ARC Review: All Our Worst Ideas by Vicky Skinner

Good morning everyone! 

I am sharing a new review for a title that releases next week - All Our Worst Ideas by Vicky Skinner! It is my stop on the blog tour and I definitely recommend adding this on to your TBR.

RATING: 4.35 stars

RELEASE: August 11, 2020

REVIEW:

Amy has key plans for senior year: getting accepted to her dream school, becoming valedictorian, and earning a prestigious scholarship in order to afford tuition. Being dumped by her boyfriend and taking a part-time job at a local record store were not in the plans, but sometimes you cannot plan for everything. 

Her co-worker, Oliver, is quiet, not interested in attending college - despite his mother's full enthusiasm on post-secondary. But he has been enjoying getting to know Amy during their shifts. As Amy's perfect plan starts to fall apart, she needs to decide what and who is worth fighting for, or she will risk losing it all.

This novel was a pleasant surprise for me! I loved Amy's dedication on her dream school, she knows its her ticket out of Kansas City. It was enjoyable to see her priorities shift as she met someone who appreciated the real Amy. I loved Oliver's character, he opened himself to love, and stood up for what he believed in. Petra was a great side character, and the scenes with her supporting Amy despite their competition for valedictorian were some of my favourites. Overall, I definitely recommend this one for YA contemporary fans, its a perfect summer read.

Thank you FierceReads for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Summer 2020 Penguin Teen ARC Reviews

Good afternoon! I am excited to share two more Summer 2020 ARC reviews, from Penguin Teen Canada!


Unravel the Dusk by Elizabeth Lim

RATING: 4.25 stars

RELEASE: July 7, 2020

REVIEW:

In this fast-paced sequel to Spin the Dawn, Maia is stuck in a kingdom threatened by war, and Edan is still gone. As she slower shifts closer and closer to full demon, Maia has to work to save her kingdom, her friends, and herself, before it's too late.

I really liked this one, especially after enjoying the first book as well. There was growth in Maia's character, and how she handled situations, even through struggling to remain herself. I liked the added political intrigue in this novel, but did crave the romance aspects that Spin the Dawn featured. The setting and kingdom that is described throughout is also beautiful and easy to envision, and was one of my favourite parts of this duology. I highly recommend this series!

Review on Goodreads


The Court of Miracles by Kester Grant

RATING: 4 stars

RELEASE: June 2nd, 2020

REVIEW:

Claiming a mix of Les Misérables and Six of Crows, Court of Miracles is the name of the nine underworld criminal guilds that rule the dark-side of Paris in 1828, following a failed French Revolution. Eponine (Nina) Thénardier is a cat burglar for the Thieves Guild, and spends nights stealing food and valuables while keeping an eye on her naïve adopted sister, Cosette (Ettie). When Ettie attracts the eye of the Tiger - the most ruthless lord in the Guild, Nina races to keep her safe - as Nina's own sister had done years ago for her. As a battle between the Guilds, French royalty, and a brewing rebellion looms, Nina must sacrifice everything to save who she loves.

Despite a slightly slow start, I enjoyed this novel and its dark historical story. I liked the mix of mystery, royalty, and scheming, in the historic Paris setting, which added a level of suspense. Nina was easy to root for as a main character, and I enjoyed reading about how her plans developed. I did find the jumps in time a bit confusing at times, which made it a bit harder to follow. Overall, it was great YA novel.
P.S. the covers on the various editions for Court of Miracles are all GORGEOUS.

Review on Goodreads


* Thank you Penguin Teen Canada for the advanced copies, in exchange for honest reviews *

ARC Review: The Life and (Medieval) Times of Kit Sweetly by Jamie Pacton

Good morning everyone!

Today I am sharing my review for The Life and (Medieval) Times of Kit Sweetly by Jamie Pacton - what a fun girl-power book this was!

RATING: 4.25 ⭐

RELEASE: May 5th, 2020

REVIEW:

Kit Sweetly works as a wrench - aka waitress, at a local medieval-themed restaurant. She dreams of becoming a knight like her brother - and has the skills and knowledge to make it happen. However, the company has a guys-only policy for knights, and her uncle, the owner of this location, is not wavering from those rules. When she takes the place for her brother after he's injured, her identity reveal at the show leads to internet fame - and trouble. The Girl Knight must join forces with fellow wrenches to burst through the stereotypes, if they are not fired first.

I really enjoyed this one - the girl-power vibes were a great pick-me-up, and Kit's go big attitude was relatable and easy to connect with. The breaking through of stereotypes was enticing to cheer for, whether it was based on gender or race, and was written very well. I thought the characters were good, and liked Kit's commitment to the cause, but first, her friends and family.

I think contemporary fans will rejoice in Kit's quest - to become a knight, and make a difference.

Link to Goodreads Review

* Thank you Manda Group for the Advanced Copy in exchange for an honest review *

ARC Reviews: Penguin Teen Spring 2020

The next 2 reviews I am sharing are Penguin Teen Spring 2020 titles! Both are contemporaries and by experienced authors. Thank you Penguin Teen Canada for these advanced copies in exchange for an honest review!


