Everneath by Brodi Ashton

WARNING: Gifs overload and preaches. 

4.5 stars

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she's returned--to her old life, her family, her boyfriend--before she's banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance--and the one person she loves more than anything. But there's just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki's time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's queen.
Everneath is a captivating story of love, loss, and immortality from debut author Brodi Ashton.

Goodreads

Series: Everneath #1

Published January 24th 2012 by HarperCollins / Balzer + Bray        

First off, the cover. Yes, hawt damn so beautiful. Those swirls had me at the first glance. Very suitable for the mythology-driven story. It’s a beauty to be deserved by my bookshelves. But the days when readers fear awesome covers where horrible monsters hid are a bit gone, cause my damsels, Everneath is a poignant, enchanting and heartbreaking retelling of Hades and Persephone’s/ Orpheus and Eurydice’s  story.

Everneath’s one appealing quality are the characters. The characters’ relationships were woven with thoroughness that pulls you in to the story. It was the feels, my damsels. A book’s ability to make the reader feel what she’s expecting is great but to make the reader go beyond that expectation? Exceptional. My thoughts about love may vary so much but I consider it as enduring. If only it’s possible also for enduring love to live forever in the world, we’ll be happy. And I thank Nikki Beckett and Jack Caputo for breaking free from the barrier of what’s often instant in YA, instant attraction and all that sh*t (do pardon my French). 

In the beginning, I had numerous issues with Nikki Beckett. She was an idiot, a klutz and gullible vetch.  What she did was worse than running away from home. It was the totality of the consequences that made it unfair to her family, friends and of course, to Jack. And all great heroines are like that in the start. They come from Hell (literally) and they emerge victorious to fix what was broken. Hard times make us strong when we have no other option but to be. What I adore about Nikki is that she did not give up. The love triangle was discreet, Cole oftentimes non-existent but it was a smart move. It highlighted Nikki and Jack’s awesomeness. But when Cole appears sayin this,

“Sometimes…” He paused and squeezed his eyes shut. “Sometimes our hearts … crack a little.”  

                                               *All Hell broke loose. Just sayin.

Let’s go then to the clever mythological twist. DAUGHTERS OF PERSEPHONE. They exist! I thought only Daughters of Aphrodite are here on earth. Kidding, my pretty damsels! The mystery of the bracelet was half-baked so I'm waiting... ;))

                                             

                                                  *Daughters of Aphrodite.. xD

The concept of the relevance of time running out was confusing for me at the beginning. Sometimes, I found myself flipping back to make sure my the images in my imagination about the story flow are on the right track. Haha. The time in the book gives you a certain kind of urgency to meet what was on the end of that journey during the last hundred pages. It was a brilliant and creative concept that added to the strong aspects of the entire book.

Now onto the boys, my favorite topic.

Cole Stockton: I want to know him more. Not just the jerk Everliving side. I don't want a one-sided argument because I know it'll spoil the hot bad guy persona. But my current reaction to him is... 

*NO PITCHFORKS PLEASE, YOU GUYS.

Will Caputo: Jack's brother is awesome in his own way. The fact that he help our desperate lovebirds in their last stand was really endearing. Plus ALL his convos when he's drunk? PRICELESS. 

Will noticed me for the first time. “Hey. A girl.” He studied my face for a moment, and then he gasped and stopped walking. “Nikki Beckett. You’d better get out of here before my brother sees you. He’d freak.”

He stared at me again. “Hey, you look familiar. 

Hey, Jack, ’member that girl—?”

“Yes,” Jack interrupted.

“You know, the one who totally messed you 

up—”

“Yes,” Jack cut him off again. His eyes met 

mine, and he gave me an apologetic grin. I felt

my own lips turning up. 

Will pulled up short. “Uh-oh.”

JACK FREAKING CAPUTO: The entire damseldom needs a man like you. Ya hear me? WE NEED YOU. So you better *sniffs*..you, b-be-bettter...WAAAAAAAAAAH.

                                            *My reaction exactly.

Overall, read Everneath and for once my damsel, feel the existence of ENDURING LOVE. 

