Review: Destroy Me

Destroy Me (Shatter Me 1.5)

Tahareh Mafi 

Companion to the Shatter Me trilogy

In Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me, Juliette escaped from The Reestablishment by seducing Warner—and then putting a bullet in his shoulder. But as she’ll learn in Destroy Me, Warner is not that easy to get rid of. . .
Back at the base and recovering from his near-fatal wound, Warner must do everything in his power to keep his soldiers in check and suppress any mention of a rebellion in the sector. Still as obsessed with Juliette as ever, his first priority is to find her, bring her back, and dispose of Adam and Kenji, the two traitors who helped her escape. But when Warner’s father, The Supreme Commander of The Reestablishment, arrives to correct his son’s mistakes, it’s clear that he has much different plans for Juliette. Plans Warner simply cannot allow.
Set after Shatter Me and before its forthcoming sequel, Unravel Me,Destroy Me is a novella told from the perspective of Warner, the ruthless leader of Sector 45.

You can read my reviews on the Shatter Me books here.

Ahhhhhh this was exactly what I wanted from Tahareh Mafi. Warner in all his glory!

What a sweet, smart, and DAMN SEXY man he is. You watch as he goes from running the world to an abused child in the presence of his father. You feel his pain as reads Juliette's words and knows all too well how she felt. How he slowly, but then all at once, falls in love with a girl he thinks can't love him. GOD IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL TO READ.

Being a short story, there isn't all that much more to say - so, behold my favorite quotes that I hope will inspire you to pick up the series/novella:

“And I've fallen.
So hard.
I've hit the ground. Gone right through it. Never in my life have I felt this. Nothing like this. I've felt shame and cowardice, weakness and strength. I've known terror and indifference, self-hate and general disgust. I've seen things that cannot be unseen.
And yet I've known nothing like this terrible, horrible, paralyzing feeling. I feel crippled. Desperate and out of control. And it keeps getting worse. Every day I feel sick. Empty and somehow aching.
Love is a heartless bastard.”

“I’ve come to believe that the most dangerous man in the world is the one who feels no remorse. The one who never apologizes and therefore seeks no forgiveness. Because in the end it is our emotions that make us weak, not our actions.” 

“These letters are all I have left.26 friends to tell my stories to.26 letters are all I need. I can stitch them together to create oceans and ecosystems. I can fit them together to form planets and solar systems. I can use letters to construct skyscrapers and metropolitan cities populated by people, places, things, and ideas that are more real to me than these 4 walls.I need nothing but letters to live. Without them I would not exist.Because these words I write down are the only proof I have that I’m still alive.” 

“My opinions,” I say to him, quietly this time, “should not so easily break your own. Stand by your convictions. Form clear and logical arguments. Even if I disagree.” 

Review: Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes

Percy Jackson's Greek Heroes
Rick Riordan
Companion to Percy Jackson and the Olympians and Percy Jackson's Greek Gods

Who cut off Medusa's head? Who was raised by a she-bear? Who tamed Pegasus? It takes a demigod to know, and Percy Jackson can fill you in on the all the daring deeds of Perseus, Atalanta, Bellerophon, and the rest of the major Greek heroes. Told in the funny, irreverent style readers have come to expect from Percy, ( I've had some bad experiences in my time, but the heroes I'm going to tell you about were the original old school hard luck cases. They boldly screwed up where no one had screwed up before. . .) and enhanced with vibrant artwork by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco, this story collection will become the new must-have classic for Rick Riordan's legions of devoted fans--and for anyone who needs a hero. So get your flaming spear. Put on your lion skin cape. Polish your shield and make sure you've got arrows in your quiver. We're going back about four thousand years to decapitate monsters, save some kingdoms, shoot a few gods in the butt, raid the Underworld, and steal loot from evil people. Then, for dessert, we'll die painful tragic deaths. Ready? Sweet. Let's do this.

