrupted it is, and how an assassin is fighting for her life, her parents and her freedom. It's almost impossible not to love this series. And when you actually start reading the main series...it's beyond fascinating. Incredibly dangerous. Read it, for you will not regret it.

***

Do I like the cover?

Hell yes. Celaena looks badass on the cover. And it's one of the top ten covers in 2013 of my choice. 

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes:

1. The Chocolate Cake Scene (P. 169-172)

No kissing involved. But that doesn't mean the Chaol/Celaena scene isn't sweet. 

2. The Rescue scene and the scenes following

Yet another fight scene. But hey, this is one of the best fight scenes in Crown of Midnight, and Crown of Midnight has plenty of good battle scenes. And the scene following is even better because of the surprise element. Though it breaks my heart, it's epic.

3. The Dance Scene (P.132-134)

Another Chaol/Celaena Scene. :) :)

***

OTP:

Chaol/Celaena of course!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #7: Light by Michael Grant

A brutal, bloody, and glorious (literally) last installment of the bestselling Gone series. Hmm... one of the best endings ever.

The seventh place belongs to:

Light by Michael Grant

Synopsis:

It's been over a year since all the adults disappeared. Gone.

In the time since everyperson over the age of fourteen disappeared from the town of Perdido Beach, California, countless battles have been fought: battles against hunger and lies and plague, and epic battles of good against evil. And now, the gaiaphage has been reborn as Diana's malicious mutant daughter, Gaia. Gaia is endlessly hungry for destruction. She yearns to conquer her Nemesis, Little Pete, and then bend the entire world to her warped will. As long-standing enemies become allies, secrets are revealed and unexpected sacrifices are made. Will their attempts to save themselves and one another matter in the end, or will the kids of Perdido Beach perish in this final power struggle?

Light, the sixth and final book in the New York Times bestselling Gone series by Michael Grant, creates a masterful, arresting conclusion to life in the FAYZ.

***

I feel a need to post all three trailers of Light, because they're just way too awesome to be true:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3: 

***

Date Read: June 14, 2013

My Review: 

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/06/light-review.html

My Rating: 9.5/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. The Glorious Ending... Literally

I don't want to spoil you guys. But the ending is radiant. Literally. It's... unbelievable.

2. Gaia

Yep, she... IT is a sick son of a bitch. But it takes brutal and bloody to a whole new level. And hey, Gone series is supposed to be brutal. So it's perfect.

3. Aftermath

What can I say? The aftermath is hilarious. And if you know me, you know that I love hilarious stuff.

4. The Last Battle

Chaos. Death, Slaughter. Kids from Perdido Beach fighting back. This is one of the best battles ever. 

5. The Breeze

Okay, Brianna is always awesome. But she, doing a certain drastic thing on Drake/Brittney creature? I seriously want to hug her and help her... zoom all the pieces of the Drake/Brittney creature around :)

***

Why I recommend this book/series:

It's not just Light. It's the whole series that I recommend. Gone starts with a boom. Like, how can you just say “One minute the teacher was talking about the Civil War. And the next minute he was gone. There. Gone. No 'poof.' No flash of light. No explosion.” without making anyone's jaw drop off? And after the massive disappearance, everything just gone crazy. And the apocalypse just gets crazier, bloodier in the following books. If you think The Hunger Games is brutal, you obviously haven't read Gone yet.

***

Do I Like The Cover?

It looks typical, but I actually like it. After all, we have Gaia on it!

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes: (Beware Spoilers)

1. This one:

Caine tried to roll to his feet, but something was jabbing him in the crouch. He shook off the stars and saw Edilio standing over him. Edilio had the business end of his automatic rifle in a very sensitive place.
"If you move, Caine, I will shoot your balls off," Edilio said. "Toto?"
"He will," Toto said, "Although he's not sure it will be just your balls.”

Well, this is one of the most hilarious scene ever :)

2. The End Game where Caine/Nemesis fights Gaia
It's glorious and very sad. After all, how can you make me like Caine again just to kill him!

