Allegiant by Veronica Roth

Synopsis: The faction-based society that Tris Prior once believed in is shattered—fractured by violence and power struggles and scarred by loss and betrayal. So when offered a chance to explore the world past the limits she’s known, Tris is ready. Perhaps beyond the fence, she and Tobias will find a simple new life together, free from complicated lies, tangled loyalties, and painful memories. 

But Tris’s new reality is even more alarming than the one she left behind. Old discoveries are quickly rendered meaningless. Explosive new truths change the hearts of those she loves. And once again, Tris must battle to comprehend the complexities of human nature—and of herself—while facing impossible choices about courage, allegiance, sacrifice, and love. 

Told from a riveting dual perspective, Allegiant, by #1 New York Times best-selling author Veronica Roth, brings the Divergent series to a powerful conclusion while revealing the secrets of the dystopian world that has captivated millions of readers in Divergent and Insurgent.

Release Date: October 22, 2013

Number of pages: 525

My review: Well, I guess this is the end of another series. I LOVED the Divergent series and Allegiant was such a wonderful ending. People compare it to Mockingjay in the sense that it's not the happiest of ending, but to me it's the most realistic. 

I liked Allegiant much more than Insurgent. There was more action and I think just more stuff going on overall, which didn't happen in Insurgent. Insurgent set up the political and socio-economic conflict, while Allegiant had actual fighting and war. There was so much build up and planning in Allegiant and sometimes it was for nothing which kind of irked me, but then I realized that's how it would be in real life. Sometimes you have to plan and plan for something that may never happen.

Another thing I liked was the switching viewpoints between Tris and Tobias/Four. I really enjoyed reading from his point of view, especially since in my last review I complained about not knowing what was going on in his head. 

I guess Allegiant pleasantly surprised me and I was up until 1AM finishing the book. I think my tweet from last night says it all best:

With bleary eyes and a tear streaked face, I have finished Allegiant. It's 1 AM and I regret nothing.
— Paige (@ThePaige_Turner) March 22, 2014

So, overall, I'm sad the series is over because I can't read anymore about Tris who is such a kick-ass character and she had so much development along with all the other characters with her. However, everything was SO well done and Veronica Roth is such a great author. I can't wait to see what she'll write next!

(Also check out my pictures of the series here: http://paigiieee.tumblr.com/post/80342847640/love-these-beauties)

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Insurgent by Veronica Roth

Synopsis: One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

Release Date: May 1, 2012

Number of pages: 525

My review: ASDFGHJKL! WHAT!? The ending is such a cliff-hanger! Okay maybe I should back track a bit...

I LOVED this sequel! It was just as good as the first book and I now cannot wait to get my hands on the third one. Veronica Roth has seriously outdone herself. I can't believe how well written these novels are! The world building and all the things the characters go through is just so fantastic!

I liked how the first novel set things up so well, that this novel did not disappoint. We could easily move on with the story and find out what was going to happen next to all our favorite characters. I am so excited to see what the next book is going to entail because even this one set things up for an action-packed conclusion. 

I don't want to say too much about the plot if you haven't read Divergent, but I will say that I think the way that Tris went through everything in Insurgent was not only inspirational and incredibly brave, but I liked that often she was confused or mislead about what she was going to do in certain situations. I mean she is only 16, she can't know how the entire world works and I liked that Veronica Roth didn't necessarily make her smarter than the adults because that would have just been illogical. Tris is one of those characters that just feels so real, it's like she jumps off the page and is actually sitting next to you describing the whole story. I love that Veronica Roth has the ability to do that to her characters.

We didn't see as much of Four in this one which was kind of disappointing, so hopefully he'll pop up more in Allegiant. That being said, when he did show up I got kind of annoyed with him. Maybe because we see only Tris' side of the story, but everything he did it was kind of like, if you love Tris so much why do you not trust her?? I want to buy the Four collective stories when it comes out in July so I can figure out what the hell was going on with him. 

I think one of the reasons a lot of people didn't like this book as much was because you could really choose either side of the different characters. Each side was presented pretty well and there was times even I was confused about who I should be siding with, which I think frustrated a lot of people but to me just showed how much careful thought and planning was put into the novel.

And now, I'm off to finish the series and get started on Allegiant! 

