Select by Marit Weisenberg (2017)

Title: Select

Author: Marit Weisenberg

Pages: 352 (Kindle)

Expected publication: Oct 3th 2017

Publisher: Charlesbridge, Teen


This eGalley was given to me by Charlesbridge, Teen vie NetGalley in exchange for the honest review. These are my personal opinions of the book.

If this book had to be compared to anything, in terms of genre, it would be Twilight. It is a YA romance with supernatural/paranormal undertones. Julia, the protagonist is, however, not a vampire, she belongs to a group of people who are genetically different than humans. All their seances are stronger, they are better at everything. And she falls for the normal, mortal boy. I would not consider this a strong sic-fi or supernatural/paranormal book as it seems to focus more on the romantic relationship between Julia and John than the supernatural aspect. However, I very much enjoyed this. It's like a fluffy YA romantic but with a constantly present, yet subtle element of science fiction. I have been looking a book like this forever, that is funny romantic, but not too cliche.

I liked the characters, except Novak (naturally). I felt like he was restricting Julia and had too much power over her. She didn't speak up to him, even as a daughter and I feel like she was unreasonable blamed for things. I would have liked more information about Julia's group of people as I often in the beginning felt just as lost as John if not more. Often the reader was just told that they were different, they had to be subtle or they were better. I felt like I was expected to know everything already. In a way this puts the reader in the situation of John, which is powerful in its own way, but as he only got to know Julia's whole story 53% into the book I felt like I was as well. And it frustrated me for quite a while. In other words, I felt like although it was a first person story Julia wasn't very open to the reader and we only found something out if it was spoken out loud. More insight would have been appreciated. Sometimes the language was a little boring and simple, but the dialogues were very enjoyable.

I very much enjoyed the mind reading. John is the best character with his funny personal remarks and he really brightens it up. His optimistic, humours thoughts were much more successfully written than his negative thoughts, which sometimes felt a little fake even if they would've been said out loud. John definitely made this book much better and with the constant presence of Angus it was even better.

I can't help but wonder if there will be a sequel. It works fine as a stand alone but I do wonder at some loose ends and the very end hinted at the fact that there might be more to told. What about Julia's mum? What about John's vision? The FBI? The utopia? Angus? I need to know what happens next.

Plot Summary:

“It had always been a fact of life that we were biologically different—better—and that it had to be kept secret.”

Seventeen-year-old Julia Jaynes has the perfect life. She’s beautiful, freakishly athletic, and extremely smart. That’s because she comes from a race of highly-evolved humans living in the heart of Austin, Texas.In order to protect their anonymity and preserve their elite society, Julia’s powerful father forces her to suppress her abilities. When she accidentally demonstrates her super human prowess in public, she’s banished to the one place meant to make her feel inferior: public high school. Thrust into the confusion and humiliation of a normal high school, Julia is just trying to keep her head down when John Ford strolls into her life. An outsider and tennis jock, John is immediately attractive to Julia as a curiosity. She can even read his mind. But as Julia's newfound powers over John grow, so do her feelings. When she discovers her father has been hiding dangerous secrets, for the first time in her life, Julia begins to question her restrictive upbringing. Caught between the prejudices of her manipulative father and the allure of an outsider’s life, Julia must decide how she will define herself—and who she will betray.

My Rating:

7/10

Favourite Quote:

"One more set like this, and that will officially be rock bottom. And in front of her. Definition of a shit show. I should be handing out toilet paper." - John

The Fate of the Tearling by Erika Johansen (2016)

Title: The Fate of the Tearling

Author: Erika Johansen 
Series: The Queen of the Tearling #3

Pages: 478

Published: Nov 29th 2016

Publisher: Harper, Bantam Press


The finale to the Queen of the Tearling trilogy was truly interesting. I was listening to this while painting our gate at home and I can truly say that it made it far more enjoyable.

Many secrets where revealed and questions answered. Who knew about Kelsea's mum? Or her dad? The visions got more and more interesting. I did miss listening to Lily's story but I understand that her story was told and we had to learn Katie's story. Katie's story made me question my initial interpretation of the Tearling. In my review of The Queen of the Tearling I said that I had chosen to imagine the Tearling in a Victorian style world. But I know started to question this. Katie's world is after the crossing and as far as I understand (although their lack of technology) it is very similar to our world today. They wear our type of clothes, live in our style of houses etc. And there's only a matter of years between Katie's tearing and Kelsea's Tearling, where no incredible advances in technology has been made (as far as I understand), so why should it be any different. And (SPOILER ALLERT) at the end, when Kelsea has changed history, her world seems to be very similar to today's world, but happier. I need to reread these book with a new look at the world I built up for myself.

Although I was happy with the ending, and it was satisfying as the issue was resolved and the Tearling was saved. Kelsea saved it. I still feel like there is more to tell. What happens now? Sure, Kelsea is no queen anymore (which is heartbreaking because no one will know how she saved the Tearling) but she has a new life and I feel like there could be more. The last line broke me. It gives the idea that not all is lost (when she's lost everyone she knew and loved) and I need to know what was said after "where have you been?" Give me more!! I understand why the book ended where it did, and as a plot, this was satisfying, but as a story I CRAVE MORE!!

This trilogy was such a unique take on fantasy and one of the best audiobooks I've read, even though each book was narrated by a different lady. Strongly suggest this if you crave fantasy but need something beyond castle, knights and dragons.


