The Uglies

The Uglies- By Scott Westfeld (Book 1 of 4) 

Synopsis- 

Everybody gets to be supermodel gorgeous. What could be wrong with that? 
Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can't wait. Not for her license - for turning pretty. In Tally's world, your sixteenth birthday brings an operation that turns you from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty and catapults you into a high-tech paradise where your only job is to have a really great time. In just a few weeks Tally will be there.
But Tally's new friend Shay isn't sure she wants to be pretty. She'd rather risk life on the outside. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world and it isn't very pretty. The authorities offer Tally the worst choice she can imagine: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. 
The choice Tally makes changes her world forever...

Overall- 

Tally 

So I'm a little thrown on how to rate this book. I want to give it a 2 and a 4 at the same time, for very different reasons, and so I ultimately gave it a 3 on goodreads, but in reality, Im not rating it at all.  Frankly, I really didnt care for the first half of this book, but fell in love with the 2nd half of the book, the initial plot line disgusted me, but the underlying story and purpose of the series which comes out towards the middle of the book is what really piqued my interest and is what makes me want to read the series. Below is my critique. 

I have quite a few problems with this book. 

First of all, the issue of WHY it is that at 16 people are turned "pretty" is NOT explained at all in this book. (I haven't read the others so maybe its there) I understand the monoculture ideal to ensure no individualized thinking, which is ultimately the plot point of the book, learning to be your own person and not follow the lemmings. Im also confused as to WHY they even need to turn "pretty"…given the ending twist. But these issues were overlooked. 

David

I enjoyed the ride of the book overall, I wasn't enthralled, instead I was only mildly disgusted. But as mentioned above there were problems. But let me start over and explain the good. 

The imagination and creativity in this book were really surprising (I say surprising, because look at the title and premise of the book, its extremely simple minded. No offense). I really enjoyed all the different landscape and adventure scenes that Tally and her crew went through. I was fascinated with the hoverboard. I  didn't mind Tally that much, I found over time I started to like her, which was likely the point in this story. The general storyline - everyone is considered ugly until they turn 16 and then they get transformed to be pretty- in the end is really just background. This book appears to be more of an introduction to the series than anything else.

Shay

I REALLY dont like the premise, considering the age group this is directed towards its truly bothersome how frequently Tally reminds the reader that she is ugly and that those around are ugly. Im also considered with the fact that the man who wrote this doesnt truly understand how women think or feel about their bodies. What I consider beautiful, is not to other people, or I consider some one better looking that you. (i.e. I prefer Jennifer Aniston over Angelina Jolie.) So really,the "eye of the beholder" is not addressed enough. I would have preferred that Tally NOT mention in every conversation or thought in the first half that she was ugly and give whats wrong with her. Regardless of the ending or purpose of this book, considering the next book starts with the pretty talk again, it seems to set a bad example.

IF not for all the pretty/ugly talk, I think the rest of this book is quite good. The overall, ending plot of the series is actually interesting, (dont want to give it away by discussing it thought!) I was surprised by this underlying plot and storyline that eventually will make up the series. I found this to be intriguing and pulled me in a lot. Also, Tally and Shay's relationship seemed quite genuine and sincere, even Shay losing David to Tally seemed completely normal and understandable. David's role was really where the book started to get interesting, and I found myself enjoying the book far more. And not because of the romance, but because he brought about the change in Tally, no more pretty talk. Once she met David the plot really turned for the best with lots of mystery, action, adventure and some romance. The second half of this book is what made it good, and what makes me interested in reading the others. 

Through the Ever Night

Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi 4.5 STARS 

Synopsis-
It's been months since Aria learned of her mother's death. 
Months since Perry became Blood Lord of the Tides, and months since Aria last saw him.
Now Aria and Perry are about to be reunited. It's a moment they've been longing for with countless expectations. And it's a moment that lives up to all of them. At least, at first. 
Then it slips away. The Tides don't take kindly to former Dwellers like Aria. And the tribe is swirling out of Perry's control. With the Aether storms worsening every day, the only remaining hope for peace and safety is the Still Blue. But does this haven truly exist?
Threatened by false friends and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night? 

Shay Mitchell as Aria 

Overall- 
I absolutely loved this sequel, and am dying to read the third and final installment in this series! 

