The Hearts We Sold gets 4 Stars {ya lit, romance, fantasy, thriller}

I got The Hearts We Sold by Emily Lloyd in my August 2017 Owlcrate box.  I enjoyed the boxes, but have since stopped my subscription.  Though, I still get to enjoy all the books I got in the boxes.

The Hearts We Sold is relatable with the problems Dee has with her parents and family, and the anxiety she feels.  It's exciting and a thriller b/c of the monsters, that I could've never imagined, and the action that goes along with those monsters. "If magic was real, then so were monsters" (pg 189).  The book is sad (seriously heart breaking) but happy too.  

This easy to read book has a unique and interesting story line, with a Rumpelstiltskin aspect, and is something you should definitely check out.  

My nerdy librarian heart did a little cheer when Dee skipped school, and of all the places she could go she wanted to go the library.  My heart was happy when Dee truly grew as a character and really came into her own as a strong and confident young woman.  It's a great coming of age story with a twist and a storyline you'd never expect.   

My heart broke b/c of gallantry.  My heart broke when Dee's parents were abusive and not supportive.  I was so sad Dee had to deal with such adult issues, but I loved her drive to succeed and make a better life for herself in spite of her parents.        

The Hearts We Sold is creative and fun and worth the 4 out of 5 stars it earned in my book review.  My only qualm with this novel is some parts, including the beginning, don't grab the reader and take it for a ride that so easily could've happen with this thriller like storyline.   Some readers may struggle getting into the story; it may not be the best book for reluctant readers. 

Have you read this newer young adult novel?  What did you think?  

Happy Young Adult/Teen Romance, Fantasy, Thriller reading!


The Hearts We Sold by Emily Lloyd - Jones
Rating: 4/5 stars
Best For: 14 - 18 year olds, 9th grade and up.
Clean Read: No, there is sex, underage drinking, language, homosexuality
Worth a Check Out: Yes
Buy It or Not: Not for a personal library, but great for a high school or public collection.
Read Aloud: No. 
Lesson Ideas: Abuse, Alcoholism, Anxiety, Boarding School, What's it worth. 

August Owl Crate Something Wicked This Way Comes gets 4 Stars {ya lit subscription box}

Something Wicked This Way Comes, the theme for the August Owl Crate box was a fun one.  It included all things evil and dark and a lot of fun.  I gave this box 4 out of 5 stars.  It's fun and has some useful items as well.  It wasn't great mostly b/c I personally don't drink coffee and didn't get to enjoy all aspects.  However, I realize that is a pretty selfish reason to lower the rating.   

These Edgar Allan Poe socks are fun to wear; I just wish I wore socks more here in the Arizona desert living.  

Besides the main Young Adult book, this month's box included an extra book.  It's a short story collection of creepy and/or scary stories including the classic Sleepy Hollow. 

I also got a cool fountain pen with refills; it makes me want to learn calligraphy and write really cool things.  This bookmark inspired by Six of Crows is simple and fun.  I used to always use a receipt or scrap of paper as my bookmark, but my Owl Crate boxes have changed me.  Bookmarks are fun; no wonder the cool book readers of the world are all obsessed with them. 

Happenstance Coffee provided this Dark Arts coffee.  I obviously love the Harry Potter connection, but I'm not a coffee drinker.  I ended up giving this bag to a co-worker who later told me it was delicious.  If you are a coffee drinker, you should check Happenstance out.  Apparently they have a subscription service which may be a really cool gift for the coffee fan.  Plus, it's not the obvious Starbucks giftcard; therefore providing a little originality to the gift world.  

I get an Owl Crate every month b/c it is fun, and I love building my YA book collection.  This month The Hearts We Sold by Emily Lloyd-Jones  is a story about friendship, inner strength, and the power of love.  I love the letter we always get from the author which gives a little insight into what inspired the story.  I love the signed name plate, and the unique and exclusive covers.  The little details Owl Crate thinks about is fun, and a reason I love these boxes.  

I've just started this book, but it's a blend of sci-fi, fantasy and romance.  Since, it may be a little bit before I give you a full review of The Hearts We Sold, the book description will have to do.  

