Day 21

Day 21 by Kass Morgan (The Hundred #2) - 3 STARS

** You must read The 100 before reading this one.

Synopsis
No one has set foot on Earth in centuries -- until now.
It's been 21 days since the hundred landed on Earth. They're the only humans to set foot on the planet in centuries...or so they thought. Facing an unknown enemy, Wells attempts to keep the group together. Clarke strikes out for Mount Weather, in search of other Colonists, while Bellamy is determined to rescue his sister, no matter the cost. And back on the ship, Glass faces an unthinkable choice between the love of her life and life itself.
In this pulse-pounding sequel to Kass Morgan's The 100, secrets are revealed, beliefs are challenged, and relationships are tested. And the hundred will struggle to survive the only way they can -- together.

*I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Overall: Great new take on Dystopian 
Characters:  Clarke, Glass, Belamy, Wells, Octavia 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: hm...not sure yet... 
Genre:  Dystopian 
Sex Scenes: No

Overall

Generally I really liked this book. There were some things that threw me off, and I frankly liked the first one more, but overall I still liked and enjoyed this one.
First off, I really like Kass Morgan's writing style, its simple but beautiful.
I also really liked the new characters that were introduced. This book takes a completely different turn than the TV show, so for this book, it was a lot easier to read without constantly thinking how did they do this in the show,  or that was/not in the show hm... These thoughts plagued me throughout the first book, whereas this book was so different I had no show to compare to.
The new plot and characters were interesting and I found that I really liked them, however, there were a lot of things wrong with this book too. I didnt like the ending. Nope. Not one bit. (no spoiler here ii you read the 1st book). The only good part about the ending is that it reminded me of the TV show and whether more people are coming to Earth. The whole Earthborn thing at the end was weird, and awkward and seems like the author just didnt flesh out the issue enough.

While the world building in book 2 was better than book 1, which I mention in that review, Im still a little confused about some things that just seem out of place. (minor spoiler: for instance, I dont understand how it took Clarke and Bellamy two days to walk what later took him 6 hours to walk? huh?)  Or as another reviewer mentions what exactly is the Catalysm, and for that matter how the all call "it" the same name? The pacing of this book is much like the first one, its steady, with plenty of change in characters to keep the reader guessing and wanting more.

This time around I liked Glass a lot more. Her narrative became so much more interesting over the course of this book! I couldnt believe the things that people are willing to (or not do) to survive. The other characters all remained the same, I enjoyed them and their storyline and was happy to see some of the relationships progress. Clarke and Wells are still my favorite characters. And I still wish Octavia had more involvment (or her own chapters). I was disappointed that there was a lack of growth in the actual characters (between one another yes, but actual characters no) I was glad there was romance, because lets face it, nothing else happened in this book, but I wish the plot had really been thickened more, I feel like everything that happened occurred quite SLOWLY even though while reading the book it doesnt feel that way. The change in characters POV really throughs me off. Sometimes I like the change, its nice to get a different perspective (the ship versus land) BUT it really wasnt necessary to have all four voices, I really wish more action had occurred during this book. Really it didnt seem like anything happened considering its 300 + pages really more on Earth should have occurred...

It was so interesting to see Kass's take on humanity, shown in various settings and ways throughout this book, afterall thats really what this book is about, survival and humanity. And frankly, I like her take, its painful, but beautiful, and shows the reality and severity of these situations.

So, In the end, I liked this book, BUT it is not one of my favorites and honestly I wouldnt recommend it. Just because I enjoyed something while reading it doesnt make it good. This is a book/series for someone to read that is looking for a simple, easy, but enjoyable 1 day read, but it isnt going to blow your mind. Sorry.

the 100

The 100 by Kass Morgan 4 STARS

Synopsis

In the future, humans live in city-like spaceships orbiting far above Earth's toxic atmosphere. No one knows when, or even if, the long-abandoned planet will be habitable again. But faced with dwindling resources and a growing populace, government leaders know they must reclaim their homeland... before it's too late.
Now, one hundred juvenile delinquents are being sent on a high-stakes mission to recolonize Earth. After a brutal crash landing, the teens arrive on a savagely beautiful planet they've only seen from space. Confronting the dangers of this rugged new world, they struggle to form a tentative community. But they're haunted by their past and uncertain about the future. To survive, they must learn to trust - and even love - again

