The Circle

The Circle by Dave Eggers

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


So I went on a bit of a reading hiatus, which I'm not very proud of if I do say so myself. That being said, The Circle re-inspired me to reenter the world of books.

The story starts with one Mae Holland earning a job at a company called the Circle (with the help of a favor from her former college roommate Annie). The campus of the circle seems like absolute perfection. There are top notch facilities for employee to utilize and even rooms where employees can spend the night if they just don't feel like going home. With numerous parties, there is no down time, and employees are expected to be as social as possible, zinging, commenting, posting, and sharing their experiences with those around them and with people who would otherwise be unable to do these activities. To withhold information and documentation about such an experience is considered selfish. When Mae meets the mysterious Kalden, everything is kicked up a notch...and to go further than that is to spoil the magic of The Circle, in my opinion.

I think what I loved so much about this book is that fact that it relates to society today. The online world is becoming one that takes up a good portion of my life as a teenager in public school. I'm going to college next year, and I use my phone and Facebook to keep in contact with those that I will be spending a lot of time with next year. After reading this book, let's just say that I was inspired to keep my phone out of reach a little more often and keep up face-to-face interaction with those around me. The experience of that can't be matched by a bright screen (as I sit here writing this review on a computer and talking on Skype with some friends I play League of Legends with...oops). In any case, this book made me take a second look at my life, the way I spend it, and also at the government and what's going on there these days...

Anyways, I highly, highly recommend this book to any readers looking for something more, something that will make them think. The Circle is more mature than what I have read in the past, and it was a very pleasant change of pace. Happy reading(:



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The Immortal Rules

The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Being that I was introduced to the world of Fantasy and Science Fiction YA books by vampires, I still have a soft spot for their stories. This made it easy and instinctive for me to want to read this book. That and the fact that it was written by one of my favorite authors. Many people believe that the vampire created and portrayed in so many ways that it's impossible for it to be unique any longer. Julie Kagawa took a risk by fighting these thoughts, and it sure paid off.

Let's get straight to the point here. These vampires are bloodsuckers, and they must feed on human blood for survival. No one sparkles, and they all monsters. But according to the very wise Kanin, "There will come a time when the road before you splits, and you must decide your path. Will you choose to become a demon with a human face, or will you fight to become a demon until the end of time, knowing you will forever struggle alone?"

Allison Sekemoto is an Unregistered living in the Fringe of a vampire city. The advantage of this is that she doesn't have to answer to any vamps or their pets, doesn't have to go to the regular bloodletting. This also means that she is not provided with food, and she resorts to living with a few other teenagers in a "gang" to scavenge for food and for survival.

One day when her gang leaves the boundaries of the city in an attempt to retrieve a large store of food, they are attacked by the ravaging rabids. As Allie lies dying as a result the assault, a vampire known as Kanin offers her a choice. Death, or death and another chance to "live." Of course she picks the latter, and the show must go on.

When Allison ends up on her own, she eventually joins a group of humans where her struggle to remain as human as possible begins. But she will always be a monster.

I don't want to spoil anything, since that wouldn't be fun for anyone, so I'll just say that this story is one to remember. The internal struggle is just as thrilling as the ever so present action scenes. The mechanics of living life as a vampire are flawless and completely unique, as well as the concept of creating rabids. The only aspect that I didn't like was the times spent traveling and searching for food. Although I know it's essential and needs to be included, I've read a bunch of books where that's all it consists of and now it will get on my nerves in the slightest doses. So most everyone else will likely not be bothered by this.

And, as always, I must make a comment on the leading man of the book. Ezekiel. Stay strong. The odds will be overcome...hopefully. If the sequel to this comes out on NetGalley, you can bet that I will be requesting it :).

Highly recommended.

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Clockwork Prince

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cassandra Clare has done it again. After loving The Mortal Instruments series so much, I didn't think it was possible, but The Infernal Devices has proved itself to be even better. The characters have found a way into my heart and rooted themselves there in a way that no other author has been able to accomplish.

To start out, there's Tessa Gray. She has developed so much from the weak and innocent girl that she was at the beginning of Clockwork Angel. The betrayal of her brother Nate, her development of her ability to Change, and her new training with the Lightwood brothers has made her into a fighter. She is not useless and such an easy target in battles any longer. And when it comes to her love dilemma...I'm completely for Will, but the strength with which her emotions are delivered cause even myself to be torn. (When I take a step back though, I know I will always be rooting for Will.)

