Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas (2014)

Title: Heir of Fire

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: Throne of Glass #3
Pages: 565
Published: Sep 2nd 2014
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children


In the third instalment of the 'Throne of Glass' series, 'Heir of Fire', Sarah J. Maas has brought this young adult high fantasy series to a new level. We have moved away from the King's court and actions have a larger, more political meaning. Our assassin is no longer just Celeana Sardothian, Arobynn Hamel's heir. No, she is Aelin Galathynius, heir to Terrasen and fae.

This book had me hooked from the first page, it was so intriguing. This book is at a completely different place than where we started off in 'Throne of Glass'. Things are getting serious and we're starting to see the bigger picture. The book is significantly longer and more complicated, but stays true to the young adult high fantasy genre. Definitely one of the best high fantasy series out there, especially for young adults who don't want to be overwhelmed by 900 pages long books full of complicated politics and names. 'Heir of Fire' is easy to follow, yet constantly intriguing and has you captured by its plot and characters.

As plots unfold and questions are answered, new characters are introduced. Heir of Fire is an incredible example of strong and fascinated characters. I sometimes find myself nervous with new characters, being afraid that they may take up to much space in the novel or ruin exciting relationships or influence the plot in a negative way. This was not the case. Our new character Rowan was an absolutely positive character that improved not just the plot, but Celeana as a character. He brought out things of her personality that made me laugh and cry at random places and I appreciated that their relationship was at a friendly basis rather than leading into romance. Personally I still have faith in Celeana and Chaol, despite what happened in the second book, and I hope, for both of their sakes that they solve their feud.

Aedion was an interesting character that I at first found myself hard to get my head around, not unlike Chaol. He appeared like the dominant self centred male character until later on in the book where his emotions shine through. Sarah J. Maas has managed to created a series with constantly new characters, that all have such depth. Having said that, I did struggle to connect with Manon several times. Manon had some really interesting chapters that added to the plot, but I found myself wanting to rather read about the other characters that I already knew or truly felt for. It's clear, however, that Manon's chapters have meaning and are important for the further books and I believe I'll enjoy her story more later.

Plot Summary:

"Consumed by guilt and rage Celaena can't bring herself to spill blood for the King of Adarlan. She must fight back...

The Immortal Queen will help her destroy the king - for a price. But as Celaena battles with her darkest memories and her heart breaks for a love that could never last, can she fulfil the bargain and head the almighty court of Terrasen? And who will stand with her?"

- back of book

Favourite Quote:

'What are you doing?'

'What?'

Emrys didn't raise his voice as he said, 'To that girl. What are you doing that makes her come in here with such emptiness in her eyes?'

'That's none of your concern.'

Emrys pressed his lips into a tight line. 'What do you see when you look at her, Prince?'

He didn't know. These days, he didn't know a damn thing. 'That's none of your concern either.'

Emrys ran a hand over his weathered face. 'I see her slipping away, bit by bit, because you shove her down when she so desperately needs someone to help her back up.

- Emrys and Rowan from 'Heir of Fire ' by Sarah J. Maas

My Rating:

9/10

Only brought it down one because I'm still getting to know Manon and adapting to a storyline where Chaol and Celaena are not together.

Other Books in These Series:

The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass Prequel)

Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1)

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3)

Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4)

Emperor of Storms (Throne of Glass #5)

This review is also available on YouTube on Wicked Ideas.

The Assassin's Blade by Sarah J. Maas (2012)

Title: The Assassin's Blade
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: Throne of Glass (Prequel)
Pages: 430
Published: Mar 4th 2014
Publisher: Bloomsbury Childrens


This book has been in my brother's book shelf for almost two years. I even helped my mum pick it out for him. I didn't realise it was the prequel to the Throne of Glass series until after I had started reading it and I thought I recognised the cover on the inside of the book. So I asked to borrow it (it has a home on my bookshelf though) and brought this with me to Antigua on holiday together with the second book 'Crown of Midnight' as I didn't own the third book. I am very happy that I read it then and not until after the series.

I highly recommend you read this book before the fourth book 'Queen of Shadows'!!!

These short stories stretch of a period of time a year before Celeana gets sent to the salt mines in Endovier when she still lives Arobynn Hamel's heir and assassin in the Assassin's Guild in Rifthold. It is a series of five short stories written in the order they take place in Celeana's life. Technically they are all part of one complete book, but are written so that one can read them separately (they were originally published as separate e-books). However, I recommend you read the book front to back as it will make more sense. The short stories are all written in chapter form so it feels almost as reading a normal novel rather than novellas. The stories tell Celeana's missions and tasks set by Arobynn and her relationship with Sam (who is mentioned in the Throne of Glass novels as a former lover).

When reading this I gained a deeper understanding for Celeana and understood her better in the following books in the series. I understood the references and her reasoning. It was very helpful to have read this before 'Queen of Shadows' as people will reoccur and it will make Celeana's relationship with Arobynn much more understandable. I felt like I truly connected with Celeana her and understood her deeper feelings and got a true insight to her background.

