The #FridayReads Review (10/30/15)

Welcome to The #FridayReads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week, and what I'm planning to read next! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own #FridayReads Review and leave the link in the Comments below, or just Comment with what you've been reading!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Ms. Marvel vol. 1 by Wilson & Alphona (PBK)
Reading through my neglected library pile while I try (and fail) to catch up on reviews. I'm enjoying the diverse MC and realistic plot.

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Made to Kill by Adam Christopher (ARC)

3 Stars. A laid-back historical noir mystery with a contemporary sci-fi twist and a classic PI voice that wasn't a bad read. Review to come.

NO. 6 vol. 4 by Asano & Kino (PBK)
4 Stars. Randomly discovered this series at the library and am now completely engrossed! It's an adaption of a dystopian novel series, and although it's a pretty simple plot I am scrambling to get my hands on the rest of the series, stat. Thankfully it has all released.

>> READING NEXT <<

Yukarism vol. 4 by Chika Shiomi (PBK)
I'm struggling to settle on what novel to read next (yet another reading slump yay), but this is on its way so I know it's time is coming soon! Just discovered it's the last volume though, so I'm already depressed because it's been such a good series and I'd hoped it would last a good long while.

So what are you reading this week?

WoW: P.S. I Like You (Kasie West)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: P.S. I Like You

Author: Kasie West

Release Date: July 26, 2016
Publisher: Point

Summary:

What if the person you were falling for was a total mystery?

While Lily is spacing out in Chemistry one day, she picks up her pencil and scribbles a line from one of her favorite songs on the desk. The next day, someone else has written back to her on the desk! Soon enough Lily and the mystery student are exchanging notes, and lyrics, and even sharing secrets. When Lily finds out that her anonymous pen pal is a guy, she's flustered -- and kind of feels like she's falling for him. She and her best friend set out to unravel the identity of the letter writer -- but when the truth is revealed, the guy is the LAST person Lily could have ever imagined it to be. Now that Lily knows the truth, can she untangle her feelings and gather the courage to listen to her heart?

From beloved author Kasie West (The Distance Between Us) comes an utterly charming story about mixed messages, missed connections, and the magic of good old-fashioned secret admirer notes.

Add to Goodreads

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: Kasie West. Mystery desk pen pal romance. Kasie West. One of the most adorable covers ever. Did I mention it was by Kasie West? KASIE WEST. Enough said.

So what book are you waiting on?

The #FridayReads Review (10/23/15)

Welcome to The #FridayReads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week, and what I'm planning to read next! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own #FridayReads Review and leave the link in the Comments below, or just Comment with what you've been reading!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Made to Kill by Adam Christopher (ARC)
Although a bit on the slow side, the premise is interesting and I'm enjoying the character voice.

Supervillains Anonymous by Lexie Dunne (PBK)
I only have, like, 30 pages left, but I can't seem to make myself read them. My nerves may need to rest a while before I can handle the final showdown.

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Tiger & Bunny vol. 7 by Mizuki Sakakibara (PBK)

3 Stars. A superhero/TV game show storyline that started rather serial but grew a tense and lengthy plot. Nothing spectacular, but relatively fun. I am now caught up on published volumes and will probably continue the series if I see new volumes at the library.

>> READING NEXT <<

This Shattered World by Kaufman & Spooner (ARC)
Time to re-read this beauty to prep for the final book! (And to finally write a coherent review.)

So what are you reading this week?

Release Week Blitz: WOLF BY WOLF (Ryan Graudin) + Giveaway

Today I'm excited to be a part of the Rock Star Tours release week blitz for WOLF BY WOLF by Ryan Graudin, which releases this week from Little, Brown! If you haven't yet heard about this YA alternate history check it out below, add it to Goodreads (and maybe purchase a copy while you're at it ;), and be sure to enter to win a signed copy and special WOLF BY WOLF pin at the end! But first, a special intro from the author:

"Once upon a different time, there was a girl who lived in a kingdom of death. Wolves howled up her arm. A whole pack of them--made of tattoo ink and pain, memory and loss. It was the only thing about her that ever stayed the same.

Her story begins on a train." 

And so begins the story of Yael, a girl who can change her appearance to mimic any other female. A girl who must win a 20,000 kilometer cross-continental motorcycle race from Germania to Tokyo so that she can have an audience with Adolf Hitler. A girl who has every intention of killing him.

Whenever I describe the premise of WOLF BY WOLF to people, the reactions I get are quite similar. It's the "are-you-insane-or-are-you-onto-something" face: dropped jaw, squiggly eyebrows. I must admit, I felt many of those same feelings when I first started penning Yael's story. Alternate history + sci-fi + epic motorcycle journey felt like a strange recipe for a novel. But I pushed through my fears and kept writing, and I couldn't be happier with the result. I, for one, don't think I'm insane, but I'll let you, dear reader, come up with your own conclusion.

Happy reading!

Ryan Graudin

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Wolf By Wolf

Author: Ryan Graudin

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Pub. Date: October 20, 2015
Format: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 400

Code Name Verity meets Inglourious Basterds in this fast-paced novel from the author of The Walled City.

The year is 1956, and the Axis powers of the Third Reich and Imperial Japan rule the world. To commemorate their Great Victory over Britain and Russia, Hitler and Emperor Hirohito host the Axis Tour: an annual motorcycle race across their conjoined continents. The victor is awarded an audience with the highly reclusive Adolf Hitler at the Victor's ball.Yael, who escaped from a death camp, has one goal: Win the race and kill Hitler. A survivor of painful human experimentation, Yael has the power to skinshift and must complete her mission by impersonating last year's only female victor, Adele Wolfe. This deception becomes more difficult when Felix, Adele twin's brother, and Luka, her former love interest, enter the race and watch Yael's every move. But as Yael begins to get closer to the other competitors, can she bring herself to be as ruthless as she needs to be to avoid discovery and complete her mission? 

Add to Goodreads

Purchase your copy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan Graudin grew up in Charleston and graduated from the College of Charleston with a degree in Creative Writing in 2009. She is the author of All That Glows and The Walled City. She resides near Charleston with her husband and wolf-dog.

Website | Twitter |Tumblr | Goodreads | Pinterest | Blog

THE GIVEAWAY

1 winner will receive a signed finished copy of the book 

with a special WOLF BY WOLF pin.

US Only | Ends October 26th, Midnight EST

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WoW: Break Me Like a Promise (Tiffany Schmidt)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Break Me Like a Promise

Author: Tiffany Schmidt

Release Date: June 7, 2016
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens

Summary:

No one is unbreakable.

All Magnolia Vickers has ever wanted was to follow father’s path as head of the Family Business. But new legislation is poised to destroy the Family’s operations in the black-market organ trade and Maggie’s recent behavior has wrecked the business-savvy reputation she’s worked her whole life to build.

She’s given an ultimatum: shape up or step aside.

Then Maggie messes up: she downloads a virus onto her father’s computer, and must sneak it off-estate for repair. When Alex, a tech whiz, uncovers the type of information on the machine, he offers Maggie a choice: her Family can give him a kidney, or he’ll irreparably scramble the data. Maggie agrees, but has no intention of keeping her promise or every seeing him again. That night Alex shows up at her Family estate with copies of confidential Family files and a shocking revelation—the kidney is for him.

The Vickers aren’t willing to let Alex out of their sight, so he moves onto their estate and Maggie is assigned to be his keeper. A task she resents and he enjoys making as challenging as possible. But procuring black market organs is becoming increasingly difficult, and as Alex’s health declines, she’s surprised to find herself falling for him.

Like it or not, Maggie must accept that if she wants to save Alex’s life and carve out a place in the new legalized organ business, she’s going to have to fight for both.

Add to Goodreads

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: I quite enjoyed the first book in the Once Upon a Crime Family series, Hold Me Like a Breath (check out my review here), so I'm looking forward to more crime family drama with Maggie's story!

So what book are you waiting on?

Box Set Release Celebration: THE PLEDGE TRILOGY (Kimberly Derting) + Giveaway

Today I'm excited to be a part of the Me, My Shelf & I box set release celebration for THE PLEDGE TRILOGY by Kimberly Derting, which releases today from Margaret K. McElderry (Simon & Schuster)! If you haven't yet heard about this series check it out below, add it to Goodreads (and maybe purchase a set while you're at it! ;), and be sure to enter to win a *signed* box set plus $50 to the online book retailer of your choice!

