Sovay

So I like traditional ballads. Really like. So I thought I would share one of my favourites.

Sovay, Sovay all on a day
She dressed herself in man's array
With a brace of pistols all by her side
To meet her true love, to meet her true love, away she'd ride

As she was riding over the plain
She met her true love and bid him stand
"Stand and deliver, young sir," she said
"And if you do not, and if you do not, I'll shoot you dead"

He delivered up his golden store
And still she craved for one thing more
"That diamond ring, that I see you wear
Oh hand it over, oh hand it over, and your life I'll spare"

"From that diamond ring I would not part
For it's a token from my sweetheart
Shoot and be damned, you rogue" said he
"And you'll be hanged, you'll be hanged then for murdering me"

Next morning in the garden green
Young Sophie and her true love were seen
He spied his watch hanging from her clothes
Which made him blush lads, which made him blush lads like any rose

 "Why do you blush you silly thing
I thought to have that diamond ring
T'was I who robbed you all on the plain
So here's your gold, love so here's your gold and your watch and chain

I only did it for to know
If you would be a man or no
If you had given me that ring" she said
"I'd have pulled the trigger, pulled the trigger and shot you dead"

- Traditional Ballad

Cate of the Lost Colony [REVIEW]

Title: Cate of the Lost Colony 
Author: Lisa Klein 
Pages: 336

Lady Catherine is one of Queen Elizabeth's favorite court maidens—until her forbidden romance with Sir Walter Ralegh is discovered. In a bitter twist of irony, the jealous queen banishes Cate to Ralegh's colony of Roanoke, in the New World. Ralegh pledges to come for Cate, but as the months stretch out, Cate begins to doubt his promise and his love. Instead it is Manteo, a Croatoan Indian, whom the colonists—and Cate—increasingly turn to. Yet just as Cate's longings for England and Ralegh fade and she discovers a new love in Manteo, Ralegh will finally set sail for the New World.

Seamlessly weaving together fact with fiction, Lisa Klein's newest historical drama is an engrossing tale of adventure and forbidden love—kindled by one of the most famous mysteries in American history: the fate of the settlers at Roanoke, who disappeared without a trace forty years before the Pilgrims would set foot in Plymouth.

I loved this book at first. A lot of people said they found the first part boring, but I found it interesting. But many things seemed to bug me about this book.

I hated Queen Elizabeth I. I love love – she hated it. Nobody was allowed to be in love or have a beau except her – and she didn’t even really have one! She was flirting with guys less than half her age, but Heaven forbids a young girl found someone who caught her fancy.

I like Ralegh a bit. He was noble, honest, but power-hunger. I don’t think he really loved Cate. He loved what she could give him. But if you know about Ralegh, you’ll know that not everything works out.

I didn’t know anything about the Lost Colony. This book made me research it and I am very intrigued by it. What really happened to them all? I like to think they found their way like in the book.

This book was actually boring after the first part. You think going to an uncivilized land would be exciting – not in this book. There were many times when I wanted to site down the book and never pick it up again, but I had to finish what I started.

There was no romance in the book. It clearly implies that it is on the back, but the first actual kiss for Cate took place 300-some pages in! There was absolutely no connection between Cate and Ralegh. She claims she loved him, but I couldn’t buy it.

I rate this: 2 ½ stars.

In the Shadow of the Lamp [REVIEW]

Title: In the Shadow of the Lamp

Author: Susanne Dunlap

Pages: 293

It's 1854 and sixteen-year-old Molly would give anything to change her circumstances as a lowly servant in a posh London house. So when she hears of an opportunity to join the nurses who will be traveling with Florence Nightingale to the Crimea, she jumps at the chance. The work is gruelling, the hospital conditions deplorable, and Miss Nightingale a demanding teacher. Before long, the plight of British soldiers becomes more than just a mission of mercy as Molly finds that she's falling in love with both a dashing young doctor and a soldier who has joined the army to be near her. But with the battle raging ever nearer, can Molly keep the two men she cares for from harm? A love story to savour, and a fascinating behind-the-scenes imagining of the woman who became known as the lady with the lamp.

I knew little about Florence Nightingale before reading this book. So, like any history/book nerd, I consulted Wiki about her. She seemed like a pretty cool lady. The way she was portrayed kind of reminded me of how Elizabeth I is always done – nobody is allowed to be in love.

