#BookReview Sula's Voyage by Catherine Torres

Sula's Voyage
by Catherine Torres

Genre: Adventure, Contemporary, Fantasy, Young Adult
Publication:  May 2016 by Scholastic
Format: Paperback, 226 pages
Source: Author, Publisher
Connect: Website | Facebook | Goodreads

Fifteen-year-old Sula has always known she is different. Even though her parents have shown her nothing but love and acceptance, she sees her dark skin as a reminder of how she doesn’t fit in with the rest of her family.

What’s worse is she also feels that her parents are hiding something from her. After getting expelled from school, Sula reluctantly goes to stay with her mother’s friends. There she unexpectedly finds herself on a journey of self-discovery — a journey that keeps drawing her to the sea. Sula must not only figure our her parents’ secret, but also just how different, and possibly magical, she really is.

Sula has always been different than her parents. She often wondered why her skins are darker than her family. Because of her difference, it was hard for her to fit in with her schoolmates and the rest of her family. When Sula's father went away to further his career, Sula and her mother headed to Puerto Galera and stayed with her mother's friend. There, Sula began to learn about herself. What makes her different and special.

I enjoyed the book. The story flowed really well. I love the elements of fantasy and mystery in the book. I love Sula. She's one of the girls who always got bullied at school, and that made her stronger. I love the way Sula and her parent's dealt with the school. The side characters were really great and memorable. I especially love Pablo and Mira.

Sula's Voyage is definitely a page turner. I enjoyed reading about Philipines and its culture. The truth about Sula and her family was what I have expected, but still, I truly enjoyed Sula's adventure to self-discovery. 

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my review.

Review: Shadow Study by Maria V. Snyder

Shadow Study (Soulfinders #1)
by Maria V. Snyder 

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Magic, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: September 2010 by Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 424 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog| Facebook

Once, only her own life hung in the balance…

When Yelena was a poison taster, her life was simpler. She survived to become a vital part of the balance of power between rival countries Ixia and Sitia.

Now she uses her magic to keep the peace in both lands—and protect her relationship with Valek.

Suddenly, though, dissent is rising. And Valek’s job—and his life—are in danger.

As Yelena tries to uncover her enemies, she faces a new challenge: her magic is blocked.And now she must find a way to keep not only herself but all that she holds dear alive.

I was so excited to read this book. I mean, Yelena and Valek are back! How can I not get excited? I mean, I squealed when Valek made his appearance! At one point, I wanted to skip Spy Glass and begin with this book immediately. But I regret my decision almost instantly because I've been spoiled with what was going to happen in Spy Glass. So, I would strongly recommend anyone to read and finish the Study series as well as the Glass series before they began with this one.

In Shadow Study, Yelena found out that her magic was blocked after an attack. She went to search for the cure and learned that one of her enemies has escaped prison. It wasn't easy as whoever tried to harm her now targeted those who are important to her.

While Valek now faced a new assassin, Onora, who was after his job. And something strange has been going on with the Commander. He was assigned by the commander to find out about smuggles between Ixia and Sitia.

I was a bit confused to see that it was written in Yelena, Valek and Janco's point of view. I mean, I love them all, but it was a bit hard to keep track of what was happening. But it was interesting to see what was going on with Valek while he's not with Yelena. We get to see Valek's past and how he became an assassin. I love to see Valek and the Commander together.

Shadow Study was an amazing read. There are a bit of romance, politics, magic and a whole lot of exciting adventure. The plot was really good. I just can't wait for the next book and find out what will happen to the cast, especially with how the story ended. I can't say that I hadn't seen that coming, but it was still a surprise!

Review: Spy Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Spy Glass (Glass #3)
by Maria V. Snyder 

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Magic, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: September 2010 by Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 424 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog| Facebook

Opal Cowan had been willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to save her friends and rid the world of blood magic. Though she survives, she is forever changed…

Opal Cowan has lost her powers. More than that, she is now immune to magic. Opal is an outsider looking in, spying through the glass on those with the powers she once had, powers that make a difference to the world and were her whole world…

Until spying through the glass becomes her new power. Suddenly, the beautiful pieces she makes flash in the presence of magic. And then she discovers that someone has stolen some of her blood and that finding it might let her regain her powers. Or learn if she’s lost them forever…

I love the Glass series. I mean... Opal Cowan may not be the perfect heroine. She can be stubborn, reckless (most of the time) and she drove me crazy with her decision in almost everything she did. But Maria V. Snyder's writing is very good. I just can't stop once I started the book, The book was exciting (especially since I got to see Valek again). And I need to know what will happen to Opal after she lost her magic and what happen with the blood magic.

