what i've been reading

The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leanna Renee Hieber

What fortune awaited sweet, timid Percy Parker at Athens Academy? Considering how few of Queen Victoria’s Londoners knew of it, the great Romanesque fortress was dreadfully imposing, and little could Percy guess what lay inside. She had never met the powerful and mysterious Professor Alexi Rychman, knew nothing of the growing shadow, the Ripper and other supernatural terrors against which his coterie stood guard. She knew simply that she was different, haunted, with her snow-white hair, pearlescent skin and uncanny gifts. But this arched stone doorway offered a portal to a new life, an education far from the convent—and an invitation to an intimate yet dangerous dance at the threshold of life and death…

this book was actually pretty good (4.0). it compelled me to keep reading, i liked the characterization, and the plot was interesting. however, i do feel that the author relied too much on what i would call Victorian reactions and passionate responses to make the action more dramatic and exciting. bottom line: i'd say it's definitely worth reading if you like Victorian fantasy.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance.

Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death-and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

i devoured this book. it was amazing, and i give it a 4.7 (excellent!). i loved the characterization, development, and plot. Lauren Oliver has mastered dialogue and tension...this book is well worth reading at least once. i wouldn't hesitate to buy anything from Lauren Oliver after reading Before I Fall.

Dark Secrets Vol. 2 by Elizabeth Chandler

Vol 2 is comprised of two murder mysteries--with paranormal twists. i liked the first story, but i probably wouldn't read it again (3.5). i really enjoyed the second story, though (give it a 4.0) because i identified with the main character a lot more. as far as mysteries go, this is no Sherlock Holmes novel, but it is entertaining. once again, i'd recommend it if you like the genre.


*rating system: (probably won't review anything lower than a 3.0), 3.0--okay, 3.5--good, not sorry i read it, 4.0--recommended, 5.0--absolute brilliance