While reading 'Throne of Glass' I almost thought that Celeana's references to Sam was a obstacle in the way of Celeanas potential relationship with Chaol (or Dorian for that matter) but reading this book I truly fell in love with Sam and when I realised what had to happen in the end it killed me. The worst is knowing what is going to happen and you can't do anything to stop it and the future you start building up for the two is not a possibility at all. It leaves you in a form of dramatic irony where you know Celeana's future and she has a completely different view on it. It is completely heartbreaking and agonisingly hard to come to terms with. I recommend reading this as a complementary book to the 'Throne of Glass' novels as it will give you more insight and understanding for Celeana and her life.

Plot Summary:

The twist of a knife, 

the birth of a legend...

Celeana Sardothien owes her reputation to Arobynn Hamel. He gave her a home in the Assassin's Guild and taught her the skills she needed to survive.

Arobynn's enemies stretch far and wide - from Adarlan's rooftops and its filthy dens, to remote islands and hostile desert. Celeana is duty-bound to hunt them down. But behind her assignments lies a dark truth that will seal her fate - and cut her heart in two forever...

The prequels to the international bestseller Throne of Glass.

- as off the back of the book

Favourite Quote:

'"When we die," she said, "I don't think the gods will even know what to do with us." '- Celeana in 'The Assassin's Blade' by Sarah J. Maas

My Ranking:

9/10

Of course it is harder to settle with a book when the all the characters you've come to love is not included. Nevertheless, for being a prequel this book was fantastic and Sarah J. Maas does not disappoint!

Other Books in this Series:

The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass Prequel)

Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1)

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3)

Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4)
Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5)

Other Books by Sarah J. Maas:

A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1)

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2)

A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3)

Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas (2013)

Title: Crown of Midnight
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: Throne of Glass #2
Pages: 418
Published: Aug 27th 2013
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens


I brought this book with me on Holiday to Antigua when I went with my friends this summer and I was reading an unhealthy amount for a week with your friends. I finished this book when we were on the balcony and I just threw the book really hard on the floor when my theory was confirmed (and trust me, and I was insanely nervous that my theory wouldn't be correct because I desperately wanted it to be). This may or may not have startled my friends you know.

I swear from the moment Celeana first mentioned Aelin's name I had a feeling she was or had a very deep connection to her. What I didn't know from the beginning was that she may be fae. Yes, we knew that she had a connection to them in the first book where she defended the fae and found flowers by her tent the next day in the way to the King for the competition. So I had my theory as Chaol did the research in the end and was terrified that he wouldn't get it or that my theory was wrong and my joy when he found out!! I felt superior for once when reading a book and no dramatic irony was used.

I am so grateful that Celeana finally admitted that Chaol is the one. Every scene with them was heaven. The waltzing scene and the birthday scene etc. I was hooked. But then Nehemia got herself killed (literally) and it ruined Chaol and Celeana's relationship! I think Celeana was too harsh at judging Chaol, but Chaol also made a stupid mistake. I understand how upset Celeana was, who wouldn't be?, but she was unreasonably angry at Chaol and blaming him for everything.

Let's just talk about the ending for a second. That kick ass climax! It was gorgeous. Different worlds. Dorian having powers. Celeana being fae!!! This is heading into such a good direction. The plot is starting to develop an we start seeing where this is going and it's affecting not just the court or Adarland now, but the whole kingdom which is always a plus in fantasy. 

And before I forget, praise for Chaol running after fleet foot. 

Plot Summary:

Crowned by Evil.
Bound by Duty.
Divided by Love.

Celaena Sardothien, royal assassin, is the King of Adarlan's deadliest weapons. She must win her freedom through his enemies' blood - but she cannot bear to kill for the crown. And every death Celeana fakes, every lie she tells, puts those she loves at risk.

Torn between her two protectors - a captain and a prince - and battling a dark force far greater than the king, Celaena must decide what she will fight for: her liberty, her heart or the fate of a kingdom...

Favourtie Quote:

'Dance with me, Celaena.' - Chaol from 'Crown of Midnight' by Sarah J. Maas
'In that moment, after ten long years, Celaena looked at Chaol and realised she was home.' - Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. Maas

My Rating:

10/10
Chaolaena all the way!!! Finally!

Other Books in this Series:

The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass Prequel)

Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1)

Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)

Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3)

Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4)
Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5)

Other Books by Sarah J. Maas:

A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1)

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2)

A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3)

The Reader by M.K. Harkins (2016)

Title: The Reader
Author: M.K. Harkins
Pages: 260 (eBook)
Published: Aug 25th 2016
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing


This Galley was given to me for free in the form of a Kindle Book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This paranormal sci-fi read got me hooked from page one. I absolutely loved it. The plot and idea was very intriguing and it got off to a very exciting start with action right at the first chapter. I loved the concept of the Readers, the Hijackers, and the Seers. I think it was original and had some very interesting history to it. I enjoyed the prediction of the Lost One and the Soul Mate, however I thought the repetition of the term 'Soul Mate' made it sound slightly silly towards the end. Nevertheless I loved the concept of the Soul Mate and the bonding between Ann and Devon. Furthermore, the compound was absolutely lovely with the waterfalls, the hub and the storm and how it worked together  as a home for the Readers. What I would have liked was a bit more time to read about Ann's time in  the compound. The storyline moved so quickly and Ann adapted to her new life so fast that everything felt almost unbelievably quick. I would have enjoyed another hundred pages where the life in the compound could have been developed. It had so much potential, yet I felt that it almost rushed to the end. I would have enjoyed some more reading with a plot this good. A little too short for me personally.

