Book + Movie Review: Ready Player One by Ernest Cline // A thrilling and engaging watch and read!

Title: Ready Player One
Author: Ernest Cline
Series: Ready Player One, book 1
Genre: Dystopia, Science-Fiction, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Format: 374 pages, Paperback
Published: April 5th, 2012 by Arrow Books
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

It’s the year 2044, and the real world has become an ugly place. We’re out of oil. We’ve wrecked the climate. Famine, poverty, and disease are widespread.

Like most of humanity, Wade Watts escapes this depressing reality by spending his waking hours jacked into the OASIS, a sprawling virtual utopia where you can be anything you want to be, where you can live and play and fall in love on any of ten thousand planets. And like most of humanity, Wade is obsessed by the ultimate lottery ticket that lies concealed within this alternate reality: OASIS founder James Halliday, who dies with no heir, has promised that control of the OASIS – and his massive fortune – will go to the person who can solve the riddles he has left scattered throughout his creation.

For years, millions have struggled fruitlessly to attain this prize, knowing only that the riddles are based in the culture of the late twentieth century. And then Wade stumbles onto the key to the first puzzle. Suddenly, he finds himself pitted against thousands of competitors in a desperate race to claim the ultimate prize, a chase that soon takes on terrifying real-world dimensions – and that will leave both Wade and his world profoundly changed.

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Wow. This was one hell of a book! I mean seriously! It took some time for me to get engaged but once I was in, there was no going back! 🙂

In the dystopian world of 2044 where poverty, sickness had taken over the world, the only way for people to escape the harsh reality is through OASIS, a virtual game where one can do whatever they want, go on quests or simply for just entertainment. When the founder of this game, James Halliday dies he leaves a message that whoever can cross the 3 hidden gates and solve the riddles will get his entire fortune. And then the frenzy begins. But when Wade’s life, the person to cross gate 1 real, becomes a threat as well as his virtual one, the game takes a whole new different meaning. Now, he is not only playing for winning but also fighting for his life.

Okay, so this was a hella awesome book! Like literally! Though I have to say that the pacing, in the beginning, was slow and I felt a little bored but gradually things started taking an interesting turn once Wade crossed the first gate. This game was a lot like virtual roleplaying games, just on a much, much higher level. I have done writing roleplays but I had never played one, so that definitely was an interesting aspect.

But one thing, I won’t say it bothered me but I felt it was too much, Wade knew everything about gaming. I mean EVERYTHING. Yes, sure he is a geeky person (and I like geeky people, in fact, I prefer them) but his complete knowledge about every possible game and how he mastered one game after another so quickly felt a bit unrealistic. Though I obviously don’t have any experience in this field.

But despite the flaws, I loved Wade. He was geekishly adorable. (Also that effing risk he took!!!! Like seriously!!!!! Spoilers, so I can’t say it but who has already read will know… he was foolishly brave? xD) After Halliday’s announcement, hell broke loose but it soon died out because nobody was able to find the key to the first gate. After a lot of years, when Wade comes out of the maze and overnight becomes the most popular person as well as the enemy number one for one company whose ultimate motive is to buy OASIS. Oooo those people, a.k.a the Sixers were really disgusting. I loathed them, especially their leader Sorrento who was prepared to go down to any level to win the game, even if he had to take innocent lives.

Anyway, the other characters were pretty interesting as well, especially the top 5 who were able to cross the gate first. I liked Art3mis but Aech was my favourite. The part which I loved the most was the action in the game. I didn’t feel it was just a game anymore, like Wade’s it had invaded my life as well. The final showdown was just EPIC!! It kinda reminded me of the mixed power rangers episodes. xD (In a gooood way! I loved PR!!) Also, there were many 80’s pop culture references which I didn’t get but it didn’t bother me much.

Overall, Ready Player One was definitely worth the read! I have never been a gamer myself, but I didn’t enjoy it any less. Despite the initial slow beginning, the plot picked up soon enough and I was emersed in a whole new different world. I felt there was a bit of info-dump here and there but other than that the facts were really awesome!

Recommend it?

Yaaas!

