Review: Beware, Princess Elizabeth

Sibling rivalry at its best. 

Mary wants to control her little sister Elizabeth's dating life, religion, and future. Hmm, sounds like an uber-strict parent. Of course, the difference is that Mary is Queen, and if Elizabeth doesn't comply to her every wish she might get beheaded.

Once again, Meyer used a young alert voice, making Elizabeth easy to relate with. One has to admire her struggle to choose her own marital status as she fights everyone by admitting she never wants to get married. Who could blame her after the numerous wives her father had? The book is short, but the tension constant. A great way to have fun and learn some history. 

Want more from Carolyn Meyer

Cleopatra Confesses

Review: My Beautiful Failure

Billy's home life is complicated. His Dad suffers from bipolar disorder but refuses to get help, thus convincing Billy to volunteer his free time at a helpline and provide aid to those who actually want it. And then he meets Jenney. Why isn't he allowed to date callers -- what could go wrong?

This book is definitely not a failure for Janet Ruth Young. Yes, Billy is a little geeky, with fears, hopes, and nervousness when it comes to love. But he has a kind heart and it's easy to relate to him. The battle between ethics and love was very well played. Particularly, because Jenney isn't well, and as the story progresses we see just how blind love can be.

I gave it a four star rating because the subplot about his Dad was inconclusive. I'm not too keen when characters drop out of the story line without reason.

Top Ten Tuesday: Books that made me sigh

 

Hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

TOP BOOKS THAT INTIMIDATE ME

SIZE
I finish every book I start, so I have to be judgemental

DEPRESSING COVERS
I read them when I'm having the best day ever, otherwise prepare for kleenex and pms like symptoms.

And finally SELF HELP BOOKS. Sometimes we must cast someone aside because they are poisonous regardless of their kissing expertise, and great dance moves, and charming personality...

... and great sense of humor, and pretty sparkly eyes -- Gah! Feel free to stop me. 

Review: The Forest of Hands and Teeth

A ''don't go into the woods'' warning, has a huge impact when you happen to live right next them. Forget building a tree house, or going to the ocean. Forget freedom.

The Unconsegrated, flesh eating zombies, have surrounded the village for years. The Sisterhood took over, making sure that no one leaves the walls and follow a strict married with children lifestyle to keep the village going. But all that power equals secrets -- and now that Mary knows, she has the responsibility to tell the others. 

Ryan's writing grips the reader from the first line and doesn't let go until the cruel end. Like most Zombie books, where they come from, isn't discussed. The important thing is, that instead of bombarding us with nonstop-action narration, Carrie Ryan gives us: suspense, family tragedies, self-discovery and romance. A love quadrangle that will separate readers into Team Harry vs Team Travis. 

And now, for my own warning: don't read this at night.

Caught my arrow #19

Caught my Arrow is a meme similar to In my mailbox and  Stalking the Shelves featuring books that were purchased, borrowed or received that week.

Last week was Québec day, and this week Canada day. Oh, I'm getting tired of all these festivities. So tired, I shall be driving to NY for July 4th.

A big thank you to Hachette Book Canada for sending me The Universe Versus Alex Woods. I can't wait to read this, especially seeing how it made its way into Goodreads June 2013 Movers & Shakers list.

What are you reading this week?

Don't forget the giveaway ends today :D