I adored Ann and her abilities and powers. The book was very successful through the use of first person narration and concerning the topic of the book I do not think that it would have been as good if was written in anything else than first person. When Ann wakes up and doesn't even remember her name Archer accidentally addresses her as Ann before she has gained that piece of memory herself. When I first read this I was shocked that the lack of name for the main character had not bothered me. Since it was written in first person I was not concerned about this at first and when her name was announced I realised what an important factor that was for one's personality. There were some great characters and personalities that also could have been developed. Personally I would have enjoyed a little more feud between Archer and Devon regarding Ann, and even Markus. I was team Devon from the moment his name popped up on the page, but I did not catch on the hinting at a plot twist and fell for it completely. There could have been a very successful love-triangle that I think could have been explored even more. The relationship between Ann and Devon went very quickly from hating each other to extreme love. It may have to do with the Soul Mate concept but a longer transition would have been very exciting and perhaps more realistic. Reading from Ann's point of view I learnt a lot of Ann but not as much of the other characters. I would have loved to bond a little more with Lucy and the quarrel between Ann and Susie to be expanded. I think if the book had been longer all the relationships could have been developed and explored more to its full potential. 

Overall I absolutely loved this book. I was glued to my phone. The genre of sic-fi and paranormal was perfect and the original idea had such potential. I think this could have been developed through another hundred pages because I would have loved to read more. I could not judge from the ending whether there will be a sequel or if it simply ended there. Since it resolved as it did I find it hard to see a sequel but I would love to read anything that may suggest that something more happens. After all, they are immortal and anything could happen in their lifetime. 

Plot Summary:

Hunted, shot, and without her memory, eighteen-year-old Ann Baker wakes in shallow water on a deserted Pacific Northwest island. She is soon approached by two young men claiming to be her friends. Something isn’t right, but when gunshots sound, Ann is left with little choice but to allow Devon and Archer to help her escape. Soon she finds herself in their North Bend mountain compound, where the higher evolved humans claim to be mind-readers. While Ann heals, she realizes they believe her to be one of the last and most powerful of all – The Lost One.

Favourite Quote:

'"Things are... things are showing," he said as his hand swept up and down.' - The Reader by M. K. Harkins

My Rating:

8/10
I did love this book, but I think a a greater length would have improved it massively. I couldn't put it down.

Other Books by  M.K. Harkins:

Intentional (Intentional #1)
Unintentional (Intentional #2)

Breaking Braydon
Famous by Default
Taking Tiffany

The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer - video review

The complete series review of The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer.

This video is also available on my YouTube channel Wicked Ideas. There is also a written review available under 'Written Reviews' on this blog.

Thank You for watching!

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas (2012)

Title: Throne of Glass
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: Throne of Glass #1
Pages: 404
Published: Aug 2nd 2012
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens


It's taken me so long to get to read these books. And is been all over booktube and bookstagram. When I finally got to it though I read half of it in a day (I know, not in one sitting) but I was crazy obsessed.

I absolutely loved the genre!! For those of you who have read high fantasy such as A Song of Ice And Fire series by George R.R. Martin (aka Game of Thrones) there's always loads of politics, dual narratives and characters. But this book managed without crazy complications. There we're enough characters and narratives to keep track of. Nothing got confusing but not once did I get bored because it wasn't enough.

The characters were really strong. I liked that Celeana wasn't just a badass assassin without emotion or girly aspects. She may have had boyish aspects but she loved her dresses and shoes and she liked reading!! Her sass was amazing. This is probably why I like Tyrion so much in A Song of Ice and Fire. All the witty remarks!!! I haven't read much about the love aspect of Throne of Glass online because I didn't want my views of he characters to be affected by other people's opinions but personally I am more of a Chaol person. Why was she attracted to Dorian so much? I love his kindness and the fact that he has a library etc but Chaol is the one! I can't express how much I love his character. The only thing that bothers me is his incredible loyalty to the King, but his loyalty still makes him a good and loyal person. I can't find anything bad except for the fact that he can't admit that he has feelings for Celeana and it's crystal clear that he has. I just think Celeana should be with Chaol an I don't understand why she chooses Dorian. Nehemia's character was another good addition for Celeana's girlier side. She was clearly involved in the greater plot and I thought just like Celeana for a moment that she might be responsible for the murders.

I thought Throne of Glass was almost like a mix between The Hungergames, Divergent and A Song of Ice and Fire. The Hungergames because there was a competition where there could only be one winner and she had to train for it. Also, archery. Divergent because people was eliminated, but not necessarily killed and similarly trains for it. If Celeana had fallen for Chaol it would have been incredibly similar. And of course A Song of Ice and Fire because of the fantasy and magic and similarity in setting.