“It’s always been you, Becks. Nothing will change that, no matter how much time has
passed.” He glanced down. “No matter if you feel the same way or not. You know that, right?”
I shook my head slowly, wanting desperately to believe him, but not sure if I could.
“How can you not see that? Everyone sees it.”- Jack Caputo

Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock

WARNING  Bad words and a little bit mention of Bella in New Moon. Not enough to poison anyone or is it…

 Mackenzie and Amy were best friends. Until Amy was brutally murdered.
Since then, Mac’s life has been turned upside down. She is being haunted by Amy in her dreams, and an extremist group called the Trackers has come to Mac’s hometown of Hemlock to hunt down Amy’s killer: A white werewolf.
Lupine syndrome—also known as the werewolf virus—is on the rise across the country. Many of the infected try to hide their symptoms, but bloodlust is not easy to control.
Wanting desperately to put an end to her nightmares, Mac decides to investigate Amy’s murder herself. She discovers secrets lurking in the shadows of Hemlock, secrets about Amy’s boyfriend, Jason, her good pal Kyle, and especially her late best friend. Mac is thrown into a maelstrom of violence and betrayal that puts her life at risk.
Kathleen Peacock’s thrilling novel is the first in the Hemlock trilogy, a spellbinding urban fantasy series filled with provocative questions about prejudice, trust, lies, and love.

Goodreads
Series: Hemlock #1
Published May 8th 2012 by Katherine Tegen Books

Let me start this review by saying that dear Hemlock was the very first werewolf story I approved.  It was poignant, spine-tingling and bittersweet. While I was reading the beginning of the book, it was so depressing and I had the urge to stop. Why? Because it’s in my nature to avoid novels that will choke me with angst and anguish. The double A that sometimes scares the sh*t outta me. But because all the people around my world are so hyped up about it, I indulge myself further. And guess what, damsels? I actually like it. The plot of the story was both unique and quite predictable. Predictable because…


Question: WHO IS MORE DANGEROUS, A HUMAN OR A WEREWOLF?
Audience: Definitely idiotic.
Me: Can you just answer the freaking question?
Audience: Duh!? A werewolf, of course.
*Mac comes running in holding a banner that says *
“PRO-WEREWOLF. I LOVE KYLE BECAUSE HE’S MORE DANGEROUS. “
Me:

But don’t mind me. I’m crazy. In fact, I’m Team Kyle. The greatest attribute that Hemlock can offer to its readers is the complexity of the characters’ relationships to each other. It makes the story unique. Plus the worldbuilding. And the way Kathleen Peacock conveys the voices is really stirring. I really hated the Trackers (how very original *insert dry sarcasm*) to the bones. No, make that to the bone marrow. The plot is centered on Amy Walsh, Mac’s bestfriend and Jason’s late girlfriend. It focused on her gruesome murder and the werewolves. She’s been plaguing Mac with nightmares and honestly, it scared me.  Few times I looked around the room for any signs of Amy. I was paranoid. I praise Hemlock for that. See, it sparked certain reactions and provoke my thoughts according to what I tweeted (I was flooding Twitterverse while reading). That was halfway through the book, though.

The heroine Mackenzie Catherine is a slobbering mess of guilt in the beginning a headstrong and a very loyal bestfriend. She was really devoted in finding out the culprit in Amy’s murder. What really made me respect this girl is that she views things fairly. Mac always weighs the good and the bad equally. Kudos.

Yes, a werewolf had killed Amy. But I couldn’t blame an entire group of people—even if that would have been easier. The only person to blame was the one who had killed her. One person. One werewolf.

Cringe-worthy comparison of Mac in Hemlock and Bella in New Moon that I noticed. Nothing really important but still…*shrugs*

Mackenzie:  Trey and Serena were both infected and the world I thought I had known was unraveling. Was everyone in town a werewolf and I just didn’t get the memo?

Bella: What kind of place was this? Could a world really exist where ancient legends went wandering around the borders of tiny, insignificant towns, facing down mythical monsters?

