Confessions of a Pinay Bookaholic

Oh my gosh, This is BEAUTIFUL! I can't wait to read this. Fast forward to 2014 please?! :">
Let's go TEAM MAXON!!!!

June 4,2014

This review might contain spoilers.

I'm so happy to finally read this book and the ending was very predictable as I've expected. (view spoiler) The book ended with a great conclusion and I was satisfied with it. I may be annoyed with America Singer for being whiny and indecisive in some ways, but I was impressed with her on this book. Her compassion, selflessness, and courage to stand up against the king was outstanding. I can't help smiling and in my mind I was like "You GO GIRL!".

Maxon Schreave, oh my goodness. You my dear prince never failed to make me laugh and swoon. His moments with America made me giggle like crazy. I don't mind laughing alone. I don't even care. I am enjoying this damn moment to fangirl on this trilogy.

I am instantly hooked with this trilogy. The romance, rebellion, revelations, the clues-I-didn't-see-coming, the pretty covers....everything! I am going to miss this one. If you want to read a fast paced dystopian read, I highly recommend this one. :)

Favorite scene: The Convicting (view spoiler)
Favorite quote:“Break my heart. Break it a thousand times if you like. It was only ever yours to break anyway.”

It's still good, but a little frustrating. I have to wait for 2014 for the final book. Uggh! :( Damn it!

I don't know what the hell was wrong with America. I just don't get her. She may had a good idea to change Illea, but I'm so annoyed when she keep changing her mind of who to choose, Maxon or Aspen? I don't get her for being mad with Maxon when he (view spoiler). Seriously, she needs to make a CHOICE. She can't keep them both as lovers.

On the other hand, America is smart, brave and someone who doesn't give up easily. She wants freedom and equality, I love her for that.


Am I Team Aspen or Team Maxon?

Of course, I'm TEAM MAXON all the way! >:D

Fantastic, Enchanting, & Romantic

This book reminds me of Cinderella with a touch of Hunger Games because of the contest wherein young ladies belonging to different castes are chosen to become part of The Selection in search for the Prince's true love/confidant for lifetime and the next princess who will rule Illea.

America Singer, a Five, doesn't want to be part of this traditional contest. She doesn't have a choice but sign up for the sake of her family and his boyfriend, Aspen whom she loved and was planning to have a future with him. Being selected changed her life in a way she get privileges of wearing fancy dresses, expensive jewelries and delicious meals.

Despite of being a Five, she's not intimidated with other ladies who have higher castes/statuses. I love her natural beauty and personality. She did stand out among the other ladies which caught everyone's attention, particularly Prince Maxon. I love how she treats her maids as her friends not the other way around. She's just adorable and funny.

Another reason why I love America Singer:

A strong heroine doesn't have to be a kick-ass one to be lovable, but to be an influential one or be a good role model to her people.

I love Prince Maxon. He's sweet, kind attractive, gentleman, understanding and swoon-worthy guy. I wish America would end up with him. I don't really like Aspen for breaking America's heart, but I feel sorry for him somehow. So, I'm rooting for Team Maxon ;)

I feel so giddy after finishing this. I just love it and I can't wait to grab The Elite and read it!

Carpe Diem - Seize the day, live in the moment, soak it all up -- good or bad.

Golden is a story about a 17 year old girl senior high school student, Parker Frost. She lives a life with full of expectations from her mother since education is very important to get a good career. As much as possible, she maintains her good grades to attain the highest achievement, and get a scholarship. With too much pressure, sometimes she missed the fun side of high school life because once in a while we have to do the things according to our will and break some little rules.

One day, Mr. Kinney gives her a task to send journals to its owners (He provides journals to his senior students as a final requirement, they have to write down what they want to be in the future or just completely anything. It can be their secrets, who knows what? It is to be sealed and passed on Graduation Day and it will be sent 10 years later to them) and Parker came across with Julianna Farnetti's journal. She is part of the town's mystery because of an accident happened 10 years ago which took her life as well as her boyfriend, Shane Cruz. There is something about this journal that draws her to open and read it. Something special, but is she courageous enough to take the risk?

"I don't ever want to be someone who needs to be reminded.
I want to be someone bold, who takes risk and has no regrets.
I want to have a life made of love and beauty and chance."
-- Julianna Farnetti

Wow. Just wow. I don't know how will I review this because this book made me speechless. Where do I start? I love how this book draws me into the story. I am instantly captivated with the writing style, I was able to connect with the characters and the story is wonderful, refreshing and beautiful. It takes me back to those moments if I'm right with the decisions I make, am I courageous enough with the consequences if ever it ended up wrong. I also love the idea of journal writing because it's one way of venting out, reflecting and documenting a cherished moment. It could be anything, even little secrets.

This book leaves a lesson that in every choices we make has its own consequences whether it's good or bad. What matters most, your choices or decisions should be according to your will, not dictated by anyone because that's what they want you to be. They may give you some advices but like I said, it's up to you and it should be respected. Take chances and risks, learn to have fun with those opportunities because it's one way of learning.

One thing is for sure, I'm going to read more of Jessi Kirby's books. This is the first book that I've read from her and I would like to thank my book girlfriend, Allen for giving and recommending this book to me. I highly recommend this book to everyone. This is definitely one of the best contemporary romance books ever written. It's a light and an easy read. Just read this book with a cup of coffee, a notebook, and a pen.

Ask yourself:

"What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

Beautiful Disaster has been on my TBR list for ages, and I kinda feel bad of not reading this earlier than I should have. Oh well, better late than never!

I just can't stop grinning right now (the mere fact it's past 12 midnight and I can't sleep right now. Book hangover.) because ofTravis Maddox and Abby Abernathy. Gosh, I love them. They do have a complicated relationship and they are so one effed up couple, that sometimes I can't help being carried away of my emotions. Yes, they can be frustrating at times because of their own childish dramas, but I don't mind. I just love how they can't keep their hands off each other. Excuse my fan girl mode but I have a soft spot for BAD BOYS. Holy freaking Travis Maddox. OMFG. Swoon worthy bad boy! I love how he is protective with Abby and he'll do everything just to have her.

I love how it gives me all sorts of emotions. It's one crazy, adorable story between a good girl and a bad boy. Definitely an unputdownable and easy read. I love the drama, and the characters. I enjoyed this book very much. It's a thumbs up for me!

I know it takes me so long to finish this book merely because it's thick and I'm very busy lately on other stuffs (work & other requirements). I'm just too tired to read, I miss reading and catching up with new releases and all sorts of bookish stuffs.

Let's see.

The Evolution of Mara Dyer is indeed better than the first installment. This book has lots of surprises. Every chapter of this book leaves me speechless and just make me want to scream "How the fuck did that happen?! What the hell?!!" (Sorry for the words. I easily get carried away on what I'm reading.) as well as make you think of possibilities.

The story is unpredictable, twisted, creepy and mind-blowing. I love how Michelle Hodkin wrote such kind of YA Mystery/Thriller- Paranormal novel. I know should have read this earlier but I patiently waited for The Retribution of Mara Dyer so it won't be a cliffhanger.

Mara Dyer is one sick,twisted character. I do love her character but sometimes I don't get her. Noah Shaw, gosh. This guy is PERFECTION. I'm absolutely love him to bits.His sweetness, wits and sense of humor, uggh. Where can I find him? He is a motivator and a guy with full of self-control.

My favorite supporting characters are probably Jamie Rothand Daniel Dyer these two are both hilarious in different ways. But I'm more of a fan of Jamie. The dude just made me Laugh-out-Loud! Crazy man.

Overall, I love this book and I'm excited for the final book. Michelle Hodkin is awesome! (and beautiful by the way. ;) She is one of the sweetest authors I've ever met.) However, there are some points that are unclear to me.. Hopefully the answers will be revealed on the last book.

I like Gone Girl , but I must admit that I wasn't really a fan of the writing style. I had a hard time getting into the story.

It is one dark mystery novel with a f*cked up couple. Seriously, Nick Dunne and Amy Elliot- Dunne is the craziest, most f*cked up couple I have ever encountered in a book. I simply love the twists in this book, and the clues of Amazing Amy? HELL YES! I freaking love Amy Dunne! That woman is a deadly snake and she definitely belongs to my 'Best Badass Heroines' list.

I hate Nick Dunne btw, but I feel sorry for him. Lesson learned: Don't mess with Amazing Amy.

Nostalgia.

YULE BALL ON CHRISTMAS DAY.

BUT..

RIP CEDRIC DIGGORY.

DAMN IT.

SCREW YOU VOLDEMORT AND THE REST OF THE DEATH EATERS. 

Thank you NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Breaking Sky is the new dystopia to look forward to read on 2015. I'm so glad I have read this one though it took me a while to finish this because of some unfamiliar terms used in this book. I absolutely love the aeronautic concept in this story. It's exciting, thrilling, just imagining yourself in a fighting jet.. it's an adrenaline rush.

Chase "Nyx" Harcourt is one of the two star pilots to fly an experimental streaker jets against the Red Drones from Ri Xiong Di. Her character is really fascinating, she might be annoying at times but she is one badass lady pilot. She's tough, brave, and a risk taker. Absolutely "Team Nyx" All the way! I also love the little romance between her and Tristan. (I love Tristan.. SERIOUSLY) :)

One thing is for sure, I am looking forward to the next installment. I definitely recommended this if you love dystopia novels like Legend trilogy or Under the Never Sky trilogy

Received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

KissnTell is about Anais and Vaughn, high school students in a private school and best friends. They are popular merely because people call them with bad names. After being humiliated in a party, they are motivated to break out of their shells to show those bullies 'they can do better'. These girls change their styles from Plain to Fab. They made some scenes and ended up having a gossip blog.

This books deals with friendship, and teenage drama with a touch of romance. I like how different this is from other Young Adult books that I've read, I consider this as a fresh read because it gives us a little background how these paparazzi stalk famous people, get their pictures and make money out of it. It's quite interesting and fun. I also like how the authors focus on the characters, making sure the other wasn't left out with the story.

However, I have mixed thoughts this book. There are little misspelled words and grammatical errors, but it's okay. The little romance was okay just to spice things up. In this book, I pretty much like Anais. Despite of being a pessimist and being too selfless, she has a pure soul and a kind heart. She pretty much develop throughout this book. I like how her personality stays the same.

"The lure of popularity is a powerful thing."

Sorry, but I have to rant on this. I don't like Vaughn. She's a desperate, insecure, selfish bitch. Let's just say, I gave her a benefit of a doubt. I don't like the way she treated Anais. She is a social climber. I hate her for desperately seeking popularity, to be friends with rich bitches, and forget the value of friendship. I have never been this mad to a character. She frustrated me to heck. She just craves for attention. uggh!

Overall, it's a good one but not really my favorite.

I know I should have read this earlier, but I'm glad I've read it now. The story is simply tells us that Love conquers all. Even at times of grief and loss.  It's one heart-wrenching story and I must say that the movie was better. 

I'm trying not to cry...

but I can't help it!! :(

Some of my reviews here are old, but I'm just going to share it here. The updated ones are on my Goodreads page. :) 

Thank you :D

This book tells about every teenagers life. For sure a lot of people could relate in this novel especially when they remembered the first time they entered Highschool. You meet new people with different personalities. Everything in Highschool is part of growing up and we learn to make our own choices in the future. A story that involves family, love , and friendship.

Charlie is a wallflower.Freshman student. He's sensitive, emotional and weird. His Aunt's death had affected him, and he is struggling to get along with others. He's pretending to be someone he's not. He enjoyed being with his new found friends Sam and Patrick, siblings (step siblings) and Senior students. With curiousity and peer pressure, Charlie did a lot of things like smoking, drinking etc.. He tries to cope up with others so he could get along with them and trying to please them as possible.

It's kind of annoying when he cries a lot. I mean, there's no reason to cry for ( Oh well, he's just emotional and weird) and Craig cheating Sam, I just want to punch him. Another weird thing when he let Patrick kiss him. It's just surprising.. feels weird on that.
I like Charlie in a way he learned lessons in life and tries to "participate" in other things.