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Bookshelf Tour (of sorts)

I don't have the time to film a bookshelf tour and probably won't until summer comes around since I'll be away at school again starting next week, but I figured while I was at home I could snap a few pictures for you guys to show you my bookshelves.

Here is a general overview of all three:

I have the big white shelf organized with my big series on the top two shelves (so Gossip Girl series, The Clique series, A-List series, and all my Jen Calonita, Joanna Philbin, and Lauren Conrad books).

After that everything is organized alphabetically by last name all the way up to the last name Shannon. The rest of the alphabet is on the brown shelf's first and third shelves. 

The second shelf on that one has all my Agatha Christie mysteries and a few other mystery authors. The fourth shelf has my Fruits Basket mangas and my Hunger Games companions (along with the Hunger Games itself!).

The very bottom shelf has childhood books and the one above that has some misc. mass market books and photo albums. 

The last shelf all by itself has larger sized classics and the very top of my white shelf has mass market sized classics along with my Harry Potter boxed set.

And here are some more close-ups of individual shelves:

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Welcome home book haul!

Seeing as this is my week on break from college, I decided to buy a few books! Here's what I got:

Received in a giveaway:
Acid by Emma Pass

Purchased on Amazon:
Warriors: Into the Wild by Erin Hunter
Demon's Fire by Emma Holly
Get Lucky by Lorie O'Clare
Cradle of Solitude by Alex Archer

Purchased at a used book shop:
The Boyfriend App by Katharine Sise
Not Without You by Nora Roberts

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Divergent by Veronica Roth

Synopsis: In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue--Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is--she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are--and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes exasperating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threaten to unravel her seemingly perfect society, Tris also learns that her secret might help her save the ones she loves . . . or it might destroy her.

Release Date: February 28, 2012

Number of pages: 487

My review: If you've read this than you already know how fantastic and amazing it is, but if you haven't read it then you need to do so right now (Especially with that movie coming out soon!).

So, I've been putting this one off for awhile and I'm not sure why. I think I was sort of apprehensive about reading it with so much hype surrounding the series. I was afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype and I'd be disappointed. However, this did not happen whatsoever! I loved this from beginning to end! If I didn't have school/finals I would have finished the whole thing in one night! I was reading 100 pages at a time in about 30 minute intervals and I don't think I've ever gone through a book that quickly in such a short amount of time.

I loved all the world building and character development that went into this book. Veronica Roth really took her time to set things up and explain everything. I know that the other books will be just as good because we had such a good starter novel with Divergent. That being said, I cannot wait to start reading Insurgent and Allegiant!

There was never a dull moment when I was reading and everything just seemed so fantastic! I love the names of all the factions and how everything is set up. Like she did it so well that it seems so believable! Everything was amazing and I cannot enunciate that point enough. 

Go read this right now!

Also, for those of you who have read it...did you take the quiz to find out what faction you belong in? I got Erudite!

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Winter Quarter Book Haul

Hello everyone! I haven't done a book haul in a really long time (mostly because I haven't had the time) but I also just wanted to wait until the end of the quarter here at college before showing you all the books I purchased while I was away at school.

This first bunch is strictly one's I sent to myself at school (I'm also not including textbooks because those are really boring and no one wants to see those):

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
Beautiful Days by Anna Godbersen
Downton Abbey Script Book Season 1 by Julian Fellows
The Girl Who Was on Fire: Your Favorite Authors on Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games Trilogy edited by Leah Wilson
The Hunger Games Companion: The Unauthorized Guide to the Series by Lois H. Gresh
Suddenly Royal by Nichole Chase
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

This next bunch is one's that I also bought at college but had sent to my house. 