As most of you will know Throne of Glass is inspired by Cinderella, as implied by the title. She also dresses up for a masquerade even though she's not allowed to go and dances with the prince.

The magic is very cleverly interwoven with the narrative and the involvement of several other characters. The link to the past Queen is also a great satisfaction as it creates two challenges for Celeana that she has to solve or achieve.

Plot Summary:

Meet Celeana Sardothien.
Beautiful. Deadly.
Destined for Greatness.

In the dark, filthy salt mines of Endovier, an eighteen-year-old girl is serving a life sentence. She is a trained assassin, the best of her kind, but she made a fatal mistake. She got fought.

Young Captain Westfall offers her a deal: her freedom in return for one huge sacrifice. Celeana must represent the prince in a to-the-death tournament - fighting the most gifted thieves and assassins in the land. Live or die, Celeana will be free. Win or loose, she is about to discover her true destiny. But will her assassin's heart be melted?

- as on the back of the book

Favourite Quote:

"I can survive well enough on my own - if given the proper reading materials." - Celeana from 'Throne of Glass' by Sarah J. Maas

My Rating:

10/10
Completely hooked!

Other Books in this Series:

The Assassin's Blade (Throne of Glass Prequel)
Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #1)
Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass #2)
Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass #3)
Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass #4)
Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass #5)

Other Books by this Sarah J. Maas:

A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses #1)

A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses #2)

A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses #3)

The Wolves of Mercy Falls by Maggie Stiefvater - video review

The complete series review for 'The Wolves of Mercy Falls' by Maggie Stiefvater. A written review is also available for each separate book on 'Written Reviews'.

This video is also available on my YouTube channel here.

Thanks for watching!

Beautiful Broken Things by Sara Bernard (2016)

Title: Beautiful Broken Things
Author: Sara Barnard
Pages: 430
Published: Feb 25th 2016
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books UK


I got this book as part of Zoella's book bundle from WHSmith, hence the change in cover. When I went to Sweden for five days with my friend (who also got the bundle) she chose this book while I chose 'Carry On' by Rainbow Rowell. Halfway through the trip, when we had both finished our respective books, we switched and I read 'Beautiful Broken Things' by Sara Bernard. I therefore ended up crying on the plane home at midnight.

This book covered a good subject and I think it was good that it wasn't all about boys but rather friendship and family. It brought up things in teenagers everyday life such as drinking, parties, school and grades, parents, and, sex. However, no matter how good the subject of plot was, I felt that the characters were week at points and I easily got upset or angry at them.

To begin with, the protagonist Caddy got extremely annoying at moments. I could understand her feelings, but they did not excuse her actions. She cared more for how much she was allowed to know than what Suzanne actually wanted to tell her (Suzanne's own secrets). She had no respect for other people's personal space or lives but rather what rights she had in knowing. Suzanne was a troubled person and in need of love, but she also had no respect for the trouble she caused others (even if she apologised for it). Rosie seemed to be the only sane person to stay out of everything, but she also got ridiculously angry and behaved immaturely.

The ending however was really good. I was very nervous by the climax and I even had to put down the book at moments. I also think it was resolved well and I was satisfied with the outcome. 

I think, generally this was a good Young Adult book (since I don't read many contemporaries I don't have loads to compare to) but I don't think it was close to some of the really good ones I've read. I didn't laugh or cry as much as I've done in other books. I was moved, but it did not have as much impact on me as any other book. However, if you are up for an easy read about friendship and loss then this book is good.

Plot Summary:

Caddy and Rosie have always been inseparable. But that was before Suzanne.
Now Caddy wants to be more than just the quiet one. She wants something to happen.
I was brave...
Suzanne is trying to escape her past and be someone different. Someone free.
She was reckless...
But sometimes downward spirals have a momentum of their own.
We were trouble...
And no one can break your heart like your best friend,

My Rating:

6/10

At moments I felt like I was ranting more at the characters than actually enjoying the book. 

Other Books by Sara Barnard:

A Quiet Kind of Thunder

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices, Book 1) by Cassandra Clare (2016)

Title: Lady Midnight
Author: Cassandra Clare
Series: The Dark Artifices #1
Pages: 698
Published: Mar 8th 2016
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books


I got this as soon as I heard it was out. I saw it at WHSmith but didn't have money with me so when I went to Waterstones the day after I bought it. The Waterstones copy had fancy blue edges that I was very pleased with. And then I heard that the WHSmith had fan art in it which I had missed. I got slightly annoyed at myself but then I thought that there is an unlimited amount of fan art online.

It took my a while to adapt to the book. I had just fallen asleep crying the night before from the ending of City of Heavenly Fire and still recovering from it not to mention that Emma and Julian had been 12 years old in City of Heavenly Fire and they were all of a sudden 17. After a few chapters though, I was hooked.