I enjoyed the characters a lot. Molly is a strong young lady who seems to always have a battle raging within her, but does the right thing. Her two lover interests – Will and Dr Maclean – are wonderful. I love ‘love triangles’ and I always root for someone from the start to finish, but I didn’t in this one. Before she met Maclean, I was rooting for Will. But once she met the charming doctor, I was torn. Both men are so different in the best of ways. Emma is a good companion for Miss Molly, though at first I wondered what she was about.

The plot is amazing as is the description. I felt as if I was there and could see everything vividly in my head – the swaying ship in the storm, the battlefield, and the wounded soldiers. At times it was so descriptive in what was happening during the operations that I had to close my eyes, take a deep breath and get a new pair of knees before continuing.

There was a moment near the end (when you read it, you will know which part) that affected me greatly. I was sitting in class when I read it, tears pricking my eyes. That wasn’t the only part where I cried. I can promise you, if you read this there is a 96% chance of muttering ‘who is cutting the onions?’

Even though there were many sad parts, there was a light at the end of the tunnel. Molly ends up happy with one of her young men though there were many times I doubted it.

I rate this: 5 stars.

Ladies in Waiting [REVIEW]

Title: Ladies in Waiting 
Author: Laura L Sullivan 
Pages: 336

Eliza dreams of being a playwright for the king’s theater, where she will be admired for her witty turns of phrase rather than her father’s wealth. Beth is beautiful as the day but poor as a church mouse, so she must marry well, despite her love for her childhood sweetheart. Zabby comes to England to further her scientific studies—and ends up saving the life of King Charles II. Soon her friendship with him becomes a dangerous, impossible obsession. Though she knows she should stay away from the young, handsome king, Charles has a new bride, Queen Catherine, and a queen needs ladies in waiting. And so Zabby, Beth, and Eliza, three Elizabeths from very different walks of life, find themselves at the center of the most scandal-filled court that England has ever seen.

I really liked this book in the beginning – even the middle! But once I hit a certain point, I wasn’t very fond of it.

The characters were a tossup for me; I’m not sure if I liked most of them or hated them. Let’s start with our three Elizabeths. Eliza, I really liked her. She was funny and crude, threatening her suitors with cutting off their… urm, cods. She was determined to be a playwright no matter what others thought of her. Zabby, I didn’t really care for. She was smart, a bit strange, and fancied herself in love with a married man – the king! What was wrong with her? All she wanted was to sleep with him. Beth was my favourite out of them all. She was sweet, innocent, pretty, and a tad mad, I believe. She lived for love – it was all she ever wanted. On their own these three girls would be fine, but together they made a great big Mary-Sue.

Let’s take a look at the other characters, shall we? King Charles, I’m not going to sugar coat it, he was a man-whore. I don’t agree with infidelity. It’s one of the worst things to do to you spouse. Especially when she is as sweet as Catherine. She loved Charles with all her heart, but he had tons of mistresses and didn’t love her like he should’ve. Harry, Beth’s love, was one of my favourite characters. He loved her after all those years and tried to win her doing whatever could. They said he was brash, but I think he was in love.

Now you’re probably wondering why I hated the ending. It might have been because there wasn’t one. The book just sort of ended. There was only really a closing for Zabby (if you could call it that). I’m still not 100% sure how Beth was in the end of the book as there wasn’t even an epilogue to tell me how they were now faring. It felt although someone had ripped out that last few pages of my book.

I rate this: 3 stars.

The Dark Unwinding [REVIEW]

Title: The Dark Unwinding

Author: Sharon Cameron

Pages: 318

When Katharine Tulman's inheritance is called into question by the rumor that her eccentric uncle is squandering away the family fortune, she is sent to his estate to have him committed to an asylum. But instead of a lunatic, Katharine discovers a genius inventor with his own set of rules, who employs a village of nine hundred people rescued from the workhouses of London.

Katharine is now torn between protecting her own inheritance and preserving the peculiar community she grows to care for deeply. And her choices are made even more complicated by a handsome apprentice, a secretive student, and fears for her own sanity.

As the mysteries of the estate begin to unravel, it is clear that not only is her uncle's world at stake, but also the state of England as Katharine knows it. With twists and turns at every corner, this heart-racing adventure will captivate readers with its intrigue, thrills, and romance.

I really liked this book. It wasn’t terribly steampunk, other than a few ‘toys’, but it was certainly historical. The plot was good, although a bit confusing. There were times when I had to go back and reread to understand something clearly.