I don't need to tell you about Percy Jackson. All I need to say is that if you love him, if you love Greek myths, and EVEN IF YOU THINK YOU KNOW THEM, this is your book.

Right after I finished Percy Jackson's Greek Gods (link to my review), the other gorgeous, coffee table-sized companion, I immediately started salivating for a book about the heroes. Imagine my delight when it's release was announced right away... a year before. Basically, was so psyched to receive my preorder after 12 months of agonizing wait.

AND I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED. Back are the chapter titles, and Percy's unique sarcasm on everything. And this time, he brings up his own experience with everyone quite a lot! I loved the little reminders of all the fun times we had as kids with him. (No spoilers, don't worry)

Also, HOORAY FEMINISM! Rick Riordan really made an effort for the ladies and it shows. He includes the stories of Otrera, Atalanta, and Cyrene, all lesser known. He also makes a point of explaining how sucky life was for women back in ancient times, and of course how stupid Percy thinks that is. 

And of course, John Rocco's ever-amazing illustration. Truly, just a feast for the eyes. And did I mention this book is HUMONGOUS? Well, it's HUMONGOUS. 416 super-sized pages of glorious Greek fun. Rating: 



Love,
Esty

Review: The Shadowhunter's Codex

The Shadowhunter's Codex
Cassandra Clare and Joshua Lewis
TMI companion

The Clave is pleased to announce the newest edition of the Nephilim’s oldest and most famous training manual: the Shadowhunter’s Codex. Since the thirteenth century, the Codex has been the young Shadowhunter’s best friend. When you’re being swarmed by demons it can be easy to forget the finer points of obscure demon languages or the fastest way to stop an attack of Raum demons. With the Codex by your side, you never have to worry. 

Now in its twenty-seventh edition, the Codex covers it all: the history and the laws of our world; how to identify, interact with, and if necessary, kill that world’s many colorful denizens; which end of the stele is the end you write with. No more will your attempt to fight off rogue vampires and warlocks be slowed by the need to answer endless questions from your new recruits: What is a Pyxis? Why don’t we use guns? If I can’t see a warlock’s mark, is there a polite way to ask him where it is? Where do we get all our holy water? Geography, History, Magic, and Zoology textbook all rolled into one, the Codex is here to help new Shadowhunters navigate the beautiful, often brutal world that we inhabit. 

For my reviews on all things Shadowhunter click here.

Ultimately, the top prize for best project to appease fans series companion ever goes to The Bane Chronicles and Percy Jackson's Greek Gods. HOWEVER, The Shadowhunter's Codex is a close, close second.

While I'll never claim The Mortal Instruments or The Infernal Devices are written works of genius plot-wise, they are THE BEST BOOKS EVER when it comes to characters and fun and world-building and FEELS. If you are a fan of Cassie Clare's books, you will LOVE having this book on your collection.

For starters, The Shadowhunter's Codex is GORGEOUS. The jacket is soft and 3D and ridiculously detailed and PUUUURRRRTYYY. When you strip the book its hardcover is swirly blue and black and has a little golden Mortal Cup.  

The interior is decorated with illustrations by a slew of SERIOUSLY TALENTED artists. They were cool and pretty and creepy all at once. And of course, Cassandra Jean doodling all over the thing as Clary. 

Secondly, Clary, Jace, and Simon have added their sarcastic comments on everything, making the read good fun. Also, Magnus and Clary each put in a letter, and every once in a while Luke or Jocelyn have some input through Clary. Basically, it's a nice catch-up with the crew. 

A lot of the actual content you know already, but don't let that bore you into putting the book down. Towards the middle there is a whole lot of info we never knew from the regular Shadowhunter books, not to mention a well-done Table of Marks, a map of Idris, and interesting appendixes.  