*Kidding! xD*

Now my most favorite part: The boys.  Jason is the tortured rich boy here who is arrogant.  And an ASSHOLE.  He joined the ASSHOLE Trackers to avenge Amy’s death. This by the way, turned into a complete disaster. *evil laughter in the background*

Kyle is the hot and sexy werewolf whose shifting scenes always makes me erupt like a freaking Mt. Krakatoa. I’m so biased *covers face* He is the sole reason why I rated Hemlock 3.5 stars in Goodreads. The romance is there alright and it was just the right dosage to not obscure the original intent of the characters. But it did serve a pretty important role in the story. 

*I thought he got over this already *wails* Why, oh, why?*

The ending voiced out my greatest fears.  And I definitely flew into a rage upon knowing what HE did. I shred one hanky in the process. Using my teeth. Now it’ll be one of those books again. I thought it was different. I thought Mac finally chose the One.  How wrong I am. 

*me before the hanky shredding*

To wrap it up, Hemlock is a real page-turner full of the realistic views of humanity mixed with the escapism provided by the werewolf lore. (WTH am I babbling?)Definitely one of those books in the werewolf trend worth reading. Since I stayed at 12 AM to finish it up, I do believe it’s enough to prove that this book will probably rock more of the readers out there.

“You can't lose what you never had.”              

 Jason straightened his shirt. “What’s ‘chauvinistic’ mean?”“It’s in the dictionary next to a picture of your father,” muttered Kyle.

Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday

WARNING. Abuse of the word laughing. Dryness.

Hartley Grace Featherstone is having a very bad day. First she finds out that her boyfriend is cheating on her with the president of the Herbert Hoover High School Chastity Club. Then he’s pegged as the #1 suspect in a murder. And if that weren’t enough, now he’s depending on Hartley to clear his name. 
But as much as Hartley wouldn’t mind seeing him squirm, she knows he’s innocent, and she’s the only one who can help him. Along with her best friend, Sam, and the school’s resident Bad Boy, Chase, Hartley starts investigating on her own. But as the dead bodies begin to pile up, the mystery deepens, the suspects multiply, and Hartley begins to fear that she may be the killer’s next victim.

Goodreads

Series: Deadly Cool #1

Published October 11th 2011 by HarperTeen

Hilariously quirky, amazingly awesome and impressively well-written, Deadly Cool is one of my favorite reads of all time. It snagged my kindergarten level attention span at the first line.

Scenario One. Johanna while reading from page 1 to 100.

Scenario Two. Johanna while reading pages 101 till the end.

*How a respectable damsel should laugh. She’s seriously laughing, I swear. No, really, I’m just covering up my horrible laughing figure. XD*

*Indeed. Very well-said, me-myself-and-I made meme

It leans on the lighter side of mystery and I was glued on reading. Except for the few moments of taking a break from laughing too much, I was pretty much planted in front of the comp, readin’ Deadly Cool. And yes, the hot guy. Chase. Bad Boy with a surprisingly poetic side *swoons* and has a knack in “capturing moments”. There was one delectable scene involving six packs that would totally tempt you to read *sly smirk*

The plot was very realistic and you can definitely relate to the characters especially Sam, the EPIC bestfriend. The author’s writing style is compelling and the voice of the characters really suited the ambience of the book.  Even if it’s a little predictable, it didn’t lessen the awesomeness and before I crown Hartley as my most favorite heroine of the year 2011, I want to assure you, my lovely damsels, that I fortunately didn’t die laughing. Just so you know XD. The effing censoring really undone me.  It’s a cute and entertaining detective story full of hilariousness and eventful evidences that would keep you guessing who the real killer is.

I dedicate this whole paragraph to point out some finer points on how I read Deadly Cool. I read it without minding the time. Without minding the things around me. For all I know, an earthquake was happening and I was still on my seat reading. The suspense will keep you craving for more and even though the romance here was quite lacking, Chase’ sexiness sufficed. I have no complaints. I rest my case. Miss Gemma Halliday, if you’re reading this, you’ve earned yourself another crazie. Hope you don’t mind.

The book is a must-read else I shove it to your pretty face. Kidding! I’ll attach this so that you won’t escape the web called Deadly Cool.    

                                      *A happy “PLEASE READ THE BOOK DANCE” from me*                                                                

P.S. Reviews on Deadly Cool are so minimal in Goodreads. Why? Awesome people, why?