It took me a good hundred or so pages to find out who the love interest was. Was it Lane (love that name) or Ben? Was it a love-triangle? Don’t worry, it isn’t. I was a bit disappointed that it wasn’t; they are a favourite of mine in books.

If you aren’t won over by the plot, please stay for the characters. They truly are fantastic. Katharine (I dislike how they spell it with an ‘a’ and not an ‘e’) grinded my gears for the first bit, but she turned out to be a caring, intelligent girl.

If you read any other reviews, you will notice that Uncle Tully is a favourite – and I have to agree. He is a sweet, energetic little man who can bring a smile to anyone’s face. I believe he has autism, but it is shown the best I have ever seen it. Ms Cameron really captured it. Also along with others, I loved how to him Katharine was ‘Simon’s Baby’.

Lane was dark, moody and totally swoon worthy. This is my favourite kind of love interest. Mrs Jefferies I had mixed feelings about, but grew to like. Ben was great at the first, but then I didn’t trust him at all.

There was one moment which I had to read three times, wishing that it didn’t happen. Tears formed in my eyes. Once you read the book, you will know that moment I am speaking of.

The ending ticked me off, but apparently there will be a sequel, so I am content with it now.

I rate this: 4.5/5

This Dark Endeavor [REVIEW]

Title: This Dark Endeavor
Author: Kenneth Oppel
Pages: 298

The purest intentions can stir up the darkest obsessions.

Sixteen-year-old Victor Frankenstein leased a charmed life. He and his twin brother, Konrad, and their beautiful cousin Elizabeth take lessons at home and spend their spare time fencing and horseback riding. Along with their friend Henry, they have explored all the hidden passageways and secret rooms of the palatial Frankenstein chateau. Except one.

The Dark Library contains ancient tomes written in strange languages and filled with forbidden knowledge. Their father makes them promise never to visit the library, but when Konrad becomes deathly ill, Victor knows he must find the book the contains the recipe for the legendary Elixir of Life.

The elixir needs only three ingredients. But impossible odds, dangerous alchemy and a bitter love triangle threaten the quest at every turn. Victor knows he must not fail. But his success depends on how far he is willing to push the boundaries of nature, science and love - and how much he is willing to sacrifice.

This book takes place years before Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

Victor Frankenstein is young, stubborn, conceited and headstrong. He is the ringleader of everything that happens in the Frankenstein household. I’m actually not going to lie, he is the exact same as me, only male. Even though irrational, he is my favourite character. Not only because he is the man who will create Frankenstein’s Monster, but because of all the things he sacrifices for his brother.
Konrad Frankenstein is intelligent, caring and cautious - the exact opposite of his identical twin brother. He follows along behind Victor, but only after trying to tell him not to do whatever it is he is going to.

Henry Clerval is a friend and fellow ‘schoolmate’ of the three. He is loyal to his friends and, although he always disagrees greatly with the ideas of Victor and Elizabeth, he would follow them to the end of the earth and back.

Elizabeth Lavenza is intelligent and she loves adventure. She is pro at climbing trees, spelunking and her only fault is that she has a terrible anger. Also every young man in this book is in love with her (okay, if you didn’t catch it, I’m not the biggest fan of her).

It starts off with Victor, Konrad and Elizabeth performing in a play written by Henry. It shows how easily one brother can turn against each other when there is a prize in sight. This theme carries throughout the whole book.

They say everything happens for a reason so when they stumble upon a ancient, hidden library it is no different. In this library are hundreds of books written in strange languages. Mr Frankenstein soon finds them and forbids them from venturing down into the dark dungeon library.

One day while fencing, Konrad falls gravely ill causing the Frankensteins to call on all the doctors they can find. Again and again the doctors fall to find cure, driving Victor to return to the forbidden library. There he finds a book containing the recipe for the Elixir of Life. With every great thing in life comes with sacrifices, as Victor will soon find out. How much will he be willing to give to save his brother's life?

This book was really good. I was always wondering how Victor was going to pull through, but soon enough I found out. There were evil characters when needed and good characters throughout. There were a few times when I found too many coincidences, especially with the ingrediants.

But this book gave me a reaction that I had never gotten from a book before. Right before I flipped to the last chapter, I was very happy with the book. Once I flipped the page, I announced in shock 'What the f*ck?'. I had to put the book down for a minute and have myself a good cry.

Don't let this discourage you. This is a wonderful book and I believe anyone who likes historical and kinda-but-not-really steampunk would love this book.