Won in a giveaway:
Old Souls by C.G. Garcia
Cupid by Honor St. James

Received for Review:
Kitty Hawk and the Curse of the Yukon Gold by Iain Reading

Purchased:
The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler
The Marriage Mistake by Jennifer Probst
Faking It by Cora Carmack
The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

Spoiled by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan
Wentworth Hall by Abby Grahame
Overprotected by Jennifer Laurens
A Long Way from You by Gwendolyn Heasley
Hancock Park by Isabel Kaplan
The Best Girl by Emma Harrison
The Hunger Games: Tribute Guide by Scholastic Press
Guide to the Hunger Games by Caroline Carpenter

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Suddenly Royal by Nichole Chase

Synopsis: Samantha Rousseau is used to getting her hands dirty. Working toward a master’s degree in wildlife biology while helping take care of her sick father, she has no time for celebrity gossip, designer clothes, or lazy vacations. So when a duchess from the small country of Lilaria invites her to dinner, Samantha assumes it’s to discuss a donation for the program. The truth will change the course of her life in ways she never dreamed.

Alex D’Lynsal is trying to keep his name clean. As crown prince of Lilaria, he’s had his share of scandalous headlines, but the latest pictures have sent him packing to America and forced him to swear off women—especially women in the public eye. That is, until he meets Samantha Rousseau. She’s stubborn, feisty, and incredibly sexy. Not to mention heiress to an estate in his country, which makes her everyone’s front-page news.

While Sam tries to navigate the new world of politics and wealth, she will also have to dodge her growing feelings for Alex. Giving in to them means more than just falling in love; it would mean accepting the weight of an entire country on her shoulders.

Release Date: November 26th, 2013

Number of pages: 366

My review: I loved this book! It was one of those sickly sweet romances that you sort of knew how it was going to end but that's alright because it has so much fluff and romance that it makes it all worthwhile. Although there was a curveball thrown in there that made me saying "What!?"

This was such a cute story though. I loved Sam and Alex and all the other characters that went along with them and who doesn't love royalty? I liked the path this took of Sam dealing with her newfound title and she seemed so real in the way she dealt with it. I could totally see someone in real life dealing with the things she went through in the same ways.

And Alex...woo! He is one sexy and handsome prince! I was smitten with him right away just like everyone else seemed to be too! He just exudes elegance and politeness, but behind doors it's a different story. Wink wink. 

I can't wait to read the next few novels which focus on Alex's siblings. But they're being released later this year so I guess I have to do a little bit of waiting. I would definitely pick this up if you're looking for a light and fun read and if you are obsessed with royalty (as I am...)!

Also, not sure what to think of this cover. At first glance I was like alright that's kind of dorky but I actually sort of like it. It's got spunk and elegance just like Sam so I think it's actually pretty perfect. I like the color schemes too. 

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Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

Synopsis: A coming-of-age tale of fanfiction, family, and first love.

Cath is a Simon Snow fan.

Okay, the whole world is a Simon Snow fan.... But for Cath, being a fan is her life—and she's really good at it. She and her twin, Wren, ensconced themselves in the Simon Snow series when they were just kids; it's what got them through their mother leaving.

Reading. Rereading. Hanging out in Simon Snow forums, writing Simon Snow fanfiction, dressing up like the characters for every movie premiere.

Cath's sister has mostly grown away from fandom, but Cath can't let go. She doesn't want to.

Now that they're going to college, Wren has told Cath she doesn't want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She's got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend; a fiction-writing professor who thinks fanfiction is the end of the civilized world; a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words...and she can't stop worrying about her dad, who's loving and fragile and has never really been alone.

For Cath, the question is: Can she do this? Can she make it without Wren holding her hand? Is she ready to start living her own life? And does she even want to move on if it means leaving Simon Snow behind?

Release Date: September 10th, 2013

Number of pages: 438

My review: I just finished this book and let me tell you it was SO amazing! I have not read such flawless writing in such a long time. I was pulled in from the first page and took every moment I could this weekend to pick it back up and start reading again. 

I loved every aspect of this book. I loved all the characters and how real they felt. I loved the setting and how Rainbow Rowell so accurately described freshman year of college (seriously if anyone is looking for a book that kind of goes through the ups and downs of that first year of college this is it!). I loved how we were brought into Cath's world through the Simon Snow fiction and we were given little pieces of that story, and Cath's fanfiction to better connect with her. I loved Levi and how flawless he was.

Perfection. That's how I would describe this. I think this is my favorite book of the year so far because it was just so simply amazing. I honestly do not have one bad thing to say. I cannot wait to pick up another of Rainbow Rowell's books (probably will read Eleanor and Park next...) and I think she is well on my way to becoming one of my favorite authors. Please continue to write so perfectly Ms. Rowell! I can't wait to reread this!

