Book Review #2: The Heir by Kiera Cass

Okay, so first off I want to apologize for not getting this review up when promised (like two weeks ago). And in all honesty this was not the review I had planned on doing, but I finished "The Heir" before anything else, so here ya go!

As you may (or may not) know, "The Selection" Series by Kiera Cass is one of my absolute favorite series ever! America and Maxon are total goals! I totally blew through "The Selection," "The Elite," and "The One." And the short story collection was awesome as well.

So when it was announced that a continuation of "The Selection" was going to be released I was excited and worried at the same time, it could go really well, or totally bomb. Well the continuation was a huge hit, and for good reason!

"The Heir" takes place in Illèa about 20 years after America Singer won Maxon Schreave's heart in their Selection. 

The caste system has been done away with, but the more impoverished areas of the country are becoming restless again. But why? Is it that the people are tired of the Monarchy system in place? Or is there something or someone else, behind the rebellion? No one knows. The royal family and the country's only hope at the possibility of a once again peaceful country, lies on Princess Eadlyn's shoulders. For the next three months she needs to distract the country, so that her father can figure out what's going on with the revels. She's been asked to participate in the Selection, to try and find the one person who will rule by her side. She has a variety of choices, but what if none of the boys brought to the palace are the right fit? after all she didn't want, nor ask for this.

I have to say I love seeing a new generation of Schreaves' and see America and Maxon happy together!There are relatable thoughts every teen has had while growing up.

This book was a great way to see the start of the other side of the Selection process. Since it is a similar story to "The Selection" there are obvious repeated or extremely similar ideas, and scenes in "The Heir" there were obviously new ideas as well, which were all amazing! I'd say it's (once again) a dystopian, fantasy, Young Adult version of  The Bachelor.

With little to no language, and barely any "violence" or similar thematic elements, "The Heir" is a clean, fast read, that left me wanting more. Adding to the story were some unexpected and crazy plot twists (Ahren!).

*And poor America, as if she didn't have enough to deal with at the end!*

The writing style (classic Kiera style) was simple, easy to follow, and easy to understand. The references to "The Selection," were well blended and were nice reminders to the characters and story we all loved so much. The chapters weren't to long and the story definitely didn't drag on. The climax came a little later in the story than I expected, but again I was not disappointed. Just a warning "The Heir" leaves you on a complete cliff hanger. 

Kiera had me rooting for was to many of the Selected, all with their string suits and softness. And, as in every book, it's always fun to see the characters get loose and have some fun. 

It was great to see a young lady rising to power, figuring out the balance between such power and her own vulnerability. All while being able to fend for herself..

I was totally not expecting the ending and plan on reading the next book the in, "The Selection" series, titled "The Crown," soon! And I can't wait the tv series (whenever that comes out)!

I really don't have anything negative to say about the book (or the series in general).

Okay, that's it for now, it's getting difficult for me to not share spoilers!

So, are you team Erik, team Henri, or team Kile, or someone else?

Let me know in the comments!

-Morgan

Book Review #1: Twisted Fate by Norah Olson

So, since it's been so long, I figured we'd start from scratch with book review number 1...

Sisters, Sydney and Ally definitely have a complicated love-hate relationship, that's for sure! Ally might be a little too trusting, especially when there's a new family that moves across the street. What's the "boy next door" hiding? And, while Sydney, usually can't stand her sugar and spice, everything's nice, sister, how far is she willing to go to protect her? Read "Twisted Fate" to find out!

I received an uncorrected proof, copy of "Twisted Fate" several years ago, and unfortunately, haven't had a chance to read it until now (panic laughing ensues). 

"Twisted Fate" was officially released in 2015, and was Norah's first YA (Young-Adult) novel. I'd describe it as a contemporary, YA, mystery. I could definitely feel that it was a first YA novel. While it's a little choppy in parts (which I'm sure was smoothed out in the final print), its definitely an intriguing and fast paced read. It jumps right into the main mystery and immediately has you wondering what is going on. 

You get multiple different perspectives of the story from many of the characters (majority of the book has a past tense setting). And it shows really well how the same details of a story (in real life and on paper) can be misunderstood and distorted by each person. Since it does follow so many different perspectives, at times I found it difficult to follow the plot and what was actually going on. Once you think you have a handle and inkling of what's taking place, you get to the next chapter and it makes you question what you just thought you figured out, the plot, the characters and their motives, everything! However, it does a decent job of showing each person's mental health, and/or deterioration of such. It also touches on the effect lack of proper attention children may receive from a parent(s), can have on them.

Some of the character's perspectives given, almost seem unnecessary, not really providing groundbreaking information, already provided to the reader, whether directly given or implied. I appreciated that the chapters were fairly short, the longest being 10 pages, so you're never bored or feeling like one scene or setting is dragging on too long. There are some stronger themes in it than I expected, but those themes generally weren't written about in detail (some directly mentioned, others hinted i.e., drug use and child abuse). There was also some strong language throughout the book, and while I wasn't thrilled about that, it did fit the character's personalities.

