Awakened by Anna Applegate

Awakened by Anna Applegate 4.5 STARS (2 of 3 in the Aryia Adams Trilogy)

Synopsis--Nothing is ever quite as it seems, at least not for Ariya Adams. She’s only recently discovered the supernatural world is real, and that world wants something from her. Her blood. Her unique ability to heal both werewolves and vampires with only a few drops gives Ariya a great power. However, that power has put her in unfathomable danger. James, her sexy vampire boyfriend and Protector, has done well keeping Ariya safe in the past. When a new, more powerful and manipulative evil comes into play, it may prove to be more than they can handle, especially when their forbidden affair makes Ariya more vulnerable to the deceptive new enemy seeking to control her. Her grasp on reality will be tested and twisted as she battles to save James, her friends, and herself. Despite her determination, she may be faced with a pain greater than she ever imagined. Even the most powerful abilities have limitations, and this time, the power of her blood might not be enough to save those she loves most. If all else is lost, will Ariya survive?
* I was given an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.


Overall- Holy crap! I Loved this book!!! It really kept my attention throughout. There was plenty of action, mystery, romance and intrigue throughout that I didn't put the book down once!! I admit that I docked half a star though due to the first few chapters. I think the first few chapters are a bad representation of the rest of the book, instead of weaving the last books' story line into this book, I felt like the first couple of chapters were awkwardly reminding me what happened, and the flow felt a little off. This issue didn't last though, once we get to the first plot point in this book, the story line takes off, and truly captured my attention! Honestly though, I think the most difficult part of being an author-especially in a series- is figuring out how weave in the background without making it feel awkward, and in this instance, I don't think it detracted any in my overall feel of the book, or interest. I am so looking forward to the third book now, even more than I was the second!!!
I love the Ariya and James relationship, I can see how torn Ariya is over everything, and I feel just as torn! I love how the characters are so loyal and that friendship is such a major theme. It really makes me miss college and reminds me of all the good memories (though we didn't have vampires or werewolves where I went…that I know of!) COME ON BOOK 3!!!!!


Cover --Intense
Rating: PG 13 
Overall: mystery, romance, adventure 
Characters:  Ariya, James, Riley, Caroline, Nick
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: James Riley and Nick. 
Genre: New Adult /Paranormal/Vampires
Sex Scenes: Yes
Setting Michigan 

Rachel Melvin as Caroline

Plot--The great thing about this 2nd book is that it not only picks up where it left off in the first, but it also continues moving forward with what felt like a "normal" plot line. Sometimes, I get the feeling that authors are writing another book in a series just because and the plot seems so awkward and misplaced. But that was definitely not the case here! After a crazy reveal at the end of book 1, the reader follows Ariya as she continues to figure out her relationship with James and this bizarre secret. I am slightly reminded of Vampire Diaries and The Originals, but not in the way where I fell like the author is repeating that storyline but that the story is starting to incorporate more paranormal beings than just the vampires (which is what it seems like the older books did) I also liked the history that the author tried to incorporate, giving the Vampires a beginning and a reason for being makes them far more likable!  The plot twists weren't completely unpredictable yet they weren't so obvious that I could figure it all out before getting to the end. There were some definite nail biter moments (especially near the end!) and I appreciate that the author is willing to do both, the "on the edge of my seat" and the "predictable" because mixing it up is what makes it all that much more fun to read. Honestly, I have no idea what to expect though from book 3 and I am VERY MUCH looking forward to seeing how everything works out, with Ariya and James and with the final adventure the gang has yet to finish!

Characters--

Aaron Tveit as James

James-- In this book, James remained fairly similar to his prior role. The ever protective, loving, charming, and serious James. Always looking out for whats best for Ariya, and doing what he can to protect and love her in the way she needs. I wish I understood where he was coming from sometimes, his actions at times seemed to leave me wondering why (because I know what Ariya is thinking of course!) But I really love his devotion to her and hope that they end up together and happy!!

Trevor Donovan as Riley

Riley- Riley was a big character in this one, in my opinion. There were times when I really wanted him to be with Ariya and times I thought "NO!!!" I really hope in the end things work out for him. I so want him to be happy!! I feel like I got to see the protective and loving side of Riley in this book. In book 1 he was caring and sweet, he was always friendly, but in this one, we really get to see that loving side of him that is easy to see why so many women could fall for him!

Dustin Milligan as Nick

Caroline and Nick- Oh Boy!! These two are quite the couple! I love their cuteness! What I missed in this book though was seeing them as a doting couple and Caroline as a friend. I was sad to see that Ariya and Caroline weren't always connecting like that had in the first book but I also understand that with everything going on, Ariya is struggling to figure out how she feels and what to say. Ariya is growing into her own and I hope Carolien doesn't get left behind because she's way too awesome!