Plot Summary:

In less than a year, Kelsea Glynn has grown from an awkward teenager into a powerful monarch and a visionary leader.
And as she has come into her own as the Queen of the Tearling, she has transformed her realm. But in her quest to end corruption and restore justice, she has made many enemies - chief among them the evil and feared Red Queen, who ordered the armies of Mortmesne to march against the Tear and crush them.
To protect her people from such a devastating invasion, Kelsea did the unthinkable - naming the Mace, the trusted head of her personal guards, Regent in her place, she surrendered herself and her magical sapphires to her enemy. But the Mace will not rest until he and his men rescue their sovereign from her prison in Mortmesne.
So, the endgame has begun and the fate of Queen Kelsea - and the Tearling itself - will be revealed...
- Goodreads

My Rating:

8/10

Other Books in the Trilogy:

The Queen of the Tearling (Queen of the Tearling #1)

The Invasion of the Tearling (Queen of the Tearling #2)

The Fate of the Tearling (Queen of the Tearling #3)

The Boy (Queen of the Tearling novella)

The Gathering by K.E. Ganshert (2015)

Title: The Gathering

Author: K.E. Ganshert

Series: The Gifting #3

Pages: 379 (Kindle)

Published: Jul 1st 2015

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform


I downloaded this book as soon as I finished the previous book, but took a break in between for an unknown reason. But the finale did not disappoint. Again, theres the pattern that I see a lot in sic-fi and dystopia. Where there is a broken society, the main characters seem to want to start a revolution, and though they seem to only be a couple of teenagers to start with they always end up being this huge organised group at a specific headquarters. Did The Gathering have this? You bet it did, and damn it was good. More things were revealed of the organisation and the people wight the Gift and it just got better and better. Action filled and so gripping.

There was death, betrayal, and in that sense realistic. The ending was happy, as happy as it can get when you're in this situation, but satisfying. The book got very complicated and if I think back at it I'm not sure I remember everything or can recall exactly the roles of different people. I suggest you pay attention while reading this book. The complicated bits were introduced in The Awakening but it doesn't stop there. This book appears very thought through however and there's an answer to every question, if you read carefully.

Absolutely amazing trilogy, and I have now found out that they are officially available in physical paperbacks (rather than just the kindle versions that I read). How amazing is that?! And the covers are the same, and gorgeous. Want to get my hands on them.

Plot Summary:

"Darkness is a tricky thing. Especially when it cloaks itself in light." Luka isn't dead. He's not beyond saving. Tess knows because she saw him with her own eyes. After what she saw, she's sure of one thing: If they don't rescue him soon, Luka won't be Luka anymore. If only she could convince the other members of the hub. They're not sure Tess saw what she claims she saw. And they're preoccupied by the fact that their kind is being systematically eradicated. Answers lie in an ancient prophecy, one that revolves around a seventeen-year-old girl who never asked for any of this. K.E. Ganshert's final installment in The Gifting Series brings readers on an action-packed journey through loss, sacrifice, betrayal, and the impossible choice between what we want most and what we know is right.

- Goodreads

My Rating:

9/10

Other Books in this trilogy:

The Gifting (The Gifting #1)

The Awakening (The Gifting #2)

The Gathering (The Gifting #3)

Simon & Sophie by Emma Granholm (2008)

Title: Simon & Sophie

Author: Emma Granholm

Pages: 224

Published: Mar 14th 2008

Publisher: Alfabeta Bokförlag


This book was purchased as part of a module I would study in Swedish while living in England.

This book is a classic popular girl meets bullied boy, they become friends, they fall in love etc. It was predictable. I knew the ending after having read the back of the book. But it wasn't so much about the excitement about how it was going to end. It was more of a feel good book, a light romantic read about friendship and love. Not too complicated, yet a message about standing up for the people you love.

It is not a book I highly recommend, it won't blow your mind, but it's sweet and innocent and enjoyable.

Plot Summary:

"For fuck's sake!"
Simon shouts out loud when he sees that Sophie is about to move into the neighbouring house. Sophie isn't just the school's best looking and most popular girl, she's also made sure that Simon is bullied. Is he not even to be free of her when he's at home?!
During the Easter holidays - when Sophie is alone and bored - she goes over to Simon's house. He's at first both surprised and irritated, but soon realises that Sophie is different than when in school. One evening she tells him something she hasn't had the courage to tell anyone before. But what's it going to be like when school starts again?
-back of Book

My Rating:

7/10


Other Books by Emma Granholm:

Simon & Sophie (Simon & Sophie)
Ett Nytt Liv På Köpet (A New Life in the Bargain)
Liv & Lovisa (Liv & Lovisa)
Sjutton År och Skitsnygg (Seventeen and Hot as Hell)

The Invasion of the Tearling by Erika Johansen (2015)

Title: The Invasion of the Tearling

Author: Erika Johansen 
Series: The Queen of the Tearling #2

Pages: 515

Published: Jun 9th 2015

Publisher: Harper, Bantam Press


Having a certain love for the audiobook of Queen of the Tearling I was quite disappointed when I found out that it wasn't narrated by Katherine Kellgren. Instead it was performed by Davina Porter and I was pleasantly surprised that she was just as good. These audiobooks are truly amazing.

This sequel is taking The Queen of the Tearling Trilogy one step further. This series is different from the usual high fantasy with its references to 'The Crossing' and a Land referred to as New England, New London and Europe. As if though England as we know today once existed.

And it did. In this book we get to see more of Kelsea's visions, about a young woman called Lily who lived in the United States, pre-crossing. At first, I wasn't too keen on these sections of the book, but I quickly got hooked. The bigger picture started to make itself clear and I wanted to know more and more. This is such an interesting take on fantasy where a new dystopian sci-fi sub genre is introduced and one can almost relate to the world, because it is becoming more and more similar to our own.

Kelsea herself is growing as a character as well. Strong as a queen, brave and her visions make her more interesting. It is slowly changing her appearance, strangely, and I am not quite sure what it adds to her characters apart from the fact that it doesn't change people's initial opinions of her (no matter how beautiful she becomes). Apart from visions, the sapphires have also allowed her powers which she is now experiencing - pain. And it makes her scarier to read about as it is a part of her that I do not enjoy as much - the Queen of Spades. The enemy of the Red Queen. I will leave it at that as I do not wish to spoil anymore for you.

All in all, this series has truly developed and as more things are revealed of the Tearling the more I want to know. And also, who doesn't like Pen? I quite like their relationship as it adds a subtle romantic interest but Kelsea stays true to her throne rather than love.