Spy Glass definitely didn't disappoint me. The plot was exciting, thanks to Opal recklessness. I love how Opal has gotten stronger since the first time she appeared in the Study series. And I'm glad that a few familiar characters in the Study's series were making their appearance. 

I was quite shocked to see who Opal ended up with. I wouldn't say that I like her choice, but well... it wasn't so bad. Overall, this was an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend this series to fantasy fans.

Review: Fire (Graceling Realm #2) by Kristin Cashore

Fire (Graceling Realm #2)
by Kristin Cashore

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: January 25th 2011 by Firebird
Format: Paperback, 528 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Twitter

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.

This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she had the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.

Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom.

If only she weren't afraid of becoming the monster her father was.

I love Graceling and was excited to read Fire. The book was set up earlier than Graceling in a world where monsters and humans mixed with Fire as the last human monster who had the power to control minds. Although Fire was a prequel to Graceling, it can easily be read as a stand alone.

I love Fire. She was strong, a bit stubborn and insecure about her power. It was good to see her character development. I enjoyed the story, although, the story did confuse me a bit at the beginning. The author did a really great job with writing world of monsters. There were a few twists that I didn't expect to see and shocking secrets between the characters. What I didn't really like about the book was the casual sex between the characters. In my opinion, there were just too much. Kinda makes me wonder why the book was targeted for young adults. 

But still, Fire was a great companion to Graceling. I have to admit that I love Graceling more than Fire, but they're both great stories with great heroine.

Review: Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder

Sea Glass (Glass #2)
by Maria V. Snyder

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: July 1st, 2010, by Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 379 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog | Facebook

From one-trick wonder to wielder of terrifying powers.

Not bad for a student.

Glass magician Opal Cowan’s newfound ability to steal a magician’s powers has made her too powerful in the eyes of the council… Despite being under house arrest, Opal travels to the Moon Clan’s lands in search of Ulrick, the man she thinks she loves. Thinks because she is sure another man, now her prisoner, has switched souls with Ulrick.

In hostile territory, without proof or allies, Opal isn’t sure whom to trust. She can’t forget Kade, the handsome Stormdancer who doesn’t want to let her get close. And now everyone is after Opal’s special powers for their own deadly gain…

I was really excited to read this one. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, Storm Glass. But I wanted to read the Study Series first before I continue with the Glass Series. I can't wait to see what was going to happen to Opal with her new magic power. 

Wow! Maria V. Snyder never failed to amaze me with her writing. I was fascinated with the magic within her books. It was hard to put down the book once I picked it up, even though the beginning was a bit slow. But the story was great. Although, I wish to see a little bit more about the sea glass.

Sea Glass was definitely a great read. There were lots of suspense, action and romance as compared to the first book. It was exciting to see some of the characters from the Study Series in the book. And the ending! It was a bit shocking to see how the book ended, but I liked it. I can't wait to see what's going to happen to Opal next.

Review: Exposure by Kathy Reichs

Exposure (Virals #4)
by Kathy Reichs & Brendan Reichs

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Science Fiction, Young Adult
Publication: April 10th 2014 by Arrow
Format: Paperback, 432 pages
Source: Own
Connect to Kathy: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Tory Brennan - great niece of Dr Temperance Brennan - and the Virals return for their most terrifying adventure yet.

Morris Island has barely had a chance to return to normality after the high profile trial of the Gamemaster, when two local students seem to vanish into thin air.

Tory Brennan and the Virals pack, move quickly in their attempts to discover what has happened to their twin classmates. But the pack's canine powers are growing wilder, and it is becoming ever harder to conceal the secret which protects them.

When Tory and her friends find evidence of blood in the students' basement, they realise that the disappearance is no game.

But in order to save the twins, the Virals must risk the exposure of their powers, and in doing so put even their own lives in terrible danger.

I’m excited to see what the Virals are going to face this time. In Exposure, the Virals relationship has changed, since the last event with the Gamemaster, especially between Tory and Ben. It was fascinating to see how the Virals are going to get back together as a pack. 

I must admit that I wasn’t really intrigued by the case of the missing classmate at first. But, the writers did a great job in building the plot. I am excited to see the Virals back with another adventure and danger. Their powers are getting stronger and harder to control. I’m very happy to see Chance Claybourne. He made the story much more interesting. He just won’t stop until he finds out the Virals’ secret, to prove his sanity. 