I was completely blown away by this book. When I first started Under the Never Sky, I didnt think I was going to like it. It seemed a little outside my element, my style, but it was recommended to me by a good friend so I bought it anyway and ended up loving it. I was captivated by Perry and Aria's narratives and how they wove together. So its no shock that I loved Through the Ever Night just as much, if not more. 

Perry and Aria are reunited in this story, though short lived, and are forced to deal with the realities that the outside world throws at them. Perry, now struggles with  the Tide's as their new Blood Lord he is forced to face the decisions he makes and the consequences it has on his community. Every decision affects a group of people now, Perry has to look out for the good of the Tides, which is difficult when it comes to Aria, because the Tides wont accept her, she's a dweller. Regardless of her aud ability the Tides dont see Aria as anything but a dweller forcing Aria to leave with Roar to find Liv and the Still Blue. 

Luke Mitchell as Perry

This story is more than a love story, its a gripping, action packed and intense novel chock full of twists and turns, surprises that lead to some interesting revelations and unfortunate deaths.

I love all the different characters in this book. We really get to know more than just Aria and Perry in the Second Book. We finally meet Liv, and come to see why Roar loves her so much. We also get to know Cinder more in the book, and his connection to the Aether. (His role becomes pivotal for the next installment.) We also get to know Perry a bit better. His character is move developed in this installment, he struggles between his duty and loyalty to The Tides, but also with his love for Aria and how to make those two connect is very difficult for him. And while his relationship with Aria is tested, its good to see a story where love is more powerful than lust or intrigue. And I loved Aria, her story, with Roar is necessary to complete this series, and with the information she gained and the lessons shes learned, along with Perry's story really bring the story full circle and prepare us for the final installment.

I REALLY enjoyed how the story ended. While there is tragedy, there is love, strength, survival, and loyalty. The lengths that everyone is willing to go through for those they love is really highlighted through this book. Through the Ever Night is a beautifully written, carefully woven story about love and loss and the strength one must have to persevere through even the toughest of times.

I cant wait to finish this story and am really looking forward to seeing how it all plays out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0TnH3GEieE

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi--4 STARS 

Synopsis-
WORLDS KEPT THEM APART.
DESTINY BROUGHT THEM TOGETHER.
Aria has lived her whole life in the protected dome of Reverie. Her entire world confined to its spaces, she's never thought to dream of what lies beyond its doors. So when her mother goes missing, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland long enough to find her are slim.
Then Aria meets an outsider named Perry. He's searching for someone too. He's also wild - a savage - but might be her best hope at staying alive.
If they can survive, they are each other's best hope for finding answers.



Overall- I was really surprised by this one. I bought this a while back, and let it collect dust until finally one day I decided I'd give it a try after hearing good things about it. And boy was I surprised. This was such a good book!! Did I love it? No. But I really liked it. The beginning of this book is what I struggled with the most, and there were some pieces in the middle/end that confused me, where I felt like there wasn't as much closure or explanation as I would have liked. In the end though, I found myself really loving the book, and unable to put it down. The world building was great, by the time I was in the outside world I could see it and I feel like the characters experience quite a bit of growth. Learning from one another and eventually becoming better people. 


Cover --Intriguing
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: Pleasantly Surprised and interesting! 
Characters: Aria and Perry 
Page Turner: YES
Series Cont.?  Yes 
Book Boyfriend: Perry
Genre: Dystopian Young Adult 
Sex Scenes: Nope
Setting Dystopian world 

Plot--In the beginning I was not sure how this would all play out, where was the author going and how would we get there. The whole idea seemed so strange. But I finally managed to let go of reality and live in this world that the author created. Once I did that I was fully engaged. I grew very attached to the characters and invested in where their relationship was going (not necessarily romantically but in general). The pacing at first felt a little slow, and it seemed as though the plot was not going anyway. Eventually though the pieces started falling into place, and the action and adventure began. Once Aria and Perry were on their way the book became extremely intriguing and interesting. I was blown away by the world building by the author, she did a fantastic job of creating this alternate place, creatures, and disturbing people. I was really pleased with the ending, I felt it was a really "nice" way to end a book where the series will continue. Always leave me wanting more, but don't make me beg. 

