It's sequel time, baby! All jokes aside, sometimes sequels are not as great as the first. And in this case I would have to say that statement is true. I was really diggin' the first book, Robin in the Hood, but this one left something to be desired. I don't know, it just felt too...Disney fairytale. It's like everything had some perfect solution and the characters were either one extreme or another. They were either super wicked or super good - no shades of gray whatsoever.
When I first started reading this series, especially the first book, it read like a regular NA novel. But this second book had an abundance of paranormal elements and I was not prepared for it. Due to this, I felt like I had been thrown for a loop or something.
Everything felt rushed and was like some weird caricature of Romeo and Juliet. I don't know what to make of it all. I wasn't into the romance between Robin and Creek this time, and the main plot was just cray-cray. That's not to say it couldn't happen, but rather it was really out "there"...like really. The only thing that really kept me reading was the mystery about what happened to the mom, but even that had me going "WTF".
I think the lack of the first book's characters sans Robin and Creek, and a plot not executed well made this book kind of "blah" for me. I was not feeling it at all. But I might check out the final book in the series LOL. Hopefully the next book is better because like Meat Loaf says, 2 out of 3 aint bad! ...more
This is one of those throwback novels from a while ago, but I recently stumbled across this at Barnes & Noble and I had to have it after seeing the cover. Seriously, how cool is this title? I wish my name was Robin so I could walk into a room like, "Robin in 'da hood! Holla!". HAHA just kidding (not really). So I just had to read the book where the rich girl (Hall & Oates, anyone?) discovers she's now broke. Not just broke, but "MC Hammer" broke!
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Overall I enjoyed the story. My attention was immediately grabbed and didn't wane the entire book! To be frank, I don't really have any complaints: I loved the writing, the characters and the spicy romance. Well...the romance was a little awkward and sudden, but other than that I loved it.
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Robin is now one of my favorite female characters. Her feistiness and sarcasm were endearing (at least to me), and she is a real go-getter. I seriously need a friend like her to help me make a dollar out of fifteen cents (2pac reference). I not-so-secretly enjoyed the tension between her and her father. I have a lot of angst just like Robin. However, I'm glad she managed to patch things up with Daddy-O. It's kind of funny how she didn't really know who her dad was until now; I suppose no one really knows their parents until they are older.
The romance between her and the ever-so-mysterious Creek was okay. I would have liked it more if it had more build up and tension, rather than her immediately wanting to get in his pants. Creek is one hell of a guy though: a true protector. Also, I love the camaraderie between all the residents in the trailer park — it's truly a cast of characters!
As for the plot, Robin is just plain lucky or maybe even blessed to be able to have money practically fall into her lap. Why can't I have that happen to me? I do wish the bad guys had just a bit more karma — they got off too easy in my opinion. Besides that, I loved the overall message this book gives and it's a fun read!...more
I grew up being fascinated with Greek mythology. So when I came upon a book called The Oracle, I thought, how bad could it be? On one hand the history of Italy and the descriptions were fascinating and seemed spot on as if the author really did his homework. Aside from that, everything else was average.
First off the prologue was quite enticing with the Oracle taking down the looters. But the murder a certain “someone” committed made me take a pause for the cause- it was intense. Everything after that was kind of “meh”.
The purpose of Jake and his family is still unclear to me. Maybe it's to investigate what happened- I don’t know - but it made the story-line way too convoluted. Predictably I knew who the creature was but what still puzzles me is how this ties in with the Oracle? I'm still not seeing it. Anyways this is an average read....more
So I thought I would review something scary in honor of Halloween. Muah ha ha ha (*evil laugh*). What's more scary than a Bloody Mary? Plenty of things I'm sure, but that's not the point. I was plenty scared, believe me. Maybe it has a little to do with me being the only one downstairs tonight; I live in house inhabited by a few ghosts (I'm so serious right now). You can only imagine my reaction every time is heard a noise, or thought I saw something in the mirror that hangs by my bed-I just about pissed myself!