ABOUT THE SERIES

THE PLEDGE TRILOGY BOX SET

Author: Kimberly Derting

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry (Simon & Schuster)

Pub. Date: October 20, 2015

The complete Pledge trilogy, a dark and romantic blend of dystopia and fantasy, is now available in a collectible paperback boxed set. 

In The Pledge, seventeen-year-old Charlaina lives in Ludania, a country stratified by a caste system divided by language and ruled by the cruel tyrant Queen Sabara. But Charlie has a secret skill, and as clashes escalate between the totalitarian monarch and the rebel forces, Charlie might be her country’s only chance for freedom. And though Charlie lays claim to the throne in The Essence, the influence of the evil Sabara does not disappear. Faced with the ultimate betrayal, Charlie must turn to an unexpected resource for help—and to an unexpected ally for love. Then when peace negotiations go awry in The Offering, it seems the only option to secure Ludanian freedom is for Charlie to sacrifice herself. But things aren’t always as they seem. Is Charlie walking into a trap? 

Full of danger, intrigue, and blood-rushing romance, this gripping trilogy is sure to satisfy and makes an ideal gift. 

Add to Goodreads

Purchase your copy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimberly is the author of the BODY FINDER series (HarperCollins), THE PLEDGE trilogy (Simon & Schuster), and THE TAKING trilogy (HarperTeen). She lives in the Pacific Northwest, the ideal place to write anything dark or creepy...a gloomy day can set the perfect mood. She lives with her husband and their three beautiful (and often mouthy) children who provide an endless source of inspiration.

TWITTER | WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM

THE GIVEAWAY

 One Grand Prize Winner will get:
A Signed Box Set + 
$50.00 to the online book retailer of their choice

US Only | Must be 13+ To Enter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DNF Review: Dreamstrider (Lindsay Smith)

Title: Dreamstrider
Series: standalone
Author: Lindsay Smith (site)
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
Release Date: October 6, 2015
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Told: First Person (Livia), Past Tense
Content Rating: Up to Page 128: Teen (violence)
Format Read: ARC (author)
Find On: Goodreads
Purchase On: Amazon | B&N | Book Depository
Summary:

A high-concept, fantastical espionage novel set in a world where dreams are the ultimate form of political intelligence.

Livia is a dreamstrider. She can inhabit a subject's body while they are sleeping and, for a short time, move around in their skin. She uses her talent to work as a spy for the Barstadt Empire. But her partner, Brandt, has lately become distant, and when Marez comes to join their team from a neighborhing kingdom, he offers Livia the option of a life she had never dared to imagine. Livia knows of no other dreamstriders who have survived the pull of Nightmare. So only she understands the stakes when a plot against the Empire emerges that threatens to consume both the dreaming world and the waking one with misery and rage.

A richly conceived world full of political intrigue and fantastical dream sequences, at its heart Dreamstrider is about a girl who is struggling to live up to the potential before her.

*          *          *

I did not finish this book. I stopped at Page 128.

In a Sentence: An intriguing fantasy world and premise, but I couldn't connect with the writing, bring myself to like the main character, or find the interest to care about the story.

Before I started reviewing, not finishing books was a common occurrence - if at any time I lost interest in a story, I simply moved on to another. But I feel a true review should only be written for a fully read book, and since I started reviewing I have tried to persevere with books even when I don't fully connect with the story. However, every once in a while I come across a book that I simply cannot finish, and to my great disappointment this was one of them.

No matter how hard I tried, I couldn't find it in me to be interested in this book. While it possesses an unusual fantasy setting, a powered main character, and an intriguing premise  - a trifecta that normally never fails to engage me - all three fell flat in the telling.

Setting: While the unusual fantasy setting seemed interesting and different, the description of it, as with the description of everything else, was for some reason extremely difficult for me to picture. This left me unable to immerse myself in the story, always an outsider looking down from the pages. Also, for such a fantastical and rather complicated setting, very little was detailed or explained, leaving what vague picture of the world I was able to cobble together with great gaping holes. With a world such as this one I craved description, but was never even remotely satisfied with what was given.

Character: A powered main character will always immediately snag my interest, but despite her power, for the life of me I could not stand Livia. Even though she was the only person who could do what she did, she was extremely self-disparaging and constantly feared that if she made even one little mistake they would send her back to the slums from whence they rescued her. Considering they had no one to replace her this seemed highly unlikely, but she still panicked with every step she took, always walking on eggshells. She didn't try to learn more, to be better - just wallowed in her ignorance and self-pity. I really tried to find something to like in her, but I finally reached the point where I just couldn't take her anymore.

Story: I have a soft spot for stories about dreamworlds, so I was on board with this book right away. Although honestly the intriguing premise was really nothing new, paired with the fantasy setting I thought it had promise. But no matter the intrigue Livia became entangled in or the close calls she had, I just couldn't find the interest to care about the story. When I finally gave up on the book, Livia and partner were scaling a building to break into an office for possibly vital information, but I'm sad to say I just didn't care enough to find out if they succeeded or not - or if Livia would ultimately succeed in saving her country by the end of the book. I felt no excitement, no thrill, and therefore no enthusiasm to see the story through.

Writing: Looking back now, I think it all really came down to the writing style. It was like the book and my brain were written with slightly different code and I couldn't process it properly, sending on slightly different wavelengths and I couldn't connect clearly. I tried so very hard to understand it anyway, but we simply weren't compatible.

Conclusion: If you're on the right wavelength, this book has an interesting premise and intriguing fantasy setting that might be worth a try, especially if you like dreamworlds. But for me there was too little description for such a fantastical world and I couldn't bring myself to like the main character or take interest in the story. As it stands right now, I sadly do not think I'll be giving this one another try.

Small Screen Review (10/11/15-10/17/15)

Back for the 2015 fall lineup, it's Small Screen Review!!

I watch quite a bit of telly. More than I should, really. So since I watch as much television as I read books, I thought I should "review" what I watch each week, both television and movies (I only watch movies on DVD at home, long story). Nothing fancy, just a few sentences about what I thought of what I watched. (I'll try to avoid spoilers, but no promises.) Comment with your thoughts on the shows!

This Week's Best Episode: 

iZombie

NEW SHOWS

Blindspot: Continues to be intriguing enough to continue. We're not really looking forward to the CIA story next week, but we'll continue for now.

Heroes Reborn: Dropped. :'(

Last Man Standing: The funny is strong with this one. Loved that they were (eventually) pro-homeschool, and it should prove an amusing thread for the show.

Limitless: Another exciting episode! There was a lot going on, but it worked well.

The Muppets: Manipulation and after-hours Miss Piggy made for a highly amusing episode.

The Player: Another thrill ride, but this is seriously becoming original Person of Interest. Not that that's a bad thing.

Supergirl: Series Premiere 10/26

CONTINUING SHOWS

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Not big on the government hunters but *loving* the Simmons thread!!

Bones: It has mostly returned to the regular setup, which I'm happy for, although it is getting a bit old for me. But Betty White next week? My mother has already made me promise to watch it with her. Also, while I'm not a Sleepy Hollow fan, I'll be interested in the crossover the week following.

Castle: Enjoy having Castle (sort of) back working with the precinct, but already we're pulling away from the awesomeness that is his PI practice and Alexis. *sigh* Also, I hope the exam won't see us losing Esposito and/or Ryan - the show would not be the same without them.

Elementary: Season Premiere 11/5

Fresh Off the Boat: This episode was okay, but last week's was leagues better. The father's "living the American dream" episodes just aren't as funny, and since the two youngest had almost no camera time this was a lesser episode for me.

Gotham: Watched one more episode. I'm really interested in Bruce's thread, but I actually find Jim and the crazy rather dull. Dropped.

The Great British Baking Show: Just when I think I've seen all the American/British differences, they do a "tray bake." How had I not heard of this before? Sad to lose the contestant we did, but it was their time.

iZombie: iZombie rules, bro! And definitely takes this week's best episode. Although the local channel was frozen, it was immediately available online so it was all good!

Master Chef Jr.: Season Premiere 11/6

Once Upon a Time: Was able to watch last week's missed episode online so I'm all caught up! So far this has been a surprisingly excellent season - I'm not big on the whole Arthur conspiracy, but Dark Emma is an awesome twist, and now Rumple? Unless this takes a seriously disappointing turn soon, I'm pretty much locked in for the season.

Person of Interest: Season Premiere Unknown

Scorpion: A pretty strong episode, finally. We'll be continuing the show for now.

DVD

Log Horizon (Collection 1): I've kind of lost interest in anime, but I enjoyed the first volume of the manga and so when I saw this at the library I couldn't help grabbing it. I've only watched one episode so far and it's pretty fun (I'm a sucker for video game stories, even though I don't play), but I don't know if it's entertaining enough to put real time into. We'll see how the next week goes.

Poirot (Series 4): I really enjoy the short episodes, but this series turned out to be all movies. Still, despite the fact that we remembered most of the twists and murders from previous viewings, Poirot never ceases to entertain.

No movies this week.

So that's it for this week! What did you watch?

The #FridayReads Review (10/16/15)

Welcome to The #FridayReads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week, and what I'm planning to read next! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own #FridayReads Review and leave the link in the Comments below, or just Comment with what you've been reading!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Supervillains Anonymous by Lexie Dunne (PBK)
I'm behind on reviews so I happily picked up this non-review read. I'm enjoying the thrills and twists for the most part, but it's broken into fight chunks and downtime chunks and the downtime chunk I'm currently in has gone on way too long.

Natsume's Book of Friends vol. 4 by Yuki Midorikawa (PBK)
A quieter, contemplative serial centered around Japanese folklore. Scored volumes 4-7 at the used bookstore and since I've been reading it out of order and haven't read these yet I'm excited to get a bit more background! 

>> JUST FINISHED <<

Waistcoats & Weaponry by Gail Carriger (PBK)

5 Stars. Goodness what a delightful read, and even more so the second time! Review (finally) to come soon.

>> READING NEXT <<

Made to Kill by Adam Christopher (ARC)
Next, my pretty, next...

So what are you reading this week?

WoW: Ten Thousand Skies Above You (Claudia Gray)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Ten Thousand Skies Above You

Author: Claudia Gray

Release Date: November 3, 2015
Publisher: HarperTeen

Summary:

Ever since she used the Firebird, her parents' invention, to cross into alternate dimensions, Marguerite has caught the attention of enemies who will do anything to force her into helping them dominate the multiverse—even hurting the people she loves. She resists until her boyfriend, Paul, is attacked and his consciousness scattered across multiple dimensions. 

Marguerite has no choice but to search for each splinter of Paul’s soul. The hunt sends her racing through a war-torn San Francisco, the criminal underworld of New York City, and a glittering Paris where another Marguerite hides a shocking secret. Each world brings Marguerite one step closer to rescuing Paul. But with each trial she faces, she begins to question the destiny she thought they shared. 

The second book in the Firebird trilogy, Ten Thousand Skies Above You features Claudia Gray’s lush, romantic language and smart, exciting action, and will have readers clamoring for the next book.

Add to Goodreads

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: I finally read A Thousand Pieces of You last month and was absolutely blown away by the worlds and Marguerite's interaction with them. I was already excited for this sequel after finishing the first book, but after reading the summary I am clamoring to get my hands on this beauty!

So what book are you waiting on?

Review: Wolf By Wolf (Ryan Graudin)

Title: Wolf By Wolf
Series: Wolf By Wolf, Book 1
Author: Ryan Graudin (site)
Publisher: Little, Brown BYR
Release Date: October 20, 2015
Genre: Young Adult Alternate Historical
Told: Third Person (mostly Yael), Past Tense
Content Rating: Older Teen (German swearing, violence, genocide, child experimentation, minor torture and disturbing images)
Format Read: ARC (trade)
Find On: Goodreads 
Purchase On: Amazon | B&N | Book Depository
Summary:

Code Name Verity meets Inglourious Basterds in this fast-paced novel from the author of The Walled City.

The year is 1956, and the Axis powers of the Third Reich and Imperial Japan rule the world. To commemorate their Great Victory over Britain and Russia, Hitler and Emperor Hirohito host the Axis Tour: an annual motorcycle race across their conjoined continents. The victor is awarded an audience with the highly reclusive Adolf Hitler at the Victor's ball.

Yael, who escaped from a death camp, has one goal: Win the race and kill Hitler. A survivor of painful human experimentation, Yael has the power to skinshift and must complete her mission by impersonating last year's only female victor, Adele Wolfe. This deception becomes more difficult when Felix, Adele twin's brother, and Luka, her former love interest, enter the race and watch Yael's every move. But as Yael begins to get closer to the other competitors, can she bring herself to be as ruthless as she needs to be to avoid discovery and complete her mission?

*          *          *

In a Sentence: An interesting if contemplative alternate history with an intriguing twist but clinical writing style.