Shay Mitchell as Aria 

Characters-- These characters played really well into one another, which the author did with what felt like great ease. Aria and Perry started as enemies and strangers, but as they learned more about one another they learned more about themselves, eventually figuring out who they really are and possibly what they really want. Both Aria and Perry end up going after what they want, even though the ending is not perfect, its perfect for this story, that ultimately is just beginning. 

Aria--Aria starts off so innocent, naive and confused with the way of the world she found herself in. What I iced most about her though was her strength and passion. I loved reading the different perspectives because I got to see certain things in different ways. For instance, when Aria walks and walks causing painful blisters she never once complains to Perry, but internally, the reader hears how much pain she's in. Perry sees this as beauty and strength, without this additional information, I may have found her to be annoying with her complaints, yet with Perry's insert I was able to see how selfless she was being. By the end of the novel she has truly grown, she is not nearly as innocent or naive and has become stronger mentally and physically. She has blossomed in so many ways and I felt like it was completely natural. 

Luke Mitchell as Perry 

Perry- Oh Perry. I found myself really annoyed with him at first, but thats intentional. He's not that likable before we get to know him and his ways, his reasons for thinking and believing certain things. Over the course of the book though, his pessimism eases and he begins to see beauty where he used to see pain. Perry's struggle was that he never trusted anyone, and felt like he had to look out for himself. And just like I was happy to see his perspective on Aria, I was happy to see Aria's perspective on Perry. At times, with Aria I felt like he was being such a jerk, but once I was in Perrys head, I could completely understand why he said or did certain things. I appreciated that the author was able to intertwine and integrate the plot, emotions, characters and storyline so flawlessly to make me fall in love with the story, and these characters. 

The Eve

Eve by Keary Taylor (Book 3 of Eden Trilogy) 5 STARS 

Synopsis--
A plan was laid out as the Evolution crushed mankind, a plan that was right under Eden’s nose all along. And Eve is the key to everything. New Eden—mankind—they have a small chance at fixing their dismembered planet. 
But it will be a reckless sprint against time and the coming Bane to retrieve the final piece to the plot. New Eden’s worst fears have become reality. The Bane are back in the city and they’re smarter and more aggressive than ever. They know where the humans are and they’re coming to finish what they’ve nearly completed.
Eve has been content with the family she’s found—Avian, West, Gabriel, Royce. But she’s about to discover she may have the one family Eve never thought she would: blood. With every odd stacked against her, all the lies and all the secrets of her origins will be exposed.
The past and the future are about to come full circle

Overall-

The third book in the Eden Trilogy, Eve, was by far one of my favorite books. I was uncertain at first, as to whether I would like this one, given that it was the final book, and final books are notorious for letting me down (Divergent and Delirium), but Keary Taylor did not fall prey to those traps!

The beginning of the book was a bit tough for me, it was somewhat slow, in the way that I wasn't sure where the story was really going, and there was quite a bit of explanation that was rather confusing. But overall this story, and final piece to Eve's journey was amazing. Every piece of the story was fulfilled, with no loose ends. There was finality, and with the finality, I was pleased. I was so happy with the ending, and not because it was "and they lived happily ever after" but because it was raw, and fit in with the entire story line.

Eve was action packed. And I was sucker punched more than once! There is plenty of intrigue, mystery, adventure and a little romance thrown in there for good measure.

Each part of the story had a purpose, as usual, but at the end of this one, without additional questions, all the pieces came together to make an amazing ending!!!

I don't think in general that Eve "grew" throughout this book, she was always self sacrificial and determined. Instead, many of her relationships developed in this book. Eve's relationship with each character she interacted with grew and developed.  I found myself interested in a different characters story, like Lin and Tristan, or Vee wanting more of each of them!

Avian

Eve

The author also managed to continue great world building. Torbane was so vividly described, I could truly imagine myself there, with Eve and the crew. As a reader you look to escape, and Ms. Taylor certainly provided that element to me during this fantastic read! I absolutely loved this ending and am so happy with how things turned out. This is by far one of the best endings of a series that I have EVER read. Well done, well done.