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For the life of me I will never understand why people insist on playing around with things they don't understand; it's a recipe for disaster. However our 4 main characters: Shauna, Jess, Anna and Kitty didn't get that memo. These foolish girls decide they want to summon Bloody Mary, yielding disastrous results. One of them gets "marked for death" and they all spend the rest of the book trying to undo what they caused. The plot twists were indeed intriguing, as was the letters written by Bloody Mary, I mean Mary Worth. It's not terribly difficult to guess what happens next if you're paying attention, and you may find yourself shaking your head at these characters.
Our POV heroine, Shauna, got more than she bargained for apparently. If I were to sum up Shauna in four words, "curiosity killed the cat" would be them. For the most part I didn't feel sorry for her because of [SPOILER] her desire to see Bloody Mary's face. Uhm, why? After the first summoning of Mary was successful, she and the other should have left it alone and ran far, far away as A Flock of Seagulls would suggest. Not only that, but when she found out Mary would attack those around her she should have put her friends safety first; she's just as much to blame for the "incident" as Jess is. I found Shauna to be kind of bothersome. I think it was her whining that did it in for me.
As for Shauna’s friends, I'm pleased that Anna and Kitty had good sense to not want to summon Mary again, no matter how short lived it was. Those two obviously don't have enough backbone to put their foot down and say no. Jess, the Regina George (Mean Girls) of the group, was a pain in the a**. Are you that desperate for power or whatever it is you’re seeking, that you would endanger everyone's lives over it? What's worse is that she got some sick thrill out of it. I would say I'm appalled, but there's always that "one" friend who's like Jess. Towards the end I can't I was surprised about what was revealed about Jess.
On a personal note, I'm glad I never thought to play the Bloody Mary game when I was a kid, or a Ouija board for that matter. I had a couple of friends who wanted to use the Ouija board at a graveyard- I was like "Oh hell no!"
There are some decent thrills and a cool imaginative story of Bloody Mary. The characters are what you would see in any horror movie- a bunch of fools! Not a bad book to read, though. I would recommend not looking into any mirrors afterwards...especially on All Hallows' Eve!
I was a huge fan of the Hex Hall series, so it comes as no surprise that I have stumbled onto the spin-off. Although I should probably mention that I wasn't a big fan of the third installment of Hex Hall. I don't know what it is, but I always hate the last book in every series; I feel like I should be writing the story because I would do a better job (my wishful thinking).
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So right off the bat it was the cover that grabbed my attention, and my first thought (and that this is before I knew for sure that this was a Hex Hall spin-off) was "This kind of reminds me of that Hex Hall series". Suffice it to say, when I figured out that it was by the same author I felt like hitting my own forehead and say "should have had a V8". It's been a while so I didn't really remember the writing style of Rachel Hawkins, but by the first chapter it all came back to me. The humor! Oh the sarcastic humor-- I have missed you! I love how Hawkins writes her characters; they're strong, capable and best of all funny. Who wants to read a POV character that has the personality equivalent of an ice cube? That's right, no one.
"Whatever shall you wear?" Torin observed, propping his chin in his hand. "Let's see, there's the black T-shirt with black jeans. Or perhaps, if you're going for elegance over function, you could wear the black T-shirt with black jeans. Ooh!" He sat up, widening his eyes. "Do you know what would be particularly fetching? The black--"
"T-shirt with black jeans," I finished for him. "Hilarious."
I remember reading about Isolde, our heroine, in the Hex Hall series, so it was cool seeing her character again, as well as a few others and some honorable mentions (Sophie). I'm liking her character, that's for sure. I enjoy reading about strong female characters, so Isolde wasn't any different. Seeing her try to immerse herself into the world of today's teenaged high-schoolers was entertaining, especially given her background. I'm interested in seeing if her sister will reappear in the following books, as well as Sophie.