Plot Summary:

Kelsea Glynn is the Queen of the Tearling. Despite her youth, she has quickly asserted herself as a fair, just and powerful ruler.
However, power is a double-edged sword, and small actions can have grave consequences. In trying to do what is right - stopping a vile trade in humankind - Kelsea has crossed the Red Queen, a ruthless monarch whose rule is bound with dark magic and the spilling of blood. The Red Queen's armies are poised to invade the Tearling, and it seems nothing can stop them.
Yet there was a time before the Crossing, and there Kelsea finds a strange and possibly dangerous ally, someone who might hold the key to the fate of the Tearling, and indeed to Kelsea's own soul. But time is running out...

- Goodreads

My Rating:

8/10

Other Books in the Series:

The Queen of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #1)
The Invasion of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #2)
The Fate of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #3)
The Boy (The Queen of the Tearling novella)

Buy This Book on:

Amazon
Waterstones
Book Depository

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard - video review

Title: Red Queen

Author: Victoria Aveyard

Series: Red Queen #1

Pages: 383

Published: Feb 10th 2015

Publisher: HarperTeen, Orion

Video review of Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen!

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Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard - video discussion

Title: Glass Sword

Author: Victoria Aveyard

Series: Red Queen #2

Pages: 444

Published: Feb 9th 2016

Publisher: HarperTeen, Orion

Video Discussion of Victoria Aveyard's book Glass Sword, the sequel to Red Queen.

Thanks for watching and don't forget to like and subscribe to my YouTube channel here.

Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman (2006)

Title: Noughts and Crosses

Author: Malorie Blackman
Series: Noughts and Crosses #1
Pages: 479

Published: Aug 8th 2006

Publisher: Corgi Childrens


I read this book while in Florida, and despite spending a whole week at Disney World, morning till evening, I finished this book in no time. This book was on a list of books recommended for summer reading when I was fourteen and having heard loads of good comments about it from class mates and teachers I had to get it.

This book is so incredibly strong and filled with important topics such as racism, politics, pregnancy, kidnapping, attacks and parent relationships. Every teenager should read this book. It is set in a world with a "colourless underclass" and a "dark-skinned ruling class". However, they are simply referred to as noughts and Crosses. It is a sort of Romeo and Juliet story where Callum (nought) and Sephy (Cross) cannot be together but it much more politically dangerous than a classic Shakespeare play.

The book runs over a couple of years (which was new to me as I felt like a lot of young adult books take place over a few days to a few months. The reader gets to grow up with Callum and Sephy and go through all the time they spend together (and apart). It's written from both people's point of view so the reader truly gets a deep understanding for what is going on and if anything it makes it even more heart wrenching.

Highly, highly recommend this for both teens and adult. I made my mum read it. Due to the ending of this book, I had a hard time continuing with the rest of the series. I did start Knife Edge but didn't get through it unfortunately. I almost believe that Noughts and Crosses works well as a stand-alone and that is almost the way I view the story. However, there may be more important points to be brought up the sequels and I will not judge books that I have not read. With other words, this book is part of highly rated series but it is perfectly fine to read on its own.


Plot Summary:

Callum is a nought - a second-class citizen in a world run by the ruling Crosses...
Sephy is a Cross, daughter of one of the most powerful men in the country...
In their world, noughts and Crosses simply don't ,mix. And as hostility turns to violence, can Callum and Sephy possibly find a way to be together? They are determined to try.
And then the bomb explodes...
A gripping, stimulating and totally absorbing novel set in a world where black and white are right and wrong.
- back of book

My Rating:

10/10

Other Books in this Series:

Noughts and Crosses (Noughts and Crosses #1)
Knife Edge  (Noughts and Crosses #2)
Check Mate  (Noughts and Crosses #3)
Double Cross   (Noughts and Crosses #4)
An Eye for an Eye  (Noughts and Crosses novella)
Callum  (Noughts and Crosses novella)
Noughs and Crosses Graphic Novell

Other Books by Malorie Blackman:

Pig Heart Boy
Boys Don't Cry
Hacker
The Stuff of Nightmares
Thief!
Noble Conflict
The Ripple Effect (Doctor Who)
Dead Gorgeous
A.N.T.I.D.O.T.E.
Cloud Busting
Tell Me No Lies
Chasing the Stars
Love Hurts
The Deadly Dare Mysteries
Dangerous Reality
Trust Me
Hostage
Operation Gadgetman!
Jon for Short
Unheard Voices
Shining On

Min Typ Brorsa by Johanna Lindbäck (2010)

Title: Min Typ Brorsa (My Sort Of Brother)

Author: Johanna Lindbäck

Pages: 268

Published: Dec 2010

Publisher: Rabén & Sjögren

Language: Swedish

This is such an enjoyable swedish young adult about a girl and a boy who start having feelings for each other after their single parents move in together. It's sweet, funny and a little bit heart wrenching. You hope for something you know will never be but the journey there is absolutely wonderful. Writing this review makes me want to reread it because it's so sweet and innocent. Highly recommend for all the Swedish speakers out there as a light romantic read, whether it be a summer or winter read. It's so cute. Absolutely love what these characters go through and their relationship.

Plot Summary:

Celebrating New Years with Mum's new guy isn't exactly what Nina dreamt of. And that Mum talks about the fact that internet-Thomas has two sons exactly in Nina's age isn't helping. But New Years turns out to be better than Nina could've imagined. Thomas's sons are pretty alright. Especially the one...

My Rating:

9/10

Other Books by Johanna Lindbäck:

Min Typ Brorsa (My Sort Of Brother)

Tänk Om Det Där Var Jag (Imagine If That Were Me)

Välkommen Hem (Welcome Home)

En Liten Chock (A Small Shock)

Som Om Jag Frågat (As If I've Asked)

Saker Som Aldrig Händer (Things That Never Happen)

Lite Ihop (A Little Together)

Kanske Ihop (Maybe Together)

Karta För Förälskade och Andra Vilsna

Jan Svensson (Jan Svensson)

Vi Måste Sluta Ses På Det Här Sättet (We Need To Stop Seeing Each Other Like This)

The Queen of the Tearling by Erika Johansen (2014)

Title: The Queen of the Tearling

Author: Erika Johansen 
Series: The Queen of the Tearling #1

Pages: 448

Published: Jul 8th 2014

Publisher: Harper, Bantam Press

This book was recommended as an audiobook by Sasha Alsberg on her YouTube channel Bookutopia and having struggled to find a good audiobook I quickly downloaded this one.