"When Dee Moreno makes a deal with a devil--her heart in exchange for an escape from a disastrous home life--she finds her trade may be more than she bargained for. And becoming "heartless" is only the beginning. What lies ahead is a nightmare far bigger, far more monstrous than anything she ever could have imagined. 

With reality turned on its head, Dee has only a group of other deal-making teens to keep her grounded, including the charming but secretive James Lancer. And as something like love grows between them amidst an otherworldly ordeal, Dee begins to wonder: can she give James her heart when it's no longer hers to give?

The Hearts We Sold is a Faustian tale for the modern age that will steal your heart and break it, and leave you begging for more. " 

What do you think?  Sound like a worthy read?

As always, if you get a different book subscription box that you love (it has to include a book b/c that is what I love the most) please share it with me.  I'm open to trying something new, even if I do thoroughly enjoy Owl Crate.  

Also, the Owl Crate links are referral links; it is just in case you are interested in a subscription for yourself or a friend.  Owl Crate also has a Junior box which is perfect for upper elementary school kids.  

Happy reading!  Happy fandom fun!  Happy Monday! 

The Sandcastle Empire gets 4 stars {ya lit, dystopia/sci-fi, 9th grade +}

Owl Crate's June box came with two books. Winner Winner Chicken Dinner! 

The main book, The Sandcastle Empire by Kayla Olson, is a sci-fi dystopia young adult novel and I was anxious to move it up on my To Be Read pile.

I enjoy dystopian books, and I did enjoy The Sandcastle Empire. It was a fun read even though it was quite predictable.

The Sandcastle Empire gets 4 out of 5 stars in my book review.  I liked the science and geeky things the scientist came up with.  I thought the concept behind the book, or the reason for this dystopia world, was unique; the idea of there being a water shortage b/c there is too much salt water.  The idea of HoloWolves being controlled was freaky, but to be honest it was too far fetched for me to believe.  I liked Eden as a character for the most part, and I could see where she was coming from.  I'm glad Eden had a little love story even if it was incredibly cheesy at times. 

My major issue with the book was how predictable it was, however the choppiness of the writing at some of the major action points was frustrating and sometimes left me confused.  I also felt the beginning was a little slow.  

Though, back to this predictability.  If you are okay with the spoilers or if you have read the book then go ahead and read the next paragraph where I highlight the areas that were most predictable b/c this aspect of the story has been written in other books many times.  



*** SPOILER ALERT***
Of course Eden was the only one capable of saving the day and obviously the entire world.  Of course she gets the boy even when they go to a deserted island. Of course her dad is still alive and part of it all.  Of course, her boy turns HoloWolf on her and subconsciously tries to kill her.  Of course, the kingpin doesn't hurt her and she is successfully able to pass off the vial.  I'm not saying the entire book was predictable, but a lot of it was predictable in a cheesy yet enjoyable way.  
*** SPOILER OVER***



All in all it is a fun read, but don't be surprised if there is little that surprises you in it.   

For those of you who have already read it, what did you think?  As I looked at Goodreads, I noticed the reviews were quite polar so you may be feeling exactly opposite of me.    

Happy Fun Dystopia reading! 

The Sandcastle Empire by Kayla Olson
Rating: 4/5 stars
Best For: 14 and up, 9th grade and up. 
Worth a Check Out: Yes.
Buy It or Not: You should buy it if you love dystopia books, but not a must purchase book.  
Read Aloud: I think it's too long to be a classroom read aloud, but it could be a fun book to read with your son or daughter.    
Lesson Ideas: Inventions. Science. Water shortage. Survival. 

  

Make It Out Alive- Owlcrate June 2017 {dystopian, ya, subscription box}

I've been getting an Owl Crate, a young adult literature subscription box, almost every month for over a year now.  I always get a good book, and fun fandom items in every box.

I'm the only one to read the books, but the whole family enjoys many of the fandom items.   We've increased our Pop Funko collection since getting Owl Crates, and my oldest has a piano bag, my son has a wallet, and my youngest has a dance bag all thanks to the Owl Crate boxes.  

I usually wait to share the boxes contents with you until after I read the book.  Hence, this box is from June.  However, I have such a long TBR pile that I sometimes don't get to the books as quickly as I'd like.  I may change that decision, and share them with you right after getting them.  Any opinions?  