The story was good- a little cliche and not as good as Hex Hall, but still good, none the less. For a new series, it's really good but I hope it ends better than its predecessor. I can only hope... On a side note, can you count how many times I said Hex Hall? ...more
If I were to summarize this book in one word, I would say...disturbing. Yeah that's then word alright: DISTURBING! I only discovered this book through a friend of mine, and I'm not sure whether I am glad or not that I have read this. This is surely one of those books that you probably won't guess the ending, as you won't know what the hell is going on. Trust me, I had some good guesses myself, and even I only was sort of right. I'm still not sure what I just read. All I do know is, the entire time I was saying "sweet buttery Jesus"!
As I was saying, I saw this book at Barnes & Noble and I thought the book, not just the cover, were creative. It's made to resemble an actual bible. Eerie, right?
The story was okay: it was basically Mean Girls meets Saved (for those of you that have seen those movies). Everything gets real interesting towards the middle of the book. (Spoiler Alert: If you have a weak stomach, Do Not read this book). I was seriously scared and had to pray to God after finishing this book. There are some serious revelations at the end of the book (pun intended), and you will not see them coming.
The characters were okay as well, or at least some of them. I didn't like Sofia at all. I'm just not a fan of weak-willed people in books. I feel like, if you know its wrong, speak up. She was annoying because while she's laying the victim card, she was also subconsciously instigating some of the conflict. Brooklyn was like a mixture of Miley Cyrus and Janis Ian (Mean Girls) so basically picture that. The ringleader, Riley, on the other hand, was like Pennsatucky (Orange is the New Black). Riley is a few tacos short of a combination: she is a straight up psychopath. Tweedle dee and tweedle dum aka Grace and Alexis are the idiotic, "yes mastah" follower types..not very surprising there.
It's not the most original premise, but it does deliver good thrills and terror to all you adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers. Just beware...it's not for the faint hearted. Also, there better be a sequel especially with that ending; but alas, I am sure this is a stand alone novel. ...more
I've been waiting to get my hands on this book for what seems like forever. Just a FYI, my nickname since childhood was Goosebumps, hence the appeal of this story for me. Originally I thought this was a stand alone novel, but it actually has a sequel, much to my amazement.
While I was reading, this I was camping out in the woods at night. Suffice it to say I was getting a little creeped out every time I heard a twig snap, which only added to the horror ambiance of this book. There was a decent amount of suspense, albeit towards the middle of the book. The first half was okay; some parts were interesting, others were kind of a drag. I appreciated the fusion of R.L Stine meets the Real World in the beginning; but the characters were exactly like I would have seen in the latter and not in a good way.
Cliché, cliché, cliché. Basically the description of each character. You have: the scary, timid girl #1; cute, weird girl who hurts herself #2; random girl who leaves early #3; sweet, artistic guy #1; and the love triangle between: cute rocker guy #2; pretty, insensitive tease of a girl #4; and gothic jerk guy #3. All of these characters were your average, cookie cutter, watered down characters in the YA genre. I didn't like any of them and only tuned into the book to see who would die first. Shockingly it wasn't the black person LOL.
While we're on the topic of clichés, the only one not in this book is the aforementioned "black person always dies first" and the "black person is scared and runs away from danger". The "scary, bad guy" of the story is an evil Christmas elf. Really? REALLY? Why is it that the "big scary dude" is always in some ridiculous outfit?: i.e. Chucky, Scream, Leprechaun. It really doesn't get more ridiculously cliché than an elf. Then you have the token love story that manages to be in almost every scary movie. I'll let you guess as to who it is.
Anyways, back to the characters. Their decisions had me shaking my head. Especially Natalie, who should have listened to her brother; I bet she feels really stupid now. I did like that Frankie called out Shayla on her "fakeness", it was one of the best scenes in my opinion. Shayla was the most irritating, after Garth of course (I was glad he got the axe... no pun intended).