I rate this: 4.5/5

Wentworth Hall [REVIEW]

Title: Wentworth Hall

Author: Abby Grahame

Pages: 276

Eighteen-year-old Maggie Darlington has turned into an entirely different person. The once spirited teen is now passive and reserved. A change Lord and Lady Darlington can’t help but be grateful for.

It’s 1912, and the Darlingtons of Wentworth Hall have more than just the extensive grounds to maintain. As one of Britain’s most elite families, they need to keep up appearances that things are as they have always been…even as their carefully constructed faÇade rapidly comes undone.

Maggie has a secret. And she’s not the only one…the handsome groom Michael, the beautiful new French nanny Therese, the Darlingtons’ teenage houseguests Teddy and Jessica, and even Maggie’s younger sister Lila are all hiding something. Passion, betrayal, heartache, and whispered declarations of love take place under the Darlingtons’ massive roof. And one of these secrets has the power to ruin the Darlingtons forever.

When scandalous satires start appearing in the newspaper with details that closely mirror the lives of the Darlingtons, everyone is looking over their shoulder, worrying their scandal will be next. Because at Wentworth Hall, nothing stays secret for long.

This book reminded me of The Luxe series by Anna Godbersen. It seems like the Gossip Girl of the time. I like finding gossip and secrets as much as the next girl, but I like a bit of mystery too. I figured out Maggie’s secret about 40 pages in. I figured out Therese’s about 120 pages in. It made me wonder why nobody in the book figured these out, but maybe they didn’t think these people would do anything like that.

If you flip through the book, you will find the little articles that had been sent to the paper. I actually only skimmed these. They were boring, mean and just repeated everything I already knew.

I liked Teddy at first (plus, I love the name). Actually, I think I liked him the whole time. I don’t blame him for the way he acted, it is totally understandable. But I hated his sister. I disliked that she was named Jessica (maybe because it is so commonly used today or maybe because it wasn’t a common name until the middle of the 20^th century). She was mean and spiteful for no reason.

Michael is the reason to read this book. So is Wesley. Um, yeah. They were awesome and swoon worthy.

I love Downton Abbey, and this book makes me want to stick to it and never pick up another book set in that time period again. Okay, that was harsh. I did like it, just… compared to DA, it sucked.

I rate this: 3/5

The Night Circus [REVIEW]

Title: The Night Circus

Author: Erin Morgenstern

Pages: 512

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements procede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white-striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Reves, and it is open only at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this putpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknowest to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Amidst the high stakes, Celia and MArco soon tumble headfirst into love, sertting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone from the performers to the patrons handing in the balance.

This book is magical. Magneficant. Enchanting. This book is amazing. Is there anything bad I could say about it? I am not sure, but I highly doubt it. I hated who I assume I was suppose to and I liked the rest of the characters.

Okay, I think I may have a problem. I usually don't like main female characters. They always come off to me as Mary-Sues. But Celia Bowen is different. She is one of the best female characters I have seen in a while. She is outgoing and caring for those around her especially Marco, Poppet and Widget.

Marco is most possibly my favourite of all the characters in the book. He is secretive, intelligant and seductive. I think I may have fallen in love with him during the whole reading. I can see why Celia couldn't resist him.

Isobel is someone that I wasn't fond of and so was Prospero the Enchanter.

I couldn't out this book down. I was captured by it, but who wouldn't be? It gives us all the magic we dreamt about as children. I, myself, have never been to a circus, but after this book, it feels asthough I have.

There are a few curse words in this and also a 'fade to black' sex scene.

I rate this: 5/5 stars.

Poison Study [REVIEW]

Title: Poison Study

Author: Maria V. Snyder

Pages: 409 pages.

Murder, mayhem and magic…

Locked in a coffin-like darkness, there is nothing to distract me from my memories of Killing Reyad. He deserved to die – but according to the law, so do I. Here in Ixia, the punishment for murder is death. And now I wait for the hangman’s noose.

But the same law that condemns me may also save me. Ixia’s food taster – chosen to ensure that the Commander’s food is not poisoned – has died. And by law, the next prisoner who is scheduled to be executed – me – must be offered the position. [Back of book]

The first paragraph got hooked me from the start.

Locked in darkness that surrounded me like a coffin, I had nothing to distract me from my memories. Vivid recollections waited to ambush me whenever my mind wandered.