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Downton Abbey: The Complete Scripts-Season 1 by Julian Fellowes

Synopsis: The full scripts of award-winning Downton Abbey, season one including previously unseen material

Downton Abbey has become an international phenomenon and the most successful British drama of our time. Created by Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes, the first season delighted viewers and critics alike with stellar performances, ravishing costumes, and a gripping plot. Set in a grand country house during the late Edwardian era, season one of Downton Abbey follows the lives of the Crawley family upstairs and their servants downstairs as they approach the announcement of the First World War. Fellowes succeeds in not only entertaining his audience with a combination of sustained storylines and sharp one-liners but also in delivering a social commentary of British life. The scripts from season one give readers the opportunity to read the work in more detail and to study the characters, pace, and themes in depth. With extended commentary from Fellowes, highlighting key historical or dramatic details, this book gives invaluable insight, particularly for would-be screenwriters, into how Fellowes researched and crafted the world of Downton Abbey.

Featuring full-color photographs!

Release Date: October 16th, 2012

Number of pages: 432

My review: As a lot of people may know (since I talk about it on Twitter a lot) I absolutely LOVE Downton Abbey so when I found out there was a couple books that had the complete scripts I just had to get my hands on them. 

While these books have the complete scripts, including parts that were cut out from the show, there's also tons of footnotes where Julian Fellowes talks about a variety of things like why certain parts were cut, his feelings on different scenes, and even research that was done for different scenes. I throughly enjoyed these footnotes because it gave you an even bigger and better back story to not only Downton Abbey but the filming and Julian Fellowes himself. You can clearly see he cares for his characters and how they are presented to the audiences. 

This definitely made me want to go back and watch the whole first season over again but I've got to finish the fourth season first and above all I don't have my Downton DVD's with me here at school. Maybe something I can do over Spring Break...

I'm so excited to pick up the season two version of the scripts and want the third and fourth seasons to come out in print soon so I can read those as well! If you love Downton Abbey then you HAVE to pick these up!

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The Hunger Games Companion by Lois H. Gresh

Synopsis: The ultimate companion guide to the blockbuster Hunger Games trilogy.

For all those who adore Katniss and Peeta, and can't get enough of The Hunger Games, this companion guide to the wildly popular Hunger Games series is a must-read and a terrific gift.

Go deeper into the post-apocalyptic world created by Suzanne Collins than you ever thought possible: an alternative future where boys and girls are chosen from twelve districts to compete in The Hunger Games, a televised fight-to-the-death. When sixteen-year-old Katniss learns that her little sister has been chosen, she steps up to fight in her place and the games begin.

The Hunger Games Companion takes readers behind the scenes and includes fascinating background facts about the action in all three books, a revealing biography of the author, and amazing insights into the series' main themes and features - from the nature of evil, to weaponry and rebellions, to surviving the end of the world. It's everything fans have been hungering for since the very first book!

This book is not authorized by Suzanne Collins, Scholastic Press or anyone involved in the Hunger Games movie.

Release Date: November 8th, 2011

Number of pages: 248

My review: Comparing this book to The Girl Who Was on Fire: Your Favorite Authors on Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games Trilogy, this book was far more scientific based while the other one was more of a collection of opinions and theories about characters and other elements of the story.

I liked that the two were very different. It allowed me to see two different sides of The Hunger Games series. While some of the scientific parts here did get me a little bored, I liked how the world of the Games was connected to our real life to show that maybe some elements weren't as far into the future as we think. I also liked how at the end of each chapter there were "Dooms Day Predictions," I thought those were really funny to read.

I also liked the use of graphs and charts throughout the book. It kind of broke up the more dull moments and gave you a break from some of the heavier stuff. I could really tell that the author did her research and this was a very thorough companion guide (Plus it's only like $5 on Amazon!)

Of course, if you love the Hunger Games series you should check this out. This is the second companion novel I've read for the series and I'm really appreciating the breadth of topics each one has conquered so far. I can't wait to pick up a few more!

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Beautiful Days by Anna Godbersen

Synopsis: For the bright young things of 1929, the beautiful days seem endless, filled with romance and heartbreak, adventure and intrigue, friendship and rivalry.