*copy provided by net galley for honest review

Overall: Great new take on Dystopian 
Characters:  Clarke, Glass, Belamy, Wells, Octavia 
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: hm...not sure yet... 
Genre:  Dystopian 
Sex Scenes: No

Overall--

Okay, first I must say, yes this is a TV show on the CW, which I have been watching. No I did not read the book first. That said, I had some expectations for the book, obviously, however, I actually think having watched the series first and then the book, I enjoyed it more than if I'd read the book first and then watched the show. Thats just me though. The TV show is way different. The characters are primarily the same, and the original plot is the same, but the show takes some very different twists (some I like some I don't), but that makes sense right it has to keep an audience pulled in week after week. I found that the actors chosen were really on point for the most part, and frankly this helped me visualize things. In that respect (the characters and the setting) the show and book seem point on.

Now that thats out of the way, lets talk about the book. This is a great book for those looking for a different dystopian novel. HOWEVER, there are some really big, glaring issues that I have with the book.  First, the whole "pregnancy" issue (which is a plot point in varying way throughout the book) seems really out of place. I get the impression that if everyone is on a large ship, in a controlled environment, that birth control would be a requirement for ALL those women of child bearing age. Population control would seem extremely important. (and is an obvious focal point of the book for more than one reason), so it seems really, REALLY odd to me that the government wouldn't control this more tightly, to avoid unwanted, and unplanned pregnancy (in married and single people). On that same topic, one would think once teenagers arrive on Earth, where birth control is not, that someone would get pregnant, yet they don't....(okay its only been a month, but I didnt know that at the time of reading!) this seems completely counter to what would actually happen. Second, wouldn't people in space be monitoring Earth a bit more? I mean similar to our current space programs where we go and collect data on other planets etc, wouldn't they do the same to Earth so they could figure out when they could return? Again, it seems EXTREMELY odd that this wouldn't have occurred or been thought of. With the amount of technology in 300 years, wouldn't they be able to send "something" to collect data and return? Also, it seems crazy to me that executions would occur in the way that they had, I don't know that the government would really work like that. Though, that said, it explains why on Earth the teenagers act the way they do (execute without caring about innocence or guilt).

Okay Now that Im gotten my gripes out of the way, lets discuss the good, because I am giving this book 4 stars. So even though I have major issues with the book, those issues are personal to me, primarily because Im in the midst of writing my own dystopian book, but also because I tend to think about the logistic issues in these kind of books. So, at first I thought having four alternating POV's would be confusing and annoying. BUT actually I think it worked out really well. In the beginning, I was confused, and perhaps this is where having watched the show really helps because I have concrete opinions on the characters already, but generally speaking I thought it worked really well, I was able to folio the characters their thoughts and feelings and their actions, both present and past really well. The authors writing ability was great in that sense, I could honestly see and feel everything for these characters in so many different ways. Its got to be very difficult to have depth of character for 4 main characters yet also numerous side characters (Octavia, Luke, Graham, Thalia).

This plot is really interesting, its different, humans left Earth and are coming back, but don't know what to expect. Its hard to not compare to the show, for me, but Ill try. Honestly, I felt like it was a little slow moving plot wise. I would have liked the ending (not the end) to come sooner and for that to be elaborated more, so that the plot could be continued further. This first book just seemed to set the pace and overall plot point, really giving the reader insight into who the characters are, why they are all there, and fierce. So we know who everyone is (the main people) and why they got sent to confinement, but Earth still seems like a mystery. I would have really liked some more world building. Which is where having watched the show detracts from the book. My opinion is likely heightened a little, because I actually saw the world (on the show). I will say the author did a great job of taking Earth moments and making them count (sunrise, rain, the smell of fresh air etc) but I would have liked better Earthly descriptions. I also wonder why everyone stays put, why not wander and explore more...I also would have loved to know if there are other "people" on Earth and if so I'd love to hear from their POV!