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Name: Ready Player One
Genre:  Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi
Director: Steven Spielberg
Cast: Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn, Lena Waithe, Philip Zhao, Win Morisaki, etc.
Release Date: 29 March 2018
My Rating: 

                              

I went to watch Ready Player One at the beginning of March with my ARMY friends. This movie definitely surpassed my expectations. I finished the book before going to the movies and as much as I had loved the book, the movie was equally awesome!

First of all, the cinematography was awesome! The execution of the first clue was indeed handled a different way from the book but I think it was more awesome and had a certain impact on the audience. The bonus features like the huuuuuge monsters were such a surprise! Never in a million years had I expected that but I should have because it was a Speilberg movie after all! There was only one in the book but in the movie, there were so many, we were screaming with joy. Inwardly. (Obvio!) I loooved the friendship between the five. Whereas in the book, the main focus was on Wade, Artemis and Aech but the movie focused on all the top five. Oh, and the revelation about the characters was such a great twist! Not only that it had quite a lot of other surprises in store for us and I have to say I loved each one of them!

Also, this sequence was pretty funny!! XD It depicted the video game aspect with the real world!

The aspects of the movie which were executed differently were kinda pretty tame in compared with other books to movie adaptations because it stayed pretty true to the book. I think there were only two major differences. I guess they were necessary to maintain the pace of the movie. The romance was a small factor in the book but it was cute!! Overall, I was pretty satisfied with the action sequences and the acting! And I had a great time watching it with my friends, I seriously didn’t want it to end!

Recommend it?

Yes!

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Soooooo guys, have you read this yet? Are you excited for the movie? Or have you already seen it? Then what did you think about it?

Review: Seducing Kaden by Siobhan Davis || Where the Romance brew even without the Seduction

Title: Seducing Kaden
Author: Siobhan Davis
Series: The Kennedy Boys, book 6
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Trigger Warning: Marital rape and abuse
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 460 pages, Ebook
Expected Publication: April 30th, 2018
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Kaden
The woman I love will never be mine because she already belongs to another.

I’ve tried everything to forget her, but it’s impossible when she occupies a starring role in my dreams. I’m obsessed, and my eyes are glued to her shapely curves whenever I see her around campus. It doesn’t help that she looks as miserable as I feel, and I wonder if she misses me as much as I miss her.

Short of putting a bullet through the skull of that gangster she’s married to, I’m stuck in a hellhole of my own making.

Until fate intervenes, setting us on a collision course we can’t avoid.

Evelina
When I was a little girl, I dreamed of falling in love. The all-consuming sweep-you-off-your-feet kind of love I swooned over in movies.

It didn’t take long for that fairytale notion to come crashing down around me. Now I’m trapped in a marriage I despise with no discernible way out.

The only light in the dark is Kaden Kennedy—the one true love of my life. He doesn’t know he is, because I’m forced to love him from afar, condemned to toss and turn at night, crying over everything I want and all I can never have.

Seeing him day in, day out, destroys me, but there’s no other choice; I had to push him away to keep him safe.

Because if my husband ever finds out I’m in love with one of my students, I won’t be the only one in danger.

While you don’t need to read the earlier books in this series to enjoy Seducing Kaden, it is highly recommended. This book is a contemporary new adult romance, and it is only suitable for readers aged eighteen and older due to mature content, sexual situations, and language.

[A student-teacher forbidden romance from USA Today bestseller Siobhan Davis. Standalone with an HEA and no cliffhanger. This story includes details of an extramarital affair, so if you don’t like cheating or controversial storylines, then this book isn’t for you.]

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This booooook!! I was so eager to read Kaden’s story and forbidden romance is most top most favourite tropes. Though this book is not a light one and it deals with some important issues, I enjoyed it from the first till the last bit.

Kaden and Evaline have a chance encounter before Kaden discovers that she is her new professor in college. The attraction between them is instant but neither can give their feelings a chance because of their condition until both of them can’t resist anymore. Eva dropped her chance at happiness because of her husband who is aligned with illegal business and is a sadist but meeting Kaden for the second time brings back all the beautiful memories they had once shared together and this time Kaden doesn’t want to give up either.