All in all, the Codex is a funny and quick and absolutely drool-inducing good-looking read. SO ABSOLUTELY worth adding to your Cassandra Clare shelf. Believe me, you'll be showing it off to your fanpeople friends. Rating:


Have a great week!
Love,
Esty

Review: Four: A Divergent Collection

Four: A Divergent Collection
Veronica Roth
Dystopia, Companion 

Two years before Beatrice Prior made her choice, the sixteen-year-old son of Abnegation's faction leader did the same. Tobias's transfer to Dauntless is a chance to begin again. Here, he will not be called the name his parents gave him. Here, he will not let fear turn him into a cowering child.

Newly christened "Four," he discovers during initiation that he will succeed in Dauntless. Initiation is only the beginning, though; Four must claim his place in the Dauntless hierarchy. His decisions will affect future initiates as well as uncover secrets that could threaten his own future--and the future of the entire faction system.

Two years later, Four is poised to take action, but the course is still unclear. The first new initiate who jumps into the net might change all that. With her, the way to righting their world might become clear. With her, it might become possible to be Tobias once again.

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth comes a companion volume to the worldwide bestselling divergent series, told from the perspective of the immensely popular character Tobias. The four pieces included here--The Transfer, The Initiate, The Son, and The Traitor--plus three additional exclusive scenes, give readers an electrifying glimpse into the history and heart of Tobias, and set the stage for the epic saga of the Divergent trilogy.

You can read my review of Allegiant and Divergent movie here. 

We'll start with the cover- SOOOO PWETTY. I love the the dark blue color, the ferris wheel on fire, the shiny 3D covers all the Divergent books had. This book has been screaming at me to pick it off the shelf for months.

Truthfully, I didn't know what to expect. I LIKED the Divergent books, but I was never as crazy about them as everyone else. I found Tobias's POV in Allegiant kind of lacking. 

HOWEVER

I really liked him in this companion! Delving into his past and fears was truly a beautiful experience. You feel his pain and applaud his courage. His voice is much more unique here (in my review of Allegiant I ranted that he sounded too much like Tris). I even found myself liking Tris more after having read her through his eyes! 

Plot-wise, Four explains some things that happen in the regular series. This was nice and necessary (exactly what I would hope for in a companion)- so I was satisfied! It also features Shauna and Zeke(:

All in all, a quick and fun read, while also being Divergenty and suspenseful. Enjoy!

Love,
Esty

Review: The Bane Chronicles

The Bane Chronicles
Cassandra Clare, Maureen Johnson, Sarah Rees Brennan
Illustrated by Cassandra Jean
Companion to The Mortal Instruments series and The Infernal Devices series.

Fans of The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices can get to know warlock Magnus Bane like never before in this collection of New York Times bestselling tales, in print for the first time with an exclusive new story and illustrated material.

This collection of eleven short stories illuminates the life of the enigmatic Magnus Bane, whose alluring personality, flamboyant style, and sharp wit populate the pages of the #1 New York Times bestselling series, The Mortal Instruments and The Infernal Devices.

Originally released one-by-one as e-only short stories by Cassandra Clare, Maureen Johnson, and Sarah Rees Brennan, this compilation presents all ten together in print for the first time and includes a never-before-seen eleventh tale, as well as new illustrated material. 

First of all, if you haven't read any of Cassandra Clare's books get off the internet and don't come back until you have finished Clockwork Angel. You CAN read The Bane Chronicles on it's own, but why would you want to? 

Overall? This book was the probably one of my favorites of the year. There is nothing more amazing than getting a whole book about the best character in existence. Magnus's story made me laugh, cry, die of shock. I came to ADORE Raphael, Catarina, and Ragnor, all of whom I largely ignored in the regualar novels.

The Bane Chronicles shed some light on what life is like for the immortals, and also on subjects like Valentine's Circle, Clary's memories and childhood, CAMILLE BELCOURT, the red necklace, EDMUND HERONDALE, Alec and Magnus's relationship (I'm laughing just from the MEMORY of that story), WILL AND TESSA. 

