The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath

TITLE:  The Bell Jar
AUTHOR:  Plath, Sylvia
GENRE:  Fiction/Classic

DATES READ:  11/20/2013 - 11/25/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

Another classic done, and DONE.  I actually finished this one fairly quickly.  Overall, I really understood The Bell Jar.  I feel at some point everyone feels like they're suffocating, everyone is staring at them, and there is no way out.

Esther Greenwood set my teeth on edge, but she was the perfect character.  I love how much Boston was its own character within this classic.  You really get a sense of the time period, including gender roles.  Definitely a book worth reading for anyone.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

TITLE:  Allegiant (Divergent #3)
AUTHOR:  Roth, Veronica
GENRE:  Fiction/Dystopian

DATES READ:  11/15/2013 - 11/20/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

After devouring both Divergent and Insurgent, I decided to finish the series.  My boyfriend once again fueled my book addiction by purchasing this for our anniversary!  But without further ado...

This book absolutely destroyed me... and in all of the best ways that a book can.  Allegiant totally surprised me.  The ending was gritty and realistic.  It really rang true as the end to the series, and I always appreciate that.

I love Tris, and her character (despite her "unique snowflake" qualities sometimes), but my favorite character was Tobias.  I love that this book switched between their drastically different personalities and points of view.  I felt that Roth fielded that beautifully.  It is bittersweet that the series is over, but I am happy to have completed another series.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

TITLE:  Northanger Abbey
AUTHOR:  Austen, Jane
GENRE:  Fiction/Classics

DATES READ:  11/1/2013 - 11/15/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

I decided to keep going with my more classic trend with Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen.  I would really like to get through all of the Austen novels, when I get the chance.  So, far I've only read this one and Pride and Prejudice.  This was definitely a classic Austen novel.  And I adored Catherine's character, no matter how plain Ms. Austen wrote her to be.  I feel that's the best sort of heroine.

I abhor Isabelle's character.  I feel like we've all had a friend like her in the past, and it difficult to read from the outside perspective.  Sometimes it's rather easy to be fooled when infatuated with the idea of friendship.  Tilney seemed extremely realistic, and General Tilney was outrageous.  Overall, it was fantastic.

I suppose I understand the need for the ghost story and Northanger Abbey as a whole.  It didn't really add to the characters at all.  But it was an excellent setting!  As always, I feel every woman should read Jane Austen's works.  Another one for the shelf!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair

TITLE:  The Jungle
AUTHOR:  Sinclair, Upton
GENRE:  Fiction/Classics

DATES READ:  10/11/2013 - 10/31/2013

MY RATING:  2/5

I originally picked this book up because it was recommended reading for my coursework, and I have to say... I'm proud of myself for sticking to it.  This book is a classic that almost everyone has heard of, but it's certainly not the most uplifting in the world.  It depicts the struggle of immigrant workers coming to the United States when the Beef Trust was king.  I think it's a must read for anyone looking into the past of our country, and the struggles it's people have gone through.

The food related issues caught my eye the most, and they were startling.  The descriptions were extremely well detailed, and gruesome.  Jurgis was quiet a stubborn character, and I have no doubt that everyone has an ancestor as such.

Overall, the classic had the somber notes of the time period, and I felt little resolution from the propaganda ridden ending.  Definitely worth the read.  You'll feel more intelligent for it.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Masque of the Black Tulip by Lauren Willig

TITLE:  The Masque of the Black Tulip
AUTHOR:  Willig, Lauren
GENRE:  Historical Fiction/Chick-lit

DATES READ:  9/23/2013 - 9/28/2013

MY RATING:  3.5/5

So, I dove right into this one right after I finished the first one in the series, The Secret History of the Pink Carnation.  I feel that this second novel was an excellent addition to the first novel.  I fully enjoyed the new characters and their connections with the old ones.  Miles and Amy were both wonderful!

I have to admit, I really love stories where romance develops between friends.  I felt the relationship was so realistic.  Especially considering the first novel.  They were meant for each other from the start.