At first I didn't truly get into it but after an hour or so of listening I quickly became dependant on it. I brought it with me everywhere. First of all, the narrator of the audiobook is so good. She reads with such a soothing voice and puts on voices for all the characters so its really played out for you. I would fall asleep to this, listen to it when I did computer sketching on my course. All the time!

Kelsea is a truly strong female protagonist. She lives in a world which dominated by men, and the women who have ruled have either been vain and stupid, or sorceresses. But Kelsea is a nineteen year old girl who has been brought up alone by two servants, with a love for books and strong opinions. She will have her way, and although she will take advice from her right hand man the Maze, she will listen to her own voice. She is a good ruler because she questions her ability to rule. She is unsure and has to make hard choices but she is just and fair and has a love for her people. She reminds one of a certain Elizabeth Tudor.

Fantasy, I feel, is often set in a world inspired by medieval times, with a lack of technology and a love for royalties, knights, religion and a lack of technology. However, with the constant reference to 'the crossing' this book took fantasy to a new level. There were references to printing presses, cigarettes, authors that we know of today. In my struggle to place this book in a historical culture or society I decided to go with Victorian. Mainly because Victorian culture allows for romanticism, dresses and a historic influence. But it is also new to technology - hence a bit of steampunk. The sequel and the final book questioned my interpretation even more (everything is not as it seems) and I suggest you go into it with an open mind.

I am tempted to relisten to the book as it was so gripping and enjoyable. I also, of course, crave physical copies of the book, but this is truly an experience to listen to. Highly recommend. You will find that although this book is categorised as a YA book by many, it is actually in the Fantasy section on Waterstones and it is not for younger readers. It's quite graphic and blunt at places and covers some gruesome topics.

Plot Summary:

An untested young princess must claim her throne, learn to become a queen, and combat a malevolent sorceress in an epic battle between light and darkness in this spectacular debut - the first novel in a trilogy.

Young Kelsea Raleigh was raised in hiding after the death of her mother, Queen Elyssa, far from the intrigues of the royal Keep and in care of two devoted servants who pledged their lives to protect her. Growing up in a cottage deep in the woods, Kelsea knows little of her kingdoms haunted past... or that its fate will soon rest in her hands.

Kelsea's quest to save her kingdom and meet her destiny has only just begun. Riddled with mysteries, betrayals and treacherous battles, Kelsea's journey is a trial by fire that will either forge a legend... or destroy her.

- Goodreads

My Rating:

9/10

Other Books in the Series:

The Queen of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #1)
The Invasion of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #2)
The Fate of the Tearling (The Queen of the Tearling #3)
The Boy (The Queen of the Tearling novella)

Gilla Hata Horan by Johanna Nilsson (2012)

Title: Gilla Hata Horan (Like Hate the Whore)

Author: Johanna Nilsson

Pages: 176

Published: Aug 22nd 2012

Publisher: Pocketförlaget
Language: Swedish


A very light read which won't take you more that a day. It covers a very important topic of cyber bullying. In this book a Facebook side is made and called 'Hate the Whore' in recognition of a girl in school who is in turn bullied on this side. People encourages students to Facebook Like this page. It is a truly awful situation and it really gets to you. This situation also has an impact on a friendship and school life. Depressing in its topic but very important to bring up.

Plot Summary:

Jonna and Gloria are 15 years old and best friend. They're not particularly popular, but at the same time not bullied. But then they go along to a party and get to dance with Robin, the hottest, coolest guy in school. He seems to think they're totally okay, even cute. It's almost to good to be true. And it is. Mean comments are written on Gloria's blog and on Facebook a Hate the Whore-side is made. Gloria feels so low she starts to cut herself again. Jonna has to do something. She can't allow it to get worse for Gloria. She decides to give them a taste of their own medicaid, because online anything can happen. Who's a whore now?
- back of book

My Rating:

7/10

Other Books by Johanna Nilsson:

Gilla Hata Horan (Like Hate the Whore)
Hon Går Genom Tavlan, Ut Ur Bilden (She Walks Through the Painting, Out of the Picture)
De i Utkanten Älskande (Those Loving in the Outskirts)
Rebell med Frusna Fötter (Rebel with Frozen Feet)
Gå Din Väg men Stanna (Go Away But Stay)
Konsten Att Vara Ela (The Art of Being Ela)
Flickan som Uppfann Livet (The Girl Who Invented Life)
Om Hundra Dagar Ska Jag Dö Så Satans Vackert Att Du Vill Följa Med (In a Hundred Days I Will Die So Fucking Beautifully that You'll Want To Come With Me)
Janis Den Magnifika (Janis the Magnificent)

Matched by Ally Condie (2010)

Title: Matched

Author: Ally Condie
Series: Matched #1

Pages: 369

Published: Nov 30th 2010

Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers


I was very excited for this book and it started out very good. But I got a little bored to be honest. The idea was very good and had such potential but I got tired of reading it. It felt like not a lot was happening that truly mattered and I found myself powering through it. Many of my friends were reading it at the time and loved it and so I tried to keep my mind open and convince myself that it was a good book but it wasn't truly working.

It is a nice science-fiction story which doesn't require too much thinking, and it kept me entertained and reading. However, it was not a memorable page turner and did not truly keep my interest fuelled.

I did however like the choice of names and the characters themselves. The world itself was interesting and the centre of the plot.

Plot Summary:

On her seventeenth birthday, Cassia meets her match. Society dictates he is her perfect partner for life.
Except he's not.
In Cassia's society, Officials decide who people love.
How many children they have.
Where they work.
When they die.
But as Cassia finds herself falling in love with another boy, she is determined to make some choices of her own.
And that's when her whole world begins to unravel.

My Rating:

5/10

Other Books in the Series:

Matched (Matched #1)
Crossed (Matched #2)
Reached (Matched #3)

Buy This Book On:

Amazon
Waterstones
Book Depository

Tusen gånger starkare by Christina Herrström (2006)

Title: Tusen Gaånger Starkare (A Thousand Times Stronger)

Author: Christina Herrström

Pages: 217

Published: 2006

Publisher: Bonnier Carlsen, Månpocket
Language: Swedish

This book I read after I had seen the film. I think I must have been 12 at the time. The film was so good, and I watched it over and over again, that I got very high expectations of the book. Unfortunately the book was not as exciting.