3. Caine's letter to Diana
It's truly touching. I can't believe it's short. But it's heartbreaking

***

OTP:

Caine and Diana!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #8: The Iron Traitor by Julie Kagawa

Ooh. Another Julie Kagawa's book. She's one of my favorite authors of all time and I'm happy that her books astonish me once again!

The eighth place belongs to:

The Iron Traitor by Julie Kagawa

Synopsis:

In the real world, when you vanish into thin air for a week, people tend to notice.

After his unexpected journey into the lands of the fey, Ethan Chase just wants to get back to normal. Well, as "normal" as you can be when you see faeries every day of your life. Suddenly the former loner with the bad reputation has someone to try for-his girlfriend, Kenzie. Never mind that he's forbidden to see her again.

But when your name is Ethan Chase and your sister is one of the most powerful faeries in the Nevernever, "normal" simply isn't to be. For Ethan's nephew, Keirran, is missing, and may be on the verge of doing something unthinkable in the name of saving his own love. Something that will fracture the human and faery worlds forever, and give rise to the dangerous fey known as the Forgotten. As Ethan's and Keirran's fates entwine and Keirran slips further into darkness, Ethan's next choice may decide the fate of them all.

***

Date Read: October 10, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/10/the-iron-traitor-review.html

My Rating: 9/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. Unexpected Journey

Sorry I didn't mean to sound like the Hobbit. But seriously, this is one hell of an unexpected ride. Ethan, trying to get back to his semi-normal life when (again) some fey wants something from him? And not to mention the journey is full of action, blood and magic. You have no idea how many times I had to put down the book just to catch a breath.

2. Back to Nevernever... again

I really miss it, you know. It seems like I'll never get enough even after re-reading The Iron Fey series and The Lost Prince again and again. So yeah, it's so good to be back to the Fey world.

3. Cliffhanger Ending

Another killer cliffhanger, just like The Eternity Cure. Really, Julie, you are the expert of cliffhanger sequel endings. Now I'm dying to read the third book.

4. Ethan!

Okay, I won't say anything like he's cute or swoon worth or anything like that. Because he's far from that guy. But... well, let's just say I fell in love with him more right from the second I open the book.

5. More Dangerous

What I mean is that the Call of the Forgotten series is way more dangerous than the original Iron Fey series. Yes, The Iron Fey is pretty dangerous. But Call of The Forgotten? With the real world in the equation of dangerous? That's... there are no words to describe how thrilling it is.

***

Why I Recommend This Book/Series

Before you ask if I recommend the book itself of the series, I suggest you to read the original Iron Fey series first. Now, I think The Lost Prince is pretty good, but I can't help but get bored at some point in the story. However, there's no such thing as boring in The Iron Traitor. Whether they're plot twists are emotional ride, you just want more and more. And then it ends with a bang, leaving you "why the hell is the sequel one year away from us? I'm gonna die waiting for it!". A pretty awesome sequel, if you ask me.

***

Do I like the cover?

It looks a bit strange to me at first, because I always picture Keirran more angular and sharp. But then I've grown to like this cover, especially with those silver eyes (Ash!)

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes:(Beware Spoilers)

1. Ethan and his friends being chased by Ash (P.166)

I know this sounds absurd. But the whole Razor-calling-Ash-a-dark-elf thing is so funny.

2. The kiss scene (P.193-196)

Aww, Ethan and Kenzie. :3

3. The punch scene (P. 325-326)

Okay, I like Keirran. I truly do. But sometimes he's pissing even me off, let alone Ethan. And as sick as it sounds, I kinda like the fact that Ethan punch him. Multiple times.

***

OTP:

Duh. Ethan and Kenzie of course!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #9: Through The Ever Night by Veronica Rossi

Day 2! And this is a sequel of one of my top ten YA novels in 2012 which I love very much.

The ninth place belongs to

Through The Ever Night by Veronica Rossi

Synopsis:

It's been months since Aria learned of her mother's death.

Months since Perry became Blood Lord of the Tides, and months since Aria last saw him.

Now Aria and Perry are about to be reunited. It's a moment they've been longing for with countless expectations. And it's a moment that lives up to all of them. At least, at first.