P.S.S. Apologies for the dry review. As much as I wanted to put more life in it, when it’s raining, forget it. I’m more or less hibernating right now. And my brain is so sluggish. : | 

“Holy effing crap, Josh. You scared me half to death.”“Effing?”“We’re censoring now,” I explained.

 Okay, this was bad. I was officially a peeping Tom. Or a peepingHartley. Or whatever you wanted to call me.

Masque Of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin

WARNING.  Mild spoilers at the distance. And cats. 

 Everything is in ruins.
A devastating plague has decimated the population. And those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles to pieces around them.
So what does Araby Worth have to live for?
Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery make-up... and tantalizing ways to forget it all.
But in the depths of the club—in the depths of her own despair—Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club.
And Elliott, the wickedly smart aristocrat. Neither boy is what he seems. Both have secrets. Everyone does.And Araby may find something not just to live for, but to fight for—no matter what it costs her.

Goodreads
Series: Masque of the Red Death #1
Published April 24th 2012 by Harper Collins

The Masque of the Red Death contains a world in it that I never dared to imagine. Diseases as potent as fear and desperation were highlighted in this bleak and artistically gloomy book. Apparently, ever since I was a child (or spawn XD) I was always fascinated by balls, corsets and all those ostentatious finery. So I was expecting that I would thoroughly love the book plus the males, of course. Sadly, relating so much to Araby wasn’t enough to keep me grounded enough. Even if I can feel the heroine’s own sentiment and yes, I respected her because of the “vow”, there’s still something that lacked Masque. Definitely not the world building, hell, I’d give a thousand awards for Bethany Griffin for that feat alone but because it was so overshadowed by the dark desperation and grotesqueness caused by the plagues. And things like this aren’t exactly for me. I had enough of heavy depression to last me a lifetime, thank you. Oh, but I’m no hypocrite. I pictured myself doing what Araby does if I’m her. I like it when everything is fair. I salute the girl for her ways after her brother’s death. Except the drugs part. Unceremoniously passing out behind a curtain is cute but the “bed scene” with Will? I love that. Sincerely.

In the Steampunk aspects, it deserves a shining perfect score. But there are also foolish aspects with Araby that deserves a what- the- hell-did-you-just-agree-to-his-whims-that-easily reaction. Seriously, if I were her, I’d put up even the littlest resistance. Too bad I wasn’t her. I learn to love the characters especially (Hear! Hear! This is the first time I love someone besides the hottie) Elise and Henry, Will’s lil bro and sis. They are so straight-forward, adorable and honest. I would let your betrayal stunt slip away, Will. I understand it if your siblings are this irresistible. And Elliot, oh dear Elliot, I’m pulling my hair here. I can’t decide if you’re a to-be-avoided foreign object or a totally-huggable guy. The romance is killing me. I’m so frustrated who to choose. But I’m a lil biased with Will, the tattoo guy so…  

*pats Will’s back that soon turned to shameless rubbing*  

Oops, I gotta keep my hands to myself. The love triangle is very, very cunning. Indeed, I was taken aback. I knew there was one traitor but I didn’t expect it would be him. I was hurt. Ya know, I was rooting for him and all that I hate the other guy like how I hate cheese crap but then again, it was understandable (I think)

                                                               *EXACTLY*

The author’s writing style was like a sort of oasis after that “plague” called City of Bones (SOON!) It was engaging and the visualization is something I have to praise about the book. I loved it because I can smoothly read without frowning or wanting to bang my head to the comp desk. Oh well, I can survive the death of a few brains cells or so after that horror of COB. Eherm…so overall to you Poe fans out there if you’re dissatisfied by the shortness of his original work like the author, check out Masque of the Red Death. By the way, after seeing the acknowledgements, I was disoriented for a minute, freaking out because, hey, IS THAT REALLY ALL? So probably I need another Masque fix. It was one hell of a ride in a black cart and I like it. 

                                         *That was the ending???!!!

P.S. This is a one day read and review. To make it up for my slacking. Apologies for any missing point/s. 

He kisses me. Very gently, on the cheek.How tragic it is that my mask is off, and he’s just kissing my cheek.