And while it provided us with lots of information it also, in true Cassie Clare fashion, provided us with lots of teasing hints. What's going on with James Herondale?? TELL ME, CASSANDRA CLARE. Naturally, we're made to wait until she releases The Last Hours series. You can't stop reading this lady's books even if you WANT to. 

I had so many feelings. Warning: May contain heartbreak. Although not all were created equal. Most emotional were Vampires, Scones, and Edmund Herondale and The Midnight Heir. Funniest in my opinion were Saving Raphael Santiago (also emotional) and The Course of True Love (And First Dates)

I spent hours liking Goodreads quotes from this book. That's all I'll say. 
(Well, that and that the point of it was to post them here, but THEY WON'T COPY. #HoursWasted)

I am aware that this review was not exactly coherent.. course on par for Cassandra Clare books(:

Review: The Artemis Fowl Files

The Artemis Fowl Files
Eoin Colfer
Companion to the Artemis Fowl series

The Artemis Fowl Files is comprised of two original stories: "LEPrecon": the story of Fairy Police Captain Holly Short's move from Traffic to Recon following her initiation into the Fairy Police; and "The Seventh Dwarf", featuring Mulch, Butler, and Artemis himself.

EXTRAS INCLUDE: 
• "Behind-the-scenes" interviews with major characters including: Artemis, Holly, Foaly, Mulch, and Eoin 
Colfer himself
• Coded section from the Fairy Book for kids to translate
• A section for Fairy Spotters including the different categories of Fairy and their physical characteristics 
and personality traits, including: Elves, Trolls, Sprites, Pixies Goblins, Dwarves and Centaurs
• Technical diagrams of Foaly's inventions

Hey there! Here for a rare middle-of-the-week post. Enjoy!

You can read my review of Artemis Fowl and the Last Guardian here. As you can see in the link, I absolutely ADORE this series. Genius young criminal mastermind? Kick-butt faeries? What's not to love? So, naturally, I was overjoyed to stumble upon this great find in the library.

The book was quick and fun (200 pages) with activities to entertain a kid for hours (fortunately, I have stuff to do. I did not abandon my maturity. But I would have like to:)). 

The stories were written flawlessly and the interviews had me laughing. I adored getting bonus content from my favorite characters- you get some more of Holly's background which I thought was pretty cool, and a story of Artemis and Mulch that has been referenced in the series but I hadn't known had been written! You can read this companion after having read just one of the series. 

Rating:

Love,
Esty

Review: Percy Jackson's Greek Gods

Percy Jackson's Greek Gods (Percy Jackson companion book)
Rick Riordan 
Greek Mythology

A publisher in New York asked me to write down what I know about the Greek gods, and I was like, Can we do this anonymously? Because I don't need the Olympians mad at me again. But if it helps you to know your Greek gods, and survive an encounter with them if they ever show up in your face, then I guess writing all this down will be my good deed for the week. 

So begins Percy Jackson's Greek Gods, in which the son of Poseidon adds his own magic--and sarcastic asides--to the classics. He explains how the world was created, then gives readers his personal take on a who's who of ancients, from Apollo to Zeus. Percy does not hold back. "If you like horror shows, blood baths, lying, stealing, backstabbing, and cannibalism, then read on, because it definitely was a Golden Age for all that."Dramatic full-color illustrations throughout by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco make this volume--a must for home, library, and classroom shelves--as stunning as it is entertaining.

I really don't know how I managed since The Last Olympian. In Percy Jackson's Greek Gods we get a HUMONGOUS coffee table-sized book filled with GORGEOUS illustrations and HILARIOUS chapter titles and the one thing we missed most of all- PERCY JACKSON'S VOICE. 

Only Rick Riordan could take rape, incest, adultery, murder, and cannibalism and make it all PG. Here you have it, ladies and gentlemen. A Beginner's Guide to the Greek Gods suitable for your 5th grader. And for you. Everyone really. 

