Goliath by Scott Westerfeld

Well, I've read this book and now my life is complete.

Several weeks ago I blogged about my love of the two previous books in the Leviathan trilogy, and how I couldn't wait for the conclusion. Words can not describe how happy I was when I finally got my hands on an Advanced Reviewers copy! After a brief period of fangirl spasms, I began to read the 543 page-long novel. (Which I finished in less than 24 hours, thank you very much.)

If you aren't familiar with the Leviathan trilogy, go back and read my previous post on it or be hopelessly confused!


The two main characters, Alek and Deryn, are back on the airship Leviathan. This time, the ship is bound for Siberia, where they have orders to pick up an important passenger, who is none other than Nikola Tesla, a mad scientist who claims to have a weapon called Goliath that could put a halt to WWI. This weapon could possibly threaten the enemy into agreeing to peace. Alek decides to politically support Tesla, as he is the possible heir to the Austro-Hungarian empire, and all he wants is peace.

Things get complicated when he finally learns Deryn's deeply kept secret. He finally discovers his best friend and ally is actually a girl in disguise so she can serve in the air service, and he also learns that she's in love with him.

Then, upon an unexpected turn of events, the Leviathan begins an around the world trip to the United States of America, where Alek and Deryn face scandal, drama, and surprises at every turn, while Tesla prepares to fire his weapon that could destroy a major city, and it's up to the two of them to stop him before it's too late.


An excellent, exciting, and gripping conclusion to a wildly creative series. This book delivers what all the fans want: action, adventure, humor, and a love story like no other. The thick volume goes over quite a bit, completing the around the world trip in this alternate version of earth where amazing machines and beasts lurk. And there's always enough action and intrigue supplied to keep readers turning pages. Alek and Deryn are chased by bears as tall as houses in Russia, experience unique dining in Japan, ride on top of the airship in the middle of a hurricane, attend fancy banquets, and star in Hearst's motion pictures. There was never a dull moment. And all the beautiful illustrations captured the text and made it visual, it really brought the book to life.

It was a bit crazy of course, I think there was enough going on that Goliath could have been split into two books instead of having one massive series-ender. But it was fine all the same. The battle scenes, as always, were well done, plus the illustrations keep you from getting confused.

Since everything in the series is based on an alternate version of World War I, it doesn't always match actual history, but there's plenty of historical fact and characters incorporated. We meet actual historical figures, such as the crazy Nikola Tesla, girl reporter Adela Rogers, newspaper and film mogul William Randolph Hearst, and Mexican Revolution leader Poncho Villa. The book has an Afterwards where Westerfeld explains fact from fiction.

Another element that was overall well done was Alek and Deryn's complicated relationship. I can't stand reading straight-up romance, so I liked that it wasn't overly focused on, since this is a book about war. How he found out that she was a girl was really interesting and unpredictable, and how it played out afterwards was pretty awesome. But it was really well crafted, and at times utterly sweet. Pretty soon Alek is doing whatever it takes to protect her secret, helping her hide her body and whatnot. It was great how much he cared. Their transition from best friends to soul mates was carried on well without overkill, and it definitely builds upon the story.

The ending was nice, even though I wish things were slightly more explained. This wasn't vital, but it would have been appreciated. Then again, we can pretty much assume what happens...

Overall an outstanding way to end a best-selling trilogy. I'm so sad it's over!

THE BOTTOM LINE:
A thunderous, exciting, and gripping final book to a unique war-meets-fantasy series. It was good enough to deserve...
5/5 stars!

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

Let's just say that I'm sick of fantasy novels.

Paranormal fantasy is the worst, in my opinion. Back in 2005, a book entitled Twilight was published. I enjoyed it thoroughly, it's always good to experience a little bit of everything (especially book genres!). But then it was proven that too much of something is never a good thing. Along came a slew of other novels all about werewolves, vampires, ghosts, faeries, demon-hunters, and MORE vampires. The fantasy revelation/take-over had begun. I'm not too keen on mythical creatures, so let's just say my patience has been tested these past few years. There are a few diamonds among the rough, (Harry Potter anyone?) but the paranormal fantasy trend has gotten out of hand with it's copy-cat ways and endless fandom.