          "Elliott loved her.” I stop breathing. After everything, how can this be what makes me cry?

Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout

WARNING. Hardcore fangirling and a flurry of gifs ahead. Keep distance from the screen.

In the beginning, there was…

                              

                                                    

                    And yeah, that’s me in all my different swooning glory. Adorable, no?

Starting over sucks.When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring.... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.And then he opened his mouth.Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his hand, well, something...unexpected happens. The hot alien living next door marks me.You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades. If I don't kill him first, that is.

Goodreads
Series: Lux #1
Expected publication: May 15th 2012 by Entangled Teen (first published November 29th 2011)

DAEMON BLACK IS THE LIFE OF A BOOK!

-Confessions of a shameless fangirl (aka Johanna)

Stunningly engrossing, intensely provocative and raving hot, Obsidian is a book where boredom is a forbidden thing. The sizzling romance is what fuels the urge to swoon, swoon and yeah, swoon some more.  It is every fangirl’s dream book. Because seriously, guys, it is nonstop scorching hot and dayum-ness sci-fi with the sexiest alien I’ve ever meet in my whole freaking existence. It definitely blew me away to the farthest planet where Daemon lived *smirks*

Katy is a book blogger  (Huzzaaahhhh!!) who is apparently vying for a top position in my “MOST ENVIABLE HEROINE OF THE CENTURY” list. I mean, c'mon, why is she--

*someone throws Daemon Black in*

KYAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

*melts into fangirl puddle*

*revives*

So he’s Daemon, alien HOTNESS PERSONIFIED. There was once a time while I was reading (or ravishing, either way works fine), I asked him through my screen, “Daemon, why are you such an asshole?” But damn Greek gods in Olympus! He’s the hottest asshole and jerk in the whole freaking Earth. Pardon my unsophistication, it’s healthy for a damsel to act like this sometimes. I’m really not into aliens but hell, this book gives me the tingles.

The plot is surprisingly interesting and it would draw you in as quick as lightning. Witty and sarcastic dialogues from Katy and Daemon plus the thrilling build up is what makes Obsidian a champion. By the way, it’s in Katy’s POV and we are literally seeing things in her eyes. Like THE Daemon. First look at him and bam! Hell, man you are definitely joining my harem this very minute!

Romance is a big factor in Obsidian what with Katy’s oh-so-sweet resistance to Daemon’s expert seduction (is it even legal to use this? XD). Absolutely to die for. Like you wanna experience the real deal yourself. Jennifer Armentrout has gained herself another stalker in disguise of a damsel *points at self* She writes scenes that make me feel like I am Katy. Heh! And of course, Daemon’s invincible love to Dee added about a million points from me. It is also advisable that while you are reading this book, you may fan yourself or hug a pillow at the same time. I did. I was giggling and LOL-ing every minute Kat and Daemon talk. The two main characters’ love-hate relationship never gets old. Reminds me of my own…*audience groans* Yeah, yeah, whatever. The concept of the Luxen (light) and Arum (darkness) has given a tasteful twist in this riveting book.

Obsidian is the physical evidence that triggers decadent thoughts and actions (squealing, drooling, screaming etc…) It will leave you yearning for more Katy and more (mooorre) Daemon. And warning, BE PREPARED TO BE DAEMON’S FANGIRL FOREVER!!!

P.S. Sorry for the abused words. : P

“Why are you such an ass?” The words came out before I could think twice.
“Everyone has to excel at something, right?”

Moving over her, against her, I loved the sound she made—a soft, wholly feminine murmur that scorched every piece of me. “You’re perfect for me,” I whispered in my own language. -Daemon

*Me after their kiss.

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

WARNING. Close to major spoilers ahead. On paragraph 2. Back off if you don't want to know. 