After a month in New York, Cordelia Grey and Letty Larkspur are small-town girls no longer. Letty will at last chase her Broadway dreams no matter the cost. Cordelia, still reeling from the death of her father at the hands of the man she thought she loved, is set to honor Darius Grey's legacy? . . . ?and take her revenge. Promised to Cordelia's half brother, Charlie Grey, Astrid is caught up in a world of dazzling jewels and glittering nights and the sparkle is blinding.

A bitter rivalry will ensnare them all in a dangerous feud played out in the speakeasies of Manhattan and the great lawns of Long Island, and for Astrid, Cordelia, and Letty, the stakes could be deadly.

Release Date: July 31st, 2012

Number of pages: 368

My review: This was such a great sequel to Bright Young Things! I loved how the direction of this story is going. I felt more deeply connected to the characters in this novel and found myself rooting for them more and wanting to find out what was going to happen next.

I am still absolutely loving the setting of the 1920's in New York and all the descriptions of the glitz and glamour of all the descriptions, from the dresses to the buildings to the girls themselves. Everyone always seems so luxurious and their lives seem perfect but then you dive deeper beneath the surface and realize even the rich and slightly famous have their own problems as well. 

More characters were also introduced and we learned more about their backstory's which was interesting and added a completely new layer to the story. I like how the rivalry between the two bootlegger's family is playing out and can't wait to get my hands on the last book to see how everything ends!

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The Girl Who Was on Fire: Your Favorite Authors on Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games Trilogy Edited by Leah Wilson

Synopsis: Includes 3 brand new essays on Gale, the Games, andMockingjay!

**Already read the first edition of The Girl Who Was on Fire? Look forThe Girl Who Was on Fire - Booster Pack in the Kindle store to get just the three new essays and the extra movie content.**

Katniss Everdeen’s adventures may have come to an end, but her story continues to blaze in the hearts of millions worldwide.

In The Girl Who Was on Fire - Movie Edition, sixteen YA authors take you back to the world of the Hunger Games with moving, dark, and funny pieces on Katniss, the Games, Gale and Peeta, reality TV, survival, and more. From the trilogy's darker themes of violence and social control to fashion and weaponry, the collection's exploration of the Hunger Games reveals exactly how rich, and how perilous, Panem, and the series, really is.

• How does the way the Games affect the brain explain Haymitch’s drinking, Annie’s distraction, and Wiress’ speech problems?
• What does the rebellion have in common with the War on Terror?
• Why isn’t the answer to “Peeta or Gale?” as interesting as the question itself?
• What should Panem have learned from the fates of other hedonistic societies throughout history—and what can we?

CONTRIBUTORS: Jennifer Lynn Barnes, Mary Borsellino, Sarah Rees Brennan, Terri Clark, Bree Despain, Adrienne Kress, Sarah Darer Littman, Cara Lockwood, Elizabeth M. Rees, Carrie Ryan, Ned Vizzini, Lili Wilkinson, Blythe Woolston, Diana Peterfreund (NEW), Brent Hartinger (NEW), Jackson Pearce (NEW)

Release Date: January 17th, 2012
Number of pages: 253

My review: Upon completion of The Hunger Games series, I have become obsessed with finding different companion novels and philosophy books that discuss different aspects of The Hunger Games. This was the perfect starting point to delve deeper into the series and look at different hidden meanings and get a variety of viewpoints on the series.

Everything from Gale vs. Peeta, to the idea of the Games and how they connect to our society, to scifi mutations were discussed and it was incredibly interesting. I liked reading all the different authors opinions and ideas about different things in the series and I found myself either agreeing with them and seeing the series in a different light or disagreeing and coming up with my own arguments.

I definitely think this is one of those books you shouldn't read all at once though. There was a few times towards the middle of the book where I thought the essays were a little repetitive but towards the end they began to differ a bit more and the book got more interesting. This is something that you could pick up from time to time and read while you're in the middle of another book, to give yourself a breather. 

Overall, I thought it was extremely interesting and I can't wait to pick up a few more books like this because they really get you thinking about everything that is beneath the surface of The Hunger Games series. I completely recommend this for all the die-hard fans out there. 

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Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Synopsis: My name is Katniss Everdeen.
Why am I not dead?
I should be dead.

Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plans--except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay--no matter what the personal cost.
Release Date: August 24th, 2010
Number of pages: 390

My review: What is life right now. I'm at a complete loss of words. 

I ended up finishing this in a little under 3 hours. I just could NOT put it down. I've had sort of a weird run through with The Hunger Games series. When I read the first one I didn't like it that much (namely because a lot of my friends were pressuring me to read it). But then I read Catching Fire and absolutely LOVED it (and loved the movie!) and Katniss really began to grow on me as a character. 

Mockingjay, to me, was like the perfect ending. A lot of people said they didn't like it, but I think it was amazing. It wasn't a typical perfect storybook ending, it was a Hunger Games ending where there was enough happiness and destruction to make it feel real.

Katniss has definitely become my all-time favorite heroine. She is simply amazing. Of course, she has her blunders here and there but what she goes through is incredible for someone her age and the fact that she can rise against everything and become this symbol for her people shows an immense amount of strength and adversity.

Anyways, Mockingjay had it all! Suspense, plot twists, and the not so perfect ending that turned out to be perfect after all. Everything just worked for me. Well, not everything because there were certainly some moments where I got a little teary eyed. 

I am sad to see the series end, but I look forward to the Mockingjay movies with bated breath. Hopefully, they will be as amazing as Catching Fire was. Go Katniss!

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Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen

Synopsis: The year is 1929. New York is ruled by the Bright Young Things: Flappers and socialites seeking thrills and chasing dreams in the anything-goes era of the Roaring Twenties.

Letty Larkspur and Cordelia Grey escaped their small Midwestern town for New York's glittering metropolis. All Letty wants is to see her name in lights, but she quickly discovers Manhattan is filled with pretty girls who will do anything to be a star....

Cordelia is searching for the father she's never known, a man as infamous for his wild parties as he is for his shadowy schemes. Overnight, she enters a world more thrilling and glamorous than she ever could have imagined — and more dangerous. It's a life anyone would kill for...and someone will.

The only person Cordelia can trust is ­Astrid Donal, a flapper who seems to have it all: money, looks, and the love of Cordelia's brother, Charlie. But Astrid's perfect veneer hides a score of family secrets.

Across the vast lawns of Long Island, in the ­illicit speakeasies of Manhattan, and on the blindingly lit stages of Broadway, the three girls' fortunes will rise and fall — together and apart. From the New York Times bestselling author of THE LUXE comes an epic new series set in the dizzying last summer of the Jazz Age.

Release Date: October 12th, 2010

Number of pages: 389

My review: I have read Anna Godbersen's other series The Luxe, and was completely enthralled by that one so when I saw that she had written a series set in the 1920's I was immediately drawn in.

Our story follows three main girls, Cordelia, Letty, and Astrid. Cordelia and Letty are best friends who wish to move to New York in order to "find themselves" and make it in the big city. Anna Godbersen does an excellent job once again of setting up the scene and switching from the different points of views of the characters without it being confusing or annoying. Just when you get too much of one character she moves you onto the next and let's you see into their life for awhile.

Typical of Anna Godbersen's books there is a lot of mystery and intrigue that float beneath the surface of the glitz and glamour of these girls' fabulous lives. She definitely keeps you guessing and wanting more, more, more! I read half this book in one day because I was so captivated by her writing!

Often I was reminded of The Great Gatsby, and I could tell that she pulled a few components from Fitzgerald's novel such as magnificent parties, riches being thrown around, and lot's of fancy women and dresses (and illegal alcohol! Remember this is during prohibition...)

The ending, of course, left me wanting more and I have ordered the second novel so that I can continue on with reading what happens next with these girls. Anna Godbersen always has something up her sleeve and I'm always following along wanting to know what it is! This also interests me in other types of YA novels written during this time period so I will have to definitely find more!