I'm being quite harsh aren't I? My point is, I think the quality of fantasy novels has gone down in the past few years. But my view had been shaded by vampire fiction, and remember how I mentioned diamonds in the rough? Well, Incarceron by Catherine Fisher has the potential to be one.

It is like a Chronicles of Narnia adventure with both parts fairy tale and grit, except Fisher's novel kept me wanting to read. (My apologies to the great C.S. Lewis!)

It takes place in the future, where the rulers of the world have decided to stop progress. There are no new inventions or technology known to the public, and the world has gone back in time as if they were living in 19th century England (perhaps?) But among this world, is Incarceron, a gigantic, mysterious, confusing labyrinth of a prison like no other. It's millions of inhabitants live in realms of metal forests, dark holes and caves, worn down cities, and other eerie places. The prisoners have no conscience and do what ever it takes to survive, while dreaming of escape, even though they aren't sure if there is an Outside or not.

We meet Finn, a young prisoner who can't remember anything about his past. He has faint memories of the Outside, but the others say that it's impossible for anyone to get in...or out. He has visions and is known as a starseer.

Claudia is a girl who lives on the Outside, and she is the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron. She has grown up in luxury, but is doomed to an arranged marriage to an awful prince, who will one day rule the Realm.

When Finn comes across a mysterious crystal object that could possibly be the key out of Incarceron, he, his devilishly handsome-yet-wicked oathbrother Kiero, a wise old Sapient named Gildas, and cunning slave-girl Attia all set out on an epic journey in hopes of finding escape. Claudia finds an identical object, and is able to communicate with Finn inside the Incarceron. They must help each other escape. (Finn the prison, Claudia her arranged marriage.)

But this will be no small task. Because Incarceron is alive. It breathes and speaks and watches it's inhabitants every move. And it will do whatever it takes to keep it's prisoners locked inside.


The story itself is spilling over with mystery, suspense, and danger. Fisher knows how to spin a tale, no doubt. The first few chapters are rather confusing, I felt lost after reading the first, but felt that the quality of the writing was so good, it would be a shame not to give it more of a chance. I'm glad I did. Readers who possess imagination will love the idea of the ultimate labyrinth full of realms and beasts and fascinating characters. Secrets are unraveled, and at one point they actually caused me to gasp out loud.

The downside to the constantly moving and mysterious plot though, was that I was always a little confused, mostly in the end. Not enough was explained, so now getting a hold of the sequel is on my To Do list. But I also had trouble understanding the multiple identities of the characters, picturing action scenes, and occasionally some of the places in Incarceron, though at other times it so perfectly described I felt that I was there inside the gritty metal world.

I wish Finn's character was built upon more. I liked him, the fact that he was a good guy in the hell that was the prison made me. The other characters I felt I knew well, but Finn is such a vital character, he should have had more depth.

Despite the flaws, this book is worth your time. It's beautifully written and sensual, and the plot was well done. Switching constantly from Finn's and Claudia's points of view was a way that the author added loads of suspense and plenty of cliff-hangars. Anyone with imagination will be intrigued. This book made my view of fantasy a more positive one.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Expertly planned out, Incarceron will keep you guessing as you turn page after page.
3.5/5 stars

Aries Rising by Bonnie Hearn Hill

Whether you're into astrology or not, Aries Rising by Bonnie Hearn Hill is one to check out. The first book in the Star Crossed series is the one I'm reviewing.

Logan McRae can't stand her life. She's a nobody, a shy sophomore, but has a passion for writing. Her high school is giving away a fellowship to the summer writing camp of her dreams, but only one student gets it, and Logan knows she has no chance against some of the more prominent writers in her class. Her chances are even worse because she knows her teacher Mr. Franklin, the one deciding who snags the fellowship doesn't like her at all. Not to mention that Nathan, the hottest guy at school, won't give her a second look after kissing her the other week.