I have to say that Kathy and Brendan Reichs did a really great job in writing this book. Exposure is packed with excitement! It was very hard to put down the book. I need to find out what happen to the Virals. I love Tory and the Virals. Hi and Shelton never disappoint to humor me. Exposure ended with a brilliant cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read the next book! 

Review: Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder

Fire Study (Study #3)
by Maria V. Snyder 

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: May 2009, by Mira Books
Format: ebook, 284 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog | Facebook

When word that Yelena is a Soulfinder--able to capture and release souls--spreads like wildfire, people grow uneasy. Already Yelena's unusual abilities and past have set her apart. As the Council debates Yelena's fate, she receives a disturbing message: a plot is rising against her homeland, led by a murderous sorcerer she has defeated before....

Honor sets Yelena on a path that will test the limits of her skills, and the hope of reuniting with her beloved spurs her onward. Her journey is fraught with allies, enemies, lovers and would-be assassins, each of questionable loyalty. Yelena will have but one chance to prove herself--and save the land she holds dear.

Fire Study is the third book from Study series. In the previous book, Yelena found out that she is a Soulfinder, who was able to capture and release soul. Yelena must find a way to catch Ferde, a Soulstealer who had escaped in the previous book. As Yelena’s future is being decided by the council, she found out that a plot to take over Sitia, by a group of Warpers. But it won’t be easy for Yelena as the council and the First Magician, Roze, were against her. 

I love this book, although not as much as the first one. But I just can’t put down the book. I need to know what will happen to Yelena. I wanted to see more Valek, Ari and Janco. These characters were the reason why the series was much more entertaining. There were lots more action and excitement in this book, especially towards the end of it. Fire Study was very well written, with great plot and character development. I was sad to see that the series has ended. The series was fun and I don’t want to see it end. But then, I found out that there will be another three books coming out soon. I just can’t contain my excitement. I just can’t wait!

Review: The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

The Testing (The Testing #1)
by Joelle Charbonneau

Genre: Adventure, Dystopia, Young Adult
Publication: June, 2013
Format: ebook, 336 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Who will be chosen to lead? The best...the brightest...the deadliest? There will be a testing. In the wake of the Seven Stages War, the government of the Unified Commonwealth devised The Testing to assess the instinct, intellect and sheer nerve among a select group of the population's young people. Candidates who pass, attend the University to become leaders of the Commonwealth; civilization's hope to transform a post-war wasteland into a peaceful and technologically advanced society. But progress comes at a price. Mechanically-inclined Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a candidate but on the eve of her departure, her father confides partial memories of his grisly experience as a candidate, still haunted by nightmares and living in fear of what he can't remember. It's not enough to pass the test, Cia will have to survive it "and "her deadly fellow candidates. To stay alive Cia will have to learn who she can trust and, if necessary, who she must kill.

Cia Vale was happy to be chosen for The Testing so that she can go to the University. No one knows much about The Testing. Even Cia’s father, a graduate, didn’t remember much about the test. But once Cia was chosen for the test, he told her about his nightmares and warned Cia to be really careful. 

The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau reminds me of the Hunger Games, and I’m sure a lot of readers had compared the two books. I love this book. Once I read it, I just couldn’t stop until I find out what was going to happen next. I think that the testing parts were very exciting. I enjoyed reading about what the government had prepared for the test.

Cia, the main character was great. She’s humble and intelligent. Although did sound a little too perfect. It was like she had a six sense to get everything right. I wished that there were more interaction between Cia and the other characters, because I would love to know them as well. 

But still, The Testing was written brilliantly. I just can’t wait to see what will happen next to Cia and the others in the next book!

Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder

Magic Study (Study #2)
by Maria V. Snyder

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: November, 2007 by Mira Books
Format: ebook, 284 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog | Facebook

So far, I've managed to survive. You would think after being kidnapped as a child, imprisoned in my teens and released to become a poison taster, I would have endured enough. But no. The discovery of my magical abilities--powers forbidden in Ixia--has resulted in an execution order. My only chance is to flee to Sitia, my long-lost birthplace.

But Sitia is unfamiliar. I'm treated like an enemy--even by my own brother. Plus I can't control my powers. I want to learn about my magic, but there isn't time. A rogue magician has emerged and I'm targeted as his next victim.

Will my magical abilities save me...or be my downfall?

I love the previous book,  bought Magic Study as soon as I finished Poison Study. I just can’t get enough of Yelena, Valek and their friends. I couldn’t say that Magic Study was as good as Poison Study, but I still like it. Very much.