The book has a very strong message about girls and boys in high school and social ranks. It's about standing up for who you are and that girls should have as much freedom as boys. This comes through when a new girl (Saga) starts school and turns all the rules upside down. She's interesting and the reason to why the book works. However, the book is told from one of the outsiders point of view - Signe. And in one aspect I think that's important because it builds an understanding for the reader. However, I often got bored or frustrated by Signe as there was very little to her.

Plot Summary:

Saga was free. Free from everything. At first we loved her. Then, we loved her even more. She changed everything. For all of us. Each and every one. She became a threat. And a promise.
Signe is 15. In the classroom she pretty much invisible, it's the boys that dominate. But one day a new  girl joins the class: Saga, a girl with self confidence and strength. She's a thousand times stronger than the others and takes up space just like the guys. Signe and the others become curious, things are changing in the class. But to what price?

Favourite Quote:

"I don't know where Saga is today. But one thing I know for sure. She was strong. A thousand times stronger than all the girls I know. And somewhere deep inside me, that power grows. This is my only life." - Signe

My Rating

6/10

Other Books by Christina Herrström:

Tusen Gånger Starkare (A Thousand Times Stronger)
Glappet
Den Hungriga Princessan (The Hungry Princess)
Didrik (Didrik)
Ebba (Ebba)
Ebba och Didrik (Ebba and Didrik)
Leontines Längtan (Leontine's Longing)
Det Handlar om Kärlek (It's about Love)

The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory (2005)

Title: The Constant Princess

Author: Philippa Gregory

Series: The Tudor Court Novels, The Plantagenet and the Tudor Novels

Pages: 501

Published: 2005

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

This book is about Henry VIII's first wife Katherine of Aragon. I usually saw Katherine of Aragon as the boring older wife who he divorced, because Anne Boleyn came along, and the mother of Mary Tudor (not a big fan of Bloody Mary). This book, however, looked at Katherine of Aragon in a completely different light. She was an ill treated princess for a lot of her teen age years and overlooked by the court.

Katherine of Aragon married Henry VIII's older brother Arthur first, but he died before he could become king. It is said that she married Henry because he insisted and she claimed that her marriage with Arthur was not consummated. That is what history has believed however, Philippa Gregory, as a historian has her own theory; that the marriage was consummated but that Katherine lied in order to marry Henry and become Queen, as she believed she was destined to be.

Kathrine's relationship with Arthur in this book is fictional; it is romantic and sweet and everything you could ever dream of. This novel was not about the old, boring queen that got divorced for a more exciting young queen. This novel is about a young princess from Spain, fighting for her place in court, falling in love, loosing her love and falling in love again. This queen rules and she is loved by her people.

If you have a love for historical fiction I highly recommend this book, or any of Gregory's books. It's based on historical characters and events but mixed with a perfect amount of fiction to spice things up a bit.

Plot Summary:

Katherine of Aragon is betrothed at the age of three to Prince Arthur, son and heir of Henry VII of England. She is raised to be Princess of Wales, and knows it is her destiny to rule that far-off, wet, cold land.

Her faith is tested when her prospective father-in-law greets her arrival with a great insult; Arthur seems little better than a boy; the food is strange and the customs coarse. Slowly she adapts to the first Tudor court, and life as Arthur's wife grows ever more bearable. Unexpectedly in this arranged marriage, a tender and passionate love develops.
But when the studious young man dies, she is left to make her own future: how can she now be queen, and found a dynasty?

My Rating:

8/10

Favourite Quote:

"This bride would give her a grandson, a Spanish-Tudor king for England, and a son after him, and after him: and so lay down a dynasty of Tudors that would be never-ending." - Margaret Beaufort

This couldn't be further from the truth.

Other Books in the Series:

The Constant Princess
The Other Boleyn Girl
The Boleyn Inheritance
The Other Queen
The Queen's Fool
The Virgin's Lover

These books are technically stand alone books as they have nothing in common except the historic era and the Tudor court. However, if you are unfamiliar with the history behind them you may wish to read them in the order they take place historically to get a greater picture but it is certainly not necessary.

Det Är Så Logiskt All Fattar Utom Du by Lisa Bjärbo (2011)

Title: Det Är Så Logiskt All Fattar Utom Du (It's So Logical Everyone Gets It Except You)

Author: Lisa Bjärbo

Pages: 250

Published: Mar 15th 2011

Publisher: Rabén & Sjögren

This book was bought as an eBook when I had run out of books to read while on holiday in Florida. This is your typical fluffy summer romance and I read it in pretty much a day. It's funny and painful and romantic and such a cute cozy read. It's not all about being in love though. It's about cheating parents, gossiping friends, boys that ignore girls and girls who don't understand that their best friend is in love with them. It's so beautifully written and relatable even if you may not have gone through the same stuff.

It may be a little predictable, but somehow that makes it nicer. It's a satisfying ending. It's written from both Ester and Johan's point of view so you get both's side of the story and it makes it so much better. Highly recommend this book if you just want to curl up with a feel-good book.

Plot Summary:

For four years has Johan, in secret, had a crush on his girl friend. For four years has he bit together, listened, played uninterested when she talks about her love stories. But now it's impossible. He's going to explode!

My Rating:

8/10

Other Books by Lisa Bjärbo:

Allt Jag Säger Är Sant (All I Say Is The Truth)
Det Är Så Logiskt All Fattar Utom Du (It's So Logical Everyone Gets It Except You)

Carry On by Rainbow Rowell (2016)

Title: Carry On

Author: Rainbow Rowell

Pages: 528

Published: Feb 25th 2016

Publisher: Macmillan

After reading Fangirl I was very excited to read Carry On as I wanted to know more about Simon. Simon is a fictional character whom Cath writes fan fiction about on the book Fangirl. During uni she writes the fan fiction "Carry On Simon" as if though it was the eighth book in the Simon Snow series (yet to be published). In Cath's version, Simon and Bas (his least favourite friend and room mate) have a romantic relationship, so naturally there are some Simon and Bas love scenes in Carry On and it's so so good!