So when she stumbles across a book called Fearless Astrology, she figures she has nothing to lose. Logan learns more and more about how people under different astrological signs work, and how to figure them out. She becomes deeply interested in reading the stars. Soon, her life is transformed. She works her way into Nathan's heart. (She wins over this Leo by giving him attention and flattery.) She gets on good terms with Mr. Franklin (a Taurus) by making him care about her. Her astrology column in the school newspaper is a hit. Logan knows she now might have a chance at the writing fellowship. Soon, more people at school take notice of her, and she becomes popular by her remarkable knowledge of astrology.

But there's a mystery involved: a gang of students who call themselves the Gears of War have been playing pranks on the school. Logan knows that with the help of the stars, she might be able to figure out who the Gears are, and is soon predicting the future. But when the pranks go from immature to dangerous, Logan knows she better act fast before it's too late.

This book was a fabulous read for people who are into astrology, and for those who want to learn more about it, it's totally informative. But the story is decent enough that those who don't like it will still be entertained. You definitely learn a lot.

I liked watching Logan go from a nothing to an astrology star, it was interesting how she was able to figure out her friends (and enemies) just by knowing their birthday. I didn't feel that her character really stood out, but then again, she is a shy girl at heart. Logan's a person we can relate to, with dreams of her own. The ways she won over people by knowing what traits they valued later revealed her to be strategic.

As for the mystery element, it wasn't too hard figure out who the Gears of War were, but I still found myself getting chills when they threw a rock through a window to threaten Logan. Observant readers will identify the gang members sooner than she does. But it had a surprise twist at the end, which was bizarre but fine with me, even though I thought it was a little odd.

This book flowed along nicely, and it reminded me of a book ABC Family might base a show on. (There is, of course, no show planned, but if they added more drama and danger to the Gears, it could be!)

THE BOTTOM LINE
Interesting, informative, compelling. Astrology buffs will adore it, anti-astrologers have a chance of liking it too.
3/5 stars

The Season by Sarah Maclean

Drama? Romance? Intrigue? It's all part of the Season.

Welcome to Regency London, an era where the wealthiest and most powerful seriously live it up. This book gives you a glimpse into the high society social life that was lived by England's first class citizens. Once every year, the Season takes place, it's full of grand balls, dinner parties, and social outings, all for one purpose: to help London's finest men and women find the perfect match.

Lady Alexandra of Stafford has just turned 17 and is dreading her first Season, in which her mother intends to get her married off by it's end. Alex dreads the dress fittings, the stuffy parties, and the men who only want her for her money and power. She's not alone though. Her two best friends, Vivi and Ella don't know how they'll survive the Season as well, but they rely on each others friendships to make it through.

Then she finds herself becoming more and more attracted to Gavin Blackmoor, the handsome young earl whom she's loved like a brother. He's a close family friend who'd do anything to protect her, and suddenly Alex isn't sure about how she feels towards him.

Aside from that, Gavin's father has been killed recently. People believe it was an accident, but then Alex uncovers that it might not have been, that there's a killer among London's first class. The murderer is out for Gavin next, and possibly her as well, but who could it be?

Can Alex catch a killer, fall in love, and survive the extravagant whirlwind that is the Season, all while proving that she's more than just another girl in a ball gown?


This was an utterly predictable, fluffy, yet fun book. It's typical chick-lit historical fiction, though well done chick-lit historical fiction. The relationship between Alex and Gavin Blackmoor is a complicated one, filled with fights, love triangles, and passion. But I think you can easily guess how it turns out by the time you flip to the last page.

And then there's the mystery part of it, which sadly, isn't much of one at all. It's basic and uncomplicated, and guessing the killer is easier than operating a toaster. I think the novel could have been greatly improved if there were more suspects and plot twists. This truly could have been an outstanding mystery if only it was more detailed. So that was disappointing, to say the least.