I read a lot of reviews saying that it was a good book, but nothing special. I beg to differ. I don’ read a lot of fantasy books like this, so that might be what made me feel different about this book. This book has everything… suspense, murder, poison, kidnapping, LOVE. I thought that Ms Snyder had truly outdone herself.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The suspense of everything just about killed me, but it was worth ever agonizing moment. The interaction between Yelena and Valek had me smiling every time I read it.

Yelena is a very good heroine, I must say. She is convicted of murder and has one hell of a terrible life. Until she meets Valek… then it is only kind of terrible. She is strong, but she also has her moments of weakness. She is one of the least Mary-Sue characters I’ve seen (in my opinion). Yes, she is strong, magical in a society where it is banned, and is really smart. But she also doesn’t think before she acts, not every guy is tripping over himself to get to her (only one), and she looks like a skeleton.

Valek… oh my. He is swoon-worthy. I don’t think anyone could ever read this book and hate him.

The uniform enhanced his athletic body, and my thoughts drifted to how magnificent he would look with his uniform puddled around his feet.

I think everybody’s thoughts went in that direction. Who cares about the possibility of dying whenever you eat, I would trade places with Yelena to be with Valek. I mean, he is an assassin, super smart, and loyal to boot.

I was a huge fan of Ari and Janco, too. They added humour to the book and were great to Yelena.

But this book didn’t always have me smiling. Ms Snyder doesn’t skim over the disturbing bits. She tells us about Yelena’s situation, but not all at once. When the book starts, she is being taken from her cell to be executed. But why? It mentions that she murdered Reyer, but why did she kill him, what did he do to her? There are many questions, but they are answered over the course of the book. I also had tears in my eyes twice.

This book had a few curse words and some ‘fade to black’ sex scenes. Also, it talks about rape, though it isn’t in complete detail.

I rate this: 5/5 stars!

The Rogue's Princess [REVIEW]

Title: The Rogue’s Princess 
Author: Eve Edwards 
Pages: 256 pages

Summing it up: London, England, 1586

Sixteen-year-old Mercy Hart is the daughter of one of London’s richest – and strictest – cloth merchants.

Kit Turner is an actor and the illegitimate son of the late Earl of Dorset. A chance encounter finds Kit falling for the beautiful Mercy’s charms, but their love is forbidden. A merchant’s daughter and a vagabond – it simply cannot be.

If Mercy chooses Kit she must renounce her family name and leave her home. Will she favour duty over true love, or will she give Kit his heart’s desire?

This book is the third in the Lacey Chronicles by Eve Edwards. It follows along after The Other Countess and The Queen’s Lady, this time focusing on the illegitimate son of the late Earl of Dorset (the first two followed his sons Will and James).

The book starts off with an earthquake which causes Mercy to believe it is her fault because she wasn’t really listening to her father’s prayers. It seems silly, but she is ten at the time and is from a God-fearing family.

I am not too fond of books that have to do with Christianity (although I myself am a Christian). This book is an exception. Yes, it does mention God a fair bit, but it isn’t like it centres around Him. Mercy’s father is very religious so of course Mercy believes that God plays a large part in her life. Kit on the other hand, doesn’t tend to go to church and isn’t even really religious.

Anyways, the characters. Mercy… I like her. She is described as pretty, although she dresses herself in plain clothes as punishment for the earthquake. She is a God-fearing girl who barely ever thinks of herself. She reminds me of that one friend that your mom wants you to hang out with because she is a good influence.

Kit, oh my! In The Queen’s Lady we meet Kit (I can’t remember if he was in the first book), and I fell in love with him. He is an actor and pretty much is just the best character I have ever read. Ever since I first read The Witch of Blackbird Pond those many years ago, I was in love with the name Kit… for a girl. When I found out this character was called Kit, I was a bit iffy (I’m still not really sure why they call him that since his name is Christopher). Kit dresses in bright, loud clothing and has his ear pierced – not something a father would exactly look of in his future son-in-law; especially a strict, religious father. Kit is swoon worth, I must admit.

Tobias is also a favourite of mine. He is Kit’s younger brother who left the Lacey manor to stay with his half-brother. Tobias doesn’t really think before he acts, but I think at the end he has matured a lot. I really hope there will a novel about him too!

Mercy’s grandmother is a hoot, gaining more than a few chuckles from me. She also was the only one in Mercy’s family (besides her aunt) who agreed that Kit was a good man for her.

