2 In One Review

Two Book Reviews in One! 

Hey everybody,

Today I have two very different reviews. The first is on Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo, and the second is Paper Towns by John Green. I read both this weekend while I sat through a total of 8 hours in the car! 

Let's start with Shadow and Bone since that's the one I read first.

Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo (book one of Grisha Trilogy) 

I'm not gonna lie, the reason I picked up this book was because I'm dying to read Leigh Bardugo's newest book, Six of Crows. It's been getting so much hype and after reading the book summary as well as several persuasive reviews on Goodreads, I'm excited to see what it's all about. Anyway, I figured I should get a grasp on what the Grisha world is like. Six of Crows and Shadow and Bone take place in the same universe, but are unrelated, so it's not necessary to read one before the other. 

Still, I needed something to read and thought this would be a good pick. 

Shadow and Bone is about an orphan named Alina. Alina grew up with her best friend Mal in an orphanage run by a wealthy Duke. When they're both old enough the two join the army, Alina as a cartographer and Mal as a tracker. One day when their convoy is attempting to cross the Shadow Fold, a dark, magical region formed years before them, Alina discovers she has powers. Alina's then separated from Mal and whisked off to the Little Palace to be trained with all the other Grisha, the magical wielders. The most powerful Grisha of all, the Darkling, takes a special interest in her, hoping she can be the answer to everyone's prayers- the one to destroy the Shadow Fold.

Ok, that was my basic description. Now onto my review!

Shadow and Bone was fast paced and entertaining, but it fell short for me. For starters, Alina wasn't my favorite heroine. She wasn't very badass or tough, my favorite heroines typically are. However, a good heroine doesn't need to be either of those things. It's actually refreshing sometimes when they're not, especially since that's a bit main stream now. The problem with Alina was there wasn't anything special about her. She was a bit wimpier than I would've liked, and she didn't have any other unique qualities to offer that could make up for that. 

I also wasn't a fan of her best friend Mal who plays a big part in the book. I found him annoying and bland.

In fact the only characters I really liked were the Darkling and Genya. 

Besides the characters, the plot just didn't do it for me. It wasn't anything new or special. There were even some stretches that proved to be a little boring.

The book wasn't all bad though. I did enjoy it because it wasn't hard to get into and it was entertaining. 

To sum it up- Good for those looking for something enjoyable, but it's nothing special and falls short of expectations. 

3 stars- *** 

Paper Towns by John Green 

Let me start by saying this- I'm not a fan of John Green. 

I've read TFIOS and Looking For Alaska and liked neither of them. They both felt so contrived and I couldn't imagine real teenagers ever acting like them. I didn't like any of the characters, and just didn't feel close to them. It also didn't help that I felt like John Green was just trying to sound philosophical and smart while talking down to me. I also hate how every teenage girl in America seems to love his books, especially since a lot of them haven't read much else as they're not readers. 

Sorry for the rant.

Putting all that aside, I actually LIKED this book. I really enjoyed it.

Paper Towns is about a boy named Quentin who lives next door to the it girl, Margo. He's been in love with Margo since they were little but they're on different ends of the social ladder and never talk at school. This all changes one night when Margo shows up at his bedroom window and asks him to be her getaway driver so she can exact revenge on her cheating boyfriend.

 The next day Margo's gone. Quentin and his friends spend the rest of their senior year leading up to graduation trying to solve the clues that Margo left behind so they can find her. 

Review time.

I really liked Quentin. He's funny, awkward, smart, and very realistic. His friends, Ben, Radar, and Lacey are also awesome characters, and I loved all of their relationships. It was fun to watch them change and grow throughout the book.

The whole idea of the nerdy boy chasing the too cool girl is nothing that hasn't been done before, but John Green actually put a great spin on it. He was able to weave in all the philosophical stuff he seems to love without it feeling unnatural. Margo's the character that carries that weight, and is the one who talks about the "paper towns and paper people". I even thought that this idea isn't entirely off base (who would've thought?). 

I liked pretty much every character in the book and though at times the plot seemed to get a little too complex, I thoroughly enjoyed it all, especially the revenge plot with Margo and Quentin. 

The only weakness I can really pick on is the ending. Not to spoil things, but it felt a bit anticlimactic to me. 

Overall, it was a really light, and enjoyable read. I think its underrated even and would say it's John Green's best work. It features relatively realistic characters, and reads nicely.

Definitely a 4 star book **** 

I'd recommend this to anyone! 

Thats all for now! Next up I'll be posting a review of Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses! 

The Darkest Minds Trilogy by Alexandra Bracken

Ever wonder what it's like to live in a world where adults fear your very existence? Whether the answer to that is yes or no is irrelevant. All you need to know is that these books will blow your mind, and you're going to want to experience it. Trust me, it's one of those series that makes you want to be a part of their world (aka the good ones). 