West

Created

Created by Sophie Davis 4 STARS 

Synopsis-
When Talia runs away from the only life she’s ever known, she could have never fathomed the lengths to which the Agency will go to get her back. But if the Agency Director- the man who raised her, trained her, and made Talia who she is- can’t have her, he wants her eliminated. Now those she once considered friends are bona fide enemies, ruthless in their pursuit of her. 
Talia aligns herself with Ian Crane, the man she’d always believed was responsible for her parents’ murders. With Crane’s forces at her disposal, Talia sets off on her most personal mission yet: rescuing the love of her life from the Agency. But she never imagines that going after him will plunge the nation into chaos. Retribution for the lives of her parents is no longer enough for Talia. She wants justice for every innocent affected by the Agency’s greed. But she soon realizes she is actually at the center of two wars- one with them and one with herself. 
Talia can no longer trust the one thing that has never failed her. Her Talents are growing stronger by the day and she’s already losing control. Defeating the Agency will save countless lives, but triumph over the manufactured power within her will preserve her sanity. 
The Agency will stop at nothing to perpetuate their propaganda- that the Coalition is the enemy. 
Crane will do anything to expose the truth- that the Agency has been creating Talents for decades. 
Her world, her life, her future with the only person who remains true… the Agency stole everything. Now, Talia will sacrifice the little she has left to reclaim what’s hers.

Erik

Overall-This book was mind blowing! There was so much action, adventure, and romance. I felt like this book could go on forever and I would never get bored!!!

It has all led up to this point, where Talia and Crane's forced unite to take down TOXIC. I love Talia's character, she is consistent throughout these books, yet continues to grow and development. She is strong and bright and stops at nothing to help those she loves. In this particular book she struggles with figuring out whether her decisions are selfish or selfless and the effect this has on her frame of mind is seen throughout. She also struggles with the fall out from leaving TOXIC and joining Cranes team. Knowing things won't be easy is not the same as living it.

Penny

This book takes you deeper into the TOXIC history and further into Ian Cranes World and purpose. There are tons of twists and turns and revelations in this book, some heartbreak and some extremely powerful moments. This book has it all. As usual I fell more in love with Erik and Talia and loved seeing all my favorite characters make their appearances. I enjoyed getting to see and get to know Penny more, though I wish that I could have gotten to know her even better, maybe next book.

Natalia

Both Talia and Erik grew a lot in this book. They were stronger together and apart. In their moment of weaknesses though they made each other stronger, which was beautiful.

I REALLY did not like Brand and I truly didn't understand his dislike for Talia, that bothered me a lot.
I Think that the one thing that I didn't care for in this book is that it seemed unclear whether there would be another book. Leaving an opening for a next book, perhaps Penny's story…seemed a bit of a copy out…But I absolutely love this series, its full of surprises and twists, with plenty of romance and action. Never a dull moment, thats for sure.

Overall, This series is so imaginative and beautifully written.

ARV-3

ARV-3 by Cameo Renae --3 STARS

Synopsis-
The beginning of the end. The Apocalypse.
A nuclear fallout wiped out every living thing on the planet, except for a few thousand of us who took shelter in underground bunkers across the globe. Now, after thirteen long years, we were finally able to return to the topside to begin to rebuild.
We thought we were alone. We were never more wrong.
Before the fallout, scientists had worked on creating an anti-radiation vaccine (ARV). The first two attempts failed, but despite the incomplete tests and results, the government approved and distributed the third serum to the masses in an effort to aid those who had no shelter.
It worked, keeping those who remained on the topside alive, but it also altered and mutated them. This new and infectious threat had completely outnumbered us. Now, we not only had to rebuild our planet. We would have to fight for it.
My name is Abigail Park. I'm seventeen, and this is my story.
*Received an ARC from net galley in exchange for honest review

Crystal Reed- Abi

Overall-
The general plot of this book was pretty interesting. I must admit though, it reminded me a lot of zombies (though the author repeatedly states these are not zombies because they aren't dead…to me they are zombies). I don't really do the whole zombie type thing, BUT I kept on because I really liked Finn and Abi. (More Finn than Abi)

Kayne Lawton- Finn

The world building was immediate, a synopsis of what happened was provided in the prologue and not generally learned throughout the book. Which I suppose is fine, especially for younger readers. I was intrigued from the beginning as to where the book would go, but felt it was too simplistic for the first half of the book. Abi's bond with her hive was really special and I enjoyed the true sense of duty and loyalty they had to one another.

As the group ventured topside I was really interested in hearing what everything looked like, but was slightly let down. I was surprised though by what the creatures looked liked and their behavior. The idea that they aren't brainless is interesting…the whole plot of what are these creatures are and how they think is really the interesting part of the story.