At the beginning of the book I detested Mercy’s father, John. He was much too hard on her when it came to Kit, but I guess that is expected. She is his baby girl and Kit, as I said before, is not what one would look for in his son-in-law. In the end I was fond of John and was glad that he wasn’t as much of a jerk as I thought he was.

The plot was nice, although I am not really one to believe in love-at-first-sight. To me Kit fell too hard and fast for Mercy. I loved the scenes between them, but at their first meeting they pretty much had to be pried apart.

This is a really good book, truly. I enjoyed all of the books in the Lacey Chronicles and I hope that we can see another one.

This book is pretty clean. I don’t think there was any swearing (there might have been two or three if any), but there was kissing and a few gropes. ;)

I rate this: 5/5.

Thirteen Reasons Why [REVIEW]

Title: Thirteen Reasons Why
Author: Jay Asher
Pages: 320 pages

Summing it up: Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a strange package with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers several cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker - his classmate and crush - who committed suicide two weeks earlier. Hannah's voice tells him that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he'll find out why. Clay spends the night crisscrossing his town with Hannah as his guide. He becomes a firsthand witness to Hannah's pain, and learns the truth about himself – a truth he never wanted to face.

Reason I Decided to Read it: It was on a list of ’21 books to read before you’re 21’ so I thought it would be nice to try. I also really liked the idea of the tapes telling most of the story.

The Good: When I first heard about this, I thought, ‘this is different’. How many books are about cassettes? The idea was a great one; a girl kills herself and leaves thirteen tapes to people who changed her life for better and for worse.

Clay is really realistic. He acts just as you would this someone would if they received suicide tapes. There is a map inside the cover that shows you all of the places on Clay’s map. When you read Hannah’s thoughts, it seems like you’re actually listening to the tapes yourself. It is hauntingly beautiful.

You learn about what goes on in a teenager’s life; how everything can seem okay, but really it isn’t. After reading this book, you will think twice about doing or saying something you might regret.

The Bad: At times I thought Hannah was a bit dramatic. If you look at the things people did to her in retrospect, it sees melodramatic, but by the end of the book when everything is over, you see how the littlest things can change someone’s life – or end it.

The Over-All: This is a great book. Even if you’ve never been to high school, you can imagine what these people went through.

Other: It’s about suicide, so it’s pretty touchy.

Rated: 5/5.

The Birth House [REVIEW]

Title: The Birth House
Author: Ami McKay
Pages: 408 pages

Summing it up: The Birth House is the story of Dora Rare, the first daughter to be born in five generations of Rares. As a child in an isolated village in Nova Scotia, she is drawn to Miss Babineau, an outspoken Acadian midwife with a gift for healing. Dora becomes Miss B.'s apprentice, and together they help the women of Scots Bay through infertility, difficult labours, breech births, unwanted pregnancies and even unfulfilling sex lives. Filled with details as compelling as they are surprising, The Birth House is an unforgettable tale of the struggles women have faced to have control of their own bodies and to keep the best parts of tradition alive in the world of modern medicine.

Reason I Decided to Read it: My Dad bought this for me at an auction because it came with a really cool mug. I had no clue what it was about, but after I got it my Gramma told me she read it and thought it would be something I would like. Needless to say this is one of my favourite books!

The Good: I know I tend to say this a lot, but this truly is one of my favourite books. As soon as I finished reading the first page, I was completely hooked. I think I may have put It down once the whole time I was reading.

The writing is amazing and can really pull you into the world of Dora rare. Ami McKay is a wonderful crafter of words and writer of books. When I was reading, it sounded like a song. The writing incorporated with the advertisements and newspaper articles were captivating. This book was the first time I had ever seen that strategy used. It was awesome to see what the ads were like back in the day.

I loved how the Halifax Explosion was an actual part of the book and it wasn’t just skimmed over. It was a large piece of Nova Scotian history. I also like how WWI was put in the book. It shows that war can touch even the smallest corners of the world.

It is interesting that she [McKay] added a little touch of everything that you might see in life back then (ie the family that everyone knows about, but doesn’t do anything about). She doesn’t sweeten the story; she tells it how it was.

The characters seem real. I could probably pick out each character and match them to a person that I know.

In the back of the book is a list of herbs and methods that you would hear from a midwife. For instance, Moon-bath: Lay naked in a crossroads in the light of the full moon. Makes the womb ripe. This made me laugh as did this one: Beaver Brew: A dose (straight or with tea) keeps a woman clear from babies for one moon-time. Steep the oysters of beavers in gin. Set out in the light of three full moons. I don’t recommend doing this.