Time of Our Lives by Emily Wibberley & Austin Siegemund-Broka
[read in February]

RELEASE: April 21, 2020

RATING: 4.25 ⭐


REVIEW: This novel follows two high school seniors, Fitz and Juniper, and their adventures along a college tour road trip after meeting at their first tour location. Fitz is anxious for his single mother's Alzheimer's to worsen, and cannot imagine even attending college. In contrast, Juniper has one foot our the door and is looking forward to getting far away from her loud and hectic household. As sparks fly for these two, they start to recognize what they may be missing out on by being a bit too narrow-minded.

I really enjoyed following these two characters throughout this journey. I liked their connection and brewing romance. And the entire story seemed so relatable, it was a fast read but it was not too rushed for me. The one element I did not love was the ending. I was expecting a bit more, or even an epilogue, but instead it fell flat for me. I hoped for a bit more insight on the outcome of this duo's relationship. Perhaps the finished copy will include one?

I have really enjoyed every title that this author duo writes, and I look forward to reading more of their cute novels in the future!

Link to Goodreads Review


The Jewel Thief by Jeannie Mobley
[read in January]

RELEASE: May 26, 2020

RATING: 4.25 ⭐

REVIEW:


This story begins with Juliet, who is imprisoned for stealing the Hope Diamond from King Louis XIV. She has only the night to recall the events leading up to the night to the scribe across the cell, Rene, the man she loves but lost. She's reeling from her father's failure but still plans to use this night to fight for her life, before her sentencing the next day.

I really enjoy heists and royalty themes so this one first interested me from the synopsis. One of the most unique aspects of the novel was the writing style. The story goes between present tense in her cell, and the past as she recounts the months leading up to the theft. In the beginning this was a bit confusing, but I did not mind it all as the story evolved. The last third was definitely the highest stakes, and I am so thrilled with how the story ended. I liked the characters, the historical elements, and the plot, and will be recommending this one to YA historical fiction fans.

Link to Goodreads Review

ARC Review: House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas

While being stuck in this stay-cation, it is the perfect time to get caught up with ARC reviews! I am starting out with my thoughts on House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J Maas.

RATING: 5 stars ⭐

REVIEW:
This March release adult fantasy story follows two bold characters as they work together to stop a murder from destroying Crescent City. Bryce is working to avenge her best friend's murder 2 years ago, soon learning Danika kept a lot of secrets. Hunt is a powerful fallen angel working on his end of a bargain to ensure his freedom. As their attraction towards each other increases, so does the body count, and they will need to use everything they got to make it out alive.


This novel was SO FREAKING GOOD. I adored it, like almost every SJM title I've read. I laughed, I cried, I worried, and I was hooked throughout. I cannot stop smiling as I type this LOL. The characters were amazing, I adored the brewing romance between Bryce and Hunt (pretty kick-butt names btw). The fantasy world was dark, dangerous, and riveting to read about. The suspense, the action, and the plot twists had me on the edge of my seat as I read.

Overall, I loved it (as you can probably tell haha), and cannot wait for the next one!

* Thank you so much Raincoast Books for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review *

Blog Tour: Wicked As You Wish

Good morning everyone! I am very excited for the opportunity to share today's blog tour stop for the Wicked As You Wish Blog Tour. Happy release day to this title, and hope you enjoy!

Book Details:

Title: Wicked As You Wish
Author: Rin Chupeco
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Release Date: March 3, 2019
Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy


Synopsis:

Many years ago, the magical Kingdom of Avalon was left desolate and encased in ice when the evil Snow Queen waged war on the powerful country. Its former citizens are now refugees in a world mostly devoid of magic. Which is why the crown prince and his protectors are stuck in…Arizona.

Prince Alexei, the sole survivor of the Avalon royal family, is in hiding in a town so boring, magic doesn’t even work there. Few know his secret identity, but his friend Tala is one of them. Tala doesn’t mind—she has secrets of her own. Namely, that she’s a spellbreaker, someone who negates magic.


Then hope for their abandoned homeland reignites when a famous creature of legend, and Avalon’s most powerful weapon, the Firebird, appears for the first time in decades. Alex and Tala unite with a ragtag group of new friends to journey back to Avalon for a showdown that will change the world as they know it.

My Review: 4/5 ⭐

This magical story draws readers with its quirky characters and mysterious magic system. I loved the witty group of characters and intertwining of traditional fairy-tales and folklore throughout. There was diverse characters, fun cultural elements, and

I was a bit confused regarding the characters and world building at the beginning, which made it a bit harder to get into. I liked Zoe's character the most actually, as I found her to be strong and relatable, and easy to root for throughout the novel. At times, some of the other characters, like Alex, I found annoying, but the humour from Ken, West, and Loki helped make up for it.

The second half of the book really picked, and featured the adventure and high stakes that I crave in a fantasy novel. I think readers will like the different fantasy world building that happens, and the whimsical flair throughout. I am interested in seeing how the story continues in the next book.