Of course, it wasn't all bad. It's a modern Pride and Prejudice, there's lot's of drama and gossip involved, and Alex is your typical feminist. Her this-close relationship with Vivi and Ella celebrates female friendship. The way the world of the main characters is portrayed is done well. It's a grand world, where fine food, trips to country mansions, glamorous gowns, and rides in luxury carriages are all part of a day-to-day lifestyle. It's wonderful how the author transports you to this elegant era flawlessly, right down to the witty conversations of the main characters. It's like Gossip Girl set in a different time period (though not nearly as naughty.) Anyone who enjoys reading about fancy lifestyles and English courtship will devour it.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Fabulous and fun, The Season is a juicy novel that will have you turning pages for the purpose of sheer enjoyment.
3.5/5 stars

The Leviathan Trilogy by Scott Westerfeld

I waited quite awhile to read Scott Westerfeld's Leviathan after it was published, because to be honest, it looked nowhere near as good as his Uglies series was. He wrote an amazing series about a girl who was trying to take down her technologically advanced society that revolved around beauty, and now he was writing books about World War One? It seemed like quite a leap.
But then along came the yearly camping trip that I go on with my family, in which I got a frenzy of books to read while out in the wilderness. Leviathan was one of them. On a boring, rainy day in the woods, this book was my salvation. Not only was it catchy and action-packed, it was (get this) illustrated!

It's a strange book series. Like the blockbuster movie Avatar, it can appear silly and bizarre. After seeing previews full of blue alien people doing epic stunts, you are a bit weirded out. But then you actually see the movie and are like, whoa, this is awesome! (That's how it was for me anyway. Never mind the fact that this was only one of the most successful movies of all time.)

But getting back on track, the Leviathan books take place in 1914, when the planet was on the brink of it's first World War. But as the book trailer for it urges, put down your history books there. This is no historical fiction. In the world of Leviathan, the Austro-Hungarian Clankers are trying to win the war by using their mind-bending robots and machines as weapons. The British Darwinists are fighting against them using fabricated animals that can do amazing things. So it's robots verses monsters in this alternate history novel. There are 2 main characters.

There's Alek, a fifteen year old Austrian prince and heir to a European empire. When the Germans assassinate his parents, his people turn on him and he is forced to run away with his men and a wickedly awesome stormwalker machine. The Germans are after him and he has nowhere to go but try to get to the safe place his father left behind for him, but it won't be easy getting there.

Then theres Deryn, who is probably one of the best and boldest feminist characters ever created. She's a fifteen year old girl who has disguised herself as a boy so she can serve in the British Air Service. She winds up becoming a midshipman on the Leviathan, the biggest airship in the British fleet, where she struggles to keep her identity hidden.

When Alek and Deryn's paths collide, they have no choice but to become allies when they should be enemies. It's up to them alone to save the Leviathan from destruction and possibly change the course of the whole war. Over the trilogy they are taken around the world on an epic adventure as they encounter strange new places, interesting new people, bizarre monsters and machines, and scary new enemies, all while fighting out a war.

Yeah, so it's not your typical book series. It's definitely original. Book 1, Leviathan, focuses mainly on how the 2 main characters eventually meet, save the airship, and form an alliance. Book 2, Behemoth, is about Alek and Deryn trying to overthrow the Ottoman Empire as things get more dangerous and strange as they grow closer. Book 3, Goliath, is a mystery. It isn't even released yet, and won't be until mid September, but in order to rap up such a story, I have the feeling it will be quite the book. It will complete the Leviathan's journey around the world and will feature the characters quests to either win or put a halt to the war.

To be honest, I can't wait for Book 3 to come out. I thought the 2nd book, Behemoth, was better then the first book, Leviathan. Normally a sequel is never better then the 1st book, but I thought this was the case here. By Book 2, the setting had been established and you could focus in on the characters and what was happening to them without needing as much of an exposition. I have high hopes for Goliath, which will hopefully contain lots of fast-paced action.