I know that this review won’t give justice to the awesomeness of the book but this is what I always feel when I read the Iron Knight. So when my father brought it from the bookstore, I was…

*My victory dance

My name—my True Name—is Ashallayn’ darkmyr Tallyn. I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her. My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…
To cold faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.
Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl—smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.With the unwelcome company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end—a quest to find a way to honor his vow to stand by Meghan's side.To survive in the Iron Realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. And along the way Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Goodreads
Series: The Iron Fey #4
Published October 26th 2011 by Harlequin TEEN

The Iron Knight is the OVERWHELMING, SPECTACULAR, EPIC TO THE nth DEGREE conclusion to the Iron Fey series. It is the book that is beyond the boundaries of my words. It totally blew me away mind, (sexy) body, and soul. I am not exaggerating (well maybe a little : )) This was bound to happen one or another. The progression of the author’s epicness is too much for my poor brain to bear.

Ash’s POV thus the title. Two characters were introduced again, this time with more depth and background. Fine! I just can’t review something without spoiling it, can I?  Ariella Tularyn, Ash’s past  love (or not) became their companion to the End of the World where he can gain a soul to be with Meghan in the Iron Realm. To be a mortal. Imagine that, from an immortal to a human, it’s amazing what love can do, I can attest to that. To y’all who had insta-hate on Ariella, that is very ungrateful : P Hell, I miss Meghan. And Big Bad Wolf is awesome. Hands down.

Moving on, describing the settings of the Iron Knight is an extremely arduous task. Simply put it this way, I was shell-shocked upon entering this deepest part of the Nevernever, thrown into this place without any preparations at all. Stupid me for not reading the guide at the back of the book. And by Jove! Only a few things shock me these days.

The urgency to read the book is unstoppable. Truth be told, I didn’t eat lunch and dinner just to finish reading. I viciously devoured it. Because it was magical and believable at the same time. Julie Kagawa’s writing style and world building is making me wonder whether she is an exiled author faery in disguise. *smirks*

The plot of the story is focused upon the different undertakings Ash had to make to earn a soul. A journey that unearthed his past, opened to the readers for the sole reason (I think) of convincing us that his sacrifices and sufferings is very well-deserved. And no, that did not deter me from fangirling still. Once a fangirl, always a fangirl.

The action, the drama, the comedy (PUCK I HEART YOU.SMOOCH,SMOOCH) and the romance is swirled in a harmonious mixture of words to form a remarkable jewel of a book. That is the Iron Knight, the surprisingly satisfying ending to the series that skyrocketed me to a horizon of imagination I embraced with my whole being. I would not forget this for a long, long time.

P.S So can I name my firstborn Ash or what? *giggles*

P.S.S I spent four freaking days mulling over this review. Don’t judge me. It’s not my fault the book is past the comprehension of my ability to review (ç==her lame excuse)

“There is nothing more terrible than a spurned faery queen, particularly if you defy her a second time. I escaped the Winter Court with my life intact, but just barely, and I won't be returning anytime soon. My loyalty - and my heart - belongs to another queen now.” 

“You realize you've been duped by a fish," I said, watching the catfish grin at me before slipping into the dark waters, lost from view. Puck shrugged."Hey, it was going to name one of its grandfish after me," he said, tossing the line into the water again. "That's one of my rules, you know. I refuse to eat anything that names its kid after me.”

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

Warning. Mild bad words and super heavy spoilers ahead. You know what to do if you can’t handle those things. : )

My name is Meghan Chase.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

Goodreads
Series: The Iron Fey #3
Published January 25th 2011 by Harlequin Teen

*takes deep breath*

The Iron Queen. Its title says it all. The last book in Meghan’s POV. Her love, her struggles, her decisions and her sacrifices. If you remembered in the Iron Daughter (I’ll bite your head off if you’ve forgotten: P), Ash and Meghan were banished from the Nevernever because eherm, forbidden love. And of course, Paul ‘s(her adoptive father) role in her life, his disappearance was brought to light with Puck’s involvement. Wow, I’m pretty sure that (bitch) slap must’ve hurt. The events enveloping the Iron Queen is something I can describe as “full of excitement and have no dull moments at all”.Mostly, the settings were alternate between Leanansidhe’s realm to the Iron Kingdom.