I felt like Carry On was a bit of a parody of Harry Potter and Twilight. Simon is the chosen one and he attends a magic boarding school but it's much more relaxed and funny. It's absolutely hilarious. It's kind of a light hearted version.

I suggest you read Fangirl first, to get the background story of this book. If feel like it would be more appreciated that way. Even though the book is obviously by Rainbow Rowell, I felt like I was reading fan fiction by Cath and it was an amazing feeling.

Plot Summary:

Simon Snow is the worst chosen one who's ever been chosen
That's what his roommate, Baz says. And Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he's probably right.
Half the time Simon can't even make his wand work, and the other half, he sets something on fire. His mentor's avoiding him, his girlfriend broke up with him, and there's a magic-eating monster running around wearing Simon's face. Baz would be having a field day wit all this, if he were here - it's their last year at the Watford School of Magicks, and Simon's infuriating nemesis didn't even bother to show up.
- back of book

Favourite Quote:

'I didn't care if magic was real at that moment. Because roast beef and Yorkshire pudding are fucking real as rain.' - Simon

My Rating:

9/10

Other Books by Rainbow Rowell:

Fangirl
Carry On
Eleanor & Park
Landline
Attachments
Kindred Spirits
My True Love Gave To Me
Almost Midnight

Mask of Shadows by Linsey Miller (2017)

Title: Mask of Shadows

Author: Linsey Miller

Series: Untitled
Pages: 384

Expected publication: Sep 5th 2017

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire

This ARC was given to me as an ebook by Sourcebooks Fire via NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to read this book.

I didn't finish this book after 66% because sadly I did not enjoy it.

This book featured a gender fluid character called Sallot (Sal). Sal is attending an audition to become Opal, a member of the Queen's left-hand. This audition felt too much like a weak copy of Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass and I could not escape that. I didn't truly understand how the audition was laid out and the proper rules. The plot felt like it was altogether weak.

And unfortunately Sallot infuriated me. They were arrogant and cocky and I had absolutely no sympathy for them. I got increasingly annoyed and when Sal then showed some actual fear towards the Shadows it felt fake. I felt like Sal was mostly unsympathetic and rude, too full of themselves and I personally felt it very hard to read about a person like this, especially in first person. Sal make a point in the beginning that they has never killed anyone before, but then when they kill of people later it feels childish and like painted on bravery or carelessness. All of their decisions seem abrupt and stupid and they make a big deal of how feared they were but I didn't understand half of the decisions  they made. I understand that Sal had deep feelings for their homeland and wanted revenge but it appeared silly and I never felt like I was given real background to this country or what had actually happened. Why was there a war? What happened during the war? What are the Shadows? I felt lost. Sometimes little facts were thrown at the reader but to little for it to make sense or matter to me. I needed some real background to the world and history.

The other characters were all referred to by the number they were given before they entered the audition. Sal was 23. But because all the others were known to Sal as different numbers I constantly got confused with who was who and therefore got confused with Sal's feelings towards each of them. I couldn't form any relationships with those characters and it was very impersonal.

As stated above Sal is gender fluid and the characters do make a deal of it in the book. It is the first time I've experience this topic in a fantasy and I think it is very brave of Miller to bring up such a subject in fantasy when it seems to fit in more in the YA contemporary genre. Personally it didn't bother me and I think that was the upside of the book, and I see that as a success. I mostly depended on what Sal was wearing in the scene but if I didn't know I didn't matter too much. This however doesn't change Sal's personality and characteristics in the narrative which I was not in favour of.

The only character I felt like I could actually deal with was Elise, Sal's writing tutor and love interest. She was cute enough and I did enjoy some of their scenes together but again I was not a fan of Sal's flirting. They were cocky and they acted like they weren't interested but they were and I got tired of it. Toward the 60% mark Sal and Elise share an intimate moment and Sal says they find it intimate  and they are nervous, but I got absolutely no feels what so ever.

I have heard great reviews of this book so your reading experience may be completely different. These are my personal opinions of the book and as much as I know that reviews influence readers, don't judge the book by my review alone.

Plot Summary:

Sallot Leon is a thief, and a good one at that. But gender fluid Sal wants nothing more than to escape the drudgery of life as a high way robber and get closer to the upper-class - and the nobles who destroyed their home.
When Sal steals a flyer for an audition to become a member of The Left Hand - the Queen's personal assassins, named after the ring she wears - Sal Jumps at the chance to infiltrate the court and get revenge.
But the revenge is a fight to the death filled with clever circus acrobats, lethal apothecaries, and viscous ex-soldiers. A childhood as a common criminal hardly prepares Sal for the trials. And as Sal succeeds in the competition, and wins the heart of Elise, an intriguing scribe at court, they start to dream of a new life and a different future, but one that Sal can only have if they survive.
-NetGalley

My Rating:

2/10

The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi (2016)

Title: The Star-Touched Queen

Author: Roshani Chokshi

Series: The Star Touched Queen #1

Pages: 342

Published: Apr 26th 2016

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

This book is so beautiful in every way thinkable. When I first sat down to read it I somehow didn't get further than one page. There was too much going on in my life. Then I brought it to a skiing holiday in the Alps and I feel like I may have favoured reading over skiing.

If you are looking for magic this book is the book for you. The more I read the more fascinated I got with how this story didn't run out of magic. It's endless. I do recommend you pay attention to the book, especially towards the end. The end is a little complicated in its own ways and I'm not sure there's a direct answer to how everything happened (because, magic) and I often reread a page looking for what I missed out, a little confused, but realised that I just had to accept, keep reading and it all makes sense later. Magic is complicated guys.

The Star-Touched Queen is based on rich Indian mythology and the Indian culture is so beautifully described it's impossible not to fall in love with it. I cannot recall reading a book based on Indian culture and so this was new and exciting for me. I'd like to find more books within this sub genre of fantasy because one truly goes in with an open mind, yet keeps getting exciting surprises.