I was afraid that the characters might be dull and the plot less unique after two series set in the same Shadowhunter world. But fear not! This book was sooooo good. All the characters were special and unique and had really strong personalities. I loved little details such as Ty's way of thinking, Dru's love for horror movies, Tavvy's need for a push animals, Liv's talent in maths not to mention Julian's passion for painting and Emma's fear for running and fondness for vintage clothes. The plot was crazy good, full of action and tension like in all Clare's books. 

I absolutely adore Mark Blackthorn and I started to ship him and Christina until Perfect Diego turned up and ruined it. I loved their moments of talking and from the beginning I thought Christina and Mark may develop a bond which he couldn't with his siblings or Emma. His torn emotions for his family and the Hunt was great. And I thought for a good while that he might choose the Hunt (it wouldn't have surprised me considering what Clare has done to us in the past) but I think it was evident after the whipping that he wasn't.

The whipping itself was an amazing scene. I'm just gonna leave it at that.

The plot surrounding the poems and Malcolm were all really clever. I must have been as confused as everyone else. And I like that no dramatic irony is created, but that we know just as much as the characters and find out with them.

Finally, I am so grateful that Clare keeps returning to her other characters and we get to catch up with their lives. Simon and Izzy getting married. OMG!!!! And Malec having children. Everything about it is just wonderful. That Jem and Tessa keep on turning up and the link to Kit Rook. The only pain is seeing Jem and Tessa without Will. Hopefully though we will get a glimpse of him in The Last Hours, the new trilogy that Cassandra Clare is coming out with in 2017.

The Infernal Devices will forever be my favourite series from Cassandra Clare because nothing can beat Wessa and I'm in love with Victorian London. However, this book had brought different values to the spotlight. In all her books, themes such as love, friendship and betrayal have been precent. But never has family been so important as in Lady Midnight. This plot surrounded around family and the importance of it and I feel like that aspect of life can often be overlooked in fantasy or science fiction. If you want to cover that theme you often have to turn to the YA contemporary genre, but this was interweaved so well in the plot and through the characters.

Plot Summary:

In a kingdom by the sea...

In a secret world where half-angel warriors are sworn to fight demons, parabatai is a sacred word. A parabatai is your parter in battle. A parabatai is your best friend. Parabatai can be everything to each other - but they can never fall in love.

Emma Carstairs is a warrior, a Shadowhunter. She lives for battle. Alongside her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, she patrols Los Angeles, where vampire party on the Sunset Strip, and dearies - the most powerful of supernatural creatures - teeter on the edge of war with Shadowhunters. When bodies of human and dearies are found murdered in the same way Emma's parents were when she was a child an uneasy alliance is formed. This is Emma's chance for revenge and Julian's chance to get back his brother Mark, who is being held by the dearie Courts. All they have to do is solve the murders within two weeks... and before the murderer targets them.

Their search takes Emma from sea caves full of sorcery to a dark lottery where death is dispensed. And each clue she unravels uncovers more secrets. What has Julian been hiding from her all these years? Why does Shadowhunter Law forbid parabatai to fall in love? Who really killed her parents - and can she bear to know the truth?

My Rating:

10/10
One of the best. So looking forward for the next book.

Other Books in this Series:

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices #1)
Lord of Shadows (The Dark Artifices #2)

Other books by Cassandra Clare:

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments #1)
City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments #2)
City of Glass (The Mortal Instruments #3)
City of Fallen Angels (The Mortal Instruments #4)
City of Lost Souls(The Mortal Instruments #5)
City of Heavenly Fire (The Mortal Instruments #6)

Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices #1)
Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2)
Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices #3)

City of Lost Souls (The Mortal Instruments, Book 5) by Cassandra Clare (2012)

Title: City of Lost Souls
Author: Cassandra Clare
Series: The Mortal Instruments #5
Pages: 535
Published: May 8th 2012
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books


I started reading The Mortal Instruments before the film had come out which was a couple of years ago, but I didn't finish the series. At the time the final book "City of Heavenly Fire" had not come out and this book was therefore the last one out so far. And I was not quite ready to let go of the characters yet so I decided to wait until the sixth one had come out until I would read it. But then when the sixth one did come out I hadn't read the fifth book and I took a break of almost three years before I decided to pick up the book again this June. I am so happy I decided to finish of "The Mortal Instruments" though because I've really missed the Shadowhunter world and returning to the series was like saying hi to a long lost friend.

I have to admit that I was lost at times and had to remind myself of what had happened in the previous books, but I soon caught on.

I had a really hard time accepting Jace. I know that he was bound to Sebastian and therefore acted differently and Clary kept on reminding us that but I still thought he was annoying. I missed Jace and after four books about him where I really liked his character I felt as though he had completely disappeared. This Jace was different and not what I remembered and though I knew it wasn't really him I couldn't accept that as an excuse. Spoiler! In the scene towards the end when he has managed to tear his mark that binds him to Sebastian and comes into Clary's room telling her that he's him again I thought I would melt. I was so relieved that he was himself and that the actual Jace that I remembered after my long break of reading the books still existed.