"Make It Out Alive" was the theme for June's Owl Crate.  Basically, it is a dystopia theme.  In my past I have enjoyed many dystopian books like Hunger Games, Divergent, Flawed (from a previous Owl Crate box), Legend, and more.  Hence, why I was quicker to pick this box's book up. 

Factions... Can you name that dystopian book?  If you said Divergent, well done! This box came with a Determine Your Faction Bath Bomb by Fizzy Fairy Apothecary.  Personally, I think it is super fun, but I am a nerd, to determine your faction.  This bath bomb is the sorting hat for Divergent. So fun!  

Fizzy Fairy Apothecary has some other amazing bath bombs; definitely go check them out.  They would make a great gift for a bath lover.   The Chocolate Frog bath bomb and the Patronus bath bombs are probably some of my favorites. HP Love!   

The strong An Ember in the Ashes magnet, The Giver patch, and the fun pin all shown above were great additions to the box.  I love the magnet by Little Inklings Design; the quote speaks to my soul.  I also love the patch b/c The Giver was the original Dystopian book.   

Every Owl Crate box comes with a pin related to that month's theme.  I always add the pins to my work lanyard, and my co-worker refers to such pins as my bling. Book related pins are totally acceptable bling for librarians.  

This Zombie sleep mask from Archie McPhee is totally random and not something I would ever buy for myself.  I'm not really a sleep mask kind of girl, but I am a girl that loves pranks.  When my daughter saw this mask she knew exactly what she wanted to do.  She hid the mask under her pillow, and then put it on when she laid down that night. She wanted to scare Daddy with it, and I thought that was awesome. 

She obviously didn't scare him, but it was definitely fun.  The 5 and 2 year old had plenty of fun with the mask too. Who wouldn't want a little zombie fun in their life?! ;) 

Overall, the Make It Out Alive Owl Crate box is a fun one.  Not only did I get some fun fandom items, but this box came with not just one but two books.  Plus, the hardcover book always come with a letter from the author and the author's signature on a nameplate which is fun too!

Check the blog tomorrow fro my book review of The Sandcastle Empire.  

Overall, I wouldn't say an Owl Crate subscription box, or any subscription box, is something I or anyone NEEDS.  However, it is a lot of fun, and sometimes I need some fun.  

I personally have looked at a few different literature subscription boxes.  So far, I've always been most impressed with Owl Crate b/c of the books they select and the variety of the fandom items.  If you decide to go with Owl Crate I wouldn't mind if you used the link above.  Apparently, I could maybe get a free box, but I'm not holding my breath for that to ever happen for me.  ;)

I have looked at Lit Joy Crate for the picture book box, but I haven't been sold on them yet.  Though, if you know of any awesome literature subscription boxes send them my way.

   

Caraval gets 4 Stars {ya lit, fantasy, subscription box}

What do you get when you mix the books Night Circus and Mr. Lemoncello's Library?  Caraval by Stephanie Garber is most definitely the answer.

This fantasy young adult fiction novel has the magic of a traveling circus of sorts, but a scavenger hunt type of a game.  It's a fun read, and earns 4 out of 5 stars in my book review.  

I felt Caraval was a well written story, with a complex storyline, and good character development.  There were many aspects of the story that surprised me; I find myself feeling this novel was creative, fun, and unpredictable story with a happy ending.  It was definitely a fun read.   

The fun unpredictable story was great, but I also truly loved seeing Scarlett grow in confidence throughout the story.  Scarlett started as a girl that was afraid of her abusive father and throughout the story she began trusting herself more, standing up for herself, and even fighting for what she wanted.  Confidence is something I believe teens could definitely use more of, and a book that highlights how a character builds her confidence is definitely worthy of a check-out. 

Caraval is a mostly clean read.  There is no language, sex, or drugs, but there is violence related to action as well as sex being referred to tho it never happened.

In regards to the audience, this book is best geared for 8th graders and up.  It's a long book, and not a constant page turner therefore it is not for the reluctant reader.  However, reluctant readers, and all y'all that drive a lot or find life is too busy to read, will really enjoy the audiobook, which is well read, and gets you into the setting and suspense that much more.