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Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card

Synopsis: THE HUGO AND NEBULA AWARD WINNING NOVEL Orson Scott Card’s beloved classic Ender’s Game is now a major motion picture. Andrew “Ender” Wiggin thinks he is playing computer simulated war games; he is, in fact, engaged in something far more desperate.  Ender may be the military genius Earth desperately needs in a war against an alien enemy seeking to destroy all human life. The only way to find out is to throw Ender into ever harsher training, to chip away and find the diamond inside, or destroy him utterly. Ender Wiggin is six years old when it begins. He will grow up fast. “Orson Scott Card makes a strong case for being the best writer science fiction has to offer.” —The Houston Post This movie tie-in edition features cover art from the Summit Entertainment film starring Harrison Ford, Ben Kingsley, and Asa Butterfield as Ender Wiggin.

Release Date: 1985

Number of pages: 324

My review: I was first heard about this series when the trailer came out for the book and then recently my friend told me that I had to read it. I have to admit I had some trouble getting into the story. I was a bit confused about the world and there was a lot that wasn't explained. It's one of those stories that I sometimes feel I'm entering into way too late, and that a prequel would be extremely helpful in understanding certain components of the story.

Nevertheless, I did learn more and more about the world Ender was in as the story progressed and what his purpose was for the entire universe. I liked the sci-fi world that surrounded Ender (that which was explained to me). 

I found Ender to be an...interesting character. I didn't dislike him, but he could get on my nerves sometimes. I understood that he was just a kid growing up in this world where he wanted to be no part of, but he could have chosen not to go to the intergalactic school! Obviously, as a young boy he had a lot of problems with being picked on, which was something else I couldn't really relate too.

I wish there had been a dual-focus on the other side of what was happening. Of course we saw what was happening up at the school with Ender, but I wish we could have learned more about what was going on down on Earth with the rest of civilization, especially with people like Ender's siblings, who were also trying to make a difference in the world like Ender.

Overall, the ending (no pun intended) really saved this book for me. If the end wasn't as good as it had been I probably would have rated this at least a three star. Nevertheless, four stars from me, but I don't think I'll be continuing on the series.

Sidenote: I don't normally like movie tie-in covers but I absolutely love this one!

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Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

Synopsis: The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate number of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance from the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University's Walking One-Night Stand. 

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

Release Date: August 14th, 2012

Number of pages: 416

My review: I loved this book! I loved the intense romance between Abby (Pidge) and Travis. Travis just seems so dreamy, albeit he is a little intense at times like when he gets into fights over the simplest things and goes a little overboard in certain situations (I can't say cause duh spoilers!).

Abby also seems like a bit of a pushover when it comes to Travis, but hello! who wouldn't be with that gorgeous bod and sexy tattoos. But to each their own.

I loved how the college they went to totally reminded me of the one I was currently in, and it seemed very realistic so the setting was set up flawlessly. The supporting characters were also pretty awesome and the occasional appearance of Abby's sarcastic roommate always made me giggle.

Overall, I'd say it was a really good New Adult book though I do think the ending was a bit unrealistic. I liked unweaving the characters stories while reading through the book, but the ending was a bit off putting for me. It just seemed like a bit of a let down compared to the rest of the book. Build up was amazing though and this is one of those books that will get you hooked from the very beginning. 

I would recommend this for girls who are currently in college, but maybe not any younger since there are some steamy situations!
P.S. I despise this cover. It makes absolutely no sense to the book and it looks like a stock image that has been severely altered. 

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The Edge of Always by J.A. Redmerski

Synopsis: Five months ago, Camryn and Andrew, both dealing with personal hardships, met on a Greyhound bus. They fell in love and proved that when two people are meant to be together, fate will find a way to make it happen.
Now, in the highly anticipated sequel to The Edge of Never, Camryn and Andrew are pursuing their love for music and living life to the fullest as they always swore to do. But when tragedy befalls them, their relationship is put to the ultimate test. As Camryn tries to numb her pain, Andrew makes a bold decision: To get their life back on track, they'll set out on another cross-country road trip. Together they find excitement, passion, adventure-and challenges they never could have anticipated.

Release Date: January 14th, 2014

Number of pages: 464

My review: When I found out that I had been granted permission to read and review and advanced copy of this on NetGalley I was so excited! I loved the first book, The Edge of Never, and this one also did not disappoint! 

While The Edge of Never was filled with romance and passion with a smidge of heartbreak, The Edge of Always rivaled all that by throwing in deeper emotions of love and loss. I genuinely felt sad for Camryn and Andrew and all that they went through in these 400 some pages. When they triumphed and overcame an obstacle I was cheering along with them, and when they sank down and felt defeated, I mourned with them as well.