Back when Percy was my life (no, wait. That's all the time. So I mean like, grades 4 through 6) I devoured anything I could find about the myths and thought I knew it all. As Percy would say, HAHAHAHA. No. Just goes to show you what a vast wealth of stories there are. With every Riordan publication I read, I learn more about mythology and what influence it has even today.

Ahhhh, Percy. How I have missed you. Please keep writing. You only covered the Olympians. We need to know about the minor gods, the monsters, and of course the tales of famous demigods like Hercules and Perseus and Orpheus and Jason. COME BACK!!!

People, prepare yourselves. The last volume featuring our dear Percy approaches (Bloods of Olympus, this October). We'll get through this. Hopefully. And there's the Magnus Chase series coming up. (our long-promised Norse series by the one and only Rick Riordan. Click the link to read more) 
Rating: 

Review: Son of Sobek

Son of Sobek
Rick Riordan
middle grade short story

Carter Kane is investigating rumored sightings of a monster on Long Island when he runs into something else: a mysterious boy named Percy Jackson. And their meeting isn't exactly friendly. . . . 

Basically a crossover between Percy Jackson and the Kane Chronicles. Can anyone say, RECIPE FOR WIN??

Of course it was perfect! Percy and Carter funny and sarcastic as usual, saving Manhattan from bloodthirsty monsters. What's new? Honestly, my only complaint was that it was too short. I thought there would be earth-shattering revelations on both their parts, what with realizing there are other gods alive, but not to worry- nothing changes. You'll see.

I was also happy to see Rick Riordan left us an opening that Carter and Percy will meet again in the future... hmmm :) Rating:


Anyone else been seeing these rumors about a new Harry Potter? They're not true... right?
Happy Monday!
Esty

Double Crossed review+ Clockwork Princess trailer!

Double Crossed
Ally Carter
YA novella

*SPOILER FREE FOR BOTH SERIES*
Macey McHenry—Glamorous society girl or spy-in-training?

W.W. Hale V—Heir to an American dynasty or master thief?

There are two sides to every coin. Whether these two can work together is a tossup.

Born into privilege, Macey and Hale are experts at mingling with the upper class. But even if they’ve never raised an eyebrow at the glitz, neither teenager has ever felt at home with the glamour.

When Macey and Hale meet at a society gala, the party takes a dangerous turn. Suddenly they’re at the center of a hostage situation, and it’s up to them to stop the thugs from becoming hostile. Will Macey’s spy skills and Hale’s con-man ways be enough to outsmart a ruthless gang? Or will they have to seek out the ultimate inside girl to help?

The worlds of Heist Society and the Gallagher Girls collide in Ally Carter’s fast-paced, high-stakes and tantalizing new story. Get a behind the scenes glimpse as Ally delivers an irresistible thriller that is full of her signature style and savvy twists.

GOSH I LOVED THIS.   I love each  Heist Society and Gallagher Girls separately, so naturally when Double Crossed was announced I had a fangirl attack.  Macey and Hale? Abby and Kat? Ally Carter took her best characters from both sides of the law and gave us a *completely free* and ridiculously exciting short story.  You can read Double Crossed even if you have only read one series- I promise you it's worth it! Naturally there's a twist that even Ally's most experienced readers didn't see coming, plus a super duper exciting something offered to Kat that left me jumping up and down hoping we'd get to read in the future.  Now I'm even more pumped for Perfect Scoundrels which is out and I have yet to get my hands on!! You can read Double Crossed HERE . Highly recommended! Grade: 100%

Also, today the book trailer for Clockwork Princess was released!! You can watch it HERE . I am soooo ecstatic about this (***26 DAYS***). In less than a month we find out if Jem will make it and who Tessa is and GOD WHO WILL SHE END UP WITH (TEAM WILL ALL THE WAY BABY). Is it just me or did the last line in the trailer make you faint? Let me know in the comments and please follow my blog (no emails or notifs or anything I promise!) it means a lot! 
Have a good weekend!
-Esty