Characters-

I absolutely LOVED Clarke. She is is by far my favorite (along with Octavia who has no POV). I completely understand where she is coming from, and feel for her in a variety of ways. But having the other POVs really helps me understand some of the various ongoing issues (her parents execution for example). I really like the TV shows explanation of Wells/Parents betrayal better than the book, but the book still had a good point, and proved that sometimes good intentions and good people do not always mean a fair outcome or trial. That corruption is everywhere. I found her compassion, empathy and strength though to be really beautiful and she was the star of the book no doubt.

I liked Wells, and I felt for him. His unwavering love for Clarke is obvious and beautiful. His POV really shows his reasoning and feelings behind his actions. I can feel his pain, and his love which is a testament to the authors writing. I enjoyed reading his POV. I wish that the TV show had followed his character more  closely from the book, because I think it would have been better honestly.

Belamy, in the book I liked Belamy on the TV show I hate him. I think he isn't nearly as bad in the book as he is on the show. He is such a protector for his sister Octavia. But he doesn't just care about her and I think that shows more in the book, he is someone who has had to struggle his whole life through no fault of his own and that has really strengthened him for Earth, I hope in the next book to really see this strength pull through. Though Im not sure how I feel about his relationship with some of the others....

Glass- a character not on the TV show at all which I found to be quite odd- I didnt care for her. I actually liked her parts the least. I think she was an added perspective on the ship, which was necessary, and I understand why the author used another delinquent rather than what the TV show did, but I just didnt like Glass. Maybe its her name, maybe its just her, but I didnt like her. But in all honesty, given the way the author was writing, in the perspective of the delinquents Earthbound, I get why she wrote about Glass, and frankly this story is a sad one. Its one of the more depressing stories in the bunch. Star crossed lovers basically. But then a love triangle? I don't know might be too much....

All that said, I want to keep reading, I want to know what happens....

Mid-Season TV Posts

Alright, its about that time of year where the shows go on hiatus for the holiday season, and the mid season shows will start in January. Some shows will be over soon (Homeland has two episodes left!) others are just on a break. (Hart of Dixie) At this time though, Im just giving an update in general because its been about 8-10 episodes into the shows. I will update over time.

In no particular order.

sAlmost Human- ISo far I like what Ive seen! It reminds me of continuum. (which I love) I think it can be a good show, give it time. WILL WATCH

Beauty and the Beast--Wow oh Wow. LOVING this season. I am really enjoying this season of B&B, I think the new plot line is fascinating. I was hesitant at first, but CW has managed to make the plot work and become quite interesting. When last season ended, I wondered what could they possibly do, and how are they going to drag it out, but Im loving what they have done. Causing the rift between the two main characters adding in more action, drama, love triangles, and the moral issue and this show has become explosive. It went from, WILL WATCH to MUST WATCH
.

Blacklist --I am a fan of the show, but Im not diehard about it. I enjoy it, its enjoyable and interesting. I am dying to know who is Lizzy's father! I need to know what happened! But I wish more would happen week to week with the sub plot. This show reminds me of Law and Order SVU the side story slowly moves in the background of a big weekly story. I would prefer smaller weekly stories and more action on the main characters and their relationship. WILL WATCH

Hart of Dixie--Oy vey! This show has gotten out hand. I can barely watch it anymore. Aside from some of the terrible acting, and the terrible plot lines, this season is by far the worst. I love Rachel Bilson, and Im a big fan of the Zoe/Wade relationship, but my likeness of the show ends there. Whats worse? This show has introduced Joel/Zoe. It was bad enough that she didn't pick Wade. Or even Lemon's cousin, but Joel is the worst character introduction in the show yet. Her relationship with him is so incredibly boring and I find his character worthless in so many way. I see the turns the show is trying to make, introducing a possible love triangle issue with Zoe/Wade/Zoes cousin, but lets all be honest, we just want Zoe and Wade to get back together and be happy!!! This show went from WILL WATCH to IF I HAVE TIME ILL WATCH.

Homeland--Wow. I am absolutely shocked at the ending of this season and not in a good way. Homeland ended in what could have been seen as a series finale. Ruining a good thing if you ask me for next season. Sure the story can go many places. There are always more terrorists to find, right? Except one of the main reasons I love the show, the relationship between Carrie and Brody is what I love watching,  But now, Im not sure I will continue. I lost what I love most. NOT SURE. 