Seducing Kaden was a second chance romance book which tells the story of Kaden and Evalina. The plot flashes back to the past and the present where it defines the start of their relationship and the present situation. Although the plot was predictable, the storyline flowed smoothly and the romance kept me engaged throughout the whole book. The attraction between Kaden and Eva is instant and both of them can’t deny the obvious attraction between them. One of the things that I loved about both of them was the mutual respect they had for each other. I felt really bad Eva’s situation, she was forced to live in a hell with no way out but after meeting Kaden, she began to hope for the first time in his life.

Although cheating is an element in this book, anyone would feel relief about this fact after knowing Eva’s bound condition. God, she had to go through so freaking much. Her husband was one hell of a onster whose clutches she couldn’t escape at any cost and even if she tried her loved ones would have to pay the consequences. It was actually quite difficult for me to read some of the parts. Anyway, Kaden treated Eva like a perfect gentleman, he was thoughtful and caring and did his best to protect her. The plot could have been a little more dynamic but it was still enjoyable.

Overall, Seducing Kaden was an engaging read. I think I would have enjoyed it more if there were some surprising elements, but the ending left me satisfied. The writing was smooth and the pace was even throughout the whole book. It was a pretty quick read in fact which was an added bonus. I also loved the fact that how this book paved its way for the next Kennedy book! I am definitely excited to read that!

Recommend it?

Yes!

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So guys, what do you think about this book? Have you read any previous book in this series or any other book by this author?

Review: RISE by Piper Lawson || Where the rising feelings of a second-chance romance didn’t disappoint

Title: RISE
Author: Piper Lawson
Can be read as a Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Format: Ebook
Expected Publication: 10th April, 2018
Source: I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Falling is easy. Getting up is a b*tch.

When we met, we were lost.
Most seventeen-year-olds are.
We lifted each other up off the ground each time we fell. Until the day I let her down.
Now I have everything. A Bentley, a profile in GQ, a movie option and the company my best friend and I co-founded after school.
Until our paths cross ten years later at a gallery. The backdrop might be the same but we’ve both changed. I know it the second I see Sam standing in front of the canvas my best friend bought.
She’s more than the girl who used to draw comic book characters on my arm after class. The one I had inside jokes with. The one who taught me to be a rock when someone you love is being thrown around by the waves.
She’s beautiful. Confident. Edgy.
Sam should’ve been my first everything. God knows we both wanted it.
Now I have a second chance.
This time I won’t let her down.
This time, we’ll rise together.

Riley and Samantha’s story is a sexy second-chances romance that will give you all the feels. It’s an interconnected standalone with secondary characters from PLAY and NSFW.

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This was a beautiful story of second chance romance. We finally got to see Riley’s story.

Riley and Samantha a.k.a Sam were pretty close during their high school. They both had feelings for one another yet they never got to confess. They fell in love with the right person but at the wrong time. Now after years later, they come face to face again and both of them realise they still have feelings for each other though Sam is reluctant at first. But Riley had already lost Sam once and he is not ready to lose her again.

Layered characters!

First of all, Riley was a very refreshing character. For once a male protagonist didn’t go sleeping around the entire city, he was a serious-relationship type of guy which I absolutely loved. I really want to see more protagonists like this! Riley and Sam’s friendship had clicked the moment Sam joined the same school as him but it was pretty obvious they had mutual feelings for each other but Riley had to take a step back due to Sam’s circumstances. They completely lost contact after that. When Riley goes to run an errand in place for Max, his best friend and co-owner of their gaming company, he is both bewildered and overjoyed to see Sam again.

This book is essentially character-centric and the author does a fantastic job of developing an angst-filled romance with a layer of humour, and that’s why there’s never a dull moment in this book. Sam is a pretty talented artist and Riley is an absolute charmer and he pursues Sam to work with him in his upcoming game to movie adaptation. Though I have to say I loved Riley more than I loved Sam. I understood her initial reluctance but I felt that was a bit too much.

A heart-racing Romance!