I must say though, I kept wondering the whole time what the true plot of the book was, I couldn't figure out where we were going. I figured the book was about getting to a safe zone, surviving, but that wasn't it. While generally the other plot point of the book, the government, is interesting, it took quite a bit of build up to get to this part, and it felt really slow. There were some great action scenes, and parts between Abi and Finn that I really enjoyed but overall the book fell a little flat for me. I must say though, part of why I feel this way is that the book may be a little young for me, though there are some "make-out scenes."

I think overall though, even though there are holes and issues, I found I still enjoyed the book, the loyalty of the hive, Finn and Abi, Abi and Tina, I enjoyed a lot about these characters. Even though the book was slow, I also recognize that in order to build a series there has to be some building to the story to set up the others, and this book did seem to set up the next one, and the issues that the hive will face with the Arvys and the government. I will keep the next one on my TBR list as I am interested in seeing how they will defeat their enemies.

FINAL DECISION- READ IF YOU LIKE YOUNG ADULT DYSTOPIAN/ZOMBIE-LIKE 

Copied

Copied by SM Anderson - 3 STARS

Synopsis- Adopted off the black market, Alexander Mitchell, has no idea his DNA is copyrighted and property of military weapons giant Texacom Defense. Nor that his DNA is being used to develop an army of clones. When the company discovers he was not properly disposed of 17 years ago, they send an assassin copy, BETA23, to terminate Xan and cover it up.
After he narrowly escapes BETA23’s first attempt, Xan teams up with Lacey, a genetically engineered genius he’s surprised to find common ground with— only they’re awkward together. Half of the time she stares at Xan like the science project he is and the other half…let’s just say Xan can’t keep his eyes off her lips.
When they manage to capture a company copy by luck and sheer stupidity on Xan’s part, Lacey is determined to see the good in their prisoner to the point she believes BETA23 can be persuade to give them the intelligence they need to keep the company forever off Xan’s back. Xan’s not sure if he can trust the darker version of himself, not when it means gambling with the lives of his family and the possibility of losing Lacey.
*I received an ARC from net galley in exchange for an honest review

Lacey- Jamie Chung

Overall- Cloning. An interesting concept that is becoming more and more popular in the young adult science fiction area. Its certainly an ethical and scientific dilemma that our society currently faces, and is a bit unnerving, considering all the possibilities. I REALLY wanted to like this book. The idea seemed so intriguing. But unfortunately, I felt like the book fell a little flat for me. While the over all theme of the book felt original for me, it was the first of these specifically that I'd read (cloning) (though genetically engineered stories are a dime a dozen), I struggled to really connect with the characters. In addition, the idea that Lacey is so brilliant she could run DNA tests in her home lab and understand what she is doing seems extremely unbelievable, and thats just one of the completely ridiculous moments in the book. I was frustrated with Lacey and Xan's relationship and felt that the book was probably made for the pre-teen category rather than the young adult science fiction category. I feel that in the pre-teen science fiction area, this book would really succeed, its well written, yet remains simple, but for me, the lack of romance, and connection to any of the characters (and the unfortunate stereo typing) made it difficult to read.

Xan & Beta

The storyline really caught my attention. It sounds so interesting, intriguing and that in between all the science there might be a love story of sorts. if you haven't figured it out by now, thats my kind of story. I need a little romance. (what girl doesn't!) But this book lacked romance, and the characters themselves were underdeveloped. The plot line her drove the story, and the author did a great job of flushing it out on this end (Xan's end) but the plot point seemed to take a turn. Unlike in other science fiction books, where the point is to take down the corrupt government, this book doesn't go that far. In fact, not much at all is learned about this secret government funded scientific group. This book would have been better with more information of this government type agency that runs these experiments. Not to mention, don't they think its odd that Beta came back after so long?! Keeping Beta captive for so long I think was a major downfall for this book. It is where I lost quite a bit of interest, which was already waning. I understand that the authors point was to highlight the different struggles between Xan and Beta during this time period, and to see their changes, but this also could have been done in different ways, allowing a more robust plot line.

I think this storyline could really have been better if it were if tri-perspectives, Beta, Xan and Lacey. Perhaps that is where there is a lack of connection, we see Beta change, developing emotions like compassion and sympathy, and we see Xan struggle with the darkness that exists, his protectiveness and jealous but also the love he has for his friends and families. Whats missing is Lacey. As such a pivotal role in this storyline, she feels disconnected from the story, we never glimpse what her emotions are, though by the end, we assume.

