The Sword of Summer (Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #1)
    by: Rick Riordan

Publication Date: Oct. 6, 2015
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion Books
Genre: Fantasy/Mythology
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed
Page Count: 499 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

Magnus Chase has always been a troubled kid. Since his mother’s mysterious death, he’s lived alone on the streets of Boston, surviving by his wits, keeping one step ahead of the police and the truant officers.

One day, he’s tracked down by a man he’s never met—a man his mother claimed was dangerous. The man tells him an impossible secret: Magnus is the son of a Norse god.

The Viking myths are true. The gods of Asgard are preparing for war. Trolls, giants and worse monsters are stirring for doomsday. To prevent Ragnarok, Magnus must search the Nine Worlds for a weapon that has been lost for thousands of years.

When an attack by fire giants forces him to choose between his own safety and the lives of hundreds of innocents, Magnus makes a fatal decision.

Sometimes, the only way to start a new life is to die . . .

 

 

I absolutely ADORE Rick Riordan's books, so when I heard his next series would be based off Norse mythology, I was over the moon. I confess, I don't know as much about Norse mythology, as I do Greek and Roman, but that's okay, because I LOVED learning! I really enjoyed The Sword of Summer. Magnus was a fun, sarcastic protagonist and I really enjoyed the friends he makes and how they become more like family throughout the novel.

 

I will say this is nothing incredibly new though. The overarching premise for this one is the same as Riordan's others. A demigod fated to save the world from ruin and destruction, but has to rely on his companions and find the inner strength within to do so. Don't get me wrong- that isn't a huge issue for me, but it is something I've noticed about all of these books. Otherwise, how Riordan executes the situations Magnus finds himself in are completely unique.

 

I also love that we get to see a crossover character from the Percy Jackson series! I was a little frustrated Magnus didn't completely come clean with them in this book, but I am definitely looking forward to seeing the two interacting and helping one another in future books.

 

Overall, this was a fun read and I really can't get enough of Riordan's snarky humor, and seeing mythology spun into a more modern light!

 

Truthwitch (The Witchlands #1)
    by: Susan Dennard

Publication Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Publisher: Tor Teen
Genre: Fantasy
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Physical ARC borrowed from Danielle!
Page Count: 416 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4.25/5 stars

On a continent ruled by three empires, some are born with a “witchery”, a magical skill that sets them apart from others.

In the Witchlands, there are almost as many types of magic as there are ways to get in trouble—as two desperate young women know all too well.

Safiya is a Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lie. It’s a powerful magic that many would kill to have on their side, especially amongst the nobility to which Safi was born. So Safi must keep her gift hidden, lest she be used as a pawn in the struggle between empires.

Iseult, a Threadwitch, can see the invisible ties that bind and entangle the lives around her—but she cannot see the bonds that touch her own heart. Her unlikely friendship with Safi has taken her from life as an outcast into one of reckless adventure, where she is a cool, wary balance to Safi’s hotheaded impulsiveness.

Safi and Iseult just want to be free to live their own lives, but war is coming to the Witchlands. With the help of the cunning Prince Merik (a Windwitch and ship’s captain) and the hindrance of a Bloodwitch bent on revenge, the friends must fight emperors, princes, and mercenaries alike, who will stop at nothing to get their hands on a Truthwitch.

 

 

Truthwitch was one of my most anticipated reads of 2016, so I was psyched to get my hands on a copy (Thanks Danielle!) I loved the idea of two best friends getting into trouble together! Oh and they are both witches! I adored their friendship and how Dennard created such a balance between them. Iseult is the more level headed of the two, where Safi is all impulse and fire. They end up getting themselves into quite the trouble, thus setting a deadly Bloodwitch after them. The two spend a great deal of time on the run, which is where they meet Prince Merik. Oh boy, do I have a new ship! I adored Merik and I can't wait to see more of him in book two! As well as more romance! This book was more about developing the story and putting events into action, so the romance definitely took a bit of a backburner.