I already go the third book in the series from the local library book sale, so I should be starting that one soon!  I can't wait to see if there are any more.  I will definitely be looking for more of this author's work.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willig

TITLE:  The Secret History of the Pink Carnation
AUTHOR:  Willig, Lauren
GENRE:  Historical Fiction/Chick-lit

DATES READ:  9/16/2013 - 9/23/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

I found the first and third book within this author's series at the local library book sale, and I am crazy about them!  I definitely have to pick up the second one as well.  I loved the subject matter of this book; from the spies, to the romance, to the action and adventure.  It was all thrilling!  I can't wait to continue reading the series.

It's an effortless mixture of historical fiction, chick-lit, and a little mystery thrown in.  There's swash-buckling, swooning, and snappy witticism.  Very fresh.  An excellent balance for a rainy day read.

I thoroughly enjoyed and cared about each of the characters.  I could picture everything vividly, and there were many twists and turns along the way.  Cheers to Lauren Willig for an enthralling tale.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Revenge of the Rose by Nicole Galland

TITLE:  Revenge of the Rose
AUTHOR:  Galland, Nicole
GENRE:  Historical Fiction

DATES READ:  9/9/2013 - 9/16/2013

MY RATING:  4.5/5

I absolutely adored this eloquent novel about courtly love.  It certain put a different spin on it, that's for sure!  I came across this book at a local library book fair, and it will constantly keep you guessing until the very end.  The characters are fully fleshed out within the story, their motives weaved together into a tight web.

This book is definitely for anyone who enjoys historical fiction, tales of courtly love, and knights in shining armor (they come in all shapes and sizes!).  It's complex, full of intrigue, mystery, and a depth of detail that's pleasant but not quite overwhelming.  I would absolutely recommend it!  What a treasure!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien

TITLE:  The Hobbit
AUTHOR:  Tolkien, J. R. R.
GENRE:  Fantasy
DATES READ:  8/31/2013 - 9/9/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

This book is for those of us who wish to be brave; and those of us who sometimes find home more comforting.  You will find a kindred spirit in Mr. Bilbo Baggins.

I absolutely fell in love with this story!  What wonderful characters!!!  The overall plot showcases people's faults, and how they may rise to the occasion and overcome them.  Throughout the journey, Gandalf acts as a sly and whimsical guardian, and Bilbo returns a changed man... or hobbit.  He grows to becomes courageous, selfless, and loyal to a fault.

This book will forever remain a charming classic tale of growth and change.  You will change for the better for having read it!

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks

TITLE:  Safe Haven
AUTHOR:  Sparks, Nicholas
GENRE:  Fiction/Romance-y

DATES READ:  8/16/2013 - 8/19/2013

MY RATING:  3.5/5

The basic plot of this book was wonderful; of course, it was a typical Nicholas Sparks plot.  I have to admit, I made huge comparisons between this book and the movie.  They're both great in their own right.

I found the character of Alex much more realistic and loveable in the book (not to dog Josh Duhamel's performance - he was good too!!!).  I pictured more a Durmot Mulroney-esque character.  And my Katie was a little less Julianne Hough, and a little more Charlize Theron-esque.

This book was so well written, and Sparks deals with really tough issues with grace.  I will definitely read another book of his any time!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris by Jenny Colgan

TITLE:  The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris
AUTHOR:  Colgan, Jenny

GENRE:  Fiction/Chick-lit

DATES READ:  8/6/2013 - 8/11/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

To begin with, I love the cover as well as the description on the back of this delicious looking story.  I don't always go for chick-lit novels which mean well, but are mostly good-natured fluff.  I had to make an exception for Jenny Colgan's The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris.  I spotted it while I was traveling over in Hamburg, Germany.  And I'm glad that I did.

This book was a perfect little chocolate delight!  The plot and setting were far-fetched but wonderful for a chick-lit novel.  I mean, a chocolate shop in Paris?!  Absolutely fabulous!!!

The characters were by-far my favorite part;  Thierry, Claire, Laurent, and even Alice were described with a delicacy that let you fill in the details for yourself.  I adore the plot, the recipes, and how this book made me crave chocolate (as if I needed help with that!).

Every once in a while the writing was decidedly British, as can be expected from a British author.  I stumbled over a bit of the slang and terminology used, but once I got past it I adored this morsel of a novel.  I love romance!