A few aspects of the story that I wish was done better is in regards to the romance and the abuse.  Scarlett's romance with Julian was a bit too instant, but I guess that is the YA coming out.  Though, the romance just seemed too sudden and unbelievable.  I also felt the parent-child abuse Scarlett and Donatella experience by their father wasn't dealt with.  With abuse being a big aspect to the story, I feel Garber missed an opportunity to give her book more value and depth.

Overall, Caraval is a fun story.  It isn't amazing, but it's an enjoyable light fantasy read.  Definitely give it a check-out this summer. 

Just so you have a better idea of the storyline, Amazon had the following book description: 

"Scarlett has never left the tiny island where she and her beloved sister, Tella, live with their powerful, and cruel, father. Now Scarlett’s father has arranged a marriage for her, and Scarlett thinks her dreams of seeing Caraval, the far-away, once-a-year performance where the audience participates in the show, are over.

But this year, Scarlett’s long-dreamt of invitation finally arrives. With the help of a mysterious sailor, Tella whisks Scarlett away to the show. Only, as soon as they arrive, Tella is kidnapped by Caraval’s mastermind organizer, Legend. It turns out that this season’s Caraval revolves around Tella, and whoever finds her first is the winner.

Scarlett has been told that everything that happens during Caraval is only an elaborate performance. But she nevertheless becomes enmeshed in a game of love, heartbreak, and magic with the other players in the game. And whether Caraval is real or not, she must find Tella before the five nights of the game are over, a dangerous domino effect of consequences is set off, and her sister disappears forever.

Welcome, welcome to Caraval . . . beware of getting swept too far away."

I got this book in my February Owlcrate box, but it took me a couple months before I could get around to reading it. However, I felt the box was fun even though I don't use a lot of it. The tote bag does make an excellent piano lessons bag for my daughter, and the cotton candy chapstick is pretty fun. 

What did you think of Caraval? 

Happy Fantasy YA Lit Reading!  


Caraval by Stephanie Garber
Rating: 4/5 stars
Best For: 13 - 18 year olds, 8th grade and upWorth a Check Out: Yes!
Buy It or Not: Not.
Read Aloud: it's a great audiobook, so it could be a great read aloud, but I probably wouldn't.
Lesson Ideas: Confidence, Family relationships

RoseBlood gets 2 Stars {ya lit, paranormal}

Expectations may have been set a bit too high when I was 15 years old attending my first musical in London.  I saw The Phantom of the Opera and thought all musicals were as amazing as that one, and wondered why my parents had waited so long to introduce me to such awesomeness.  The music was absolutely amazing, and the theater was a little smaller and the best venue for it.  After that show, I was disappointed with many shows for 5 years until I saw Les Miserables. 
  
A.G. Howard and I have never been big fans of each other.  Well, it's more of a one sided relationship since she has no clue who I am.  Though, I like to think I know the authors of the books I read, and I am sure we'd probably go have lunch together if they lived close to me.  I mean, that's totally normal to think that way right? 

I've read Splintered, another popular series by Howard, and I just wasn't a fan.  I realize I may be too old for some YA authors, or my expectations may be too high.  However, my feelings for Howard's previous work didn't sway my excitement for RoseBlood.  

RoseBlood is a modern continuation/retelling of The Phantom of the Opera.  My 15 year old self has such blissful feelings for Phantom.  Since, I hadn't read a spin-off, retelling, or continuation of Phantom before I was excited to crack this cover.  

Would this book description sell you? 

"This YA novel from New York Times bestselling author A. G. Howard marks the beginning of a new era for fans of the Splintered series. Rune Germain moves to a boarding school outside of Paris, only to discover that at this opera-house-turned-music-conservatory, phantoms really do exist. RoseBlood is a Phantom of the Opera–inspired retelling in which Rune’s biggest talent—her voice—is also her biggest curse. Fans of Daughter of Smoke and Bone and the Splintered series will find themselves captivated by this pulse-pounding spin on a classic tale.
 
Rune, whose voice has been compared to that of an angel, has a mysterious affliction linked to her talent that leaves her sick and drained at the end of every performance. Convinced creative direction will cure her, her mother ships her off to a French boarding school for the arts, rumored to have a haunted past.
 