In this book, Yelena returned to her birthplace, Sitia after she was banished from Ixia. Yelena learned more about magic and how to control them from Irys, the fourth magician. Returning to Sitia means that she will be meeting her family for the first time since she was kidnapped. Her reunion, however, was not as she had expected. Her brother didn’t exactly welcome her return. 

The pace of the story was a bit slower than the first book. But it still has a very good storyline. I wasn’t too excited to see Yelena separated with her friends in Ixia, but it was interesting to see Yelena in a new environment. I was excited to see how Yelena reunited with her family. Her family members (especially her cousins) are very interesting. Yelena made a few more friends in Sitia (and a few more enemies). The new characters (I love the moon man and Kiki) made the story much more exciting, but I am so happy to see Valek, the Commander, Ari and Janco reappearance. 

If you enjoyed the first book, Poison Study, you'll definitely want to read Magic Study.

Review: Thunder by Bonnie S. Calhoun

Thunder (Stone Braide Chronicles #1)
by Bonnie S. Calhoun

Genre: Adventure, Dystopia, Fantasy, Young Adult
Publication: September 30th, 2014
Format: ebook, 432 pages
Source: Netgalley
Connect: Facebook | Twitter

In post-apocalyptic America, Selah Chavez is crouched in long grass on a shore littered with the rusted metal remnants of a once-great city. It is the day before her eighteenth Born Remembrance, and she is hunting, though many people refuse to eat animal flesh, tainted by radiation during the Time of Sorrows. What Selah's really after are Landers, mysterious people from a land across the big water who survive the delirium-inducing passage in small boats that occasionally crash against the shoreline. She knows she should leave the capture to the men, but Landers bring a good price from the Company and are especially prized if they keep the markings they arrive with.

Everything falls to pieces when the Lander Selah catches is stolen by her brothers--and Selah wakes up the next morning to find the Lander's distinctive mark has suddenly appeared on her own flesh. Once the hunter, Selah is now one of the hunted, and she knows only one person who can help her--Bohdi Locke, the Lander her brothers hope to sell.

With evocative descriptions of a strange new world that combines elements of scientific advances, political intrigue, and wilderness survival, Bonnie S. Calhoun weaves a captivating tale of a world more like our own than we may want to admit.

On the day before her eighteenth Born Remembrance, Selah Chavez went hunting and found a Lander. She captured the Lander for money, but her capture was stolen by her brothers. When Selah woke up the next morning, she saw the Lander’s mark on her, forcing her mother to tell her the truth about who she really was. Now, Selah must run from her former life, if she wanted to live. And the person who can help her was Bodhi, the Lander she had caught.

I thought that Thunder by Bonnie S. Calhoun had a promising start. I do like the idea of the book. The plot sounds good. And Selah can be a good character, even though she can be childish at times. But the story was a bit too slow and too long to my likings. The plot was a bit messy. It was a bit confusing at times and I was not sure what was going on. I have to reread a few scenes a few times to understand what was going on. There was supposed to be a bit of romance between Selah and Bodhi, but I thought that the romance was going on too fast. There wasn’t much attraction between them, except for physical attraction. It was kinda disappointing, but, I’m sure that the book could have been better with more editing.

I received the copy of the book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder

Poison Study (Study #1)
by Maria V. Snyder

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: November, 2007 by Mira Books
Format: ebook, 284 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Blog | Facebook

About to be executed for murder, Yelena is offered an extraordinary reprieve. She'll eat the best meals, have rooma in the palace—and risk assassination by anyone trying to kill the Commander of Ixia.

And so Yelena chooses to become a food taster. But the chief of security, leaving nothing to chance, deliberately feeds her Butterfly's Dust—and only by appearing for her daily antidote will she delay an agonizing death from the poison.

As Yelena tries to escape her new dilemma, disasters keep mounting. Rebels plot to seize Ixia and Yelena develops magical powers she can't control. Her life is threatened again and choices must be made. But this time the outcomes aren't so clear...

I’ve previously read Storm Glass, and wanted to read the Study series before I continue with the next book. I instantly fell in love with the poison study, and I didn't want to put down. I loved it. This book was brilliant.

Yelena was to be executed for murder. She was offered to be a food tester for the Commander of Ixia or face her punishment. The chief of security, Valek fed her with a poison called, Butterfly Dust, so that Yelena cannot run. To survive, Yelena must take her daily antidote, or die from the poison.