Simon and Isabelle are by far my favourite characters. I have nothing against Clary and Jace, I absolutely love them, don't get me wrong. But they are the perfect couple. He's the perfect hero and she's the perfect protagonist and they're just perfect with perfect obstacles that they handle perfectly and I love it. Simon and Isabelle however have a relationship which I ship more however, because it's so real and believable. Isabelle has the issue of admitting that she loves Simon and Simon is shy. Simon is not the ripped romantic hero with amazing super powers and that makes him perfect. Because despite being undead and a vampire he's so completely human.

I love Magnus's appearance in "The Mortal Instruments" and "The Infernal Devices" and his relationship with Alec is awesome. I understand that Magnus got upset about Alec visiting Camille, but I also understood why Alec did it. Magnus walking away from Alec at the end upset me so much and I was seriously worried that that relationship would be over forever. 

I absolutely ship Jordan and Maia and I think Jordan is absolutely adorable. During the early books when Maia was first introduced to us I was torn between shipping Simon and Isabelle and shipping Simon and Maia. But as Jordan stepped into the picture all problems were solved and Simon and Isabelle may seriously be my OTP at the moment (this changes over time guys, so this statement may pop up again with a new couple in the future).

Plot Summary:

"What price is too high to pay, even for love? when Jace and Clary meet again, Clary is horrified to discover that the demon Lilith's magic has bound her beloved Jace together with her evil brother Sebastian, and that Jace has become a servant of evil. The Clave is out to destroy Sebastian, but there is no way to harm one boy without destroying the other. As Alec, Magnus, Simon, and Isabelle wheedle and bargain with Seelies, demons, and the merciless iron Sisters to try to save Jace, Clary plays a dangerous game of her own. The price of losing is not just her own life, but Jace's soul. She's willing to do anything for Jace, but can she still trust him? Or is he truly lost?

Love. Blood. Betrayal. Revenge. Darkness threatens to claim the Shadowhunters in the harrowing fifth book of the Mortal Instruments series." - Goodreads

Favorite Quote:

"Speaking of hope. Did you see that shot Alec got off with his bow thats my boyfriend." - Magnus

My Rating:

9/10

The only reason this got a lower rating than the others is because I could not stand Jace's behaviour when he was bound to Sebastian. The lack of the actual Jace was painful.

Other Books in these Series:

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments, Book 1)

City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments, Book 2)

City of (The Mortal Instruments, Book 3)

City of (The Mortal Instruments, Book 4)

City of (The Mortal Instruments, Book 5)

City of Heavenly Fire (The Mortal Instruments, Book 6)

Other Books by Cassandra Clare:

Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, Book 1)

Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices, Book 2)

Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices, Book 3)

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices Book 1)
Lord of Shadows (The Dark Artifices Book 2)

This review is also available on YouTube here.

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments, Book 1) by Cassandra Clare (2007)

Title: City of Bones
Author: Cassandra Clare
Series: The Mortal Instruments #1
Pages: 485
Published: Mar 27th 2007
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books


It took me a while to actually start reading this. A few of my friends had read it and when one of them said 'she goes to this club and sees someone get murdered, but no one else can see them' I kinda felt 'um, ok, don't know if this is my kinda book'. But when I read it I got a whole new experience than that.

I read the Clockwork Trilogy first because, well, it takes place before The Mortal Instruments (except Clockwork Princess had not yet come out at that time).

Cassandra Clare has such imagination! This isn't just sci-fi. It's well thought through and the things that link the book together with the Infernal Devices is just really clever. Things like the family names, the objects and the how it's hidden. Everything is very well thought through. Thumbs up for that!!

I borrowed the books at the school library so I didn't even have to wait until I could go buy it, they were right there. Now, I've bought the whole series so they stand untouched on my book shelf and my mum keeps on reminding me that I have this whole unread series at home and I'm like 'no, I've read them, I read them at school, I just like to have my own copies, especially of the books I like'. I have to admit though, I prefer a bookshelf with physically read books that books that look brand new. Yet, I can't just take the books and bend the spine to make them look read (they're still so pretty) because I haven't, not that specific copy you know. I guess I'll just have to re-read them. I'm weird that way. Really weird.

I opened the book up a while ago just to read the first sentence and get that flashback for a moment and I realised that Clary is only 15! FIFTEEN!! I'm eighteen. Almost makes me feel like I should read adult books right now and I kinda want to at moments, but can't let go of YA fiction quite yet. Is it ok to still be reading YA books when you're like 25, cause I bet I will  be, no doubt.

Plot Summary: 

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder - much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing - not even the smear of blood - to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

Favorite Quote:

"The boy never cried again, and he never forgot that he'd learned: that to love is to destroy, and that to be loved is to be the one destroyed."

My Rating:

10/10

Other Books in these Series:

City of Bones (The Mortal Instruments, Book 1)

City of Ashes (The Mortal Instruments, Book 2)

City of Glass (The Mortal Instruments, Book 3)

City of Fallen Angels (The Mortal Instruments, Book 4)

City of Lost Souls (The Mortal Instruments, Book 5)

City of Heavenly Fire (The Mortal Instruments, Book 6)

Other Books by Cassandra Clare:

Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, Book 1)

Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices, Book 2)

Clockwork Princess (The Infernal Devices, Book 3)

Lady Midnight (The Dark Artifices, Book 1)
Lord of Shadows (The Dark Artifices, Book 2)

The Danish Girl (Hooper, 2015)

I've wanted to watch this film for so long so I managed to get away with my mum and friend Holly (the evening ended with a continued Harry Potter marathon at her place afterwards).