Hostages--I like this show, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to believe and watch. At first it felt so raw and believable (okay maybe not) but then as it kept going to got more and more out there. Im hoping that this is a one season show with finality. I like it but don't really want to invest another season into it.

Originals- I am loving this show, not sure how far they can take it, but Im sure they will think of something! I have enjoyed the show so far, all the characters are really coming together. Cami is one of my favorite as is the main guy, they have really brought the show to life for me! The background witch story is also very interesting. This has definitely kept me entertained! WILL KEEP WATCHING 

Vampire Diaries -As usual I love VD. But I have to admit this season has been pretty boring. I miss Klaus. I miss Tyler. And the new characters really arent doing it for me. The whole Katherine dying thing is weird, and kind of annoying, she just keeps whining! I do like the addition of her daughter though thats a nice twist. I will obviously KEEP WATCHING

Haven - Eeek! Haven ended on a good note. This season I lost a lot of interest. I was not nearly as invested as previously. This season was so different than the others. It was focused on how the troubles can be cured or were started rather than fixing each trouble as they come and Audrey's love triangle. The barn was the focus. I have to be honest, I wasnt captivated. The show has really lost some of its appeal to me. But in the end, the final 10 minutes proved to be really great! Leaving us on a wonderful little. WILL KEEP WATCHING

Tomorrow People--I am a huge fan of this new show! I absolutely freaking love it. It has everything from mystery, action, romance  to drama and crime with science fiction mixed in. I love Robbie Amell too, he does such a great job of being the hero and love interest all while trying to find himself. I also like the love triangle which isn't the main focus but has come into play here there. The finale of fall was interesting, and left me very upset that it was over for a month!! Come back! MUST WATCH, WILL KEEP WATCHING

Reign - I am a fan of this show as well. Not quite like Tomorrow people, but I do enjoy this one. I like the main character a lot, Mary. She is beautiful and charismatic. I also like the story line, which is obviously NOT the true story. I liked the ending of this finale, as it really leaves things open for where and what Mary will do next. KEEP WATCHING

Revenge- OMG!!!! I can't believe  who shot Emily!!! and now its on break! what?! unacceptable! I saw previews for the next episode so obviously I know a little bit about what happens, but waiting is painful. This season so far has been better than last, but I must admit, that I agree with other fans who feel that Emily has gone a little too dark. Aftet the initiative last year it seems that Emily went from being sweet on the outside and dark on the inside to just being dark, no wonder Daniel falls for another. Not to mention Im not a fan of her and Aiden, I mean she is supposed to be with JACK! Ah but alas, I am truly interested in seeing where this goes! KEEP WATCHING! 

Once Upon a Time- Hm. VERY interesting. This season to me has been less than stellar. I watched but wasn't as invested as other seasons. This whole Pan thing I found to be dragged out a little too much. BUT, the ending of the fall finale was intriguing! and it sparks new interest in me! I want the pirate and Emma together (I may be alone there though) and I am certainly interested in seeing where this whole new "world" goes. should be entertaining! But, Im not as invested as I used to be so Ive downgraded this one. to WILL WATCH WHEN I HAVE TIME 

Grimm- Not much of a finale, but I like the show overall. I have to admit there isn't much to say on this one. Its pretty straightforward. I will keep watching, but probably downgrade to when I have time. WILL WATCH WHEN I HAVE TIME 

Nashville- Eek. Okay so first let me just say that I have been half bored with this season. First off, I am NOT happy about Scarlett about Avery being together I wanted her with Gunnar! Im also REALLY bored with the whole Teddy and Rayna storyline. I wanted Rayna will Deacon, so Im upset about that. But I have loved Juliette's storyline this season. I like that she isn't quite as BAD as she used to be, sure she made bad decisions still, but not on the same immature level as before. I am dying for her to be with Avery! I love their relationship. I am really looking forward to the next part of the season. KEEP WATCHING

Scandal --Hm. I have REALLY LOVED this season. I mean it is just as intense as the others. There are some oddities but they seem to work themselves out. I am dying for Olivia to be with Jack and not the president. Im intrigued with all the ongoing plots between the death of VP's husband to Olivias mother to Jack taking over! Its going to be an intense end of the season!!! MUST WATCH