I finished "Twisted Fate" in just two days (had I not had other things to tend to I could have finished it in one), I felt like 258 pages was not enough. The ending came very abruptly, with only some character clarification and loose ends being tied up. I figured out one of the main plot points about a quarter of the way through (pay attention and you'll see it too!), and a secondary point about halfway as well, but the last left me surprised (don't worry, I'm not gonna spoil any of it!). Other things are left for the reader to conclude for themselves.

Overall though it was a fast paced, easy read, that kept me on my toes!

Now (of course) I'm curious how the final print turned out, I'm totally going to have to check it out!

I know this was a short review (to be fair it was a short book), but since it was so short, I should have another one coming in the next few days!

In the meantime, here's a couple of my favorite quotes from "Twisted Fate"

Let me know what you thought of "Twisted Fate" in the comments below!

-Morgan

Here's what I've been up to (book-signing edition)

So, in the last post I made before disappearing (for three years), I told you guys I was gonna talk abut a few of the books signings I had attended. It took some digging through pictures, and posts to find them. And here they are! Now, I've met plenty of other authors that I didn't get pictures with, but I'll share as many details as possible. (I apologize if any of these are repeats (I don't think they are though)

Book signing #1 

The one and only Veronica Roth!

Yes, I did actually get to meet the author of "Divergent," "Insurgent," "Allegiant," "Four," "Carve The Mark," "The Fates Divide," "The End And Other Beginnings," and "The Chosen One"

She was awesome! Really chill, super down to earth, and fun to talk to!  

So, this was back in late January of 2017, so while I can't remember all the details, I do have a few pics! (I apologize for the quality, I know they're really low...)

I was also able to attend Books by the Banks in Cincinnati, Ohio, where I met so many amazing authors, some of whom I was able to get a pic with..

   Rainbow Rowell, author of "Fangirl," "Landline," "Eleanor & Park," "Attachments," and "Carry On,"                                                                

   David Arnold, author of “Mosquitoland," "Kids of Appetite," The Strange Fascinations of Noah Hypnotik,"Behind the Song," and "The Electric Kingdom"

At Books By The Banks I also met Adi Alsaid, 

And! I was able to visit with some of my favs Nat Richards, and Lorie Langdon

Next event was the Ohioana Book Festival of 2018, I was able to volunteer and it was a blast! Not only was I able to help out my local library, but I was able to shop awesome books for all ages and genres and meet amazing authors as well!

Now, unfortunately, due to the craziness and speed of the day, I wasn't able to get any pics with the authors I met, but I'll share a cover picture of their book(s)..

So first up is Kurt Dinan author of "Don't Get Caught." 

He was super cool! 

And Mindee Arnett, author of "Avalon," Polaris," "Proxy," "The Nightmare Affair (The Arkwell Academy series)," "Onyx and Ivory (Rime Chronicles series),"

She was so sweet, and has great sense of style!

And of course, I got see Nat Richards, Carey Corp, Lorie Langdon, Mindy McGinnis, Tara Tyler, Tracy Lawson, along with plenty of others (my mind is failing me!)

I was thankfully able to attend (and volunteer) The Ohioana Book Fest again last year (2019), and again met some really cool authors!

Including, but not limited to,

D. W. Vogel, author of the "Horizon Alpha Series"

Dee Garretson, author of "The Torch World Series,"

And, Stephen Markley, author of "Ohio"

Now, the last one I'll share for now (perhaps I've shared this in a post years ago, I didn't see it though), is the one and only Kiera Cass!!

Author of "The Selection," "The Elite," "The One," "Happily Ever After," The Selection Stories," The Heir," "The Crown," "The Siren," and, "The Betrothed."

OMG! You guys she's amazing! so sweet and funny! I just can't even begin to describe her! (And yes, I did take her a One Direction themed pen and wallet (made with duct tape by my sister) that's what she's opening in couple of the pictures)

So, she did a book signing at Joesph-Beth Booksellers in Cincinnati a few years back, and I was able to go!

This signing was for "The Siren," 

So, there's my bookish adventures for the past few years that I've been absent. And, I hope to have many more to come!

I might post another update post with more details all about my adventures outside of the book realm..

And my first book review of the year (or past few) is coming this weekend!

I can't wait for you to read it! 

Thank you for being patient and sticking it out with me!

-Morgan

Long Time No See!!

Hello there!

Long time, no see! I know, it’s been forever. I’ve missed you guys, and I’ve seriously missed posting book reviews. I know three years ago I said I was back, and unfortunately that didn’t happen. So, I’m finally back (for real this time). However, things are gonna be a little different for right now..

So let’s get to know each other!

My name is Morgan, I’m an avid book lover (I have a small obsession 😆). In the time I haven’t been posting reviews, a lot has changed. I got my license to be an Advanced Esthetician (skincare and waxing), I’m an aspiring makeup artist (I’m even enrolled in an online class!). And I’ve been completing continuing education classes for all of that as well! I currently work part time at my local craft store. I’ve also been involved in a huge, global, volunteer work (that’s where I spend most of my time). I’ve been able to make it to a few book signings as well.