The world building is still EPIC (so what if it’s a cliché?) OVERWHELMING and MIND-BLOWINGLY AWESOME. The characters were on full battle mode. I was flipping through the pages like I was running in a marathon or something. Because that’s how the Iron Queen delighted me in a way which I lose myself in wild abandon in this world. Oh, we were speaking about characters right? So in line with that, in every scene Ash and Meghan collide (err…it’s deep but I must admit that’s how I view their relationship), I go like this… 

Just like a shameless and thirsty fangirl who hungered for more of those scenes but no matter, the drama definitely covered up the missing pieces of romance I'm so fond of. And don't remind me (ooopss..too late) about the Knight and lady thingy. I might not be able to form any coherent thoughts anymore. I'm a sucker for those. Oh, and when the monarchs struck up a deal w/ Meghan and company and that their supposed-to-be-bright-because-it's-centuries-old brain finally clicked in that they need her, I almost shouted "I FREAKING TOLD YOU SO!"--almost-- because, really guys, what are my chances to live when Oberon, Titania and Mab gang up on me? I need to be discreet *thunder claps* Uh..oh...

As the story progresses closer to its conclusion, I shed some tears. No wait. I'll be going all out in the open. I bawled like a baby. I mean, come on, Julie Kagawa, how could you be so evil?! After bawling, I...

and got revived when I noticed there were a few pages left. HOPE!!! In the form honey,sweetie pie, dahling Ash's POV. Hell broke lose.

Can you even imagine my agony while waiting? Maybe you could. 

*sighs* All in all, the Iron Queen is Meghan's climactic and kick-ass (if the sword training and war did not give it away) adventure as it continues the legacy of "No, shit." and "Oh my gosh!" reaction the Iron Fey series had given me. Thrilling and packed with incomparable exploits, the Iron Queen is a (not so) satisfying completion to Meghan Chase' story. It will leave you breathless in the end. Literally. Figuratively.

P.S. Grimalkin topped my list of the most smartest animal in the world. He was supposed to get an award but oh well...

P.S.S If only Ash could be my knight *sighs dreamily* 

 “Hey, princess.“Hey,” I whispered, as Ash slipped his arms around my waist from behind, drawing me close. I could feel his glare aimed at Puck over my head, a silent, protective gesture that spoke louder than any words. Mine. Back off. 

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

Warning. Heavy spoilers ahead. If you haven’t read the book yet, you better get yourself a bucket and scoop some much safer reviews out there.  So onto my review…                                                                                                                    

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

Goodreads

Series: The Iron Fey #2 
Published August 1st 2010 by Harlequin Teen

The second installation of the Iron Fey series did not, I repeat, did not disappoint. Whilst in the Iron King, the environment in the Summer Court was focused on; here in thee Iron Daughter, the chilling and deadly splendor of the Winter Court was spread upon the senses of the reader. In regards to the setting, its inhabitants were also merciless and cold. Now imagine yourself in Meghan’s situation, abandoned right smack in the middle of a place where you are at your weakest with what, an annoying phouka as your sort-of companion. Hardly comforting at all. A Summer Fey in the Winter Court is looking more like a fish out of the water.

The plot of the Iron Daughter is centered in betrayal and sacrifice. According to Miss Julie Kagawa in an interview (if I remembered correctly), the Iron Daughter is Meghan’s transition from a whiny and stubborn human to a half-fey that grew a backbone of iron, so to speak. This is the book where the heroine learned of letting go (For me, clinging and begging desperately is sooo not letting go…but oh, well) And even if it pains me when Ash and Puck went like this,

I couldn’t help but swoon over their bloodied and fresh-from-fighting selves (Wow. That sounded so psychotic). Fangirl in me is acting up again. And of course Ironhorse, oh Ironhorse how would I go on? was introduced and believe me when I say that no one (except Ashy-poo *flees*) had struck me painfully in the chest with his loyalty and chivalry. It pains me that a character like him is killed even if his death was avenged. Did I mention anythin’ about Sage yet? *sighs*  

The melancholic heartbreak is a hazy cloud surrounding this book but it didn’t stopped Puck from literally flying through the events smoothly. Am I the only one who thought this line---

 Puck shoved the plate off the bed and leaned back, pulling me down
with him, his lips suddenly at my neck, tracing a line of fire down my skin.      