 

Overall, I did enjoy this one, though I wasn't completely blown away by it. I had a bit of trouble staying focused and engaged, but this tends to happen with quite a few fantasy novels for me. There's so much to set up that sometimes they end up dragging a bit.

 

Soundless
   by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Nov. 10, 2015
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Fantasy
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Physical ARC received from Danielle!
Page Count: 272 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 3/5 stars

From Richelle Mead, the #1 internationally bestselling author of Vampire Academy and Bloodlines, comes a breathtaking new fantasy steeped in Chinese folklore.

For as long as Fei can remember, there has been no sound in her village, where rocky terrain and frequent avalanches prevent residents from self-sustaining. Fei and her people are at the mercy of a zipline that carries food up the treacherous cliffs from Beiguo, a mysterious faraway kingdom.

When villagers begin to lose their sight, deliveries from the zipline shrink and many go hungry. Fei’s home, the people she loves, and her entire existence is plunged into crisis, under threat of darkness and starvation.

But soon Fei is awoken in the night by a searing noise, and sound becomes her weapon.

Richelle Mead takes readers on a triumphant journey from the peak of Fei’s jagged mountain village to the valley of Beiugo, where a startling truth and an unlikely romance will change her life forever...

  

 

 

I was excited to see Richelle Mead was coming out with a standalone novel and I was especially excited that it centered around Chinese folklore. The premise in this one is so unique and I really enjoyed it, but I felt this one was really slow moving. Things didn't really start going until much later in the book, which was a big issue for me. I enjoyed Fei's character, but she isn't someone who especially stood out for me. I admire her tenacity and her determination to save her sister though. I really enjoyed Li though and was glad there was romance woven into this one. I am all for second chance romances, so I liked seeing them reconnect and see Fei realize she never stopped having feelings for the boy she had to give up.

 

Overall, I just don't think this one will be very memorable for me. (I actually had to look up Li's name because I already couldn't remember it!)

The Ruby Circle (Bloodlines #6)
   by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Feb. 10, 2015
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from Library
Page Count: 348 pages
Order Links: Amazon| B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

The epic conclusion to Richelle Mead's New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series is finally here...

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

After their secret romance is exposed, Sydney and Adrian find themselves facing the wrath of both the Alchemists and the Moroi in this electrifying conclusion to Richelle Mead’s New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series. When the life of someone they both love is put on the line, Sydney risks everything to hunt down a deadly former nemesis. Meanwhile, Adrian becomes enmeshed in a puzzle that could hold the key to a shocking secret about spirit magic, a secret that could shake the entire Moroi world.

 

The Ruby Circle was one of my most anticipated reads this year, as well as series enders. I am really happy to say that it did not disappoint. I say this even with the much discussed length of the book. I will admit that I am with the masses in agreeing that it was too short. I felt like storylines could have been developed a bit more fully as I felt they were resolved rather quickly.

 

One of the things that I struggled with in previous books was that I had trouble getting into them. It took a bit to get going and really immerse myself. I felt this same feeling in this one, but only for a brief moment. It didn't take long until I was back in Sydrian dreamland, but I was a bit bummed there weren't as many sexy, swoony times in this one than there had been in previous ones. Things are not all butterflies and flowers for them either. They have some real issues to face and I would have liked to see more communication between them instead of planning to discuss it later. Eventually later turned into one quick conversation that resolves it all. I do like how independent these characters are. Sydney and Adrian are able to make choices that are best for everyone, even at the expense of being at one another's side. It shows their strength as a couple and I really loved that.

 

Where are my Vampire Academy fans at? Get ready VA lovers! This is the book that will really blend both worlds and I really loved getting to spend time with some of my old favorites. I do wish some storylines from that world were expanded upon a bit, as there is still so much I would like to know and see how they played out. However, I found myself grinning from ear to ear as Sydrian pairs up with another couple we love so much. It was just enough of a crossover to make me happy and it didn't take away or distract from the Bloodlines world. (Sometimes series do crossovers and they focus too much on previous characters and storylines.)

 

Finishing this series was definitely bittersweet, especially knowing it would be the last one in the Vampire Academy world. I did enjoy the epilogue though, so that definitely helped ease the pain a bit.

 

 

Silver Shadows (Bloodlines #5)
     by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: July 29, 2014
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from library
Page Count: 416 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4 stars

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

In The Fiery Heart, Sydney risked everything to follow her gut, walking a dangerous line to keep her feelings hidden from the Alchemists.

Now in the aftermath of an event that ripped their world apart, Sydney and Adrian struggle to pick up the pieces and find their way back to each other. But first, they have to survive.

For Sydney, trapped and surrounded by adversaries, life becomes a daily struggle to hold on to her identity and the memories of those she loves. Meanwhile, Adrian clings to hope in the face of those who tell him Sydney is a lost cause, but the battle proves daunting as old demons and new temptations begin to seize hold of him. . . .

Their worst fears now a chilling reality, Sydney and Adrian face their darkest hour in this heart-pounding fifth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where all bets are off.

 

 

Like most books in this series, it took me a bit to really get into the storyline. Once I got past a certain scene that I was NOT happy about, the book really picked up for me and I could fully enjoy Sydney and Adrian's POVs.

 

Sydney and Adrian have been torn apart and now how to deal with the consequences of their forbidden relationship. Adrian does not handle this well AT ALL. I can't say it's a surprise that he has relapsed back into his pre-Sydney ways, but I was disappointed all the same. I really just wanted to yell at him to quit being foolish and to get his damn emotions under control and stay focused on finding her. He has lost faith, which is the worst thing to lose, so his actions really reflect that and it hurts to see him spiral out of control with his self-destructive behavior. I felt he was acting a bit selfishly too, as his actions do not affect him alone. I was so proud of Sydney though. She is resilient! No matter how many times people try to break her, she just won't be broken and I really admired her for the way she handled her situation. It takes her awhile to accept the fact that she needs to play the game in order to be free. Sydney doesn't want to play the game. She has finally become her own person and has her own thoughts and beliefs. The last thing she wants to do is pretend she's complacent and agreeable. Sydney is smart though and she realizes she must do what she needs to if she wants to escape.

 

The action really ramps up in this book. The stakes are higher than ever before and Sydney, Adrian, and the others must be prepared to take some risks and make some sacrifices if they hope to get out ahead. Mead will certainly surprise you in this book too. I never thought she would take Sydney and Adrian's relationship to the level she did, but I freaking loved it. It was so perfect and just really fitting for these two. I'm still bothered by what happened early on in the book and hope that it was just a blip on the radar and won't even be a thing in the final book. I wasn't overly surprised by the very end, but it does make me eager to find out how everything will wrap up in the final book.

 

I really ended up enjoying Silver Shadows even though I was worried at first, as I was having trouble focusing on the story itself. It has plenty of action, romance, and some heart-stopping, jaw-dropping moments that will leave you ready to see how it all ends!

 

 

The Indigo Spell (Bloodlines #3)
    by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Feb. 12, 2013
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Purchased for Nook
Page Count: 401 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 3.5/5 stars

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets--and human lives.

In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

 

 

*Contains spoilers from The Golden Lily*

 

So. Believe it or not, I bought this book the day it came out. After putting it off for more than a year now, I decided it was time to finally bite the bullet and go ahead and read it. I loved The Golden Lily and was desperate to see how Sydney and Adrian would move forward after that soul-shattering kiss they shared at the end.

 

I'll admit- I had some trouble getting through this one and even found myself a bit bored at times. I did love all the tension between Sydney and Adrian throughout the book and the whole 'will they or won't they' Mead has going on for them. The storyline, however, fell a little flat for me. I was engaged, but not overly so. I kept waiting for the action to happen, and it just didn't quite do the trick for me. After reading The Fiery Heart, I do see how important the events in The Indigo Spell were, as they play a huge role in redefining our heroine and really make her reexamine everything that has been ingrained in her from the Alchemists.

 

I felt this book gave us a lot of character development, especially for Sydney. She is testing the magical waters with her teacher Ms. Terwilliger (ok maybe thrown into the water is a more accurate phrasing), and is learning to harness the power she has within, even though she knows the Alchemists would flip if they ever found out. Ms. T is worried for Sydney's safety, as there is a witch going around draining young women of their youth to keep for herself. Aside from that, she is suspicious that the Alchemists are hiding things, important things, such as a possible connection between them and the Warriors of the Light, a group of vampire hunters. She is determined to find ex-Alchemist Marcus Finch and hope that he can provide answers. When she does find him, he encourages her to join his band of rebels and to go on the run, leaving the Alchemist life behind. However, it wouldn't just be her Alchemist life she would be leaving...

 

Sydney has a lot of decisions to make in this book and none of them are easy. She really shows how much she has evolved just by her struggle to do what's right versus what's in her heart. And Sydney Sage definitely proves that she has heart in this book.

 

One of the biggest draws of this series is without a doubt Adrian Ivashkov. I think I can speak for all Vampire Academy fans when I say how upset we were when we saw him get his heart broken by Rose. So for Adrian to open himself up again, this time to Sydney.... whew! I was dying! Never would you think these two would work together, but they do! As Mead slowly breaks down Sydney's prejudices, she is also opening her up to possibilities she never thought she'd ever have, including feeling something for Adrian. I love that they have developed a true friendship first, and even though Sydney tries to keep things strictly platonic between them, they keep getting thrown in situations that make it very difficult to avoid the feelings brewing underneath the surface.

 

Overall, this wasn't my favorite in the series. It did pick up and get more interesting towards the end, especially with the big decision Sydney made that will change everything....

 

The Fiery Heart (Bloodlines #4)
    by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Nov. 19, 2014
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from e-library
Page Count: 420 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets - and human lives.

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure — and re-education — looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this smoldering fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

 

 

Oh man. I enjoyed this one so much better than The Indigo Spell! I was immediately drawn into the storyline and loved that Mead switched to dual POV! YAY Adrian!!!!! I felt that everything that was building up in the previous book really came to a head in this one. Sydney's magic, her relationship with Adrian, her surprise guest that showed up at the end of The Indigo Spell, and her ever growing dissention from the Alchemists. Whew! This book seriously had it all in my opinion. Action, romance, and a cliffhanger ending that is entirely too reminiscent of Jen Armentrout's Opal! AHHH! And I'm like the 40th person on the waiting list for Silver Shadows!

 

Again, getting inside Adrian's head was seriously a huge bonus for this book. We really get to see just how much he struggles with using spirit and what it does to him firsthand. He feels useful when he uses it to help others. Yet, the cost is too high and Sydney expresses this concern multiple times. If you look at it from Adrian's perspective though, he is a guy who has never been taken seriously before and this is how he can make a difference in the world. Taking it away from him kills him because then he starts to question his self-worth and if he even has anything to offer someone like Sydney.

 

Sydney feels helpless when it comes to Adrian and him using spirit. She is so used to being in control of everything and this is one thing she can't. She knows that spirit can drive its users to madness and possibly even death. It's a dangerous magic to have, so you can't say Sydney's fears are unfounded.

 

I really liked the depth that this book in the series had to offer. Not only do we see Adrian's struggle to find balance in his life with spirit, but we get to see Sydney and Adrian trying to keep their relationship secret, which is not proving to be an easy task, especially with a new character addition that keeps close tabs on Sydney. I have to admit, this character addition drove me a little crazy. She is a reflection of the Sydney Sage we originally met- prejudiced against Moroi and dhampirs, and unwilling to understand why Sydney is constantly running off to do work with Ms. T, when in the grand scheme of things, it is unimportant to her mission.

 

We have a serious change in relationship dynamics and not just with Sydney and Adrian. The gang is also undergoing some changes of their own. Jill, Eddie, Angeline, and Trey all have their own drama going on and it doesn't make matters easier now that a new guardian has been appointed to the motley crew. Angeline and Jill are showing quite the interest in the newcomer. Neil cracked me up because he's such a goody-two shoes and is strict on rules and regulations. Still, he ends up being a lot more than I ever thought he would be with his actions towards the end.

 

My favorite part? We got to check in with the VA crew at High Court! *squeal* Yep! We get a little Rose, Dimitri, Sonya, Christian, and Lissa to keep us happy! It was brief and short-lived, but it was still nice to see some of our old favorites.

 

Beware of cliffhanger though! It's one of those that you know is coming, but once it happened, you still weren't really prepared for it. Let's just say this: betrayal is a bitch.

 

Gameboard of the Gods (Age of X #1)
    by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: June 4, 2013
Publisher: Dutton Adult
Genre: Science Fiction/ Dystopia
Age Group: Adult
Source: e-ARC received from Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Page Count: 464 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

In a futuristic world nearly destroyed by religious extremists, Justin March lives in exile after failing in his job as an investigator of religious groups and supernatural claims. But Justin is given a second chance when Mae Koskinen comes to bring him back to the Republic of United North America (RUNA). Raised in an aristocratic caste, Mae is now a member of the military’s most elite and terrifying tier, a soldier with enhanced reflexes and skills.

When Justin and Mae are assigned to work together to solve a string of ritualistic murders, they soon realize that their discoveries have exposed them to terrible danger. As their investigation races forward, unknown enemies and powers greater than they can imagine are gathering in the shadows, ready to reclaim the world in which humans are merely game pieces on their board.

Gameboard of the Gods, the first installment of Richelle Mead’s Age of X series, will have all the elements that have made her YA Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series such megasuccesses: sexy, irresistible characters; romantic and mythological intrigue; and relentless action and suspense.

                          -goodreads.com description

I really enjoyed this book. I wouldn't consider it 'light' reading, as you really had to pay attention to what was going on and understand the jargon. This is also not a YA novel. Just because you are a fan of Vampire Academy and Bloodlines does not mean you are going to enjoy this book.

I think Mead did an excellent job creating a futuristic world that didn't feel overly sci-fi and it was completely believable. Since this was the first book in the series, she had quite a bit of setting up to do to introduce us to this world and its characters. The book is told from multiple POV's and while that can be irritating to some, it didn't bother me. Granted, I enjoyed reading  about the main characters, Mae and Justin, more than Tessa, a side character.

At the start of the novel we are introduced to Mae Koskinen, who is a deadly, fierce, praetorian (military enforcer, if you will). My first thoughts were that she has been trained not to surrender to her emotions and that her duty is first and foremost to her country. She had a very cool exterior, but as we saw in the first chapter, if provoked and prodded hard enough, that cool exterior will crumble and take care of business.

Justin March, on the other hand, has been exiled to Panama when he meets Mae for the first time. He immediately takes notice of how beautiful she is, and after meeting, the two see a sadness and vulnerability in the other that connects them. Justin, however, has a reputation as a bit of a playboy, and indulges in vices like drinking and drugs.

However, Justin is a bit more complicated than that. He is at war with himself and unseen forces that are ultimately trying to manipulate him. Therefore, he is forced to expel whatever feelings he may have for Mae. While I understand his reasonings why, he absolutely infuriated me to no end.

Upon returning to the RUNA to start their investigation, we see the cool exterior Mae carries turn into an icy, standoffish one. I loved the development of Mae throughout the novel. The novel later reveals why she is so obsessed with control and how difficult it is for her to show vulnerability.

People have said they felt Justin and Mae's relationship feels fake, but I disagree. Mae is a control freak and she is afraid of losing control, which is why in the later half of the book she really struggles with some of Justin's thoughts and beliefs. There is definitely an instant attraction between these two, but there is no insta-love, that's for sure. Despite everything, the two respect each other and learn to trust one another with their lives.

When I first saw that she was coming out with this novel and it was about the gods, I was so excited. This book however, very subtly introduces the gods into the storyline and it really becomes a subplot to the mystery and investigation taking place. However, she weaves them in just enough to intrigue us and then slams us with the whopper at the end. (Which I loved!)

Throughout the course of the book, questions are raised, revelations are revealed, and Mead definitely leaves you wanting so much more.

*Thank you to Dutton for providing me with an advanced copy of this book for review in return for a fair and honest review.*

 

Expected Publication Date: Nov. 19, 2013

 

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . .

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this thrilling fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

-goodreads.com description

 

The cover was revealed yesterday and I am so excited already! And I haven't even read the Indigo Spell.... YET. I have it downloaded to my Nook ready and waiting! Richelle Mead is one of my favorite authors and I am so excited that I got an e-ARC of the first book in her new series!



Last Sacrifice (Vampire Academy #6)
    by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Dec. 7, 2010
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from Library
Page Count: 594 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 5/5 stars

They come first.

My vision was growing dimmer, the blackness and ghosts closing in. I swore it was like I could hear Robert whispering in my ear: The world of the dead won't give you up a second time. Just before the light completely vanished, I saw Dimitri's face join Lissa's. I wanted to smile. I decided then that if the two people I loved most were safe, I could leave this world.

The dead could finally have me.


Rose Hathaway has always played by her own rules. She broke the law when she ran away from St. Vladimir's Academy with her best friend and last surviving Dragomir princess, Lissa. She broke the law when she fell in love with her gorgeous, off-limits instructor, Dimitri. And she dared to defy Queen Tatiana, leader of the Moroi world, risking her life and reputation to protect generations of dhampir guardians to come.

Now the law has finally caught up with Rose - for a crime she didn't even commit. She's in prison for the highest offense imaginable: the assassination of a monarch. She'll need help from both Dimitri and Adrian to find the one living person who can stall her execution and force the Moroi elite to acknowledge a shocking new candidate for the royal throne: Vasilisa Dragomir.

But the clock on Rose's life is running out. Rose knows in her heart the world of the dead wants her back...and this time she is truly out of second chances. The big question is, when your whole life is about saving others, who will save you?

Join Rose, Dimitri, Adrian, and Lissa in Last Sacrifice, the epic, unforgettable finale to Richelle Mead's international #1 bestselling Vampire Academy series.

         -goodreads.com description


I hate the end of a series. It's seriously depressing. After 6 books, you can't help but become invested in the characters. My heart ached for Adrian and I am glad he gets to be a part of Richelle's spin off series, Bloodlines. He sincerely loved Rose, and I think she loved him too, but it wasn't that whole soulmate- be all, end all love that her and Dimitri have. All in all, a great wrap up to the VA series. 

The romantic in me loves alot of quotes in this book. There were so many great ones.

Favorite Quotes:

“I don’t belong to anyone. I make my own choices."
"And you’re with Adrian," said Dimitri.
"But I was meant for you.”- Rose

“She was right about something else too," Dimitri said after a long pause. My back was to him, but there was a strange quality to his voice that made me turn around.
"What's that?" I asked.
"That I do still love you."
With that one sentence, everything in the universe changed.” 

“Auras tell a lot, Rose, and I'm very good at reading them. Much better than you friends probably are. A spirit dream wraps you own aura in gold, which is how I knew. Your personal aura is unique to you, though it fluctuates with your feelings and soul. When people are in love, it shows. Their auras shine. When you were dreaming, yours was bright. The colors were bright...but not what expected from a boyfriend. Of course, not every relationship is the same. People are at different stages. I would've brushed it off, except..."
"Except what?"
"Except, when you're with Dimitri, your aura's like the sun. So is his.” 