I’m definitely getting back into the swing of things here, but bare with me as it’s gonna be a little choppy for a while, until my schedule gets all smoothed out. Please be patient with me while I get some new reviews going (there may be a little more time in between reviews than there was before). And there might be a few repeats (sorry!) Oh! for right now, I’m only sticking to books, no movies like before. Although, “Avengers: Endgame” tore my heart out! 😭
 I’ll post some of the book signings I was able to make it to in my “time off,” in the next couple days. And! I have a long awaited book review coming at the end of the week!

I’m so happy to be back, and I can’t wait to hear what you guys have been up to all this time. Leave a comment letting me know what you’ve been up to!

-Morgan

My plans for the upcoming months: anything and everything!

Its 12:01 a.m., here and I have had a crazy week! To start off I want to thank everyone reading this, for their time and patience. Currently I am trying to balance finding a job, this blog and school, plus other activities. I had to take a hiatus from this blog to focus on my Esthetics schooling. I since finished and have my Esthetics license, and am currently trying to find a job in my field. I am also working on an online makeup class, which I am trying to complete. I am involved in a weekly volunteer work, and I am trying to read as fast as I can all the while, absorbing what I am reading so I can provide solid reviews. And I'm dealing with family matters as well!

With all that being said, my plans for the weekend are simple. Aside from necessary involvements or actions, the majority of my weekend will involve reading and finishing books. I hope I can at least provide one review for all of you by Monday!

I have been able to make it to several book signings and festivals during my hiatus, and will gladly share what happened with you!

I'll try and post all of the signings over the weekend, and I'll also be posting a, currently reading and to be read list in the next few hours.

Thank you again!

-Morgan

I'm back!

Hey everyone!
I'm so sorry I've been away for so long! I've been in school for esthetics for the past year, and wasn't able to post anything during that time. I do have a few updates that I'll post tomorrow, asap. And I'll be sharing my future plans with you all as well. I want to thank you all for sticking around while I was away, And I look forward to chatting with you all again!

Sincerely,
Morgan

Meritropolis by Joel Ohman

So, this review was supposed to be up earlier and I wasn't able to get it up. Things have been crazy at home (getting ready to move), and I haven't been able to finish this books, however I am doing a review of what I have read as of today...

This book is an interesting and action packed book. Similar to the Hunger Games, Divergent, etc. it's fast paced and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I can't wait to see what else Joel has in store for us. I am really diggin' this book. Like I said, I can't say a lot, but what I can say is good. A better review will come when I finish it.

Thank you Giselle, for your patience, and including me in this tour!

On another note, a giveaway for a Amazon gift card for this tour, is attached on the side bar.

Book details:

Meritropolis by Joel Ohman 
(Meritropolis, #1) 
Publication date: September 8th 2014
Genres: Dystopia, Young Adult

Synopsis:

In Meritropolis everyone is assigned a numerical Score that decides their worth to society and whether they live or die. After a young boy is killed because of a low Score, his brother plots to take down the System.

The year is AE3, 3 years after the Event. Within the walls of Meritropolis, 50,000 inhabitants live in fear, ruled by the brutal System that assigns each citizen a merit score that dictates whether they live or die. Those with the highest scores thrive, while those with the lowest are subject to the most unforgiving punishment–to be thrust outside the city gates, thrown to the terrifying hybrid creatures that exist beyond.

But for one High Score, conforming to the System just isn’t an option. Seventeen-year-old Charley has a brother to avenge. And nothing–not even a totalitarian military or dangerous science–is going to stop him.

Where humankind has pushed nature and morals to the extreme, Charley is amongst the chosen few tasked with exploring the boundaries, forcing him to look deep into his very being to discern right from wrong. But as he and his friends learn more about the frightening forces that threaten destruction both without and within the gates, Meritropolis reveals complexities they couldn’t possibly have bargained for…

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23198675-meritropolis?ac=1&from_search=1

Purchase:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Meritropolis-Joel-Ohman-ebook/dp/B00NFNEOP6/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/meritropolis-joel-ohman/1120335561?ean=9781500189600&cm_mmc=AFFILIATES-_-Linkshare-_-GwEz7vxblVU-_-10:1

AUTHOR BIO:

Joel Ohman is the author of the Meritropolis series --"The Hunger Games meets The Village with a young Jack Reacher as a protagonist". He lives in Tampa, FL with his wife Angela and their three kids. His writing companion is Caesar, a slightly overweight Bull Mastiff who loves to eat the tops off of strawberries.

Learn more about Joel: JoelOhman.com
Get notified of new books here: Meritropolis.com
Follow Joel on Twitter: Twitter.com/JoelOhman
Connect with Joel on Facebook: http://facebook.com/joeljonathan