The Bad: I didn’t like Aunt Fran or Brady Ketch or Grace (Grace Hutner isn’t the type of girl you take to church) or Archer (though I love his name).

The Over-All: I think anyone who likes history and medical knowledge would love this. You learn old wives tales and about what life was like back in the early 1900s.

Other: There are one or two scenes that are a tad questionable, but not enough to turn someone away from the book.

Rated: 5/5.

The Girl in the Steel Corset [REVIEW]

Title: The Girl in the Steel Corset
Author: Kady Cross
Pages: 482 pages.

Summing it up: In 1897 England, sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne has no one except the "thing" inside her.

When a young lord tries to take advantage of Finley, she fights back. And wins. But no normal Victorian girl has a darker side that makes her capable of knocking out a full-grown man with one punch….

Only Griffin King sees the magical darkness inside her that says she’s special, says she's one of them. The orphaned duke takes her in from the gas lit streets against the wishes of his band of misfits: Emily, who has her own special abilities and an unrequited love for Sam, who is part robot; and Jasper, an American cowboy with a shadowy secret.

Griffin's investigating a criminal called The Machinist, the mastermind behind several recent crimes by automatons. Finley thinks she can help and finally be a part of something, finally fit in.

But The Machinist wants to tear Griff's little company of strays apart, and it isn't long before trust is tested on all sides. At least Finley knows whose side she's on even if it seems no one believes her.

Reason I Decided to Read it: It takes place in the Victorian era, is steampunk AND fantasy. What more can I say?

The Good: I like the idea of the book. I don’t think it’s been done yet. The supporting characters are nice also (especially the boys, they’re to die for!).

The Bad: I didn’t like the main character. I know it sounds weird, but I really didn’t. She seemed too much like a – dare I say it? – Mary-Sue. First off, her name was Finley. I KNOW this is steampunk, but it is still Victorian. Everyone else has normal era fitting names, so why doesn’t she? It is a Scottish name, and a pretty one, but she isn't even Scottish! Second, she has two sides. She has a nice sweet side, and a dangerous, sexy side. Third, she’s pretty and has two guys after her; a dark handsome, dangerous guy and a nice, handsome, safe guy. Fourth, she has ninja skills. She can scale buildings without even flinching. Fifth, her dark side is pro skill. She has super hearing, eyesight and strength.

The Over-All: If you have nothing better to do or you really love steampunk, this book is for you.

Other: It’s pretty safe. There is some violence, but it’s all good.

Rated: 2/5.

The Name of the Star [REVIEW]

Title: The Name of the Star
Author: Maureen Johnson
Pages: 272 pages.

Summing it up: The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper in the autumn of 1888.

Soon "Rippermania" takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police now believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.

Reason I Decided to Read it: It’s about Jack the Ripper, who I have a huge interest in. You could say I fan-girl him in a weird kind of way.

The Good: I love all things Jack the Ripper. So when I heard about this book, I couldn’t contain myself, I ran out a bought it. From the description I know what you’re thinking: ‘Another book about an American in London?’ I was a bit iffy on this too, but really her Americaness doesn’t have a huge role to play.

This book is really informative about the Jack the Ripper murders, so even if you have no clue who the man was or what he did, you won’t be confused while reading this. The characters are realistic and so is the school (or so I guess, I’ve never been to boarding school, only public). There are some parts that hit you and you’re thinking ‘seriously?’ but it will play out nicely, don’t worry.

The Bad: Like I said, there are some parts that you’re like ‘WTH?’, but they don’t make appearances often.

The Over-All: This is a great book to read. If you love learn about JR, or just need something to do, pick up this book and give it a whirl.

Other: There is some, though not a lot, of violence and a few kisses.

Rated: 5/5.

Cinder [REVIEW]

Title: Cinder
Author: Marissa Meyer
Pages: 400

Summing it up: Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future.

Reason I Decided to Read it: The cover was pretty. Really, that’s the reason. And it was on sale (I’m sorta cheap). Look below for a better reason. :p

The Good: I’m not sure what made me pick up this book, but I think it was the cover. Yes, I am one of those terrible people who judge books mostly by their covers. I’m not a fan of futuristic books, I like my history. Maybe it was fate that this was on sale the day I went to the book store.