Remember how I said before that they were illustrated? Well I'm not lying. An newly published, illustrated YA series exists! Beautiful black and and white pictures are featured every few pages, and they enhance the story. Sometimes in a battle scene, it's hard to picture everything because the author has so much to describe, things get crazy. But here you have pictures that help you understand everything. And they are big and frequent pictures too. This isn't Harry Potter where readers are only treated to an tiny illustration at the beginning of every chapter, no, it is here that you get big, detailed pictures that often take up a whole page. It definitely contributes to the books coolness.

It's also fun to hear about (and see, thanks to the pictures) all the crazy things that exist in Leviathan world. There are talking lizards, air balloon jellyfish, walking beds, beetle taxis, and an enormous flying whale (which is the airship.) It's fantasy at its best. Very weird, very creative. The characters are great and make you smile. There's some good guys, some bad guys, and then the just-plain-messed-up guys. One person you meet is a scientist named Dr. Barlow. She's the cunning and clever granddaughter of Charles Darwin. And then there's a certain creature (they're called beasties in the books) that is adorable and can talk, and becomes a sidekick to Alek and Deryn in the 2nd book. Just Google the word "loris" and you'll get an idea of what it looks like, and you'll probably like what you see. Yes, there's other abnormal animals too, but this one is easily a favorite.

The action scenes are intense. I normally hate war books, but these are fine by me as long as I have pictures to show me what's going on. It can get a bit confusing, I will warn you. Uneducated readers, like I was when I first picked up Book 1, won't understand it as well as they could if they were familiar with WW I history. You have to adapt to everything, the setting, the historically driven plot, even the early 20th century slang they use. Really, be prepared to hear the expression "barking spiders!" used A LOT.

With all the fantasy and randomness in the series, people who don't have imaginations won't like it. But there is some historical accuracy in it, more then one would expect. And Alek and Deryn, despite being a prince and a soldier in disguise, are pretty normal in personality and act like teenagers when they can. For example, Deryn has fallen hard for Alek, (of course) so it's too bad he doesn't know she's a girl, or he would feel the same way. Fortunately, Westerfeld assured his fans over a U-Stream chat he did a few months back that Alek would find out her true identity in the 3rd book. This should be good, I'm looking forward to it. Beside that element, they are 2 great characters, especially Deryn who shows serious girl-power. So there is some realistic themes to it, thank goodness.

So while thousands await the final book in the trilogy, I will encourage fans of the steampunk and fantasy genres to give the series a try. Even though it's about war, it's a lot of fun. I think you either love or hate this series, or possibly think it's just plain weird. Weird but good.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Books that combine so many themes together to make one crazy and new world. Fun, illustrated, and action packed.
4/5 stars

The Cupcake Queen by Heather Hepler

With so many novels out there today about scandal, war, intrigue, drama, and violence, sometimes we just need a break from the heavy stuff. So what are supposed to read then? Well, one book you can check out is The Cupcake Queen by Heather Hepler.

This was a cute book all about finding where you truly belong. It involves all the good stuff, a rock-paper-scissors league, pink frosting, a beauty pageant, cats, Jolly Ranchers, and much more. But here's what really goes on:

Penny Lane (named after the Beatles song) feels like her life has fallen apart. When her parents separate, this New York City gal is forced to go live with her mom in the small town of Hog's Hollow. At first, Penny hopes that the move is only temporary because she can't stand living there. She is constantly bullied by some mean girls at school ever since the Queen Bee's birthday party was ruined by some cupcakes that Penny and her mom made at their bakery, The Cupcake Queen. But life slowly starts looking up. She makes a few new friends, does some serious cupcake making, and a certain good-looking-but-mysterious boy catches her eye. So Penny begins to adapt to her new life. But one important decision she must make could shatter it all. Should she go back to her old life in New York or stick with the town she's come to love?