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Bitter Greens by Kate Forsyth

TITLE:  Bitter Greens
AUTHOR:  Forsyth, Kate

GENRE:  Fiction

DATES READ:  7/20/2013 - 8/6/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

I found this book in a charming bookstore in Hamburg, Germany while I was traveling abroad.  I was instantly drawn to the cover; the back of the book discussed the intertwined lives of three mysterious women as well as the tagline "you think you know the story of Rapunzel".  I absolutely love fairy tale re-tellings, so of course, I picked it up.  I ended up almost finishing it all together on my flight back to the USA.

This book was really three different stories combined into one, and I thoroughly enjoyed each one individually.  However, when they were all put together, it was a little overwhelming.  Each of them related in a way that made sense, but it kind of dampened each story a bit by combing them; it was almost like each character and story was watered down in order to make them fit.

My grumping aside, this was a wonderful take on a classic fairy tale.  It is definitely a book to curl up with on a rainy day, and it will transport you into a magical world of witches, spells, and true love.  An overall, charming read.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Wool by Hugh Howey

TITLE:  Wool

AUTHOR:  Howey, Hugh

GENRE:  Fiction/Dystopian

DATES READ:  6/26/2013 - 7/22/2013

MY RATING:  3.5/5

I had heard about this book previously, and I have been extremely excited to read it for some time now.  I picked it up one morning in the train station before my trip to work because I've been looking for something a little different.

At points I felt that the pace of Wool was a little slow-moving and pedantic.  However, the overall plot that unfolded was fantastic!  I realize that this is the first in a collection of novels, and that there's much more than meets the eye.  I was pleasantly surprised by this book.  I didn't find myself connecting with a lot of the character, but more with the overall entrancing "feel" of the book.

The pivotal element that makes this book so thrilling for me has to be the setting.  The idea of a post-apocalyptic underground silo is both eerie and fascinating.  And Howey keeps you sitting on the edge of your seat with each turn of the page.

I don't recommend picking up this book if you have other important things to do.  I guarantee they will not get done until you have finished Wool.

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Dearest Apologies... AGAIN

Dear Anyone and Everyone Who May or May Not Ever Read This,

I'm finally back in the right mindset to start writing again.  Needless to say, I have definitely been reading a lot.  Therefore, many book entries will need to be posted before I can become fully up-to-date here (approximately 23 to be exact).  I may just post them all in one day, and be done with it.  We shall see... I'll change the time stamps so they're posted when I actually read them.

As always... will read and write soon!

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

TITLE:  Insurgent (Divergent #2)

AUTHOR:  Roth, Veronica

GENRE:  Fiction/Dystopian

DATES READ:  6/24/2013 - 6/25/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

Holding aside the previous/current skepticism found in my Divergent review, I enjoyed this book.  I still have all the same issues with the plot points, not including the fact that I think Tris is even more superhuman and immune to pain in this installment.  My favorite character, Four, has been reduced to whiny and needy, instead of headstrong and magnetic.  Alas.  He regained my favor toward the end.

I love the idea of the Divergent and Insurgent world, and I can only hope that Veronica Roth takes it even further in her next installment.  Despite my gripes, I am definitely a fan.

This book was entertaining as all get out (it only took me a day to finish it!), but it's just missing something for me.  But, regardless, I will most definitely be picking up the third book in the trilogy when it comes out.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Inferno by Dan Brown

TITLE:  Inferno

AUTHOR:  Brown, Dan

GENRE:  Fiction

DATES READ:  5/27/2013 - 6/3/2013

MY RATING:  4.5/5

The thing I most love about Dan Brown's novels is how they make you think, keep you guessing until the very last page, and surprise you every time!  It's his specialty, and he's made it an art.  And I felt the same exact love I feel now for both The Lost Symbol and The Da Vinci Code.

I adored the Italian setting, and the historical description.  I also loved Robert Langdon, per usual.  Sadly, no matter how hard the media tries, I will never picture Tom Hanks.

With Inferno, I did get a little mixed up with all of the characters.  But other than that, I loved every page turn.  I find myself in disbelief at the ending, but who knows.  I guess it's possible...