Shortly after arriving at RoseBlood conservatory, Rune starts to believe something otherworldly is indeed afoot. The mystery boy she’s seen frequenting the graveyard beside the opera house doesn’t have any classes at the school, and vanishes almost as quickly as he appears. When Rune begins to develop a secret friendship with the elusive Thorn, who dresses in clothing straight out of the 19th century, she realizes that in his presence she feels cured. Thorn may be falling for Rune, but the phantom haunting RoseBlood wants her for a very specific and dangerous purpose. As their love continues to grow, Thorn is faced with an impossible choice: lead Rune to her destruction, or save her and face the wrath of the phantom, the only father he’s ever known.
 
A. G. Howard brings the romantic storytelling that Splintered fans adore to France—and an entirely new world filled with lavish romance and intrigue—in a retelling inspired by a story that has captivated generations. Fans of both the Phantom of the Opera musical and novel, as well as YA retellings such as Marissa Meyer’s Cinder, will devour RoseBlood."

That's a long description, but what do you think? Are you sold?

I was sold just b/c of The Phantom of the Opera connection.  However, I was definitely disappointed as I started reading the book.  

RoseBlood by A.G. Howard gets 2 out of 5 stars in my book review.  This book is slow; it was painfully slow at times.  Some chapters are excessively detailed and drag along.  Other chapters merely touch on an important detail, like Rune's grandma trying to kill her multiple times, but don't give more explanation to it.  It seemed like Howard wrote too much on the unimportant aspects and didn't explain the character developing moments. 

I also felt there were just too many ridiculous, cheesy, or predictable aspects of the story for me to consider this book a quality read.  For example, it's ridiculous to think a boarding school in modern times would have no computers, cell phones, or technology of any kind.  I thought the whole "twin flame" split soul thing was cheesy and odd.  From the beginning, when you learn about Rune's gift, you know she is of course going to win the best singer role at the school and she is of course is going to be a cool girl even though she isn't nice to people.  

Really, I feel the story ideas, like Splintered and RoseBlood, Howard has are great, but the execution just lacks for me.  The lack of character development and the uneven pace/flow of the story is disappointing and a turn-off.  

I will say there is a possibility that I am just getting too old for some YA/Teen Reads.  However, I'd like to think that'll never be the case b/c I am so young at heart.  ;)

What did you think of RoseBlood?  If you are looking for an hilarious read, with some language and spoilers, check out this one on Goodreads. 

I may have high expectations when it comes to musicals and literature, but I feel there's nothing wrong with always seeking out the best.  

Happy paranormal Phantom of the Opera reading!

      

January OwlCrate Classic Remix gets 3 Stars {ya lit subscription box}

Once a month a cute little brown box arrives on my door; it is full of goodies inside and a new book to read.  I like to think it's an owl that delivered it, but it never comes at breakfast when the House Elves are making breakfast. ;)  Though, when my white truck delivery man drops the package at my door it is definitely a glorious day.  I love when my OwlCrate comes in the mail. 

January's box was themed Classic Remix and I gave the box as a whole 3 out of 5 stars.  it was an okay box, but nothing that blew my mind or I was super excited about.  There was some delicious smelling soap, but I rarely use bar soap.  This box also contained a calendar, tea, magnet, bookmark, and the book RoseBlood by A.G. Howard. 

I think the items in this box that I enjoy the most is the magnet and bookmark, b/c their design is beautiful. I feel Sweet Sequels did a great job creating a creative and original Phantom of the Opera magnet.  Plus, that Etsy shop has an amazing Harry Potter quilt that I am currently drooling over. It is amazing!  I also think the sturdy cardstock watercolor bookmark from Lexy Olivia is simple and beautiful, and her Etsy shop says they are all handmade.  Wow! 

The calendar by Obvious State is cool and well designed, but I just don't have a great place to put it.  The soap, by TeaSoapBooks, is in the shape of an open book.  It is super cute and smells amazing; I just wish I used bar soap.  The tea, by First Edition Tea Co, is a mint herbal tea and it is inspired by The Little Prince.  I love that book and love that their teas are based on books.  Though, I keep forgetting to try the tea b/c I am in love with my apple cider vinegar tea right now.  Oh it is yummy!