I love Yelena. She’s a kick ass heroine. It was interesting to see how Yelena tried to stay alive in Ixia since there are a few people who wanted her dead. The other supporting characters made the story much more interesting. The chemistry between Yelena and the other characters was awesome. I fell in love with the characters and I just can’t get enough of them.

This book wasn’t what I was expecting. The plot was absolutely amazing. There was a bit of romance in the book that turned my fangirl switch on. I thoroughly enjoyed the book that I immediately purchased the next book of the series to find out what was going to happen to Yelena and the others. I highly recommend this book! 

Review: Rain by Amanda Sun

Rain (Paper Gods #2)
by Amanda Sun

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: June 24th, 2014
Format: Paperback, 304 pages
Source: Own
Author:  Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

American Katie Green has decided to stay in Japan. She's started to build a life in the city of Shizuoka, and she can't imagine leaving behind her friends, her aunt and especially Tomohiro, the guy she's fallen in love with. But her return is not as simple as she thought. She's flunking out of Japanese school and committing cultural faux pas wherever she goes. Tomohiro is also struggling—as a Kami, his connection to the ancient gods of Japan and his power to bring drawings to life have begun to spiral out of control.

When Tomo decides to stop drawing, the ink finds other ways to seep into his life—blackouts, threatening messages and the appearance of unexplained sketches. Unsure how to help Tomo, Katie turns to an unexpected source for help—Jun, her former friend and a Kami with an agenda of his own. But is Jun really the ally he claims to be? In order to save themselves, Katie and Tomohiro must unravel the truth about Tomo's dark ancestry, as well as Katie's, and confront one of the darkest gods in Japanese legend.

I love, love, love the cover! It's beautiful! 

Rain is the second book from Paper Gods series. I love the first book, Ink. It was a fun read featuring Japanese culture and mythology. I love the relationship between Katie and Tomo, which sounded a bit like the romance in shoujo manga. 

I think Rain was a bit different than Ink, but it was still as interesting. I love how Katie and Tomo’s relationship grew in Ink. But learning about more mythology, the gods and the power in Rain interest me more. Amanda Sun made the Ink world sound fascinating, yet, very dangerous. I enjoyed watching how Tomo learned to control the ink and how Katie finally discovered her connection with the ink.

What I like about the book was the balance between the Ink world, the romance and Katie’s life in Japan. I love that the writer wrote how Katie struggled to keep up with her study, and learning kanji. At least I know that Katie wasn’t miraculously smart in school. The supporting characters in the book made the book more interesting. I love Katie’s aunt, and Katie’s friend, Yuki and Tanaka. I wish there were more of them.

I just cannot wait to see what will happen to Katie and Tomo on the next book. If you enjoyed Japanese culture and mythology, you will love this book.

Review: A Curse of Kings (The Trials of Oland Born) by Alex Barclay

A Curse of Kings (The Trials of Oland Born)
by Alex Barclay

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Young Adult
Publication:  January 31st 2013
Format: Paperback, 427 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Facebook

 Fourteen-year-old Oland Born lives in dark times, in a world ruled by evil tyrant, Vilius Ren. Vilius and his fearsome, bloodthirsty army have wrecked the prosperous kingdom of Decresian, once ruled by good King Micah. Oland himself has been kept as Vilius’s servant in grim Castle Derrington, and he knows little about his past – or why Vilius keeps such a sharp, close eye on him.

One night, Oland finds a letter addressed to him, from the long-dead king. No sooner has he read the message than a mysterious stranger tries to kidnap him. Oland runs, the dead king’s warning ringing in his ears…

If Oland is to live he must restore the shattered kingdom. This is his quest. This is his curse. Let the trials of Oland Born begin. . .

I’m not sure what made me pick up this book from the book store. I guess, the blurb kinda attracted me. A Curse of Kings started with King Micah being betrayed by Villius Ren. Years later, Oland Born, a servant to Villius Ren was introduced. It was said that Oland was born on the night that King Micah was overthrown with a note from his mother that said she’ll be back for him someday. One night, Oland found a letter addressed to him from the late King Micah, instructed him to run.

I didn’t have much expectation when I start reading this book. There weren’t a lot of reviews for it when I purchased the book, so, I didn’t know what to expect. 

The first part of A Curse of Kings was a bit too long and draggy. My sister started the book, and DNF at page 90++ because of this. But if you were a bit patience, you will find that the second part was way better. I enjoyed the adventure, and the friendship between Oland and Delphi. There story building was quite good. The characters and the supporting characters were great. There were a few twists that I did not expect at the ending. I kinda like the story and will definitely read the second book (if there’s any).