Nonetheless, the chemistry between both the characters were pretty palpable and I loved how it slowly developed into something strong. Though the pace in some portions felt a bit off but the characters were enough to move the story forward. I also loved that the characters of the previous books in this series made an appearance and there was also a pleasant surprise!

Overall, RISE was a fantastic read. The plot flowed smoothly and it was executed neatly. The characters managed to make me in love with them and their story and I sooo can’t wait to read more by this author!

Recommend it?

Yes!

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Sooo guys are you excited to read this book? Have you read any previous books by this author?

Review: The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli || Where Every “Side” was Relatable!!

Title: The Upside of Unrequited
Author: Becky Albertalli
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, LGBTQ, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: Paperback
Published: April 11th, 2017 by PUFFIN
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Seventeen-year-old Molly Peskin-Suso knows all about unrequited love- she’s lived through it twenty-six times. She crushes hard and crushes often, but always in secret. Because no matter how many times her twin sister, Cassie, tells her to woman up, Molly can’t stomach the idea of rejection. So she’s careful. Fat girls always have to be careful.

Then a cute new girl enters Cassie’s orbit, and for the first time ever, Molly’s cynical twin is a lovesick mess. Meanwhile, Molly’s totally not dying of loneliness-except for the part where she is.
Luckily, Cassie’s new girlfriend comes with a cute hipster-boy sidekick. Will is funny, flirtatious, and just might be perfect crush material. Maybe more than crush material. And if Molly can win him over, she’ll get her first kiss and she’ll get her twin back.

There’s only one problem: Molly’s coworker, Reid. He’s an awkward Tolkien superfan, and there’s absolutely no way Molly could fall for him. Right?

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Can I tell you guys how much this book was relatable? Like on a cosmic level, surpassing the intergalactic milky way and crash landing on my heart.

Okaaaaay, that was too much but it’s the truth.

I think I am the probably the last person on this planet to pick this book up so late. Being an International blogger plus being broke sucks. Big time.

Anyways, onto this beautiful, relatable unrequited book. Uh… I literally felt I was in Molly’s shoes. Except for the twin sister part (which I had always wanted… ask my mom if you don’t believe me) and the romance part. Anyway, you get the point. I don’t know what Molly would say if she knew about my life. I dunno whether to laugh or cry at that but I’m okay guys. I’ll live. 😂😂

The Upside of Unrequited is a character-centric book which revolves around Molly along with her family and friends. There are so many things that I loved about this book and it really made me want to feel more comfortable in my own skin.

The Family Rep!

There are sooo rare YA books that mention parents and a good one at that. Molly and her sister, Cassie has the two best freaking moms in the whole universe along with their little brother, Xavier (who’s sooo cute!!). I loved the bonding between the moms and Molly and Cassie, it was filled with genuine warmth, love and care. I mean you could literally feel the vibe radiating from the pages dude…

And I adooooooored the relationship between the two sisters, God knows how much I long for that but I really loved that they were sister cum best friends. Of course, they had to go through up and downs in their twiny relationship but in the end, they mattered to each other the most and that was enough. And that brings me to the character growth was which tremendous and I absolutely loved it! The readers can see how Molly grows throughout the whole book and finally finds a firm place to stand on.

Body Positivity!

One of the things that I loved the most about Molly was that she was comfortable in her own skin. She calls herself fat (I PREFER THE WORLD FLUFFY THOUGH) in the book, but she doesn’t have a problem with that. But when other people body shame you, how much you’re okay with yourself, it’s still going to hurt a little bit. I know from my own experience (See! I told you I related with this on a cosmic level). There are so many body positivity movements but there are still people who body shame, when will they understand how much they lower the self-confidence of the other people. Do they even care? I dunno.

But I am proud to say I finally have a group of friends (ARMYs) who love and support me for who I am. But yes, I’m trying to lose my weight as I earlier said in another post because of my health-related issues, not because society thinks I do not fit in their norms. God! I told you I hate society! Anyway, I digress.