Then it slips away. The Tides don't take kindly to former Dwellers like Aria. And the tribe is swirling out of Perry's control. With the Aether storms worsening every day, the only remaining hope for peace and safety is the Still Blue. But does this haven truly exist?

Threatened by false friends and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night?

In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and sci-fi elements to create a captivating adventure-and a love story as perilous as it is unforgettable.

***

Date Read: January 8, 2013

My Review:

http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/01/through-ever-night-review.html

My Rating: 9/10

***

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. It takes "blackmailing" to a whole new level

Bravo, bravo. This has to be one of the best blackmailing ever. It's not the technique that makes me cheer. It's the emotional brought forth. I hate, hate, HATE Hess so much for blackmailing a girl he himself exiled. It's just un-freaking-believable. And of course, the technique of blackmailing is very good too, otherwise it's hard to like it on just an emotional level.

2. Roar!

I really like Perry and Aria in Through The Ever Night because they show their character strength in their hardest times. But Roar is my favorite character in TTEN. He's so adorable and lovable. There are no words. You have to read it for yourself.

3. Stakes

It's probably an old thing to say, but it's true. Stakes are higher. Much higher than any of us anticipated. Yep, a dangerous streak in Through The Ever Night. Just how I like it.

4. The strength of love between Aria and Perry (There goes for Roar and Liv too)

Aria and Perry first (because they are my favorite couple in the trilogy). Even when people despise Aria, even when people doubt Perry, even when their hope to be together seems more impossible each passing second, they still believe each other. It's brilliant. Perfect.

Roar and Liv are so different from Aria and Perry in many ways, but in some ways their problems are the same. Separated, with no hope to get back together unless they rebel. They still cling to their love for each other. And both of them will sacrifice themselves to save each other. It's heartbreaking and touching at the same time

5. Aria

Aria, is my second most favorite character in TTEN. She's not the whiny girl in Under The Never Sky anymore. She's grown. Changed. And she's determined to survive. The strength of her has finally shone through. And it's radiant.

***

Why I recommend this book/series:

I like Under The Never Sky (otherwise how the hell would it make to my 2012 Top Ten YA Novels list?). But I admit that there are some significant flaws that even I can't skip. So I won't wholeheartedly recommend it to just about every YA readers. However I cannot say the same to Through The Ever Night. TTEN is just so much better than UTNS from the start. This book doesn't even take time to bullshit around just for a little while (Okay, I'm not saying UTNS is bullshiting around, but some of the other readers seems to think so...). Action and emotion mingle together into a colorful vortex. Damn, Through The Ever Night is nothing short of amazing. 

***

Do I like the cover?

It's okay. I like the one on Under The Never Sky more. I thought Perry was blonde... But the green sky seems dangerous and it fits the story. 

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes: (Beware Spoilers)

1. Aria and Perry's Reunion (Chapter 1):

One word: Adorable. I think that covers it all. :)

2. Aria and Liv's talk (Chapter 26)

Well, I'm not sure if I liked Liv before while I was reading Roar and Liv or the previous chapters of Through The Ever Night. But after this one... let's just say she's a strong and likable girl :)

3. Another Roar and Liv scene (Chapter 32)

It's heart-breaking. But it's one of the best scenes ever. 

***

OTP:

Are you seriously telling me to choose between Aria/Perry and Roar/Liv??? I simply can't!

Top Ten YA Novels 2013 #10: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

I'm very excited to present my top ten YA novels in the following days! Day 1 holds a special place. The tenth place is always the hardest to choose, because there are so many almost-as-good books peeking out in the eleventh, twelfth places!

And now, the tenth place belongs to:

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

Synopsis:

The fates of Cinder and Scarlet collide as a Lunar threat spreads across the Earth...

Cinder, the cyborg mechanic, returns in the second thrilling installment of the bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She's trying to break out of prison—even though if she succeeds, she'll be the Commonwealth's most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit's grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn't know about her grandmother or the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother's whereabouts, she is loath to trust this stranger, but is inexplicably drawn to him, and he to her. As Scarlet and Wolf unravel one mystery, they encounter another when they meet Cinder. Now, all of them must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen Levana, who will do anything for the handsome Prince Kai to become her husband, her king, her prisoner.

***

Date Read: February 7, 2013

My Review: http://smoking-hot-books.blogspot.com/2013/02/scarlet-review.html

My Rating: 9/10

Top 5 Reasons Why I Like It:

1. Merging the two stories together

I mean, how cool is that? Cinder and Scarlet, two strangers, encountered two different problems, collide together and WORK together? This ought to be one of the best plots ever.

2. The villains are playing their part well

Queen Levana. I like to refer her as the Master Bitch Queen. But I have to admit, she's a true villain. I hate her with all my passion. That is how a villain should be.

3. Captain Thorne!

Yep, Captain Carswell Thorne. He's really cute and lovable. And guess what? We'll see him star in Cress once again... with Cress!!! (Excuse me while I swoon)

4. Wolf!

Another impossibly adorable yet dangerous character. I really do love the relationship between Scarlet and Wolf. And I'm so happy that we'll see more Wolf-Scarlet in Cress.

5. Cliffhanger

It leaves me so hanged that I can't think of anything but Scarlet and what might happen in Cress in about... a week or so.

P.S. You might think this is not a lot of time, but considering my busy lifestyle in this freaking busy city, that's a helluva long time.

***

Why I recommend this book/series:

Actually, it's not just the book that I recommend. The whole freaking series is awesome. A world set after the 4th World War. Cinder, a mechanic with a life that is like a high-tech version of Cinderella. The change of her life is so similar to Cinderella's, only Cinder's fate is nowhere as good as Cinderella... And Scarlet, trying to find her grandmother, only to encounter a danger that can throw her world into chaos, and has to ally with someone she's never met before, and can possibly be dangerous... And their story collides. Like, freaking collides with sparks and burns and whatnot. This is dynamic. It's hard not to like this series because there's nothing I can't like.

***

Do I like the cover?

It looks a bit strange to me at first, but I've grown to like it. Though I have to say, Cress's cover is awesome.

***

Top 3 Favorite Scenes: (Beware spoilers)

1. When Wolf asks Scarlet what carrots are (Chapter 3)

This is one of the funniest scene ever. Scarlet, handing some carrots to Wolf, and Wolf asks what CARROTS are? Out of every vegetables? I couldn't stop laughing when I first read the scene, and I still can't stop snickering whenever I read this scene.

2. Chapter 46 (I mean the whole chapter)

Scarlet and Wolf! Nothing more is needed to be said. :3

3. Various conversations between Cinder and Thorne

Okay, that's not really a scene. But trust me, they're hilarious. Like this one:

A relieved grin filled up Thorne's face. "We're having another moment, aren't we?

"If by a moment, you mean me not wanting to strangle you for the first time since we met, then I guess we are."

*wink

***

OTP: Scarlet and Wolf!

P.S. Cinder and Thorne are a close second. But I know they will never, ever be an item :p

Announcement: Top Ten YA Novels 2013

The end of 2013 is coming soon. And of course there's the annual announcement: my top ten YA novels released this year!

List (arranged in order):

1. Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices #3) by Cassandra Clare [Rating: 11 10/10]

2. Sentinel (Covenant #5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout [Rating: 10/10]

3. Allegiant (Divergent #3) by Veronica Roth [Rating: 9.5/10]

4. Origin (Lux #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout [Rating: 9.5/10]

5. The Eternity Cure (Blood of Eden #2) by Julie Kagawa [Rating: 9/10]

6. Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #1) by Sarah J. Maas [Rating: 9/10]

7. Light (Gone #6) by Michael Grant [Rating: 9.5/10]

8. The Iron Traitor (The Iron Fey: Call of The Forgotten #2) by Julie Kagawa [Rating: 9/10]

9. Through The Ever Night (Under The Never Sky #2) by Veronica Rossi [Rating: 9/10]

10. Scarlet (Lunar Chronicles #2) by Marissa Meyer [Rating: 9/10]

What is your choice of novels this year? I'm curious to know!

P.S. My posts for these novels will be released starting from December 21, 2013 (UTC/GMT +8 hours). Stay tuned!