* Thank you Raincoast Books for the opportunity to be apart of the blog tour *

February 2020 ARC Reviews

Good morning friends! I am back with some ARC reviews - both of these titles published last week and I am excited to share my thoughts with you.


All the Stars & Teeth by Adalyn Grace

RELEASE: February 4, 2020

RATING: 4.5 stars

REVIEW:


This novel is a dark fantasy of blood, magic, and brewing rebellion. Amora is the princess of Visidia, an island kingdom, and ready to prove she's fit for the throne. But when the demonstration does not go as planned, she makes a bargain with a mysterious pirate to flee. In order to prove herself, and help the treacherous pirate, she will have to face monsters, bargain with mermaids, and battle against a dangerous new magic. Otherwise, she could lose the crown, and her kingdom, forever.


I absolutely loved this story, it was different than I expected and I read it very quickly. The lush fantasy vibes throughout were engaging and I really liked the unique setting and descriptions. The book picked up early on, and I was quickly absorbed in the story. Amora and Bastian's banter was so amusing, and I really liked how their relationship worked out. The romance was slow burn and not overwhelming, which I appreciated. Last thing - THAT COVER THOUGH, absolutely stunning!

* Thank you FierceReads for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *


Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertali & Aisha Saeed

RELEASE: February 4, 2020

RATING: 4.5 stars

REVIEW:


Following two characters, this novel creates a unique combination of political discourse and YA contemporary romance. Jaime is helping his cousin by volunteering for his state senate candidate. He is much more inclined with staying behind the scenes, until he meets Maya. Maya is a former childhood friend, but would much rather sulk inside since her summer has not been good so far. Between her best-friend ditching her and now her parents are separating, she does not see the point in political canvassing. However, sparks fly when these two start going door to door, and with the election, and their relationship, becoming more intense, things are just heating up.

This novel surprised me in so many ways. I absolutely adored the political atmosphere, a behind the scenes look on the senate campaign, and it's extremely high relevance to today's society. In Canada, one particular province, Quebec, has taken a bill to ban religious symbols in some public sector jobs, which I think it is absurd. That was another factor why I think I enjoyed this book so much, it was easy to relate to, especially with challenges we are facing today. Back to Jamie and Maya, their cute and shy romance was adorable, perfect for any Becky Albertalli fans. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in some casual high school romance with political undertones.

* Thank you HCC Frenzy for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *

February 2020 ARC Reviews

Good morning everyone! Who's ready for the weekend?

Today's reviews are for two of my most anticipated 2020 reads - and both have STUNNING covers, might I add haha. Hope you enjoy!


The Stars We Steal by Alexa Donne

RATING: 4.35 stars

RELEASE DATE: February 4, 2020

REVIEW:


Lou's hunt for a suitor to save her family's failing finances takes a tough turn when her ex-fiance shows up for the Valg season. Elliott is now one of the most sought after bachelors at the event, but is he here to help Lou, or ruin her once and for all?

In short, this is novel can be described as a 'Persuasion' by Jane Austen retelling meets the Bachelor, in space. Going further, it had a bit of everything, which I think will draw in a variety of readers. There was romance (enemies to lovers fans, this one is for you!), sci-fi (it takes place IN SPACE), and some mystery.

I was entertained throughout this entire story. The characters were diverse, witty, and amusing to follow. At times, Lou could be a tad irritating, but her moments with Elliott were great. The action fan in me was rooting for that underlying mystery, and the moments of rebellion from some of the characters and the plot satisfied that.

I definitely recommend this one to contemporary and sci-fans, and I look forward to reading Alexa Donne's other novel now!

Link to Goodreads review

* Thank you Raincoast Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *



The Queen's Assassin by Melissa de la Cruz 

RATING: 4.25 stars

RELEASE DATE: February 4, 2020


REVIEW:

Caledon - the Queen's assassin, bound by blood to return the missing Deian Scrolls, a record of magical history and knowledge, stolen many years ago by a bold and rebellious group.

Shadow - trains to join the Guild like her aunts, and become a feared assassin. Meeting Caledon, let alone grow close to him, was not part of the plan.

But as their feelings grow, so does the danger around them, and the kingdom they strive to protect. This first novel in a new series will have readers drawn into its lush fantasy setting as they fight for their lives, and each other.

This novel hooked me from the first chapter. I was engrossed in the characters, and loved the alternating POVs. The writing style was different, with the first person and third person mix, but I did not find it too hard to overlook. I know there are mixed reviews on this title, and I understand some of the concerns.  I unfortunately was disappointed with the ending of the novel. I had really liked the fantasy elements and secrets until then, and while I suspected the plot twist from only a few chapters in, I did not like Shadow's decision at the very end. The ending seemed rushed, and left a bit too many questions. I thought Caledon deserved way better than that, and I felt bad for him. However, if this ends up shifting in the next in the series, then I might change my mind.

I think younger YA readers will really enjoy this one, and I am excited to see how the series continues.

Link to Goodreads review

* Thank you PenguinTeen Canada for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *