Book Review: Everything Left Unsaid by Jessica Davidson

Everything Left Unsaid 

by Jessica Davidson

Publisher: Pan Macmillan Australia

Release Date: August 2012

Format: ARC 

Purchase: Book Depository Dymocks

"I wait for him, the cold seeping through my clothes, until it finally dawns on me that he's not coming back. And I wonder why he chose her instead of me? Why he went looking for her when I was right there."

Tai and Juliet have been best friends forever – since they met at kindy and decided to get married in first grade.

They understand each other in the way that only best friends can.

They love music, beach walks, energy drinks and, they are slowly discovering, each other.

As they dream of adventures beyond the HSC – a future free of homework, curfews and parents, a life together – their plans are suddenly and dramatically derailed.

For Tai is sick.

And not everything you wish for can come true.

A poignant story of first love, hope, grief, family, and the twistedness of life.

Everything Left Unsaid is a beautifully crafted story of young love, choices and what it means to lose someone you love. I’ve had my fair share of books with characters dying of diseases, and I’m happy to say Everything Left Unsaid did not disappoint! It’s sweet, it’s sad, and it will certainly leave you with an ache in your heart, but Everything Left Unsaid is definitely worth your time! 

I absolutely loved Tai and Juliet’s relationship! You could tell they really loved each other, and it was impossible not to feel their pain; having to battle through the last year of high school, (ONE year before freedom), only to be confronted with the one unthinkable obstacle – Tai being diagnosed with a brain tumour. *sobs* Their relationship felt realistic to me, and while both sides made some mistakes that irked me a little now and then, I was able to easily forgive them. (Given their situation, those feelings and actions were well…unavoidable). Tai and Juliet’s perseverance throughout this difficult time was certainly admirable- *sigh* Why does fate have to be so cruel? Tai and Juliet totally deserved a happily ever after!!

I’m still debating whether I made the right decision in reading this before my HSC …or perhaps I should’ve waited until after my HSC? On one hand, I certainly found it easy to relate to the characters and what they’re experiencing- the stress of being in Year 12, cramming for exams (Gosh, that’s a NIGHTMARE), the fear of not doing well enough to be accepted into Uni and of course, in between studying and attending school, the partying and girls night out! I honestly cannot imagine how Juliet managed to survive her final year- studying for finals AND on top of that, having to deal with the heartbreak of losing her best friend/boyfriend. However, I must admit, after reading this book, I’m left in fear of what’s to become of my future. I’m reading about everyone being accepted into their first/second preferences, and feeling extremely happy for them but part of me is thinking “What is I don’t get accepted”? (Okay, I’m trying REALLY hard not to think about that!)

Overall, Everything Left Unsaid is definitely a book you should look out for! While I wasn’t too pleased with the beginning (everything happened too fast) but it’s impossible not to be consumed by the power of the story as I read on! By the end, I was completely in love with everything about the book<3 Oh, and be sure to have a box of tissues next to you when you start reading! I guarantee you’ll be bawling your eyes out by the end!

Book Review: The Industry by Rose Foster

Title: The Industry 
Author: Rose Foster
Publisher: HarperCollins Australia.  
Release Date: April 1st, 2012
Format: Manuscript 
Source: Publisher for review (Thank you!)

Kirra Hayward is an ordinary sixteen year old - smarter than most, but otherwise completely anonymous. When she solves an unusual decrypting puzzle on the internet to fill in a moment of boredom at school, she has no idea of what she's letting herself in for.

Kidnapped by a shadowy organisation of mercenaries known only as The Industry, Kirra soon discovers how valuable her code-breaking skills are. And when she stubbornly refuses to help them, they decide to break her ... by any means at their disposal.

Kirra knows that to protect herself, she must trust no one, not even her fellow prisoner, Milo. But as time goes by she wonders if he is the only person she can rely on.

Compulsive and page-turning, The Industry is the first in a trilogy from talented debut author Rose Foster.

Kirra Hayward is an ordinary high school maths geek genuis studying maths 2 grades above her level.. Upon searching on the Internet for ideas for a MATHS project, she comes across a certain odd puzzle and solves it instanly without much thought. A few days later, she is kidnapped and transported all the way to the other side of the world. She is kept prisoner, and tortured to solve more of those puzzles that she learns are not ordinary ones. In fact, these codes are called the Spencer Code, and you know what? Kirra happens to be one of only people in the world who can decode it! Her ability marks her as an important target that everyone would do anything to get their hands on, and her captor would do anything to keep her ability for himself. Will she be able to Escape this imprisonment? And what will happen to her future now?

When I think back now, The Industry did feel fast-paced and full of intense action, especially towards the end,  but her imprisonment scenes did lag.  It was only half-way through the book, that the real action began and the fantastic plot line resumed its brilliance.

During her time in the cell, she is joined by someone else; a guy called Milo who miraculously possesses the same extraordinary talent as her to decipher the spencer code. At first Milo seemed really rude and annoying, but there was a nice side to him as well- he cared about Kirra, and gave her support and encouragement.I really like how they bonded inside their cell; it was the sort of relationship that developed gradually, as they began to trust each other and connect.

I loved all the characters! Kirra was certainly admirable in many ways, espeically her strength and loyalty. She'd never had a real friend before, and upon developing a true connection with Milo, she trusted him with all her heart and I was so touched by her loyalty! *Sigh*The poor girl! Her life  suddenly changed so drastically, there wasn't even time for her to be prepared for what was to come. With her kidnapped, and unable to return to her family, what else can she look forward to in her future? I thought the secondary characters were well developed as well; especially Desmond! Okay, I have no idea why, but I just took an instant liking to him!

I loved the idea of such a huge and influential organisation being sheltered and unknown to the rest of the world. From contractors and criminals to *gasp* assassins, it's a miracle they've never been caught! The Industry reminded me a bit of those spy books ( CHERUB) I used to read, and it was definitely pleasing!

With fantastic characters, unpredictable twists, and constant pulse-pounding action, what's not to love about The Industry? I say you look out for its release next year, and GET YOURSELF A COPY! You won't be disappointed!

'Like' The Industry  FACEBOOK page! 

Book Review: Mammon by J.B Thomas

Title: Mammon
Series: The Ferryman Chronicles #1
Author: J.B Thomas
Publisher: Random House Australia
Release Date: September 1st, 2011
Source: From Publisher (Thank you)
Goodreads Synopisis: 
Forget anything you ever heard about possession, exorcisms, salt circles and pentagrams. The modern demon is far more difficult to catch - and even harder to destroy.

After the savage, tragic deaths of their parents, Grace and Joe Callahan learn that they they are descendants of the sarsareh - an ancient order of mercenaries who hunt very special prey. Grace and Joe take their place in the Order, but are treated with hostility and fear by other recruits.

For the Callahan siblings have powers that fascinate and terrify.

Joe is a Ferryman, capable of opening dimensional rifts, while Grace's telepathic abilities surpass anything the Order has ever seen.

To complicate matters, Grace falls for her older, more experienced squad leader, Ivan. Meanwhile, the sarsareh elders have their own plans for Joe.

But none of that will matter if the powerful demon Mammon manages to convince Joe to open a gateway to his demon world and overrun Earth with his armies.

If he succeeds: game over.


My Thoughts:
I’ll start by saying that Mammon is now up there on my list of all-time favourites and is worthy enough to rival some of my favourite series (The Mortal Instruments, Divergent… you get the picture.) The entire book, from start to finish was action-packed, thrilling and just plain remarkable.

Just so I can dedicate the rest of my review to just how marvellous the novel was, I’ll first mention the not-so-good parts of the book, although truthfully, there’s not much. The only problem for me was the beginning. While it was written brilliantly, the start was rather slow, and just wasn’t strong enough to leave an immediate impression on me. Several times I did stop reading it to do other things (yes, my attention wavered), but the rest of the book more than compensated for the beginning.
Now, on to the good part. What did I like about the story? Everything. The characters, plot, writing style and pace; everything was perfect. After the first 20 pages or so, I was utterly hooked; my attention never wavered again and I stopped reading halfway through another book just so I could finish this one. The whole demons and sarsareh concept completely enraptured me. Since I haven’t read many books that focused mainly on demons, Mammon was a fresh and unique read for me.

The plot was compelling and I liked how all the events that occurred happened for a reason. It all developed and built up to the intense and riveting climax near the end of the book. I loved how Mammon never strayed from the main plotline, and there were subplots that enticed me they but never overrode the main storyline. The relationship between Grace, our main character and Ivan, her team leader was a nice complement to the main plot. I also liked how there was no unnecessary love triangle – finally!

The characters were all incredible! But one particular character totally won my heart. Ivan. Sexy, charming and strong.

“And boy, was he ripped. Not obscenely, his muscles weren’t bursting through his sleeves, but just enough to create an impression of lithe, gymnast-like strength.”

Oh, why don’t you exist in real life? Ivan did remind me of Four from Divergent, (whom I love) but Ivan is still Ivan. I’m certainly looking forward to learning more about Ivan in the next instalment. Grace was also likable. She wasn’t whiny or immature and I really liked how she stood her ground and never allowed anyone to take advantage of her, thereby earning my respect. As for Joe, he was impulsive, and much in need of anger management. At times, I really wanted to just smack him and shake some sense into him. But then again, he was an essential character and the catalyst for some of the major events that occurred. Without Joe, Mammon would just not be complete.

Overall, Mammon is an exciting and character-driven novel packed with endless action and unpredictable twists. It will leave you aching for more, especially the heart-pounding fighting scenes and the deliciously sweet relationship between Grace and Ivan. If you know what’s good for you, you’ll pick up a copy of this book and read it immediately. I don’t know how I’m going to survive until the second instalment comes out!


Rating: 5 stars!

Quotes:
"He was using that voice again, that deep, soft tone that was just for her."

Book Review: Burn Bright by Marianne de Pierres

Title: Burn Bright
Series: Night Creatures #1
Author: Marianne de Pierres
Publisher: Random House Australia
Release Date: March 1st 2011
Source: Borrowed (love my school library!)
Goodreads Synopsis: 
Into a world of wild secrets and deadly pleasures comes a girl whose innocence may be her greatest strength.

In Ixion music and party are our only beliefs. Darkness is our comfort. We have few rules but they are absolute . . .

Retra doesn’t want to go to Ixion, the island of ever-night, ever-youth and never-sleep. Retra is a Seal – sealed minds, sealed community. She doesn’t crave parties and pleasure, experience and freedom.

But her brother Joel left for Ixion two years ago, and Retra is determined to find him. Braving the intense pain of her obedience strip to escape the only home she’s ever known, Retra stows away on the barge that will take her to her brother.

When she can’t find Joel, Retra finds herself drawn deeper into the intoxicating world of Ixion. Come to me, whispers a voice in her head. Who are the Ripers, the mysterious guardians of Ixion? What are the Night Creatures Retra can see in the shadows? And what happens to those who grow too old for Ixion?

Retra will find that Ixion has its pleasures, but its secrets are deadly. Will friendship, and the creation of an eternal bond with a Riper, be enough to save her from the darkness?

Listen well, baby bats. Burn bright, but do not stray from the paths. Remember, when you live in a place of darkness you also live with creatures of the dark.


My Thoughts:

I’ll admit, I only picked up this book from my library because of the cover. It just looked so eerie yet attention- grabbing at the same time and I just couldn’t resist borrowing it and leaving it on my bookshelf to gawk at. I didn’t have high expectations, but after reading it, i must say that it was a nice and refreshing read for me.

Retra has lived her entire life in a secluded environment, away from the rest of the community. Her actions and everyday life are heavily monitored; she is not being allowed to talk to anyone without permission and gets punished for almost everything she does. Her brother ran away the previous year to Ixion, and she is determined to find him. She is unlike the other runaways whose sole reason for escaping to Ixion, is to live a free life of eternal pleasure and partying. Once she arrives, she realises that there is more to Ixion than what appears on the surface and, are the Ripers, the guardians on the island, really protecting it? As she uncovers the secrets of Ixion and the mysterious guardians, she’ll be fighting for the survival of both herself and her friends.

The setting and world-building were incredibly imaginative; I can’t even start to describe how creative everything was.  The setting was completely original and unique and I was lost in the imaginary world created by the author. Ixion was truly an intoxicating world with its endless parties and everlasting pleasure. Sometimes, I really wish I was a character in the book, having the privilege of never ending partying and living life in the present. Marianne de Pierres is no doubt a master of world-building!

I like a bit of romance in every book I read, and there sure was romance in this book albeit a little…different. But I still enjoyed it. Initially, I rooted for Markes to end up with Retra, but unfortunately his character just wasn’t as fully developed as I’d liked, and his lack of appearance in the second half of the book lead me to eliminate him as a potential suitor. As for Lenoir, the head guardian, I’m still confused over what I think of him. On one hand, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about him and Retra and found their connection really sweet, but on the other hand, I have no idea whether he’s seriously interested in Retra or not. I guess I’ll have to wait for the next book to find out!

I especially loved how the atmosphere created was dark, creepy yet captivating at the same time. It really suited the imaginary world of Ixion. The action scenes were well-written and kept me on the edge of my seat and the layers upon layers of mystery kept me turning page after page, impatient to read more. I also liked how nothing was held back, especially with certain scenes which were described in detail and I was able to conjure those images in my mind.