Overall this is a good science fiction based novel, recommended for the 12-16 age range with an appetite for a focus on the science fiction with a little mystery and action. Its well written, but just didnt click with me.

Song of the Fireflies

Song of the Fireflies JA Redmerski - 3 STARS 

Synopsis
Since they were kids, Elias Kline and Brayelle Bates have been inseparable. When Bray moves to South Carolina, separating the two for the first time, they both at last realize that their innocent childhood friendship has developed into something much more. So when Bray finally returns to Georgia—and to Elias—things between them couldn’t be more perfect…until one fateful night changes everything.
Desperate not to go to prison for a terrible accident, Elias and Bray decide to run. As they try to make the most of their freedom, the two find themselves relying on a rebellious group of people who tempt the duo into a wild and daring new life. But they can’t run from their troubles forever.
As the consequences of their past catch up to them, the couple must finally face reality. Even if they can make it through the unimaginable, Elias knows the truth about Bray’s painful history, and in the end he may not be able to save Bray from herself…

*Received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Overall- 

Song of The Fireflies was really interesting and different. It was extremely well written, and the themes in this book are intense. This book is very dramatic, but quite sensual. And while there are some great moments and beautiful and powerful pieces, I have to say, this book was not for me. I read a couple of other reviews, and I have to agree with them in many different ways, in the end my agreement with their thoughts and opinions reiterated by feelings for this book. I think most difficult for me was the amount of partying in this book. Now, don't get me wrong, I love a good party, but it felt like 65% of this book was a Bray and Elias jumping from party to party. The drinking and drugs didn't bother me, but I frequently wondered "where is this going." I felt a complete lack of direction throughout the book which for a romance novel was frustrating. 

Elias and Brayelle have been friends since they were kids. Their childhood story is really beautiful and adds quite a bit to the train wreck that is Bray and Elias. But Elias loves Bray, almost too much, and when they attempt to be together, afraid of him leaving her-she does it first. After a few years apart, they try their hand at a relationship again. Until one night, forcing Brayelle to go on the run, bringing Elias with her. Their string on the run doesn't turn out so ideal, and problem after problems leaves them, with very few choices, if any. Their story, is different, its not rainbows and butterflies. Its not one big adventure with lots of love and romance. This is a heartfelt story of a different kind, where some problems cant be fixed with love, and sometimes love isn't enough. People can't be fixed easily. 

The story of Elias and Brayelle is not only emotionally draining because of Bray but its draining because of their behavior. Unlike in Running on Empty, where it felt that the characters were trying to figure things out, Song of the Fireflies felt like no one cared about what happened and forced them on the run. Brayelle's insane behavior, while explainable became increasingly annoying over the chapters. While I loved Elias, he was so caring, and wonderful, and his point of view was very powerful. His moral compass was internally at war and he struggled with Brayelle's decisions daily, his love for her though overshadowed all other thought and choices. But their story is painful, not only does nothing go right for them, but Brayelle constantly puts them in even worse decisions. She refused to make any good decisions for herself. As understanding as I can be, given the situation, I didn't relate to her. Prior to learning about her history even I wasn't connecting with Brayelle. Her free-spririt was fun at first, but I found her hard to connect to. Elias, as lovable as he is, just couldn't make up for her. The perpetual darkness that these characters lived in was unpleasant. 

Jessica Lowndes as Brayelle

I found myself trying to read quicker just to finish the book. And to be honest, by the end of the book, I was really frustrated. There are two parts to this. For one, I have to say, JA Redmerski didn't provide any POV chapters from Brayelle after a certain event (until the VERY end), and this really annoyed me. As much as Brayelle annoyed me, seeing into her head helped a lot. I also didn't like the constant darkness that cloaked this novel from beginning to end. Even the first chapter had such a negative tone, it was not setting me up for a good read. I have loved JA Redmerski's books before but this was just not for me.  I gave this book three stars though because I felt that it was well written and a difficult story for anyone to tell, but that sometimes you feel just needs to be told. I think the redeeming point of the book is the end, there is finality and a conclusion that I am pleased with. 

Do I recommend this to other people? Eh. Read at your own risk.