Here's a quick rundown of the plot before I get into the review: A disease called IAAN takes America by storm and wipes out the majority of young children. The kids that are left  have powers, and are sorted into the categories based on their different powers: red, yellow, orange, blue, and green. These kids are then placed into these camps where they're treated like prisoners, and are even experimented on. Basically, the country is in ruins. Everyone lives in fear, cities are destroyed, the government is corrupt, and even the rebel groups trying to overthrow the government may not be what they seem.

Ruby is our main character. The series follows her journey from being in the camps to part of a revolution. The whole time she's trying to figure out who she should be fighting for. 

****If you liked series like The Hunger Games or Divergent then your going to love these!

Review time.

One of the things that I think made this series phenomenal was the characters. Every single one of them has such a distinct and different personality. They really jump off of the page. You've got lovable and geeky Chubs, charming Liam, super cute Zu, and spunky Vida. It was really nice to see all of the characters have their own story line, and to also watch them grow throughout the books. This series had one of my favorite line up of characters ever. There's just something about how they all come together that's unreal. It's like an intricate puzzle where all the pieces fit just right. Their different personalities click, and play off each other really well. I think there's a character for everyone (you'll like them). Oh and also I forget to mention the romance. You will definitely see some of that, and don't worry haters of love triangles, there's none of that. Just some innocent young love that will make you feel bad about your own love life (win some lose some). 

Ok, on another note, from what I've observed on the internet thus far, surprisingly, some people seem to dislike Ruby, or at least get really frustrated with her. Ignore this my friends. I actually love her. She's one of my favorite heroines ! There wasn't a time where I felt like yelling, "What are you doing?!" at her. I think it may have been because I understood a lot of her actions and saw some similarities between myself and her.

Anyway, Ruby is kick ass, funny, and brave (what more could you ask for?). She really is a great protagonist. Even if you turn out to be one of those people who find her frustrating at times, I think you still won't be able to help loving her. Another great thing about her is she develops a lot throughout the series, so she basically gets better and better. 

Also well done by Alexandra Bracken was the world building. In a lot of young adult/dystopian/fantasy books I find myself confused with the complicated universes of magic and so forth. Or I just can't grasp what's going on because of the lack of development. However, neither of these things proved to be a problem with this series. Nothing about this world is too complicated for its own good or lacking in depth. The whole concept of this dystopian America setting is really cool, and I know this sounds crazy, but please let me hop in Black Betty and travel cross country with the gang. I don't even care about IAAN or all the danger that comes with. 

Overall, this series was unlike anything I've read before and is definitely worth your time. I'm adding it to my favorite book list. I think it even beats out Divergent and I'm guessing that with time it'll be as popular as The Hunger Games! Please please add this to your must read list for me! Happy reading :) 

p.s. WARNING this series may cause you to incredible sadness when it ends. 

-cam

Book Recommendations

Happy Thanksgiving Eve everyone! 

I think all book lovers know the feeling of hopelessness as they try and find their next read! So to cure this problem I've come up with an idea! Leave a comment with what genre you like and a description or a few of your fave books! Then I'll give you a recommendation! 

Happy reading📖 

Also I may just do a post with some popular book titles and some books that you probably haven't heard of but would enjoy

Why I Love Teen Wolf

Teen Wolf.

    Two Words.
         8 Letters.
             My Life.
Whenever I tell people that I watch Teen Wolf or suggest someone watch Teen Wolf, the usual response is, "It sounds stupid."
The title of the show is a bit misleading? Thats not exactly the right word for it because yes the show is about a teen turned werewolf. However, its about so much more than what the title implies!! It's not your average, cheesy, stupid teen drama. And I'm going to tell you why Teen Wolf is my all time favorite show, and why you should give it a chance.

*1* THE CHARACTERS
Have you ever watched a Tv show, even loved a Tv show, where you just couldn't stand the main character (ehem Vampire Diaries)? Or maybe there were multiple characters you just hated because they just weren't believable or plain annoying. You won't have that problem with Teen Wolf.
I literally have trouble picking a favorite character because they're all amazing.
Every character is portrayed wonderfully by the cast (who are all phenomenal) and each of them has actual substance, or a story behind them. Not one character feels fake.
If you hate the bad guys, thats ok, because thats what they're there for.
If you love Dylan O'brien, also ok because thats what he's there for.

Let me give you a character run down of the original (and the best) characters of Teen Wolf:
Scott- Average teen turned werewolf whose heart is bigger than anyone's.
Allison- The gorgeous, and smart new girl in school who is one of the strongest female characters out there.
Stiles- The best friend, and comedic relief
Lydia- Not your typical queen bee, she's a genius, and sassy as hell.

*2* THE STORY LINES
If you're planning on watching Teen Wolf, best set some time aside because once you start there's no going back. Each season has an amazing plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. Something that I think most people don't realize about Teen Wolf is that it can actually be scary, and it's packed with adventure.
The carefully crafted stories have character development and make the show what it is.