There was a few times towards the end where I felt like the book was dragging on a bit much, and I was relating less to the characters and what they were saying, but I still think this was a fulfilling sequel. A bit lengthy? Yes. Necessary? Maybe...

I think it's really up to each individual reader to decide whether or not this was as good as the first book. I for one thought The Edge of Never was better, but this one was a good ending for Camryn and Andrew's trials, tribulations, and travels. 

So, if you disregard that the ending was a little bland, the beginning and middle of the book more than make up for what the ending was trying to accomplish (closure, I guess? The author was just giving way too many over the top descriptions of love, even for me to handle). 

Overall, a wonderful ending to the duology and was something that I greatly anticipated to read and now am glad that I have finished it!

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The Paige-Turner's 2014 Bookish Resolutions

Often times at the end of the year I think about what I did this year through blogging, reading, or overall social media interaction and develop a plan for the new year.

Yeah you're all thinking, "Don't we all!?"

But I'm going to take it seriously this time. So, I have complied a list that I will reference and cross off things that I have done throughout the new year. Here we go!

• Read a book outside my comfort zone
• Read at least 12 classics (one for each month)
• Read more New Adult books
• Don't slack off on reviews or reading (this was a huge problem for me this year. I need to find that right balance)
• Finish at least a third of my TBR shelf
• Limit how many books I buy (unless I finish more on my TBR)
• And, as usual I have pledged to read 100 books in 2014 (I surpassed this in 2013 and read a total of 121 books!)

What are your resolutions? I'd love to hear some!

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Love Is a Number by Lee Monroe

Synopsis: When her beloved boyfriend Huck dies, Eloise is wrecked. All she has left of him are the texts that he sent: short, succinct - but full of love. 

They keep Huck alive. And so Eloise texts him back as if he can receive her messages from beyond the grave. She never expected to get a reply ....

Dan is travelling South America in one last hurrah before university and real life kick in. 

He's ready for love, but not of the casual kind. He's not met a girl that's set his world alight. But he's ready for her when she decides to make an appearance. One night on his travels, Dan discovers an abandoned phone. 

He pockets it, then forgets about it. He never expected it to ring ....

Release Date: July 4th, 2013

Number of pages: 400

My review: I guess I don't know really where to begin with this review. It was a really cute read, but I did have some issues with the characters which prevented me from giving it a five-star rating. I think if the characters had been better I would have liked this a lot more. 

Let's talk about our first main character Eloise. Smart, pretty, stuck-up and she knows it. Gosh this girl annoyed me. She was constantly complaining about how her mother constantly planned everything for her and never let her have a say in anything, yet she never stood up for herself! I kept waiting for a moment when Lo would do something that she wanted for herself but she never really did until the last 50 pages. 

Out of this whole book the last 50 pages are what saved it, and boosted it to the four star rating that I gave it.

Now Daniel. Ugh Dan was the same way! He was constantly moping about how he was a "nice guy" and wasn't attractive and nerdy. Oh cry me a river. Again, with Dan he redeemed himself in the last 50 or so pages. 

Also, the whole book screams British, which was very cute! The way the characters talked and the different places they were going to "Uni" made me want to visit there more than ever. 

I liked this book and I think the premise was really cute I just thought it kind of dragged on and on a lot. There was a lot of buildup to an ending that I thought could have been extended a little further. I feel the first 100 pages could be cut and shoved to the end so that I could see more of what happened to the pair. Oh well.

It was a cute read, but not something I will be reading again any time soon in the future. 

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Reading Cram: Wrap Up Post

Sadly, the Reading Cram has come to an end. I had so much fun participating in all the challenges and of course reading a ton of books! Huge thank you to Juliababyjen's Reading Room and Dana Square for hosting the Read-A-Thon!

Here are my totals:

I read a total of 16 books! I completed almost all of the one's on my list (I didn't get to one of them which was 52 Reasons to Hate My Father by Jessica Brody). 

I also read a total of 4,236 pages! I'm actually very proud of myself. Here's a look at what I read in these two weeks:

      

How did everyone else's cram go? Leave links below and I'll come check it out!

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