But one thing I can’t help but agree is that Molly’s thinking process is quite similar to mine. She sometimes overthinks simple things, is awkward at times and seriously bad at taking things anywhere with boys (I am living example of that) but her thoughts about guys never liking her back because she was fat, I somewhat agreed with it. I know, I know, I don’t believe that because I have plenty of beautiful examples of couples but I think there’s still that 1% doubt because I haven’t come across a guy like that till now. Even for a friend, and that is seriously disappointing.

This world needs more feminist boys too.

The Romance!

It was kind of exciting to see Molly finally admitting she actually liked a guy instead of just keeping it on her crush list. Cassie’s personality was the total opposite Molly and when she met Mina, they just clicked though I could feel what Molly was feeling, she wanted something like that but she didn’t want to float away from her sister too. I loved the fact how maturely, in the end, they talked it out. Anyway back onto the adorable romance.

Reid was such a goofball. It was definitely hard not to fall for him. (Why are there no goofballs here? Moi needs some goofballs in life.) I guess when you like the person and finally feel comfortable with the other, it’s easier to be open with them. That’s how Molly and Reid’s friendship started out. Goooood, I wanted them together from the first moment they met but it took some time. A loooot of time but I was perfectly okay with it. Those two are one adorably beany couple I love to death!!

Overall,

The Upside of Unrequited was a beautiful and relatable book which touched my heart. I fell in love with the characters, they were layered and dynamic and I loved how each of them was there for the other. I was seriously beautiful. Although there were some cliched moments that didn’t matter much because the sweetness of this book consumes you (on a cosmic level yo!). The writing flowed smoothly and was easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I am definitely, eagerly wait for Becky’s next book!

Recommend it?

Yes!!

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So guys, have you read this book yet? What did you think about it? Is it in your tbr?

Review: The Elite & The One by Kiera Cass || Where I finally bid goodbye to this series

Title: The Elite and The One
Author: Kiera Cass
Series: The Selection, book 2 and 3
Genre: Dystopia, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 323 pages, Paperback
Published: April 23rd, 2013 and June 5th, 2014 by HarperTeen respectively
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

The Elite:

The Selection began with thirty-five girls. Now, with the group narrowed down to the Elite, the competition to win Prince Maxon’s heart is fiercer than ever- and America is still struggling to decide where her own heart truly lies. Is it with Maxon, who could make her life a fairy tale? Or with her first love, Aspen, who she always thought was the one?

America is desperate for more time. But the rest of the Elite know exactly what they want–and America’s chance to choose is about to slip away.

The One:

The Selection changed America Singer’s life in ways she never could have imagined. Since she entered the competition to become the next princess of Illéa, America has struggled with her feelings for her first love, Aspen—and her growing attraction to Prince Maxon. Now she’s made her choice . . . and she’s prepared to fight for the future she wants.

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I read the first book in this series back in 2015 and since then the whole series has been collecting dust on my shelf and this year and I really wanted to finish all the unread books/full series from my shelf, so my finally picked this up. Honestly, I’m just glad I’m finished off with this series because it has been one of the most disappointing ones. Anyway, you can read my review of The Selection, here.

“Love is beautiful fear.” 

When America came to participate in the Selections, her heart wasn’t truly in the competition but it was before she came to know Maxon. Now her heart is torn between him and her first love, Aspen who’s a soldier in the palace. The competition’s getting more fierce day by day and then there are the rebel attacks which are getting frequent as well. And when she realises the truth which changes her whole course, which path will America choose?

The Selection failed to make a mark on me because it was way too predictable though it had some good moments. Thr rebel attacks were one of the most interesting aspects of that book and I was really looking forward to more of it but there was seriously nothing in The Elite. Frankly, I didn’t quite understand the purpose of this book. I didn’t hate America like I have read so many reviews but her indecisiveness really irritated me. There is at least some point where one understands what one’s heart truly craves but America couldn’t till the very end of the last book. Seriously! It felt like she was close to deciding whom she wanted but the very next minute she was running away from that. Anyway, the plot doesn’t move anywhere in the 2nd book, it mostly swayed back and forth on the same point. I just wish this book would have more substance than the frustrating romance.

“Break my heart. Break it a thousand times if you like. 

It was only ever yours to break anyway.”

