Carrie's Abridged Reviews

Ok you guys I have to apologize for being a very bad blogger. I have had no motivation to write reviews lately. That doesn’t mean I haven’t been reading because I most certainly have. For some reason (not quite sure what it is however) I just can’t seem to motivate myself to write full length reviews. So I figured in case you were interested in what I have been reading lately I will hit you with the abridged versions. Here goes…

Blackbirds by Chuck Wendig

I have no idea what to rate this book. LOL I am sitting here scratching my head trying to process everything I just read. It is dark and gritty. It is intense and violent. There is no shortage of swear words or sexual references. The cover and the overall concept of the book drew me in but I am definitely not the target audience for this book. I started out really intrigued and sucked in but then after awhile I just wanted off this wild ride. However I stuck it out and finished the book.

The Flight of Gemma Hardy by Margot Livesey –
4 Hearts

The Flight of Gemma Hardy is a retelling of the classic story Jane Eyre (which by the way is one of my favorites). I thought the author did a wonderful job of staying true to the original but putting a twist on some of the story elements to keep it interesting for us that are familiar with the classic. I fell in love with the characters and with the landscape. Scotland came alive in this book.

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher – 4 Hearts

I just finished listening to this book. Thirteen Reasons Why drew me in from the get go. I was sucked in and totally invested in Hannah and Clay's stories. I stayed up way too late to see it through. While I feel the concept was well thought out and executed, I just didn't emotionally connect with the characters as I was hoping to. I was expecting this book to bring me to tears but yet it didn't. However, the book has a strong message with valuable information to share so bravo for that!

Vanish by Sophie Jordan – 4 Hearts

I have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to read Vanish ever since finishing Firelight (I was on a HUGE waiting list at the library). Once I got my hands on this book I devoured it as I anticipated. Second books usually hit a snag for me but I found myself pretty caught up in this one. Yes, there are some frustrating elements (i.e. Jacinda and the introduction of a love triangle) but never the less I am hooked on this series.

Waterfall & Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren – 4 Hearts Each

I am thoroughly enjoying this series. Time travel, medieval Italy and handsome knights. What's not to like? Great characters, action and romance. I'm hooked.

Prized by Caragh M. O’Brien – 3 Hearts

Ok I'm kind of torn on this one. I really liked Birthmarked and felt that it had a unique plot for a dystopian. I was excited to read this one and find out what was in store for Gaia and Leon. The positive for me in this book was the author's honest and important stance on a controversial subject. I totally applaud her for this. The downside for me was the characters however. What happened to the characters I loved from the first book? I was just so frustrated with their decision making (especially Gaia). Luckily though, things resolve themselves by the end. I don't have any plans to give up on the series. I am too invested and need to know how everything will play out in the end.

A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin – 4 Hearts

The hubby finally convinced me to read this book. It is definitely a bit out of my reading norm but I'm very glad I read it. It took awhile but it was worth it. I'm very anxious to see what lies ahead for the characters. I have been warned that the next book in the series is bananas. LOL

Slide by Jill Hathaway – 3 Hearts

I thought the premise behind Slide was cool and interesting. It was a quick read and a solid debut.