If you like Caraval by Stephanie Garber you should definitely pick this one up as its endless use of magic is to the same standard.

Also it beautifully written and full of amazing quotes.

Plot Summary:

Fate and fortune. Power and passion. What does it take to be the queen of a kingdom when you're only seventeen?
Maya is cursed. With a horoscope that promises a marriage of death and destruction, she has earned only the scorn and fear of her father's kingdom. Content to follow more scholarly pursuits, her whole world is torn apart when her father, the Raja, arranges a wedding of political convenience to quell outside rebellions. Soon Maya becomes the queen of Akaran and wife of Amar. Neither roles are what she expected; as Akaran's queen, she finds her voice and power. As Amar's wife she finds something else entirely: Compassion, protection, desire...
But Akaran has its own secret - thousands of locked doors, gardens of glass, and a tree that bears memories instead of fruit. Soon, Maya suspects her life is in danger. Yet who, besides her husband, can she trust? With the fate of the human and Otherworldly realms hanging in the balance, Maya must unravel an ancient mystery that spans reincarnated lives to save those she loves the most... including herself.
-Goodreads

Favourite Quote:

No matter where we are, we'll always share the same sky. We can always find each other in the same constellation.

My Rating:

10/10

Other Books in the Series:

The Star-Touched Queen (The Star-Touched Queen #1)
A Crown of Wishes (The Star-Touched Queen #2)
Death and Night (The Star-Touched Queen novella)

Här ligger jag och blöder by Jenny Jägerfeld (2010)

Title: Här Ligger Jag och Blöder (Me On The Floor, Bleeding)

Author: Jenny Jägerfeld
Pages: 252

Published: Sep 17th 2010

Publisher: Gilla Böcker

One of my all-time favourite Swedish YA contemporary. This follows Maja and her relationship with her mum, for her mum has disappeared when Maja goes to visit her and she's the only one who doesn't care about the fact that Maja's sawed off half her thumb - by accident. Everyone else seems to worry about her missing thumb and in the midst of her disturbance about her mum and her dad's hurtful emails she meets Justin, who makes her forget.

This story is so relatable sometimes that it hurts. I found myself crying plenty. Maja's parents are separated and unawares they both hurt Maja in their own way. It's a book about emotions and love. After having read this book I asked mum to read it, for several reasons. Because it's just such as a great and entertaining book, but also because it's emotional and it really puts certain feelings into words. You don't have to have parents living hours away from each other, having sawn off half your thumb, wear crazy and amazing clothes or show up uninvited to parties to be able to relate to Maja's story. This book is clever and hurtful in the way it's written and cleverly understanding.

I'd like to think that Jägerfeld's background as a child psychologist may have a role in how well she seems to understand her own character and how it gets young teenagers like myself. I read this when I was around 15 and it still feels accurate.

I know the title has scared people off, for it may refer to self harm which is still a tough subject to cover, but it's more of a hyperbole or a metaphor for Maja's feelings. If anything, you'll learn on the first page that she's bleeding because she's sawn off the tip of her thumb by mistake during DT, and if anything, it's quite humours. This book is available in English which makes me so happy cause it means you can get your hands on it on Amazon here.

Plot Summary:

High School outsider Maja would never hurt herself on purpose as her dad, teachers, and class mates seem to believe Can't a person saw off the tip of her thumb without everyone starting to worry? That is, everyone except Maja's mum, who seems to have disappeared of the face of earth.
- Goodreads

My Rating:

10/10

Other Books by Jenny Jägerfeld:

Jag Är Ju Så Jävla Easygoing (I'm Just So Fucking Easygoing)
Hål i Huvudet (A Hole In My Head)
Brorsan Är Kung! (Brother is King!)

Het
The Space In-between

The Murder Complex by Lindsay Cummins (2010)

Title: The Murder Comlex

Author: Lindsay Cummings 

Series: The Murder Complex #1

Pages: 398

Published: Jun 14th 2010

Publisher: Greenwillow Books

When I heard that Lindsay Cummins and Sasha Alsberg were having a meet up in London last fall I got very excited to meet them, especially with their new book Zenith coming out. I got really interested in the previous books Lindsay had written and seeing as I had a chance to get them signed I bought both and started reading them straight away.

This book was so exciting and thrilling. Every page was action packed and I was surprised how fast paced it was. It kept my attention throughout and I read it so quickly I was surprised it didn't take me longer, considering I'm not a fast reader.

This book is set in a world with programmed assassins. They are trained to kill but they aren't aware of it. This keeps the death rate higher than the birth rate. Just like the title, this book is bloody, gruesome and extremely graphic. I would have enjoyed a few calmed moments in the book to space it out but the books takes place under a short period of time and it is quick paced.

I loved the two protagonists and truly got a feel for both of them. Each chapter was from either Meadow's or Zephyr's point of view so I got a good understanding for them. Nevertheless, I wish the two of them could've gotten closer to each other and although I understand there was a lack of trust I wish their relationship with each other would've been explored a bit more.

Overall, an extremely thrilling dystopian. If you like Divergent and the Hunger Games this is for you, but it is a bit of a lighter read. A lot of action. I have not yet got to the second one, but I look forward to read The Death Code and get my hands of Zenith when it's out.

Plot Summary:

Welcome to the Murder Complex.
You Cannot See Us. You Cannot Feel Us.
But We Are Here.
And We Control Your Every Move

My Rating:

7/10

Other Books by Lindsay Cummins:

The Murder Complex (The Murder Complex #1)
The Death Code (The Murder Complex #2)
The Fear Trials (The Murder Complex novella)

Zenith - Together with Sasha Alsberg

Det Händer Nu by Sofia Nordin (2010)

Title: Det Händer Nu (It's Happening Now)

Author: Sofia Nordin

Pages: 248

Published: Sep, 2010

Publisher: Rabén & Sjögren
Language: Swedish

I haven't read a massive amount of LGBTQ books but this was the first book within the genre and one of my favourite Swedish YA contemporaries. It follows the popular girl Stella who has a crush on her best friend Sigrid, but she's afraid of ruining their friendship by telling her.