Spirit Bound (Vampire Academy #5)
    by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: May 18, 2010
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Page Count: 489 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

Dimitri gave Rose the ultimate choice. But she chose wrong...

After a long and heartbreaking journey to Dimitri's birthplace in Siberia, Rose Hathaway has finally returned to St. Vladimir's-and to her best friend, Lissa. It is nearly graduation, and the girls can't wait for their real lives beyond the Academy's iron gates to begin. But Rose's heart still aches for Dimitri, and she knows he's out there, somewhere.

She failed to kill him when she had the chance. And now her worst fears are about to come true. Dimitri has tasted her blood, and now he is hunting her. And this time he won't rest until Rose joins him... forever.

              -goodreads.com description


After Rose's time in Russia, she is now back at St. Vlad's. She begins to spend more and more time with Adrian, but Dimitri is never far from her mind. I wanted to hate Adrian because I didn't want Rose to be with anyone but Dimitri, but I just couldn't. Behind the snark, the sass, the bad boy image, Adrian is a freaking good guy and I ended up really liking him. I am still Team Dimitri though, even after the end of the book where I wanted to kick him in the face.

Blood Promise (Vampire Academy #4)
   By: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Aug. 25, 2009
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Page Count: 503 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

Rose Hathaway's life will never be the same.

The recent attack on St. Vladimir's Academy devastated the entire Moroi world. Many are dead. And, for the few victims carried off by Strigoi, their fates are even worse. A rare tattoo now adorns Rose's neck, a mark that says she's killed far too many Strigoi to count. But only one victim matters . . . Dimitri Belikov. Rose must now choose one of two very different paths: honoring her life's vow to protect Lissa—her best friend and the last surviving Dragomir princess—or, dropping out of the Academy to strike out on her own and hunt down the man she loves. She'll have to go to the ends of the earth to find Dimitri and keep the promise he begged her to make. But the question is, when the time comes, will he want to be saved?

Now, with everything at stake—and worlds away from St. Vladimir's and her unguarded, vulnerable, and newly rebellious best friend—can Rose find the strength to destroy Dimitri? Or, will she sacrifice herself for a chance at eternal love?

               -goodreads.com description


Oh, Rose. My heart seriously broke for you in this one. Where we saw a stubborn, selfish, at times immature Rose before, we now see a girl who has some tough decisions to make and is forced to grow up a little more. She has her moments of weakness, but ultimately she does what she needs to do. This book hurt me, because we see Rose torn down and way more vulnerable than ever. Her time in Russia with Dimitri is difficult to read because we know deep down it can't last and he is NOT the same as before.

Favorite Quotes:

"I’d said it before and meant it: Alive or undead, the love of my life was a badass.”- Rose on Dimitri

“Roza." His voice had that same wonderful lowness, the same accent . . . it
was all just colder. "You forgot my first lesson: Don’t hesitate.”- Dimitri

Shadow Kiss (Vampire Academy #3)
   By: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Nov. 13, 2008
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Page Count: 443 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

It's springtime at St. Vladimir's Academy, and Rose Hathaway is this close to graduation. Since making her first Strigoi kills, Rose hasn't been feeling quite right. She's having dark thoughts, behaving erratically, and worst of all... might be seeing ghosts.

As Rose questions her sanity, new complications arise. Lissa has begun experimenting with her magic once more, their enemy Victor Dashkov might be set free, and Rose's forbidden relationship with Dimitri is starting to heat up again. But when a deadly threat no one saw coming changes their entire world, Rose must put her own life on the line - and choose between the two people she loves most.

       -goodreads.com description


Oh this book. I didn't expect the end at all. Rip my heart out why don't you, Richelle?! Don't get me wrong. I loved this one the best so far. But gah, the feelings....