--is hot? *fans self* Ash and Ariella’s relationship was highlighted a little too. One of my favorite scenes was when Meghan pulled the coma thingy and Ash SOBBED, you heard  read that right. SOBBED. Heart-wrenching. All the main characters were given a certain level of maturity that serves as a strong base for the events that’ll happen in the next book. And yeah, FORBIDDEN LOVE LEADS TO ELOPING *smirks*

If you love the Iron King then you will love the Iron Daughter. It will grip you in its wintry and captivating arms but a friendly advice; let it pull you again to a twisted and darker part of the Nevernever where the Unseelie resides. Welcome to the Winter Court.     

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

Hello,everyone! This is my first post and review to my newly-constructed blog during Labor’s Day here in our country, the Philippines. You probably already read this in my Ate (sister) Lalaine’s blog, www.ficbookreviews.com but this book is simply irresistible not to post twice. And yes, the Iron Fey is one of my favorite series of all time. There’s no denying the attraction.The book deserves it. So without further ado, I now present to you…

Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.

When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.

But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

Goodreads
Series: The Iron Fey #1
Published February 1st 2010 by Harlequin Teen


The Iron King is a book that tackles faeries and magic. And a brooding, hot prince. And also a super loyal charming prankster. And…okay, I’ll stop there before I start including the side characters in my fangirling as well which would lead to the eradication of all adverbs/adjectives in my vocabulary. Honestly, as a twitter friend of mine once said, Iron King has tons of reviews already. What’s there left to say? But of course, it wouldn't hurt if one itsy-bitsy review like this would add up to the pile.

The Iron King opened a new, bizarre and captivating world to me. A world full of deception hidden in beauty. A magical world full of fantasy that’ll leave you breathless with the vivid clarity of Miss Julie Kagawa’s storytelling. This is one of the books that’ll stick to your mind and to your heart for a long time.I would admit, I dreamt of it a few times. Yes, I am that obsessed. It is a book that is brewed (0_o) perfectly to suit anyone’s taste of pure fantasy addiction.The plot is amazingly woven as if to say, “I will get tastier and more colorful in the next book. Remember me.” One of the strongest assets of this book (aside from the fey boys) is the setting. Nevernever is Wonderland stretched to its full potential. A thing you should do is get lost in this world, in this book.Because, seriously, it’s freaking worth it. This book was probably one of the best I had ever read. Meghan's POV. Everything in the book is perfectly described in detail and it is guaranteed to blow you away to a world where faeries abound every secret places, where "Thank you" is consideredputting yourself in their debt and favors must always be repaid. The author wrote the book magically, letting you feel the character's emotions and you can almost visualize what they feel, see, smell, taste and hear.

The characters are unbelievably appealing. Strip away all the glamour and voila! There you have a very enviable heroine surrounded by two of the most delectable boys in YA history. Pardon me if I focus more to the guys, my only sin almost everyday is being a fangirl. Ash and Puck are two males that are undeniably equal for me. Equal I say? It’s because even after one year (being given the opportunity to review now) of obsessing the simple question “WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE?” I still haven’t got a direct answer from my inner subconscious. Even though I admit I fangirl over Ash more than Puck but it’s because I’m such a go-with-the-flow person. I mean, I so totally think the two of them are both HOT. In their own unique and smexy ways. And my oh-so-witty-and-sarcastic Grim’s dialogues always make me laugh so hard (the biggest understatement of the year) If all cats would be like Grim, this world will be EPIC. The ending will leave you craving, rolling on the floor,scratching the days on the calendar, itching every hour, for more.

Overall, The Iron King makes other books pale in comparison (well, a few escaped but whatever…) It is romance and adventure at its finest. I am confident to tell you that if you still haven’t read this, YOU’RE MISSING, I don’t know, half of your life? LOL.

“Oh, we're playing nice now? Shall we have tea first? Brew up a nice pot of kiss-my-ass?”
“Touch her, and I'll freeze your testicles off and put them in a
jar. Understand?”

*Pretty right? But even if doesn’t describe a damsel stressing, it is my Ate Lalaine’s creation so I’m using it to acknowledge the woman who started this all. Thank you, lady. I told you, your convincing powers are amazing. I will not disappoint you.*