The One was definitely better than The Elite. This book did focus on the rebel sub-plot but just not as much as I would have loved. America’s indecisiveness continued in this book too and by this time, I had kinda already stopped caring but it was still infuriating. Maxon was such a sweet guy and when she asked for space, he gave her that but when Maxon asked for the same thing, she felt hurt and betrayed. Dude, why? She was pretty much doing the same thing behind his back, I didn’t know why she acted like a hypocrite.

Anyway, I didn’t really like Aspen anymore than I did in book 1. He kept appearing wherever I least wanted him to!! Celeste’s character gave me a whiplash but I definitely enjoyed her character but the thing with Kriss was kinda all of a sudden and oh well, it was all weird. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the plot twist but it was kinda already ruined for me and hence didn’t have much impact on me. Though the ending part made me emotional and with everything going on, I was really afraid at one point but the ending was definitely the saving grace of this whole trilogy, all the loose ends were wrapped up everything finally fell into place. And thank freaking goodness, the choosing ceremony finally happened!

“But even now I know this isn't a fairy tale. 
I know that we'll have hard times, confusing times. 
I know that things won't always happen the way we want them to and that we'll have to work to remember that we chose this. 
It won't be perfect, not all the time.

This isn't happily ever after.

It's so much more than that.” 

Overall, The Elite and The One were an okay read. The plot was predictable but neatly executed. These two books were definitely a fast read and the pace was even throughout the two books. I didn’t want to read book 4 after finishing this trilogy and it ended here for me.

Recommend it?

Maybe.

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So guys, what do you think about this series? Is it one of your favourites or did you not enjoy it as much as you had hoped?

Dual Review: Geekerella and Words in Deep Blue || (A Little) Unpopular Opinion alert!

Title: Geekerella
Author: Ashley Poston
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 320 pages, Ebook
Published: April 4th, 2017 by Quirk Books
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Cinderella goes to the con in this fandom-fueled twist on the classic fairy tale.

Part romance, part love letter to nerd culture, and all totally adorbs, Geekerella is a fairy tale for anyone who believes in the magic of fandom. Geek girl Elle Wittimer lives and breathes Starfield, the classic sci-fi series she grew up watching with her late father. So when she sees a cosplay contest for a new Starfield movie, she has to enter. The prize? An invitation to the ExcelsiCon Cosplay Ball, and a meet-and-greet with the actor slated to play Federation Prince Carmindor in the reboot. With savings from her gig at the Magic Pumpkin food truck (and her dad’s old costume), Elle’s determined to win…unless her stepsisters get there first.

Teen actor Darien Freeman used to live for cons—before he was famous. Now they’re nothing but autographs and awkward meet-and-greets. Playing Carmindor is all he’s ever wanted, but the Starfield fandom has written him off as just another dumb heartthrob. As ExcelsiCon draws near, Darien feels more and more like a fake—until he meets a girl who shows him otherwise.

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When Elle’s favourite fandom, Starfield is getting a brand new movie, she is over the top excited but it quickly dies down because her favourite character is going to be played by none other than Darien, the rich and spoiled teen star. Despite the fact, she still wants to visit ExcelsiCon where the price money of the cosplay competition might be her way out from her evil stepmother. And on top of that, she can’t stop thinking about the mysterious stranger she has been texting lately. When all goes up in flames, what will Elle finally do?

I really, really enjoyed this book but ultimately there was nothing new. This book was too similar with my all time favourite book Cinder and Ella by Kelly Oram (which was soooo good, it even had a sequel which released a couple of months ago) which follows the same theme and even the execution and frankly, it had more depth. That’s why I was kinda disappointed with this book because of the so freaking similarity! That’s why I cut off one star. Anyway, the writing was the saving grace of this book, I loved the voice and the humour in this story and the characters definitely lived up to my expectations. Starfield had a great role in Elle’s childhood, it was her and her dad’s thing and her mother was quite involved too. So, when they announced a new major movie for the franchise, she was over the moon but she didn’t trust Darien to do justice to her favourite character.

“Look to the stars. Aim. Ignite.”

Elle and Darien were both so different from each other yet kind of similar. Elle had to face the wrath of her step-mom and step-sisters every single day while Darien struggled every moment to prove himself he was worthy of the role he got and not because of his family background. He was seriously dedicated to his work and he wanted to bring the character of Prince Carmindor to life so that the whole would finally believe he was a different person than what the press led on. Anyway, the actual adventure began on ExcelsiCon which was such a fun adventure. My favourite scene was the entry one where the guard was like get out and then she walked in with the free pass and stuff and he was what the… That was a freaking awesome scene!!

“I’ve met my doom, and it isn’t even breakfast yet.”

The texting between Elle and Darien started accidentally but they continued texting even when they resolved the initial confusion of texting the wrong person. Somehow, they felt connected over their shared love of Starfield. Their first face-to-face interaction started off as hate which slowly melted into something much more. I loved these two together but I wanted more. The ending was a bit (well a lot) unrealistic but I did enjoy it. The grand gesture was indeed really sweet. Among the minor characters, I did enjoy Cal, Elle’s step-sister but Chloe (the other step-sister) was a nightmare along with the step-mother. Elle’s friend (whose name for the love of God, I can’t remember right now) was a major support for her and yay for diversity!

Overall, Geekerella was a fun read. I enjoyed the plot although it was too predictable though the characters won my heart. I enjoyed the banter between Elle and Darien. The writing was beautiful and laced with wit and humour and the pace was even throughout the book. I definitely hope to read more by this author.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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Title: Words in Deep Blue
Author:  Cath Crowley
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 254 pages, Ebook
Published: August 30th, 2016 by Macmillan Australia
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Love lives between the lines.

Years ago, Rachel had a crush on Henry Jones. The day before she moved away, she tucked a love letter into his favorite book in his family’s bookshop. She waited. But Henry never came.

Now Rachel has returned to the city—and to the bookshop—to work alongside the boy she’d rather not see, if at all possible, for the rest of her life. But Rachel needs the distraction, and the escape. Her brother drowned months ago, and she can’t feel anything anymore. She can’t see her future.

Henry’s future isn’t looking too promising, either. His girlfriend dumped him. The bookstore is slipping away. And his family is breaking apart.

As Henry and Rachel work side by side—surrounded by books, watching love stories unfold, exchanging letters between the pages—they find hope in each other. Because life may be uncontrollable, even unbearable sometimes. But it’s possible that words, and love, and second chances are enough.

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Rachel and Henry used to be best friends before she moved away and broke off all contacts with him. She tried to confess her feelings towards him once but when she got no response, she gave up hope. Now, after a few years, she’s back in town but she’s not the same person anymore after she lost her brother. Seeing Henry brings up old memories which Rachel wants to forget but Henry is not ready to let her go again. What will happen when the truth about everything comes out?

“The past is with me; the present is here. The future is unmapped and changeable. Ours for the imagining: spreading out before us. Sunlight filled, deep blue, and the darkness.” 

I had seen mostly glorious reviews of this book everywhere and this book was about books!! So obviously, I didn’t hesitate to pick it up. I LOVED the books part of this book but the romance was where it all went down. Henry had always fancied Amy and they always had an on and off relationship, despite this fact Rachel decides to confess her feelings for him but when her confession letter goes unanswered, she doesn’t try again. I loved Rachel but I honestly didn’t care for Henry, even a bit. I mean, he put Amy first before everything else, even his family’s bookshop when it was pretty clear to the whole world that Amy just cared for herself but his obsession with Amy knew no bounds. I seriously hated how he wined for Amy throughout the entire book and just clearly ignored what was in front of him.

“Words do matter. They’re not pointless. If they were pointless then they couldn’t start revolutions and they wouldn’t change history and they wouldn’t be the things that you think about every night before you go to sleep. If they were just words we wouldn’t listen to songs.” 

Now, onto the good parts. The letter library!! It was seriously such an epic thing. I so wished something like that existed where I lived because it just sounds so intriguing and mysterious. All the different and unique stories conveyed through the letters were just so beautiful. Another part that I loved was the letters between George, Henry’s sister and Cal which was really heartbreaking since we understand from the very beginning that their love story is doomed. Despite everything, Henry had redeeming qualities but it was already too late for me to completely care about him but I was glad he was there when Rachel needed him. I enjoyed the other minor characters too. I also enjoyed the family aspect of this book.