I guess the only problem for me was the ending. It was one of those unsatisfying endings that didn’t feel rushed, but was certainly abrupt. It just didn’t feel finished, like it ended halfway through a scene. Nevertheless, the ending left me wanting more and I’m anticipating the next instalment which will hopefully provide answers to the questions raised in Burn Bright.

Rating: 4.5 stars


Quotes:
"Ixion exists as an antidote to the rules and conventions of other places. We believe that indulging in pleasure will make better people. Self-denial and discipline and virtue are all myths invented to control you."

Book Review: Blood Song by Rhiannon Hart

Title: Blood Song
Series: Lharmell #1
Author: Rhiannon Hart
Publisher: Random House Aus.
Release Date: September 1st, 2011
Source: Publisher for review
Goodreads Synopsis: 
I wanted to turn but I was held captive by the song on the wind. I’m coming, I told the voices. Please, wait for me.

When her sister becomes betrothed to a prince in a northern nation, Zeraphina’s only consolations are that her loyal animal companions are by her side – and that her burning hunger to travel north is finally being sated.

Already her black hair and pale eyes mark her out as different, but now Zeraphina must be even more careful to keep her secret safe. Craving blood is not considered normal behaviour for anyone, let alone a princess. So when the king’s advisor, Rodden, seems to know more about her condition than she does, Zeraphina is determined to find out more.

Zeraphina must be willing to sacrifice everything if she’s to uncover the truth – but what if the truth is beyond her worst nightmares?


My Thoughts: 

Let’s start with the cover. It’s absolutely, eerily stunning! As soon as I laid eyes on the cover, I knew I just had to read it! But truthfully, I was still a bit scared as to whether this was another ‘misleading cover’.( A beautiful cover, but a not-so-great book)

I needn’t have worried. This book enthralled me from the very first word, and I couldn’t stop reading even if I wanted to. It was like a magnetic pull, urging me to continue reading and finish the entire book at once! Us Aussies are in for a HUGE treat. This is definitely one of the best fantasy novels by a debut author!

I’m guessing that after reading the blurb, many of you are probably rolling your eyes and thinking “Geez, not another clichéd vampire novel with a romantic twist”. (That’s actually exactly what my friends did when they read the blurb.) BUT this book is the complete opposite. There are no sparkly vampires and drop-dead gorgeous paranormal creatures falling in love with the main girl. It’s completely original, from the setting, to the storyline and the characters; everything about it is imaginative and unique.

Zeraphina has been feeling an undeniable pull towards the north, as if someone or something is calling for her. Chance arises when her sister, Lilith receives a marriage proposal from the Prince of Pergamia, an invitation which will enable Zeraphina to embark on a journey to the north, where she may find the hidden answers to her cravings for blood. Little does she know that what lies north is more shocking and terrifying than she could ever have imagined. The plotline was both imaginative and unique. The story never wavered from the main plotline and there was this whole mystery that kept me wanting more!

I really liked the main character, Zeraphina. She was strong, determined and never backed down without a fight. Even though she was constantly aching inside, she never gave in. She endured all the pain and suffering herself, which I think is exceptionally brave and definitely an admirable trait! Zeraphina also faced her fears head on, and not once did she shy away from her true identity. I also particularly liked Rodden! I must say, I have a soft spot for mysterious and brooding men! The interactions between Zeraphina and Rodden were definitely worth reading. I loved how they were constantly bantering, throwing insults at each other yet neither could really stay away from the other. The chemistry between Zeraphina and Rodden was undeniable, and I loved how the romance between the two gradually developed. The relationship between the two never overrode the main plotline, and it was a nice complement to the main storyline.

I was able to easily adapt to Hart’s writing style. The story was brilliantly written and easy to read. The words just flowed naturally from the pages and I was immersed in the story from start to finish! The ending was also satisfying. It wasn’t rushed, which was a great relief, but the ending certainly left me wanting more! (What’s going to happen between Zerphina and Rodden?!?!)

Overall, I really enjoyed the book. It was probably one of the most creative and unique fantasy books I’ve read this year! I never would have thought this was Rhiannon Hart’s debut novel, the way it was written and told. I was as much drawn to the excellent storyline, beautiful world and the impressive characters as Zepherina was, to the north. This is a highly recommened book for everyone who likes an imaginative and refreshing read! I personally can’t wait for the next installment! 

Rating: 4.5 stars! - It was AMAZING and definitely get yourself a copy when it comes out!

Favourite Quotes: 

"I thought you'd like to keep an eye on me", he murmured in my ear, as if we were conspirators

Because deep down, we're the same.....

"He of the arrows and the watchful eyes", he murmured.

**A huge thank you to Dorothy from Random House Aus. for providing me with a copy of this amazing book for review!