Favorite Quotes:

“My cigarettes and I are going outside. At least they show me respect.” - Adrian

“You can't fool me, comrade. You want to put on a cowboy hat and keep lawless bank robbers in line.''- Rose to Dimitri

“Even I make mistakes." I put on my brash, overconfident face. "I know it's hard to believe—kind of surprises me myself—but I guess it has to happen. It's probably some kind of karmic way to balance out the universe. Otherwise, it wouldn't be fair to have one person so full of awesomeness.”- Rose

Frostbite (Vampire Academy #2)

    By: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Apr. 10, 2008
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from the Library
Page Count: 327 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars

Rose loves Dimitri, Dimitri might love Tasha, and Mason would die to be with Rose...

It’s winter break at St. Vladimir’s, but Rose is feeling anything but festive. A massive Strigoi attack has put the school on high alert, and now the Academy’s crawling with Guardians—including Rose’s hard-hitting mother, Janine Hathaway. And if hand-to-hand combat with her mom wasn’t bad enough, Rose’s tutor Dimitri has his eye on someone else, her friend Mason’s got a huge crush on her, and Rose keeps getting stuck in Lissa’s head while she’s making out with her boyfriend, Christian! The Strigoi are closing in, and the Academy’s not taking any risks... This year, St. Vlad’s annual holiday ski trip is mandatory.

But the glittering winter landscape and the posh Idaho resort only create the illusion of safety. When three friends run away in an offensive move against the deadly Strigoi, Rose must join forces with Christian to rescue them. But heroism rarely comes without a price...

               -Goodreads.com description



More angst! Rose and Dimitri's relationship is still forbidden and he won't blur the lines between mentor and student. Mason, Rose's friend is hopelessly in love with her, and Tasha, Christian's aunt enters the picture, who clearly has a past with Dimitri.

This book is a big deal because it also introduces bad boy Adrian Ivashkov.

“It's late, I'm tired, and your cigarettes are giving me a headache," I growled.

"I suppose that's fair." He drew in on the cigarette and let out the smoke. "Some women think they make me look sexy."

"I think you smoke them so you have something to do while thinking up your next witty line."

He choked on the smoke, caught between inhaling and laughing. "Rose Hathaway, I can't wait to see you again. If you're this charming while tired and annoyed and this gorgeous while bruised and in ski clothes, you must be devastating at your peak.” 

Vampire Academy
       By: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Apr. 16, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Paranormal
Age Group: Young Adult
Source: Borrowed from the library
Page Count: 332 pages
Order Links: Amazon | B&N
My Rating: 4/5 stars
 

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

                                                              -Goodreads.com description


You'll have to forgive my review. I read this over a year ago and I read it so fast that it's hard to remember alot of the more finite details.

I saw this book a million times before I actually picked it up at the library to read it. It was on display at Walmart, Barnes and Noble, everywhere. I just never got it. What the hell was I waiting so long for?! This was one of the first series I read in my new 'I'm obsessed with YA fantasy books' kick.

The title of the book is lame. Richelle probably could have done a little better, but I loved loved loved this book. It was such a fast read. I loved Rose from the beginning. She has attitude, she's strong-willed, and overall a kick ass main character. Lissa, her best friend, is the complete opposite. She's more composed and shy. And I didn't like her as much.

Which brings us to our male lead. Dimitri. Holy swoon, Batman.

“And than suddenly he was there, charging down the hallway like death in a cowboy duster.”

 He is assigned to train Rose how to be a Guardian, and of course they are drawn to each other but due to age difference, the whole mentor-student dynamic, it's forbidden and they can't act on it.

Such a great start to a fabulous series!

Favorite Quotes:

“Screw you," I told him in a low voice.
"Are you offering?”
"From what I've heard, there isn't much to screw," I shot back.”  (One of my favorite examples of Rose's sass)

“But also... well, you and I will both be Lissa's gaurdians someday. I need to protect her at all cost. If a pack of Strogoi come, I need to throw my body between them and her."
"I know that. Of course that's what you have to do." The black sparkles were dancing in front of my eyes again. I was fading out.
"No. If I let myself love you, I won't throw myself in front of her. I'll throw myself in front of you.”  (Ah, angst)