I really enjoyed this book. I love books based on fairy tales and it followed true to Cinderella. Cinder is a great character and the fact that she is a cyborg shows us the struggles with discrimination that she has to go through. Instead of having two evil stepsisters, she has one (who you want to hit) and her other sister is really kind and loves her. Her stepmother is also terrible and again, she is someone you would want to hit if you ever met her.

Prince Kai is lovely and adds humour to the story (you gotta love guys that make you laugh!). He is charming and even though he is a prince, he doesn’t separate himself from the working class.

The plot is great and you’re always wondering what is going to happen next and how Cinder doesn’t blow a gasket (terrible pun intended). In the description it mentions people who live on the moon. Let me tell you, when I read that I put the book down and walked away. I didn’t want to buy it because the moon people made it sound stupid. But for some reason I came back and bought it. The moon people (Luners) actually make the book. They add an element of fear. They threaten war.

The Bad: I hated that it was over. Haha, I know, ever book comes to an end, but I really want to read more.

The Over-All: Don’t let the description fool you. This is a great book. Even if you aren’t a fan of the future, give it a try, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.

Other: There is one kiss. Seriously, that’s all there is.

Rated: 5/5.

Revolution [REVIEW]

Title: Revolution
Author: Jennifer Donnelly
Pages: 496 pages

Summing it up: BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She's angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she's about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights' most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.

PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn't want-and couldn't escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine's diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There's comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal's antique pages-until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine's words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

Reason I Decided to Read it: I love diary books and this seemed like it was going to be really good.

The Good: I read one of Donnelly’s books before I really enjoyed it, so I decided to check out this one too. I didn’t know anything about the Revolution. I knew about the royal family dying, but that was from the movie Marie Antoinette. I really love learn about history though, so this was a treat for me.
I loved the idea of a modern girl finding a diary of a girl from the 1700s. If only I had that kind of luck. I really enjoying reading journal based stories, and this book was mostly one. The plot was good and some of the characters too.

The Bad: I didn’t care much for Andi. I know she went through a lot, her mother is in the hospital, her brother died, her father is distant, but she is too whiny. It sounds terrible but it is true; she gets on your nerves. She won’t let anyone get near her and that’s what she needs. She also takes everything anyone does as a personal hit to her.

The Over-All: It’s great if you want to know more about the Revolution or you like journals. If you have a problem with gritty topics, then this probably isn’t for you.

Other: It has violence, but come one, it takes place during an uprising. It also has thoughts of suicide.

Rated: 2.5/5.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children [REVIEW]

Title: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

Author: Ransom Riggs
Pages: 352 pages.

Summing it up: A mysterious island.  An abandoned orphanage. A strange collection of very curious photographs.

It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience. As our story opens, a horrific family tragedy sets sixteen-year-old Jacob journeying to a remote island off the coast of Wales, where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores its abandoned bedrooms and hallways, it becomes clear that the children were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a deserted island for good reason. And somehow-impossible though it seems-they may still be alive.

Reason I Decided to Read it: I was on Chapters' website one day looking through their new books and saw this gem. My first thought was, 'What makes these children peculiar?' so I clicked on it and read the summary. My second thought was, 'Curious photographs!? Where have you been all my life?' So I added it to my cart and viola! I bought it.

The Good: Let’s start off by me saying that I love old photographs. When I found out that this book had them, I almost peed myself – okay not really, but you get my drift. I loved this book to pieces. Just the idea of an orphanage for peculiar children screams awesomeness.

The story never leaves you bored. It plays greatly with your emotions; you will feel heartbroken, joyful, giddy and worried, all while sitting on the edge of your seat to see what is going to happen next. The photographs are the story and make the characters seem so much more real.

The characters are great and have really believable personalities. Jacob acts just as one does when they have a family tragedy. The children are friendly (for the most part) and Miss Peregrine is a wonderful caregiver.

My favourite characters include: Millard (the invisable boy), Olive (the floating little girl on the cover), Hugh (the boy with bees living inside of him) and Horace (the boy who dreams of the future).

The Bad: It ended a bit abruptly. You get to the last page and read three last words and think, ‘oh holy crap. There better be a sequel and soon!’

The Over-All: This is a fantastic book. I would recommend it to anyone, even if you’re not a fan of reading.

Other: It has some swearing, kissing and a bit of violence (inflected by hollowgasts and WWII).

Rated: 5/5.