I rarely read historical fiction (although history fascinates me, go figure), but when I found out this book had a "powered" girl and was set in an alternate history where Hitler won the war, I was too intrigued not to try it. Essentially I found it an interesting plot and setting with a strong main character, but the writing was a little too clinical and the story more internal contemplation than external action.

Story: Although the basic plot followed a girl on a mission to win a race and assassinate Hitler, the story focused mainly on Yael's personal struggle with identity. The race was more a backdrop for her journey of self-discovery, with little time spent on the actual race except for a few key scenes to broaden Yael's internal reflection. Despite this the story was engaging enough, although I surprisingly enjoyed the "Then" flashbacks, which had greater depth and heart, much more than the "Now" story. Also, with the "Now" race I rarely felt urgency, and in fact on several occasions put the book down for days without feeling the need to return to it right away unless I was in the middle of a "Then" section. The "Now" story did have its moments though, and Yael showed some true skill and bravery in some intense situations.

Writing: While the subject matter was on the heavier side (concentration camps, child experimentation, assassination, etc.), the story was surprisingly light due to a rather clinical writing style. This style also dulled the tension though, dissecting the action and drawing it out so much that occasionally I grew impatient and my eyes started skipping paragraphs to get on with the story. It also distanced me from the emotional resonance of the story, and although I had no trouble understanding Yael's emotions, I rarely felt them.

Characters: Yael was a shattered girl who had lost everything, including herself, and was now shoddily held together by anger and hatred and fueled by a desperate desire to rid the world of the evil that ruled it. But despite her brokenness she was strong and courageous, and even in her desperation she showed a caring heart for the misguided enemies around her. Due to the clinical writing style I can't say I connected very emotionally with her, but she was a powerful character and I enjoyed following her journey. The boys were good companions, adding interesting obstacles and new avenues for Yael to contemplate - Felix to the familial past, and Luka to the unknown future.

Romantic Relationships: Going in I wondered if some kind of love triangle with the two boys would arise, but there was very little romance to speak of and thankfully only with one of them.

Conclusion: Overall this was an interesting story with a strong main character and intriguing alternate history, even if the clinical writing style dulled the tension. Although I felt this book stands alone nicely enough, it is the first in a duology. It will depend on the plot, but considering the twist at the end of this book I might be interested in seeing what happens in the next.

Scribble Rating: 

3.5 of 5 Scribbles

Small Screen Review (10/5/15-10/10/15)

Back for the 2015 fall lineup, it's Small Screen Review!!

I watch quite a bit of telly. More than I should, really. So since I watch as much television as I read books, I thought I should "review" what I watch each week, both television and movies (I only watch movies on DVD at home, long story). Nothing fancy, just a few sentences about what I thought of what I watched. (I'll try to avoid spoilers, but no promises.) Comment with your thoughts on the shows!

This Week's Best Episode: 

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

NEW SHOWS

Blindspot: Wasn't as impressed with this episode. And the mystery is already starting to tangle, which I never like. Starting to lose interest.

Heroes Reborn: Although I like the turn Chuck's character has taken, most of the story and characters have been done before and the basic plot has been overdone to death. Got bored halfway through this episode and now I'm seriously pondering dropping it next week. So sad.

Last Man Standing: Despite character confusion, this continues to be very funny. And the feminism thread this week was interesting.

Limitless: Not quite as good as last week's episode, but still entertaining. The new twist should prove interesting, although I personally don't feel the show needed it at this juncture. Hopefully the new "jobs" will only come up occasionally and not every week.

The Muppets: Not quite as funny as the previous episodes, but this continues to entertain. I was chatting TV with a co-worker this week and when this show came up my boss actually entered the conversation to see if it was worth watching (she rarely watches television). Needless to say I highly recommended it.

The Player: Another thrilling ride! The wife mystery is a little weak, but I'm intrigued enough to follow it.

Supergirl: Series Premiere 10/26

CONTINUING SHOWS

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.: Although there was almost too much going on to keep up with, this was an awesome episode and has cemented this season for me - an easy winner for this week's best episode! LOVE the FitzSimmons thread, and cannot wait to find out more about where Simmons was!

Bones: Premiere Part 2 was even more disappointing than Part 1 - apparently 2-part premieres are the kiss of death for me. Looks like the show will be returning to the favored norm next week though, so I'll give it at least another episode.