In desperation to forget her feelings for Sigrid she begins a relationship with Sigrid's brother, who has a thing for her, but she feels extremely uncomfortable. As her feelings for Sigrid develops Sigrid gives hints of her feelings for Stella and their path to a relationship is sweet and truly addictive to read about. Although Stella to be the confident girl in school, with boys yearning for her, she is not the confident in this relationship. Sigrid is the one who breaks the ice, the one to make the moves and move the relationship forward while Stella is insecure and worried that Sigrid might not approve of her feelings.

I enjoyed this books so much and I can't say how much I wish t was available for a larger audience. It's only available in Swedish, but I couldn't wish for a book to be translated more than this one. One of my all time favourites.

Plot Summary:

Stella is one of those that girls want to be friends with and boys want to date. Stella, however, only wants Sigrid. But how is she going to pick up courage to make a move on her best friend in that way? What if she tries and Sigrid never wants to be friends anymore?

My Rating:

10/10

Other Books by Sofia Nordin:

En Sekund i Taget (One Second at a Time)
Spring Så Fort Du Kan (Run as Fast as You Can)
Som Om Jag Vore Fantastisk (As if I was Fantastic)
Natthimmel (Night Sky)
Gå Sönder, gå hel (Break Apart, Be Whole)
Atomer (Atoms)
Förlåt Elina (Sorry Elina)
Snöstormen (The Snow Storm)
Äventyrsveckan (The Adventure Week)
In the Wild
Svag Is (Weak Ice)

A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning by Lemony Snicket (1999)

 Title: The Bad Beginning

Author: Lemony Snicket

Series: A Series of Unfortunate Events

Pages: 162

Published: Sep 30th 1999

Publisher: Scholastic Ink


I didn't read these as a kid and therefore chose to buy it now when I'm older as I am told they are very very good. Nevertheless, it just sat on my bookshelf for almost a year until my 10-year old sister expressed her love for the TV series. So we sat down and read two chapters every night and where we hooked? Oh yes.

The Bad Beginning is so exciting and intriguing. I love the narrator voice of Lemony Snciket as it appears very educational and it explains complicated things easily. It's very imaginative and allowed my sister and I to put on exciting voices for different characters.

The books are quite short and there are thirteen off them so you are immediately thirsting for more. Me and my sister both enjoyed it very much. If you read it alone it probably won't take you even a day. But reading it as a good night story and having my sister ask for one more chapter was part of the fun to drag out the excitement and reading it aloud added character to the story.

Plot Summary:

Dear Reader,
I'm sorry to say that the book you are holding in your hands is extremely unpleasant. It tells an unhappy tale about three very unlucky children. Even though they are charming and clever, the Baudelaire siblings lead lives with filled with misery and woe. From the very first page of this book when the children are at the beach and receive terrible news, continuing on through the entire story, disaster lurks at their heels. One might say they are magnets of misfortune.
In this short book alone, the three youngsters encounter a greedy and repulsive, itchy clothing, a disastrous fire, a plot to steal their fortune, and cold porridge for breakfast.
It is my sad duty to write down these unpleasant tales, but there is nothing stopping you from putting this book down at once and reading something happy, if you prefer that sort of thing.
With all due respect,
Limony Snicket

Favourite Quote:

"He found himself reading the same sentence over and over. He found himself reading the same sentence over and over. He found himself reading the same sentence over and over."

My Rating:

8/10

Other Books in the Series:

The Bad Beginning (A Series of Unfortunate Events #1)
The Reptile Room (A Series of Unfortunate Events #2)
The Wide Window (A Series of Unfortunate Events #3)
The Miserable Mill (A Series of Unfortunate Events #4)
The Austere Academy (A Series of Unfortunate Events #5)
The Ersatz Elevator (A Series of Unfortunate Events #6)
The Vile Village (A Series of Unfortunate Events #7)
The Hostile Hospital (A Series of Unfortunate Events #8)
The Carnivorous Carnival (A Series of Unfortunate Events #9)
The Slippery Slope (A Series of Unfortunate Events #10)
The Grim Grotto (A Series of Unfortunate Events #11)
The Penultimate Peril (A Series of Unfortunate Events #12)
The End (A Series of Unfortunate Events #13)

Jag saknar dig, jag saknar dig (1992)

Title: Jag Saknar Dig, Jag Saknar Dig! (I Miss You, I Miss You!)

Author: Peter Pohl, Kinna Gieth

Pages: 272

Published: 1992

Publisher: Rabén & Sjögren


I received this copy from my friend just prior to the film coming out because she had an extra copy. It's a beautifully tragic story about the twin sisters Tina and Cilla. Early on in the book Cilla dies in a car accident and Tina is left without her. The story is about how Tina is coping with the loss of her sister. It is happy at moments only to bring out the saddens even more and it truly stings. The book painfully realistic and triggers feelings of sadness and anger.

After having read this I decided to read into the back story of the book. This book turns out to based on a true story where the co-author Kinna Gieth lost her twin sister Jenny is a car accident. The sisters had been reading a book by Peter Pohl about a situation where the character Anette's twin sister had died. Gieth wrote to Pohl after her sister's death and asked him to write a book with her about this situation and 'I Miss You, I Miss You!' was the result. I was surprised to learn that the book was published in 1992 as I got the feeling that it was taking place in today's society - it's time less, which I think it very successful.

I can truly see why this is a Swedish Young Adult classic. There is also a film which was made in 2011.

Plot Summary:

It's now the month of April and at home on in the Rose Garden, two girls are sitting. They're called Cilla and Tina. They're identical twins and they're going to turn fourteen this summer. But Cilla doesn't get to experience that - she's soon going to die in a car accident. It's the most sickening thing that's happened to me, and I'm telling you that straight away, because this isn't meant to be a thrilling story, with a clever ending that has to be kept secret until the last page, it's about Tina whom was left behind, forced to try to stand straight and keep her balance in life without Cilla. And I, who is telling you this, is Tina, but I don't know if I can cope by taking about 'me', so I say 'her' instead.
A timeless description about endless grief, but also about love and hope.
- back of Book

My Rating:

8/10