Finally, the whole reason for the subscription box is the young adult literature book.  January's book was RoseBlood by A.G. Howard.  It is a continuation of sort of The Phantom of the Opera.  I was actually incredibly excited for this book b/c I love The Phantom of the Opera.   I haven't been a huge fan of Howard's work in the past, but that didn't even sway my excitement for this book.

Besides the book, every OwlCrate box includes a letter from the author and a signature sticker.  I like those little touches.  It's fun!  

This may not have been my favorite box, and I probably wouldn't have spent the $30 on it had I known how I was going to feel about the book, but yet I don't regret the box either.  Does that make any sense at all?  

The book review of RoseBlood will be on the blog tomorrow.  Check back tomorrow!  

I am still loving my OwlCrate subscription box, but I am definitely intrigued with the OwlCrate Jr. boxes with a middle grade fiction book and fandom.  Those boxes are geared toward 8-12 year olds.  I may have to try it out one month to see what I think.  

I know there are several subscription boxes out there, but I don't know all of them.   Do you get any?  Which ones are your favorite?  

Happy subscription box mail and happy book reading! 

My Lady Jane gets 4.5 Stars {ya lit, historical fiction, fantasy}

I wasn't sure if I was going a little crazy, hadn't had enough sleep, or the latest book I finished was captivating.  To be honest, it's probably a little of them all, but for sanity sake I'll just say that My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows was a well writing fabulously fun story.  

It's not every day you look at a bird and think Edian, aka a person, that turns into an animal. However, after walking out of Physical Therapy one day last week Edian came to mind after seeing a bird on my car.  

I give My Lady Jane 4.5 out of 5 stars.  This book has great character development, the writing is funny and well paced, and the story is creative, interesting, and unique.  Plus, I am really baffled and impressed that three different authors wrote this story.  The writing seemed quite cohesive, and that is usually not the case when it comes to multiple authors. The only way I think they pulled it off so seamless was having each author write the different chapters from the different character viewpoints.  However, the writing style seemed all very similar.  Basically, I was impressed.  

Overall, this story is a fun read.  My Lady Jane is definitely a stretch to be called a historical fiction, but I actually loved the stretch and the creative twist on the history of the English Tudor time.  Any one high school age and up, boys and girls alike, could enjoy this story if they have an interest in fantasy and/or alternative history stories with humor and romance thrown in there as well.  

This is a clean read with no language, but there is a situation where characters are naked for a time after changing form from an animal.  They also mention love and sex, but the use the word "consummate" and refer to it being a "very special hug."

There were many times in reading this story that I laughed out loud and truly enjoyed the creativity.  The narrator notes are fun and don't take away from the story.  Some of the notes told the reader that people could die, or them being the type of narrators that wouldn't kill a dog.  I like that Jane at the end picked a frying pan to fight guards and others in the tower; it reminded me of the movie Tangled.  I thought it was funny when the author wrote that Edward was the inventor of the arm stretch over a girl's shoulder.  I found it interesting how the author included why Mary was known as Bloody Mary got her name, and that she turned into a Donkey aka an Ass to never be seen again.  Really, the entire book was witty and fun, but yet it still taught me more about the English Tudors.  

The only reason I took off a half a star in my ratings was because I found a typo/editing mishap on page 458.  It says "who win will" when it should read as "who will win."  I feel that if I find an error in the editing that the editors went too fast and that does reflect on the story in my view.  

Amazon has the following book review from School Library Journal: 

"In real life, Edward VI and Lady Jane Grey died young in 16th-century England. Here, Edward and Jane get another chance at happiness thanks to the irrepressible imaginations of the authors. Adventure, intrigue, humor, and romance abound—so, too, does high fantasy. England is a place where people (including royalty) are either EÐians (those who can shape-shift) or Verities (those who cannot). Because many Verities believe EÐian magic is evil, they set about to obliterate it. EÐians retaliate. Also, someone keeps poisoning the king's food. The plot, then, involves Edward, Jane, and their allies trying to figure out how to keep peace in the kingdom, find out who is poisoning the king's food, and restore Edward to the throne (he is presumed dead and gads about incognito for part of the book). EÐian "facts" are woven in with such subtle assurance that they come across as a genuine part of English history. For instance, the year the volatile Henry VIII discovered his leonine animal form and devoured the court jester is known in the kingdom's collective memory as the Year of the Lion. Wisecracks are prevalent, which would be grating after a while if the characters did not fairly sparkle with the complete array of honest human qualities. Readers will need to know the basic backstory of Lady Jane Grey and Edward VI. VERDICT A great choice for those who enjoy lighthearted, alternative history adventures and romance."