Reading and writing soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Dragonfly in Amber by Diana Gabaldon

TITLE:  Dragonfly in Amber (Outlander #2)

AUTHOR:  Gabaldon, Diana

GENRE:  Historical Fiction

DATES READ:  4/22/2013 - 5/27/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

Yet another book that was difficult for me to get through.  Granted, this is my most difficult semester in grad school so far, so it's understandable.  But usually I can beast through a book a little bit faster than over a month!  I bought this book when I was halfway through with Outlander, and it took me almost a year to read #2.  I think I'll need another year before I even think of cracking the third installment in Gabaldon's series.

I love Jamie and Claire so much.  And there's a strong wish for them to be together.  It's just a struggle to get through all of the drama sometimes.  It truly is an epic love story.  I just find myself needing an emotional break after a while.

Definitely a book series for those with strong will.  Until I feel prepared, Voyager (Outlander #3) will have to chill on my book shelf.

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Blue Bells of Scotland by Laura Vosika

TITLE:  Blue Bells of Scotland (Blue Bells Trilogy #1)

AUTHOR:  Vosika, Laura

GENRE:  Historical Fiction

DATES READ:  4/6/2013 - 4/22/2013

MY RATING:  1.5/5

This book lacked an incredible amount of depth in plot and character development for me.  Granted, I was hoping for a book a little like Diana Gabaldon's Outlander.  However, this one seemed like an outright copycat, and a severely disappointing one at that.

The main characters were so unbelievable to me.  I would read a book about Niall and Alene, but Shawn and Amy I could do without.  They're kind of lame.  A rock star trombonist?  I mean come ON (no offense to trombonists anywhere).  This book was just not my cup to tea.  It was too far-fetched.  Far be it from me to deny that I finished it.  On to something new!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Between the Lines by Tammara Webber

TITLE:  Between the Lines

AUTHOR:  Webber, Tammara

GENRE:  Fiction

DATES READ:  4/3/2013 - 4/6/2013

MY RATING:  1.5/5

For me, this book was so "blah".   Of course, I bought it with the expectation of the first Tammara Webber book I read, Easy (which I loved).

The character Reid was so predictable and unlikable that you began to think Emma (the main character) was just plain stupid.  I never like thinking the main character is making terrible misguided choice for no reason at all.  There was nothing redeeming about either of their characters, and the side plots of Reid's story felt so forced.

The point of view kept switching back and forth, and this only served to drive a deeper divide between her purity and his evil.  It was too stark.  No nuance at all.

Also, there were too many superfluous characters for me.  Graham was the only character I liked, and Bella-esque Emma frankly doesn't deserve him.  I'd read a book about him in a heart beat.

Obviously, you can see my opinions on this book.  Passing on the love for Tammara Webber, but I probably won't pass this book to my friends.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare

TITLE:  Clockwork Princess (Infernal Devices #3)

AUTHOR:  Clare, Cassandra

GENRE:  Fiction/Supernatural

DATES READ:  3/27/2013 - 4/3/2013

MY RATING:  4/5

This is a new one for me...  The only thing, and I mean ONLY thing, that stopped me from absolutely adoring this book is the epilogue.  I mean, I understand wanting to tie up loose ends and make everyone happy, but REALLY?!

I loved the characters arches in this book, and the plot development and action were in perfect balance.  There wasn't too much romance, but it wasn't light on heart break.  The scales were in order.

But I can't help that feeling that I'm not a fan of everyone reading a book should have their happy ending.  It doesn't sit right.  Like everyone gets to have their cake and eat it to.  It's forced.  Don't get me wrong, I love a good happy ending as much as the next reader, but there is such as a thing as overkill.

If you're read the other books in the series, this one is obviously a no-brainer.  But if you're happy with the way the book ended (because of certain expectations :-P), steer clear of the epilogue.

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

TITLE:  Beautiful Creatures (Caster Chronicles #1)

AUTHOR:  Garcia, Kami and Stohl, Margaret

GENRE:  Fiction/Supernatural

DATES READ:  3/22/2013 - 3/27/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

Overall, the plot of Beautiful Creatures was good, albeit some parts were definitely predictable.