So yeah, you don't exactly come across life or death drama in this story. Don't expect any serious action, because at times it can be as sweet as it's title. But it was still nice, even if it was a bit slow at times. Penny is a girl we can all relate too, and we are right by her side through every page. This is an innocent book too. No suggestive themes, violence, language, or drugs here! It was a most well-behaved story! The most intense it gets is when the characters go into their personal lives. Penny's parents have their problems. Her friend Tally's dad ignores her while he's on the road. Her friend Marcus' mom is dead. But with support, they overcome these parental issues.

I think my only problem with it was that it was wrapped up far too quickly. It didn't explain much, I was expecting more out of the ending. I guess it didn't go into as much detail as I wanted. Oh well. I think people will enjoy it anyway.

So basically if you are looking for something sugary-sweet and adorable, The Cupcake Queen is the way to go.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
Cute, fun, and at times, possibly
heart-warming, this book is a great read when you don't want anything too intense.
3/5 stars.

Matched by Ally Condie

I had been in a local bookstore for an hour and a half, looking for a new treasure to bring home, when my eyes fell on a certain book that was on display. The hardcover was rather attractive looking, on the front was a girl in a green gown who appeared to be trapped in some type of bubble or glass ball. It was pretty. I had seen Facebook ads for it before, and had previewed it online, and it looked good. The next thing I know, I'm handing over money, and poof! Matched was all mine.

So here's what happens:
Cassia, a 17 year old girl, lives in a future where your whole life is planned out for you. The Society chooses who you marry, what your job is, and even when you die. Cassia believes her world is perfect, especially when she is matched with her best friend Xander. When you are matched, it means that the Society selects the ideal mate for you, the person you will love and eventually marry. But then another face appears on the Matching Screen, just for an instant. The face belongs to a mysterious and handsome local boy named Ky.
The Society tells her it was only a mistake that she saw Ky's face, and she should go back to loving Xander. But Cassia finds herself drawn to the boy anyways. And meanwhile, life in her city is growing more and more uncomfortable. Personal space is being invaded, and precious objects are being taken away from families. Before her grandfather died, he told Cassia to fight against the rules the Society is set. Cassia is shocked at this, but then she begins to learn that her world isn't nearly as perfect as she was led to believe.
Pretty soon, she's doing dangerous things that could destroy her and the people she's close to. She falls in love with the forbidden Ky, and feels trapped in her strict world. Now she's going to have to risk it all and eventually make big sacrifices while the world around her begins to fall apart.

You can tell right from the first chapter that it was definitely written by a poet. It's lyrical, descriptive style is fluent, and makes the story float right along.

At first, the story was so fluffy and light though, I almost got annoyed. Cassia, the main character turned me off at first, but then she grew stronger in her character throughout the book, and it was much appreciated by me. Hence, I enjoyed the exposition because it was so interesting learning about her world. And the whole Xander vs. Ky thing created the nice little love triangle conflict I've been seeing more and more in YA sci-fi. I found Ky to be a beautifully illustrated character, I think he was my favorite. And Cassia's narrations were always so poetic and descriptive, it was another lovely element.

But a problem I had was once Cassia started to see her world for what it really was, it got quite depressing. Everything starts to go wrong, the people she loves are taken away, and she can't be with Ky...it got a bit sad. The whole rhythm of the story shifted from an interesting futuristic culture into a sad struggle to gain control of one's life. And this continues for the rest of the book, forcing us to wait for the promised sequel, Crossed.

So I guess you can say I had mixed feelings over this book. Apparently, it's been highly successful so far, a New York Times Best Seller, and it has had a lot of praise and good reviews. I will say that Matched was a good story, despite it's saddening plot, and tragic love story. It was written in a lovely way, and it was certainly interesting.

THE BOTTOM LINE:
A dystopian romance novel that can grasp itself on to you, making you curious, and it's characters will work their way into you, making you feel plenty of sympathy.
3.5/5 stars