*3* THE RELATIONSHIPS
This has got to be my favorite part of the show. We're not just talking romantic relationships, but also friendships.
First and foremost, Scott and Stiles are the bestfriends of the century, and will make you wish you had a friend like that (or grateful you have one like that).
Second, half the fun of this show is watching young love evolve, and shipping your favorite couple.
The show does a great job of making unique and different romances that feel authentic, and passionate. The life or death situations definitely add to that aspect as well.
(Forever shipping Stydia and Scallison)

*4* HUMOR
The show is hilarious.
Again the average person wouldn't assume this, but boy will you laugh when watching this.

*5* BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE
The entire cast is gorgeous, and totally swoon worthy.
Also if you're in need of some fashion or beauty inspiration, Lydia and Allison have got ya covered.



Alright guys thats how I'm gonna end this. I could go on for days talking about my love for Teen Wolf, but these points cover the bases. If you're in need of a funny, heart warming, and amazing show to watch please check it out, I promise you won't regret it.

My Top 5 Must Read Series

Hi guys, today I've put together my top 5 favorite series that I think all of you should read! Let's get started.

1. HARRY POTTER by J.k. Rowling  

Okay, this is a classic. If you haven't already read this series than you need to get down to your library right now! I can't even begin to describe how spectacular it is. Harry Potter  was the first of its kind and really paved the road for hundreds of YA and fantasy books. This series is full of magic, friendship, romance, and adventure, perfect for any age reader. It'll make you laugh, cry, and scream for more! It's one of those series that really makes you feel like your apart of a whole new world, and like each character is a close friend. (Fave book in series: Order of the Phoenix)

2. THE MORTAL INSTRUMENTS by Cassandra Clare

Let me start by giving you guys a warning, this series is hilarious. I'm talking laugh out loud funny. Set in modern day America, a girl named Clary Fray and her bestfriend Simon discover a whole new world full of shadowhunters and demons. One of my favorite things about this series is that each character has such a distinct personality, and they're all so different. I can't rave enough about these books! If you love funny books, with romance, and an interesting plot these are for you! (Also read the Infernal Devices series which is a prequel series to this one! It's equally as amazing)
(Fave book in series: City of Ashes)

3. GALLAGHER GIRLS by Ally Carter
Cammie Morgan is definitely not your average teenager. If you happen to spot her on the streets, which is highly unlikely (she's not called the chameleon for nothing), she'd seem just like me and you. However, Cammie happens to be a kick ass spy who attends an academy for girls just like her. Yeah, I know, awesome right? This series is packed with action, and has everything you could hope for. It'll make you wish you could sign up to be apart of Cammie and her buttkicking friends group.  Besides the thrilling plot lines,  I really enjoyed how Cammie and her friends often compile a list of some sort, or observations at the beginning of each chapter. These always prove to be highly amusing. Also, please not I'm only slightly bias because the main character has the same name as me. (Fave book in series: Don't Judge A Girl By Her Cover)

(***Another favorite series of mine is the Heist Society which is also by Ally Carter, and follows thieves. It's absolutely amazing, and really refreshing to actually be on the other side of the crime scene.)


4. PERCY JACKSON by Rick Riordan
Another extremely well known series, but such a goodie. Welcome to the world of greek mythology friends.( I swear these books have actually helped me out during school). Percy Jackson, a troublesome student with ADHD, turns out to actually be a demigod (half god, half human), and not just any demigod. He's the son of Poseidon. I don't even need to go on, you can see how this series is so great right? Trust me, you'll find yourselves zooming right through these, and you won't be able to stop till you finish them all! Consider this a warning, set some time aside if you plan on tackling these!! (Fave book in series: The Lightning Thief)




5. VAMPIRE ACADEMY by Richelle Mead
Please don't hate me for adding this! I've had a lot of disagreements with some of my friends over this particular series, but all in all I really did love it. Rose Hathaway is Dhampir, a bodyguard for the Moroi (vampires), and has dedicated her life to protecting her best friend Princess Lissa Dragomir. Rose and Lissa attend St.Vladmir's Academy, where Moroi learn to use their powers, and Dhmapirs train to protect them. Don't be fooled by the title of this series, it actually has a really unique plot, and is different from the thousands of other vampire books out there. That's what really drew me into the series. Rose, the main character, is one of my favorite fictional characters. She's witty, tough, stubborn, bold, and never backs down from a challenge. She has so many brilliant one-liners throughout the books, I can't pick a favorite. Even if your not a fan of the vampire craze, try this series and let me know if it changed your mind! (Fave book in series: Shadow Kiss)




Alright guys, thats a wrap! I can't even tell you how hard it was to pick just 5 series because there are so many that I love, but I was able to narrow it down to these. Let me know what you think of these in the comments! I think I'll make a post similar to this, but on trilogies in the future, and maybe even a favorite characters of all time post or something.

As always...
It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live,
The Half-Book Princess.

And so it begins

Welcome to my blog!

My names Cam and 50% of my posts are book reviews and updates. The other half of my posts are tv show discussions, lists I've compiled, and all of my random thoughts.

Enjoy my blog, and keep reading! (Especially if you understand my url)