If I were those kids, I would have never told my worst nightmare, or at the very least pulled a double all-nighter so the Nightmare Elf wouldn't have wormed its way into my nightmares. On a serious note, I thought that it was going to be all make believe at the very end like Inception; it's all in your head. The ending was even better than that. ...more
This is probably the best graphic novel I have read. It's the perfect blend of humor, action, adventure, paranormal and the classic tale we all know. The premise is quite ingenious; I'm surprised no one thought of it.
I laughed so hard when reading this. The humor is just too good, but not "stupid funny", thankfully. All the characters were great-even the bad ones. I like that all the characters were more realistic. The whole book had a Buffy, Vampire Slayer vibe going on. If they don't put this graphic novel up on the big screen, I will be tremendously disappointed....more
I received this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
Plot: After his father and mother have separated, Trevor Riddell and his father, JoI received this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
Plot: After his father and mother have separated, Trevor Riddell and his father, Jones, move back to the Jones's family home. There, Trevor meets his peculiar Aunt Serena and supposed Alzheimer's suffering grandfather, Samuel. Unsure as to why his father has brought him to the childhood home Jones rarely speaks about, Trevor begins to investigate into the family's secrets; uncovering shocking discoveries.
Writing Wow this book was amazing. Everytime something mysterious or creepy happened, I was like... [image] and [image]
I was absolutely spellbound by the perfectly (or maybe imperfectly) illustrated family dynamic of the Riddells. How death, greed, anger, almost incest, etc can tear a family apart and affect, not just that individual, but everyone around them as well as generations to come. The love between Ben and Harry was quite beautiful. Something so taboo in those days perfectly explored. I found myself think of a little quote... [image] The reader really gets to see the many different relationships and the impact it has on the overall story. There are so many facets to the story, that I admittedly am having a hard time really describing it to someone who hasn't read this book. The writing is so eloquent, that you can literally feel every emotion behind every action, no matter the character. But besides the family drama, you have the suspense and mystery aspect as well. I found myself very scared in certain areas in the book (view spoiler)[especially when the ghost of Ben would randomly appear, or when Trevor could hear him) (hide spoiler)]. The book flashes between the past and present, in almost a Princess Bride fashion.
Characters Trevor: I absolutely love the wit of this boy, as well as his ability to read certain situations and people. 'Tis not an easy skill. I liked that he was truth seeking, and very admirable in his intentions.
Jones: It's a shame the guilt he carried around, and the pain he endured growing up in the Riddell Mansion. I'm glad his character was redeemed
Serena: We've all had one manipulative person in the family at some point. Serena proves to be no exception. I had no idea what to expect with her. Every time she was in the same room as Trevor, I found scared like.. [image]
Samuel: I felt really sad for his character. He didn't deserve the upbringing he was dealt with.
Ben: He was a very loyal and true man. I am glad he had his resolution.
By the end I was like.. [image]
Very great book. It was my first Garth Stein book that I have read. I will definitely read anything he writes from now on. I recommend a read for sure. You will tear up though.
So in other news....
[image] Sorry, I had to lighten the mood LOL....more
I received this advanced reader copy courtesy of Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
5 musical notes! ahem, I mean stars!!
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Synopsis: CameI received this advanced reader copy courtesy of Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
5 musical notes! ahem, I mean stars!!
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Synopsis: Cameron Blake was in a tragic accident when he was a child and very nearly died; hearing the most wonderful music when in limbo between life and death. Now as an adult, he is a famous and successful composer; although he feels he is missing something in his life. A strange man by the name of Maestro Bloom, approaches Cameron with an offer: to compose the heavenly music that has plagued Cameron all these years, for Maestro Bloom's orchestra. However, it proves to be more than Cameron bargained for when strange things begin to happen in the town called Holloway.