And then there's Will Herondale himself. Much more of his background is revealed, and we learn that he has been forced to distance himself from everyone in his life that may care for in the slightest way in fear that it could lead to their death. For 5 years he pushed everyone away, causing him to keep all his feelings to himself and make him into a hardened shell. When he finally has the chance to open up...it can only be too late *insert ominous music here*. He's so hot *insert FAN GIRL SCREAM here*.

I'm sorry James/Jem Carstairs, but I have no good words for you right now. You have prevented Will and Tessa from being together, but I still can't hate you since you are such a gentleman and will always treat Tessa right and the way that she deserves. I hate you for that, but I also love you. Please die from opium now. Thank you.

As for the main plot, there is definitely no shortage of action. A spy lurks under the roof of the institute once again, automatons result in tragic moments, and one of Henry's inventions finally work. Thank goodness. And at the perfect time as well. I honestly think this is my favorite scene in the entire book. This small moment of glory is short-lived, but it was deserved by such a sensitive yet vital character who does not see enough action.

Readers will not be disappointed by this book. Even though you may think you've seen all that Cassandra Clare can deliver in Shadowhunter world, but you are ever so wrong.


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What I'm Reading

I pre-ordered this book in February and it's finally here. Edda by Conor Kostick. Most of my readers have probably never heard of this series. It's perfect for gamers like myself, but it would still find a place in the hearts of science fiction readers. If you want to check the series out, the first book is called Epic, and the second is Saga. Edda is the final book of the trilogy, and once I find it (I already lost it -_-) I will definitely read and have a review up for you all soon.

Also, I started reading the book The Water Wars. I forget the author but in the book water is basically sacred and extremely valuable. I was reading this book while relaxing in the pool, which is a complete waste of water. I found that pretty ironic.

Happy Reading :)

Borders

Most people have probably heard that all Borders stores are closing now... When I heard the news I was extremely upset. That was the only bookstore nearby where I could wander through the shelves to find new undiscovered books. I went to the store this weekend and picked up a ton of books during the closing sale, so look for some new reviews soon.

Elemental

Elemental by Tiffany Dominguez
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

In a nutshell, Elemental was unique but not up to it's full potential. It's been a while since I read this book and I honestly don't remember the main character's name, but I can review the style and whatnot.

The story starts out great, original creations that are well explained so that I won't get lost along the way. Or so I thought. The characters are also well developed and I feel like we are going to become great friends xD. Cheesy, I know. But about halfway through, everything changed. The plot felt rushed while not getting anywhere at the same time. The action scenes are seemed the same and I found myself thinking, didn't this already happen? And the romance was definitely forced for me. All of a sudden the two characters went from mortal enemies to lovers destined to be together. Not exactly believable to me.

All in all, the story has potential. The author herself showed me this book, so I was extremely happy to write this review. I even look forward to a sequel to see any improvements of the fabulous idea.

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The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My favorite book. Hands down.

I read The Hunger Games for the first time in 7th grade, about 3 years ago. Even though I've grown and read many new books since then, this one always tops them. I finally decided to write a review and get it all out.

Katniss Everdeen lives in the country of Panem, built from the ruins of what was North America. Governed by the Capitol, 13 districts rose, each with a different job to perform. But when the displeased districts rebelled, they were shut down and the 13th district was destroyed for good. To remind them of the Capitol's power, every year a girl and boy between the ages 12 and 18 must be put into The Hunger Games, a fight to the death. In District 12, Katniss' home, going into these games is basically a death sentence. But the reaping has come once again...may the odds be ever in your favor.

I was captivated from the first page. Katniss was unlike any heroine I had ever read about. She was extremely independent and completely had the confidence that I hope to find in myself one day. I looked up to her and still do. The male leads each held their own as well. Peeta and his soft, tender ways. Gale and his determination and plain awesomeness. Even Haymitch and his drunk but wise personality made me fall in love. (And don't forget Cinna. Everyone loves a man with a sense of style.)

Collins' writing style had such variety and purpose that no scene felt unnecessary or boring. Even when they weren't packed with action, they were packed with emotion. For weeks after reading I couldn't stop thinking about where the plot could lead and even made up a few possibilities in my mind. I'm proud to say that I read this book right when it came out and that I've spread it's love to MANY of my friends. LOVE <3

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