My theater friends and I debated about whether Lili should have been played by a transgender actress. Of course that would have given more transgender actress an opportunity in the spotlight which I very much support. I think that would have been amazing. Some thought it should have been done in respect to Lili as she was an actual person. Since the film is about transgender and supporting the idea of transgender it would've had a stronger impact if the actress therefore was transgender. However, the film would have been hard as Lili starts off as Einar Wegener and we have to see her as a man to be able to understand the situation and journey. Some scenes would have simply not worked if the actor had not been a man. I think you know what I mean if you watch it.

Eddy Redmayne was amazing as always. What I think is fascinating about him is that he dares to act unusual roles. Who else would have pulled off Stephen Hawking? Some critics said he was too masculine, but if anything I think he is very feminine, which worked perfectly. I love Alicia Wikander. She's beautiful and very very talented, and yes, she's Swedish. I completely got a feeling for how it must have felt for Gerda at the time. She seemed to have a full understanding for her character. I loved the chemistry between the two actors and they were phenomenal at portraying their relationship and it was truly believable.

Plot Summary:
A fictitious love story loosely inspired by the lives of Danish artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener. Lili and Gerda's marriage and work evolve as they navigate Lili's groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer.

My Rating:
8/10
I'm not quite convinced that Lili had so many friends during this time. After all, having to be the first transgender at the time must have been extremely hard, but Lili seemed to have a lot of supporters and I found this hard to understand.

Book Purchase January 2016

Okay. So you all know that I'm a huge Potter fan. Or maybe that hasn't come across since I haven't had the opportunity to write the reviews yet. I felt like maybe I should reread them before I start writing so that I don't get a bit muddled up. Or maybe it's just an excuse to reread them, cause now I am. Rereading The Order of The Phoenix.

The following is probably going to be so hard to explain. So I own all the Harry Potter books in the Swedish edition. Because you know when you're nine you tend to read in you mother tongue and not the language you've studied for like two years. So I've got all of those. Happy and satisfied. I got the first three from my grandma and then I started collecting the other as I went. I actually like the covers quite a lot to be honest.

So when I moved to England I started buying the English versions because I wanted to reread them in the original language and because I could. So I bought the first four without difficulty. What I didn't realise was that they were of the signature collection and now they don't sell them anymore!! And some of you may know that I'm really picky about editions and covers. I need every book in the series to be the same edition and size. Why? Because being a fandom is not just about reading. For me reading is like collecting stamps. I know, stupid simile, but true. I have most of my books on display in my room so I get irritated when stuff don't look perfect. So, now I obviously want the whole series in English.

So my friend was like just buy them from charity shops. They always have them. You just have to pop in now and then. And they are usually in good shape. Then my mum (being present) said that she had seen the whole series in the original colourful striped hardcover. So I was like yes, lets go. But when we went they only had book four and five. So mum was like no point in buying them then and I got convinced. I know. WTH!

So then we went to this 2nd hand charity book shop (yes, just books, in amazing condition and super cheap) and they had book six in the same edition as the other charity shop had. I bought it and decided to go back to the other one and get the other two and when asking in the shop she said that they do come now and again and that you have to pop in regularly to check.

I didn't get the chance to go in at the end of the day and get them but my mum and younger sister popped in and she called me saying that the fourth one was missing pages so I was like: how did you notice that you know, but don't buy it cause what is the point? Turns out they were tricking me (I always fall for these things) and my sister wanted to surprise me. She's an angel.

So I decided that it would have to take a little time to get my complete series in the original covers. I don't really mind the books being read through and a little worn out around the edges. I like that because some of my books are really worn out. It shows they've been read and brought with you in your bag and appreciated you know.

So bought those three books this week. Just realised like every paragraph has started with 'so'. I'm not a very good story teller.

However, I then realised that I can't build up my complete series in second hand hard covers and then have four of the signature edition uncompleted. No, I will not have it. So I search around amazon, but they're all used (which is fine) but The Order of the Phoenix was £22! I mean give me break. And the others were like £13. So I started looking at e-bay but found this website called alibris that sell second hand books really cheap. So I got The Order of the Phoenix for £1.25, The Half-Blood Prince for £11.49 and The Deathly Hallows for £0.71 plus £6.77. I didn't mind the shipping since the price in total still ended up cheaper than £22. They were all in 'very good' condition on the website and now I have the complete series. They proved very hard to find though.

Mind you, this doesn't mean I'll stop searching for the hard covers. I'm still getting there. I don't mind if that results in me having three completed series of Harry Potter in different editions. The more the merrier!

Which covers to you have and does it matter a lot to you?

Shadowhunters Season 1 Episode 1: The Decent Into Hell Isn't Easy (Decter 2016)

They are doing okay so far.