Castle: Called it. Not enjoying the Beckett thread, but absolutely loving that Alexis is now Castle's sidekick (and killing it)! My only disappointment: she changed her hair back.

Elementary: Season Premiere 11/5

Fresh Off the Boat: Beanie Babies. Shaq. Customers beating the car dealership. So far the best episode ever, methinks.

Gotham: Finally watched the first two episodes, and they weren't bad. Not quite as twisted as I'd been dreading, although they're certainly dipping their toes in. Ah well. Not crazy about Jim's character growth, but loving Bruce's.

The Great British Baking Show: The youngest is really starting to shine, although so sad about the creative one losing a lot of ground. Always satisfying to see the right person leave, though - it really was time.

iZombie: The zombies are back and just as good as last season! The zombie hunter should prove an interesting twist.

Master Chef Jr.: Season Premiere 11/6

Once Upon a Time: My recording was too broken to watch so I now have to wait until ABC deigns me worthy to watch it online. As one who doesn't have cable, that means waiting until after next week's episode at least, if it'll let me on even then. Why must non-cable watchers who accidentally miss an episode on TV be punished instead of encouraged to catch up online? Makes me want to drop the show.

Person of Interest: Season Premiere Unknown

Scorpion: Although the plot was seriously weak (as they have been so far this season), the story was pretty awesome. Will give it another episode.

DVD

Heroes (Season 4): FINISHED. And now some of the Reborn Episode 1 inside jokes are funny. I have to hand it to the writers concerning Sylar: no matter how disturbing he was, he was still a highly sympathetic character and I couldn't have been happier with his ending. And Peter's, actually. Really hoping for cameos.

Charlie Chan - The Golden Eye: Mom's on a Charlie Chan kick right now and is scouring the libraries for books and movies like this one. From past watches we definitely prefer Sidney Toler as Chan, but since the Son and Birmingham were played by the usual actors it was an entertaining watch.

Charlie Chan in the Secret Service: Sidney Toler, aka the proper Charlie Chan. But the story was actually rather boring, or just really poorly directed. Thankfully it was only an hour long or I wouldn't have made it all the way through.

Charlie's Aunt: A pretty amusing Jack Benny movie where he dresses up like an old aunt and all the hijinks ensue. You can definitely tell it was originally a play though, and I think it would be much funnier on the stage.

So that's it for this week! What did you watch?

The #FridayReads Review (10/9/15)

Welcome to The #FridayReads Review, a regular Friday segment where I share what I've been reading the past week, and what I'm planning to read next! Want to join the Friday fun? Post your own #FridayReads Review and leave the link in the Comments below, or just Comment with what you've been reading!

>> CURRENTLY READING <<

Waistcoats & Weaponry by Gail Carriger (PBK)
Although I will tell anyone who's listening (and some who aren't) how amazing Miss Gail's books are, I always forget just how amazing until I read one again - and re-reads are no exception! Devouring this pretty once more in preparation for the release of the final book, Manners & Mutiny, next month, and if the new quote markers I've been adding are any indication it's an even better read the second time!

Fairy Tail: Blue Mistral vol. 1 by Mashima & Watanabe (PBK)
Spin-off series for a slightly younger audience. A cute adventure, but unfortunately nothing special.

>> JUST FINISHED <<

A Thousand Pieces of You by Claudia Gray (ARC)

3.5 Stars. An engrossing read with fascinating universes but a less than fascinating plot. Review to come.

One-Punch Man vol. 1 by ONE & Murata (PBK)

2 Stars. Sick superhero satire serial series. Complete madness...and yet I've now read 2 volumes...help...

>> READING NEXT <<

Made to Kill by Adam Christopher (ARC)
A robot noir set in an alternate 1960s LA about a robot detective/hitman. Not my usual cup of tea, but I'm definitely intrigued! Received from the publisher for consideration.

So what are you reading this week?

WoW: Sidekick (Natalie Whipple)

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blogging event hosted by Breaking the Spine, in which one spotlights an upcoming release they are eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Sidekick

Author: Natalie Whipple

Release Date: November 10, 2015
Publisher: Whipple House

Summary:

Russ is a high school football player who feels like he always comes in second to his best friend, Garret. In sports. In school. With girls. Well, he's tired of it, and he gets the rather foolish idea that if he can win the heart of the new girl in town before Garret he can prove he's not just sloppy seconds.