Though, I disagree with the end.  Readers do not need to know any backstory; you may actually enjoy it more if you don't know the backstory.   

Have you read My Lady Jane?  What did you think? 

Happy Humorous Alternative History Young Adult reading!  

    
This book came with one of my Owlcrate boxes last summer.  For my review of that box click here. 

Heartless gets 3.5 Stars {Fantasy, Fractured Fairy Tale} {YA Lit}

Heartless is the Wicked of Alice in Wonderland.  Heartless tells the story of how the Queen of Hearts becomes the cruel "heartless" Queen of Hearts.  

Personally, I love fractured fairy tales and fairy tale retellings.  I have reviewed a number of them on here, and given high marks.  To be honest, I had high hopes this book would be fantastic b/c a lot of the books I get from OwlCrate are great. However, a lot of people, especially YA lit fans, love Marissa Meyer.  I personally think her ideas are great, but she's never been an author that has really spoken to me. J.K Rowling, Sarah Dessen, John Green are a few authors that I really like.   

PS- The pictures of Heartless with the white covers are the ones from the November OwlCrate subscription boxes.  If you look at the book on Amazon it has a black cover.  I think it is really cool that the OwlCrate books are unique. The below quote and the letter from Marissa Meyer was also in the box.  It was a cool box, and I am still a fan of OwlCrate. 
     

Heartless by Marissa Meyer gets 3.5 out of 5 stars in my book review. 

Basically, I just thought Heartless was okay.  I like the story of how Catherine became the Queen of Hearts and how she became so brutal and "heartless."  I liked the connection and the background on many of the Wonderland characters we all know from Lewis Carroll's story.  I like the reason behind why the Queen of Hearts will have nothing to do with white roses.  All in all, I liked the book; it is an okay story of a cool concept.  However, it wasn't executed as well as I had hoped.

I did love that Catherine, was a baker.  At the beginning of the book she talked about baking a lemon tart and the need to make it look good.  Baking a treat that is delicious and looks amazing speaks to my baker food blogger's heart.  Rarely do I read a story about a character that feels so similar to baking as I do.    

One of my biggest qualms with Heartless was the fact that it was a plot driven love story more than a character driven story.  The concept of Heartless is how the Queen became the Queen, but yet it didn't dive into her mind and thoughts like a book of this concept should in my opinion.  

I also felt the book was drawn out and moved a bit too slow.  I struggle with drawn out slow reads; my ADD struggles with that.  All in all, it was just okay.  Nothing fantastic, but I've never been a huge Meyer fan so maybe that was expected.  

I'd love to hear what you think.  Did you read it?  What would you rate it?  According to Goodreads and Amazon I am in the minority in my thinking so I wouldn't be surprised if you felt differently. 

Just to give you a better idea of the story line I've copied Amazon's book description. 

"Long before she was the terror of Wonderland, she was just a girl who wanted to fall in love. Catherine may be one of the most desired girls in Wonderland, and a favorite of the unmarried King of Hearts, but her interests lie elsewhere. A talented baker, all she wants is to open a shop with her best friend. But according to her mother, such a goal is unthinkable for the young woman who could be the next queen.

Then Cath meets Jest, the handsome and mysterious court joker. For the first time, she feels the pull of true attraction. At the risk of offending the king and infuriating her parents, she and Jest enter into an intense, secret courtship. Cath is determined to define her own destiny and fall in love on her terms. But in a land thriving with magic, madness, and monsters, fate has other plans.

In her first stand-alone teen novel, the New York Times-bestselling author dazzles us with a prequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland."

Happy Fractured Wonderland Fairy Tale reading!