Dianna Argone as Ariya

Ariya--This girl…what can I say. I loved her most of the time but a couple of times I hated her. I was worried she had given up and that she had lost her spirit. But alas I am so very happy with the outcome in the book. She is still her stubborn and friendly self. Always putting others first and trying to make everyone happy, willing to sacrifice herself for those she loves! even when its against the odds! I loved the natural emotional roller coaster that I went through with Ariya in this book! I could completely understand why she felt the way she did about everything. I felt like the author did such an amazing job of portraying Ariya as her appropriate age considering all the different things she went through and given her already crazy emotional state. Ariya is so strong and passionate, and loving and kind, I was really blown away by the consistent role of a friend that she played throughout the book. Quite loyal. I can't wait to see how she grows in the next book.

Arbitrate by Megan Thomason

Arbitrate by Megan Thomason- 4.5 STARS

Synopsis---It's one year later. Everything has changed.
Remember The Second Chance Institute (SCI). Earth's benevolent non-profit by day, Thera's totalitarian regime by night. They’ve stepped up their game on Earth and on Thera—infiltrating political parties, preying on the downtrodden, and planning offensive maneuvers. And they’re handing out more “second chances” than ever before. The SCI’s abuse of their charter leads to Arbiter oversight and bitter consequences.Remember Kira Donovan. Broken, burdened, and evading those who wish her harm, Kira enlists the Arbiters’ help when forced to return to the clutches of the SCI and her angry, estranged love.Remember Blake Sundry. Exiled, determined, and packing an agenda, Blake seeks assistance on Earth and Thera to use his newfound knowledge to bring down the SCI.Remember Ethan Darcton. Overworked, emotional, and holding a grudge, Ethan hunts down his stolen property, but finds himself in awkward territory, stuck between the Arbiters and the SCI.

*I received an ARC from the author for an honest review 

Overall-- I was truly blown away by this book, the 2nd in the daynight series. What I absolutely love about this author, she realized its been a while since her readers read the last book so she provided an short overview of book 1 at the beginning of book 2. I wish all authors did this!!! As for the actual book, I couldnt put it down. Seriously, I think I skipped meals and avoided the phone all day. It was so gripping, intense, gritty and beautiful! So much happened in this book, but it never felt ridiculous or overwhelming. Once I finished the book, I had a lot of thinking to do. I wasnt sure how I felt about the book. I had ideas and plans for my characters, and the author did not follow my desires!! I must say though, I am so happy she didnt!! She made everything work out better than I could have ever dreamed!!! Nothing about this book was predictable. And while I was initially unhappy Kira didnt end up with the person I wanted....I liked what Ms. Thomason did even better. She really recaptured my heart and mind in the end because I was completely mesmerized by what she wrote, the way the characters turn out and the plot ended. I look forward to the next book, and seeing what the next adventure is for this group. This is a MUST READ for anyone interested in a great dystopian adventure with a final ending and romantic entanglements that ends perfectly! (But you do have to read the first one, though it is WELL worth it! I promise!!!) 

Cover- Interesting
Rating: PG 13 
Overall - Dystopian Romance and Adventure/Mystery
Characters:  Jax, Ethan, Blake, Kira
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Book Boyfriend: Jax
Genre: Young Adult Dystopian  
Sex Scenes: No
Setting  Thera and California  
Recommend if you liked- Divergent 

The Babies- from daynight's facebook page

Plot-- Where to start! This was an intense book. With lots of mystery, adventure, romance, unpredictable moments, and crazy scenes that I was not prepared for!! The book starts out a year after we left Kira with Jax, learning she'd just been impregnated. We pick up after the birth of her babies. The author takes the reader on a journey, to show what happened in the past, the important moments and events that changed the present, flipping back into the present moment in time, where life for all seems pretty messed up. Everyone made mistakes and everyone changed in different ways. Each one at different point yet all trying to come back together. With all the broken pieces and characters of the book, the author does a fantastic job of not only breaking them apart but putting everything back together, even if it is in a different picture. I was so impressed with the changes though, I could never have imagined or pictured some of the twists and turns that this book takes on us and I think thats what makes a great author, and a great book. It kept my attention and I was constantly reevaluating my thoughts and opinions on the changing scenes and characters! Everything I thought I knew in book 1 changes in book 2 and not in a weird way or a bad way, just an unknown way. The plot moved at a natural pace, not too slow or too fast with just enough information being provided in the different scenes to start putting the puzzle together and by the end, all the pieces are there. This book was beautifully written and so completely amazing it is quite inspiring as a reader and a writer. 

Characters

Alexandra Chando as Kira 

Kira-  This time around Kira reminded me of Emma from Out of Breath, withdrawn, and depressed for much of the book. At the time, it was frustrating, I missed the Kira that was strong and passionate, driven and ambitious. I missed the lively Kira. But by the end of the book, I realized that this time around, Kira came from different circumstances, and the author was trying to show a different side, a different way of growing and developing. A necessity this time around given the situation. When I finished reading, and thought back to everything, I could completely understand, I saw the big picture, whereas in the moment I didnt have all the facts. But Kira was strong, and patient, and understanding, her situation led her to a dark and confusing internal place, but with the help of those that love her, and some personal soul searching prove to be useful in bringing back the Kira we all know and love! So happy with her outcome and decision. I was also surprised with the twists and turns of her character, it was crazy! I could not be more happy and am amazed at how the author was able to pull this off!!

Chace Crawford as Blake

Blake-  Im not sure how I feel about this one. I liked hearing his voice and thoughts, it was helpful in understanding him, but I was disappointed that his role was not as strong in this book as it was in the last. However, as the story developed I began to realize where his role really fit, and why the author made the decisions she did, some of which were harder than others. I enjoyed learning about him and his final role was extremely powerful! I was so impressed! 

Paul Wesley as Ethan 

Ethan--I have to say Ethan was the most confusing to read! His emotions and actions were all the place and I wasnt sure whether he would "make" it or not! I felt all his pain, and all his joy, his confusion and additional emotional craziness that went on with him! Even though he struggled through figuring out who he is, his love for Kira, his family issues, and the rebellion, he is better because of it, and where we leave off with Ethan left me wanting more, wanting to get to know him more and see where he goes. 

Alex Pettyfer as Jax

Jax-- I  was so surprised with Jax's role in this book. Considering in the last book, he was not well liked (by Ethan or others) he was considered annoying. So I was hesitant coming into this one and having him as such a prominent character. But of course Ms. Thomason wove him into the story and the lives of our other beloved characters beautifully. He was swift and mesmerizing at times and I found myself wishing I were inside Jax's head so I could understand what he was thinking or why he did what he did!! His role is quite pivotal in this book, as he helps the gang with their movement and rebellion and the ongoing changes throughout the system! He is certainly one to look out for. 

Anna Lynn McCord as Bailey 

Bailey-- I absolutely hate Bailey. Still do. I actually find her to be so frustrating!!! Okay okay. So I realize the author did this on purpose, and the dislike for her does not change in this book. She does not become a better person. But she is a necessary evil. 

While You're Away Volume 1

While You're Away by Jessa Holbrook 2 STARS

Synopsis--
THIS IS PART ONE OF A SERIALIZED NOVEL.
From the moment Will and Sarah first set eyes upon each other, they know that what they have is special. There's just one little problem... each of them already has a significant other. 
After weeks of flirting with danger, it becomes clear that their passion is too strong to be denied. They decide to give it a go, making their relationship official. But there's another challenge in store: Will is leaving for college at the end of the summer, heading for a new life on a big campus, and leaving Sarah behind in their small suburban town. 
The pair vows to be true to one another while they're separated, but the distance comes with its fair share of challenges. Will is busy and hard to get a hold of, and Sarah feels jealous of his shiny new life. To make matters worse, he's pledging for a fraternity, a system filled with details Sarah dreads.
Sarah can't help but feel tortured by the way they met. Is Will cheating on her? Can cheaters ever change?

Overall- The concept of the "volumes" is interesting and the synopsis is what really attracted me. Volume one just didnt do it for me though. I liked the concept and the overall plot, but it felt like there was something missing. Had it been a full length novel I would have kept reading, but when I looked up the other volumes each one being 50 pages, and at 2 dollars a piece (6 volumes) thats more than I usually spend on a book and I just wasnt entranced enough to spend that amount. What was mostly detracting from the book was the narration, I didnt connect with the narrator, Sarah. Her narration included a lot of irrelevant information, or what I thought was irrelevant. I liked Will though and he is what kept my attention really. Overall though, Sarah's opinions and thoughts felt weird at times. I was very confused as to how she could possibly "think/know" that this time was different just by looking at Will and talking to him the first time ever. Certain things felt awkward and abnormal. Basically, I'd certainly have kept reading to see where things went, but it all seemed predictable, and Im not really willing to continue at this time. Perhaps its just not for me.