His plan? Use his anime-obsessed sister's group, who has befriended the new girl, to get closer to her. He'd never tell the team, but he's been going to Anime Night for years and might even enjoy it. That would ruin his reputation, just like his secret love for cooking and James Taylor.

But pretending to be something you aren't catches up to you eventually, and Russ can only get away with living two lives for so long. As more than one person reveals they have something to hide, Russ must figure out what and who he really wants in his life. And more than that, he needs the courage to make it happen.

Add to Goodreads

Why I'm Looking Forward To It: Let's see, a story by the amazing Natalie Whipple that includes people obsessed with anime and a boy who has a secret love for cooking... Who am I kidding, we all know it had me at "by Natalie Whipple"! ;)

(FYI the ebook is available for pre-order on Amazon here!)

So what book are you waiting on?

Review: The Novice (Taran Matharu)

Title: The Novice
Series: Summoner, Book 1
Author: Taran Matharu
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: May 5, 2015
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Told: Third Person (Fletcher), Past Tense
Content Rating: Teen (violence, some language)
Format Read: ARC (Bibliopunkk)
Find On: Goodreads
Purchase On: Amazon | B&N | Book Depository
Summary:

When blacksmith apprentice Fletcher discovers that he has the ability to summon demons from another world, he travels to Adept Military Academy. There the gifted are trained in the art of summoning. Fletcher is put through grueling training as a battlemage to fight in the Hominum Empire’s war against orcs. He must tread carefully while training alongside children of powerful nobles. The power hungry, those seeking alliances, and the fear of betrayal surround him. Fletcher finds himself caught in the middle of powerful forces, with only his demon Ignatius for help.

As the pieces on the board maneuver for supremacy, Fletcher must decide where his loyalties lie. The fate of an empire is in his hands. The Novice is the first in a trilogy about Fletcher, his demon Ignatius, and the war against the Orcs.

*          *          *

In a Sentence: A mashup of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings that, as long as you don't mind the stark similarities, I found rather entertaining.

Cover: The cover cannot go unmentioned because it is an accurate representation - coat, demon, weapons, marks. I have never appreciated a cover more!

Setting: A fantasy world with elves, dwarves, orcs, and demons that can be summoned and harnessed from another world. While it smacked of Lord of the Rings because of the fantasy characters and basic universe structure, each race had a few unique qualities that I hadn't come across before. I even liked the dwarves, which has never happened.

Story: This story began like most high fantasies for me, which is to say I had a rather hard time getting into it. I actually almost gave up a few chapters in, but decided to stick with it and soldiered through. I was soon rewarded, but in the familiar form of Harry Potter as orphan Fletcher, suddenly discovering he has powers, ends up enrolled in a school of magic. Around the same time, the world soon came into focus as one not unlike that of Lord of the Rings, relationships strained between the humans, dwarves, and elves, and all struggling against the vicious orcs. I will admit that at first the similarities were a little too stark, and even after I accepted them they continued to nag at me throughout the book. But since I hadn't read either of the popular series in such a long time (and missed Harry Potter something fierce), I eventually found the similar story and characters a passable substitute and let myself be entertained.

Characters: The cast was made up of an interesting and unique bunch of characters, even as they reminded me of similar characters from Harry Potter. Fletcher was fiercely loyal to his friends and his beliefs, and once he made up his mind about both there was little that could change it. He fought with his whole heart and never considered easier, more tempting paths - he did what he thought was right and never looked back. He was like every strong hero before him and yet not quite like any one in particular, and I found him worth following and rooting for no matter what.

Romantic Relationship: There was no romance, which I found highly refreshing - not every YA has to have romance, although most seem to feel the need to add it whether it quite fits or not. I'm sure we'll get some romance in future books, though.

Writing: A little more dense than I usually like, but probably a lot less dense than normal high fantasies. The description was easy to picture and the movement relatively easy to follow.

Conclusion: Similarities to popular fantasy series aside, I found this an entertaining read and recommend it for fans of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings (and possibly Percy Jackson) that are looking for a similar fix and don't mind how close it gets. This is the first in a trilogy, and after the cliffhanger ending I'll be interested in continuing Fletcher's magical adventures in the next book, The Inquisition (May 2016).

For Fans Of: Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Percy Jackson

Scribble Rating: 

3.5 out of 5 Scribbles