Simon is good at what he's doing and the relationship between him and Isabelle is very similar to that in the book. The silent brothers looked like I imagined.

However, I do have some major problems:

• They do not visit the Silent brothers this early. Right? And they are supposed to lead her to Magnus Bane. They certainly didn't do that.
• Since when does Clary find out that Valetine is her father this quickly. I think this causes major problems for the plot as we know it. It might allow possibilities in the plot for their plot, but it's based on the book.
• When the heck did Simon just get captured by the vampires in his car. Common. We're not even going to give the party ago with the funny drinks and the rat moment. That's how it all happened, right?
• Who the heck is Dot. Okay. So I thought she was the fortune teller kind of lady living down stairs who turns out to be a demon and attacks Clary. Whats up with this whole turns out to be a demon in Episode 1 and Jace kills her but then she turns up in her human figure again and is all of a sudden a warlock. I either really misunderstood something in the books or I've just forgotten, but Dot is confusing me so much.
• Where is Magnus Bane going? Where is he escaping and all that. And the circle members killing warlocks. Don't remember that either.

So either I really need to refresh my memory from the books or the series are changing a whole lot of things. If you disagree with something please tell me. I'd love to hear from you.

2016: Reading - Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Ok gang. So I know I said I would read at least 10 books this year, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix being one of them. So I have taken a massive break in the middle of the book. Chapter 22 to be exact. And since I have an ongoing Harry Potter marathon with my friend and we massive Harry Potter discussions I decided to pick up the book again. Since I don't have the book in English I had to read in Swedish, which isn't too bad but the translation doesn't always match the English so sometimes the characters can come across a bit different. Maybe that's because I'm picky and I read in both languages.

So anyways, started reading again and realised I needed a massive catch up. Still enjoying it loads. I mean, who cannot enjoy Harry Potter (except that annoying guy on Goodreads who gave it 1/5 and people are upset and commanding aggressively on his review).

So have to buy it in English, but there you go. I get so captured by this that I find it really hard to focus on school work. I'll get there guys and then I'll write a review because I need to refresh my memory so can't do that yet. I'll probably end up reading The Half-Blood Prince and The Deathly Hallows just because I'm in the mood right now.

Shadowhunters Season 1 Episode 1: The Mortal Cup (Decter, 2016)

Sooooo....

What did you guys think? I've been quite critical towards this tv series, mainly because I though Clary look really scary on the poster. Otherwise, I was pretty excited. It was all over Instagram before Christmas and I was so confused until I finally realised... that they were making a tv series!! How cool is that?

I think there were pros and cons of the pilot. Clary was much better than the poster promised. Also, she's ginger. Guess what? She's ginger in the books! Well done! Jace I was pretty pleased with to be honest. I liked him in the film but he was really good here too. Isabelle and Alec I can't make my mind up about. They certain look like siblings so that's good. I don't think the "white" wig suits Isabelle, I'm going to be honest about that.

The institute confused me a bit. Have I missed out something in the books or is that high tech and that many people and so on? It was cool and impressive, but the film portrayed it closer to my interpretation.

The story about Clary's mum desperately trying to tell Clary about the shadowhunters bugged me a little. That was never in the books and it was slightly suspicious.

Although the TV series has added an odd character in: Simon's friend in his band I'll buy that for now. Although I swear he gets another friend later on the book series with a certain interest in the moon.

Overall, I'm quite pleased. It's hard to judge a series based on one episode. I think the action could be improved somewhat. Some scenes weren't quite as "actiony" as they could've been.

Also, what I find a little odd. Isabelle doesn't seem to be aware that Alec is gay and fancies Jace. She seems surprised when Alec is upset over the fact that Jace cares about Clary. This should not be the case. She knows.

We'll give it a try.

My rating:
6/10

For my review on the film The Mortal Instruments - City of Bones (Zwart, 2014) click here.

Me About Wattpad

I haven't always been a fan of wattpad. When I first found out about it I thought it was really cool and I really wanted to post my own stories and I read some as well. But after a while I got tired and wanted to read 'real' books. So I forgot about it for about two years.

Until I decided that I wanted to put up my own book on wattpad because I had something. So I thought that if I want to have my stuff read I might as well read other's work too. I have also recently read some pretty bad books on iBooks that have been free. So I thought if I want to read on my phone, then why not read on Wattpad. There are some really talented writers on there and you can find pretty epic stuff that hasn't been published. Just imagine, being one of the first people reading a book! And it also gives me a chance to put up my work. The more you read and comment the more people will find your work. So it's a two way street and it's a great community.

And you can get spotted. Fifty Shades of Grey was originally written on a similar website and is now a best selling book. My life with the Walter Boys was originally drafted on Wattpad and is now a book on the shelves. It's pretty amazing how you can get feedback and participate in competitions and so on.

And you can create your own book covers and so on. That's really important for your book and image and can be pretty hard too!

So I've started to read Wattpad stories whenever I'm on my phone because it's a good way of spending my time. I usually hate having eBooks because I prefer having the physical book. But these books don't even "exist" so I find it a good way to spend time!

Tell me what you think!