I liked Lena's characters because she actually appeared to have a brain, and didn't just fall for a guy because he was interested in her.  Dare I say, she actually waited until she liked him?  I also love the idea of the majority of the YA book being from a male's perspective.  It was a nice change!

However, the love story seemed a little forced.  Cue the "I love her" because "she's different".  Heaven forbid!  If that was all it really took for someone to be interested and fall in love.

At least it took them a while to fall in love.  That was believable.  Now, I guess I should see the movie.  The characters don't really look like how I pictured them, but we'll see how it goes.

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

Zombie Apocalypse: Fight Back by Stephen Jones

TITLE:  Zombie Apocalypse:  Fight Back

AUTHOR:  Jones, Stephen

GENRE:  Fiction/Zombies

DATES READ:  2/23/2013 - 3/22/2013

MY RATING:  2/5

It took me almost a month to read this book because it was a little confusing.  The novel was definitely unique (a compilation of newspaper clipping, instruction manuals, and message logs).

It followed the spread of the zombie apocalypse from London all the way to the US.  Overall, it took a lot of effort and concentration to read, and it was extremely difficult to track all of the characters.

However, the plot development was unique and interesting to try and follow.  It guess I would recommend it to science fiction readers or people who generally like weird stuff.  :-)

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

The Winter Sea by Susanna Kearsley

TITLE:  The Winter Sea

AUTHOR:  Kearsley, Susanna

GENRE:  Historical Fiction

DATES READ:  2/8/2013 - 2/22/2013

MY RATING:  5/5

This book was absolutely wonderful!  Another winner!  Albeit, I was kind of predicting/hoping/praying the ending would turn out exactly the way she wrote it.  It was perfection!

I loved both the story of Carrie, and the simultaneous story of her relative Sophia.  Sophia and Moray's story is romantic and heart-wrenching.  And the setting of Scotland is the best backdrop for all of it.

Everything about this book feels rather cool and refreshing, and the writing is so fluid.  Susanna Kearsley writes with delicate grace and deliberation.  Her style is charming, and makes me wish the story could continue on forever.

This book is for anyone who seeks time-bridging adventure with a hint of romance.  Honestly, is there any better kind?

Time to turn the page to read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Deck Z: The Titanic: Unsinkable. Undead. by Chris Pauls and Matt Solomon

TITLE:  Deck Z:  The Titanic:  Unsinkable.  Undead.

AUTHOR:  Pauls, Chris and Solomon, Matt

GENRE:  Fiction/Zombie

DATES READ:  1/27/2013 - 2/8/2013

MY RATING:  3/5

Throughout reading this book, I loved the mixture of historical fiction and zombies.  So much fun!

I realize that this story was a little limiting because it had to coincide with the actual sinking of the Titanic.  That being said, I appreciated the effort behind this unique and creative historical adaptation.

My favorite character was Captain Smith.  He was really the only character with depth.  I felt Weiss and Lou were slightly under-developed for my taste.  And I just didn't really feel a lot of connection with either of them.

But, yay for zombies!  Anybody who loves historical fiction or zombies will adore this book!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source

By Invitation Only by Jodi Della Femina and Sheri McInnis

TITLE:  By Invitation Only

AUTHOR:  Femina, Jodi Della, and McInnis, Sheri

GENRE:  Fiction/Chick-Lit

DATES READ:  1/19/2013 - 1/26/2013

MY RATING:  3.5/5

This was my first birthday present this year, and I fell in love with the cover!  Nothing like a little summer in the depths of winter.

This book will make you fall in love with the Hampton's.  Not that that's hard to do.  Sure, it's shameless chick-lit, but you can absolutely picture every second of it in clear detail.

I really liked Toni, and all of her idiosyncrasies.  She's flawed, and she reminds me of myself in some ways.  Maybe that's why I connected with her so much.  I also like the complex characters of Chris and Didi (she was probably my favorite character!).  I feel like I kept falling in love with all of them.

The snippets about the Hampton's really helped with the vibe of the story, and make you want to take a visit to see if it's all real.  The ending was tied up like a neat little ribbon, and every once in a while that's exactly what you want.

Beach read to the max!

Will read and write soon!

Book Cover Source