Writing: This book was absolutely riveting! I had a feeling it would be good, but not this good. Now I understand that everyone is afraid of different things; some are scared of vampires or witches or werewolves etc. But hellish creatures, like demons, creep me out. I must admit this book had me scared quite a bit. I thoroughly enjoyed the multi POVs that were in the book. Sometimes it leaves a lot to be desired, like a real connection to each character, but the author executed it flawlessly. I felt like I knew each character and felt their experiences. The writing: nothing short of spectacular. The range of emotions I experienced were astounding to me; from fear to anxiety to content to sadness-I was very impressed, but then again I am naturally empathetic lol.
Characters: Cameron Blake: I really felt for this character, especially with all that he's been through. However his naiveté was irritating at times. (view spoiler)[ Everytime someone warned him about Maestro Bloom or the musical hall, Calliope, he just brushed it off. (hide spoiler)] I heard of skepticism but come on! He also flipped flopped too much. He knows something is not quite right, but does it anyways.
"I mean, I'm not a religious guy, but if I were, I'd think we were fucking with things we shouldn't be fucking with." - Cameron
No Shit. If I were Cameron, and I was seeing all the creepy things happening, I would have left and been like...
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and
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Maestro Bloom: Creepy as all get out, but a great antagonist. That includes his "orchestra" as well.
Hob: I liked old Hob. He's a cool cat. And thankfully he knew better than the other characters.
Kalek: This character I wasn't sure I would like, but I'm glad I did.
"We may both be Tone Poets, but we are not of the same keel. You heard Heaven; I heard Hell. That makes us different in my book." - Kalek
Madison: She was sweet. I didn't like what happened to her
Charlie: I couldn't stand this little punk.
Anyways, all in all it was quite the page turner. It might not be for everyone, but I do recommend a read.
Apparently I added this to my "to read" list on Goodreads and completely forgot about it. The other day i received an email alert that this book was released and decided to read it right away. The story was certainly something. The premise was very fascinating and captured my attention right away; how strange would it be that one day everyone forgot your brothers entire existence? It would be very peculiar if I do say so myself. Alright, so let's get this review rolling!
The setting is in the swamps of Louisiana, so you already know there's about to be some bullshit happening! One swamp in particular has a bizarre habit of luring people into its clutches. Consequently, the people never leave like its the hotel California, and are immediately written out of existence. The pacing dragged a little at times and had he wondering when the big showdown was going to happen. Some parts were predictable, I. E the bracelet subplot, so don't be surprised if you've guessed half the book right. The characters could be brainless at times, which really put a damper on my mood while reading.
Our POV character, Sterling, was a decent heroine. I can't say that she's the bomb or anything, mainly because her incessant pestering of everyone about if they remember her brother was a bit annoying. Obviously the swamp makes people forget those they took, so why do you keep asking? She was beginning to sound deranged. And yet it worked out for her in the end with Heath remembering, but you'll have to find out why.
Sterling has also been shown to be clueless. Why is she trusting some guy she met in the infamous swamp? Especially when fisher said some things that didn't quite fit together with what we have already learned in the book. It's plain as day that he's manipulating and cunning. And the supposed help fisher is giving her? Come on Sterling, you're old enough to know that nothing in life is free.
I didn't like Lenora May at first, but she's the character I ended up liking the most. Although Sterling was legitimate in her feelings of her missing brother, her demonizing of Lenora May didn't puzzle in with how Lenora behaved towards her. The saddest part was when she said the swamp wouldn't let her go, but at least at that time her and Sterling formed a sisterly bond.
There's an exiguous romantic plot between Heath and Sterling that was borderline cheese-fest. Especially when they had a date that mirrored the date scene in the notebook. Maybe of I were still on high school I would think it romantic but not anymore.
In short this book wasn't half bad. It was predictable at times but still decent none the less. It's not terribly difficult to figure out where the plot is heading. It had it cheesy moments, i. e. Notebook date, but I was still entertained. Good writing and worth a read!...more
SoWrongItsRANDI {Bell, Book & Candle}
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