I was a Wallflower before. That's why I love this novel. It's not that I'm exactly like Charlie. But I had difficulties in getting along with other people when I was in Highschool.
I'm not popular. There are times that I'm alone and looking for someone to talk to.
I tried to get along with their conversations, but it was like I'm invisible to them.
It hurts, I'm just being left out.. I admitted that I cried that time.
I had a hard time expressing myself to others, afraid that I would be misinterpret by others.
Sometimes, I just need to be alone. Not being a loner one, but simply I just need time for myself where I could do anything I want.

There are things that I've learned in this book:
Have a choice of your own.
- You could get an advice from your friends, you may take it or not. It's still your decision.
Be responsible for your actions
- There's always a peer pressure and curiousity. Party, drinking, smoking etc.. But be responsible enough for the consequences. Learn to put your limitations and be stiff enough to balance what is right and wrong.
Be Flexible.
- Not all the time you meet people with the same personality. Learn to adjust with them, but not all the time. Be sociable and try to get along. Join in activities. Share your interests.
Express your feelings to others .
- There's nothing wrong to express your feelings. But make sure you say it in a nice and polite way, at least they will know what you are really feeling and Listen to what they are saying whether it's good or bad for sure they will appreciate that.
Just Be Yourself
- Never pretend to be something you are not. Just be real. You don't have to please everyone. Treasure those people who accept you for who you are.

Favorite Quote:
“I think the idea is that every person has to live for his or her own life and then make the choice to share it with other people. Maybe that is what makes people "participate.” 

Movie:

I watched it, and it was BEAUTIFUL! The actors and actresses fit their roles. It's nice to see Emma Watson outside Harry Potter world. She's awesome. As for the one who played Patrick, he's so funny! That Rocky Horror Show:)

- Throwback Review -

I just enjoy drinking coffee while reading. Coffee Jam with my mom. So yeah, Coffee Time!

Ugly Love = Ugly Crying

To be honest, I don't know where to begin because I'm too numb from crying so much on this beautiful book. This is why I always look forward for another Colleen Hoover book. She will give you all sorts of feelings and emotions, there's pain, frustration, sadness, relief, happiness... EVERYTHING! It took me a while to gather all my thoughts so here it goes.

Love isn't always pretty, Tate. Sometimes you spend all your time hoping it'll eventually be something different. Something better. Then, before you know it, you're back to square one, and you lost your heart somewhere along the way.

Ugly Love is a beautiful, heart-wrenching story. However, you must need some patience because you might find the characters annoying in different ways. Starting with Miles Archer, he's an attractive pilot and a swoon-worthy guy (A HOT FREAKING PILOT) with a ghost of his past. He blames himself for a long time and feels like he deserved not to find happiness. He shuts off everyone who tries to get into his past and Tate Collins, sometimes I don't get her. I don't know if she's a martyr or what, but I don't understand why she lets Miles use her. I really find it stupid in some ways that I want to swat her with a roll of newspaper.

I'm mad on Miles for being a jerk.
I'm mad on Tate for being a stupid martyr.

"If someone told you they could get rid of the ugly stuff, but you'd lose all the other stuff too... would you do it?"

When I finished this book, I guess these two weren't bad at all. Their love story is perfectly imperfect. They hurt each other but learned from it to make their relationship work better to a blissful life and love each other more in every possible way. I love how Miles faces his fears and unresolved issues. It's easy to say "I'll get over it", but it takes one step at a time to do it because it takes time to heal the wounds of his past. I understand what he'd been through. Also, I love Tate for being patient to Miles no matter how many times he hurt her feelings. Seriously. If you really love someone, you'll never lose hope and I think she knows deep down, he is the one for her. That's why she didn't gave up on him.

Lastly, a special mention for Cap. Without his advises, I think Miles and Tate would be lost and their love story would take its downfall. This old man is the best! *I salute him*

Here are some of my favorite quotes:

- "God gives us the ugliness so we don't take the beautiful things in life for granted."

- "I don't believe in ending things with a tie. That's a copout for people who are too scared they might lose."

- "If that boy can't see what a good thing he could have with you, then he ain't worth your time."

- " I didn't fall in love with you, Tate. I flew." -- Oh gosh, *swoons*

Overall, this is a thumbs up & a hands down. I am surely looking forward for another Colleen Hoover book. :)