Overall, Words in Deep Blue is a story about love, loss and grief. This book has its moments but it majorly falls short where the romance comes in. Nonetheless, the writing was beautiful and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So guys, what are your opinions on these two books? Have you read them yet or are they still in your tbr? What were the best thing and the worst thing you felt about these two books?

Dual Review: July Thunder & July Lightning by Shannon A. Thompson || A bitter-sweet yet strong read

Title: July Thunder
Author: Shannon A. Thompson
Series: Bad Bloods, book 3
Genre: Dystopia, Sci-fi, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 165 pages, Ebook
Published: April 10th, 2017 by Clean Teen Publishing
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Fourteen-year-old Violet has been called many things: a bad blood, a survivor, an immortal…now she has a new name–citizen. But adjusting to a lawful life is not easy, especially when she must live under the rule of the same officers who justified the killings of her flock only eight months earlier.

Segregation of bad bloods and humans is still in effect, and rebellious Violet steps into a school where she is not allowed. When the police get involved, things deteriorate quickly, sparking a new revolution at the wall separating the Highlands from the outskirts.

That’s when Caleb steps in. He might appear to be an average sixteen-year-old bad blood, but he has secrets, and Violet is determined to figure them out. Caleb knows who’s attacking the wall and why, but his true identity remains a mystery–and how he relates to Violet could shake the threatened city to its very core.

Together or not, a storm will form, a rally will start, and shocking truths will be revealed.

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This book was a quick read. I really loved getting back to the world of the Bad Bloods again and I really enjoyed the diverse characters.  You can read my review of November Rain (book 1), here and November Snow (book 2), here.

The last book ended with the Bad Bloods finally getting recognised as citizens of Vendona. But equal rights are yet to be totally implied. Violet survived the massacre of her flock a few months ago and she’s not ready to forgive the humans for it just yet but when a new rebellion sparks that might be a danger to the Bad Bloods as well, she figures Caleb is the only one who can help but will he?

The plot was refreshing and easy to read. The Bad Bloods were considered a threat to the society because of their powers but after Serena and Daniel fought for their rights, they were finally granted some freedom but the consequences remained. We got a glimpse of Violet in the previous books but we get to know more about her in this book. I really liked the interesting fact about her age and how everything actually worked for her. I really liked her, from the very start. She was rebellious and brave, she just wanted to be treated like a normal person and not someone to be feared but I liked the fact that she didn’t take shit from others and always stood up for herself.

“Some rumors said she was a demon from another world. Other rumors said she was death incarnate, someone to remind us of our misdeeds. But no one had said how beautiful she was. No one had mentioned her eyes. The ones that showed color only for a second. A hint of beauty in absolute blackness.”

We are also introduced to Caleb’s herd where we get to see so many new characters and each one possessed a unique ability. I especially liked Nuo’s powers, Kuthun was quite a unique character as well. This book dragged a little in the middle but it picked up towards the end. Caleb’s true identity is also revealed and it ended on a pretty interesting note which made me pick up the next book in this series immediately after finishing this one.

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Title: July Lightning
Author: Shannon A. Thompson
Series: Bad Bloods, book 4
Genre: Dystopia, Sci-fi, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 267 pages, Ebook
Published: May 1st, 2017 by Clean Teen Publishing
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating: 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Sixteen-year-old Caleb has been called many things: a patient, a musician, even a prostitute…now he has a new name- son. After his identity is uncovered, Caleb bands together with the family he once rejected in order to save the city of Vendona. But it won’t be easy. Enemies wait around every corner and so do harsh realities. With Violet and Kuthun by his side though, nothing seems impossible. As Vendona sits on the verge of an economic collapse and a massive hurricane threatens the city, Violet and Caleb must show its citizens how to overcome decades of hostility and division to save themselves. Standing or not, a sea will rage, a wall may fall, and all will depend on immortal pain and sacrifice.

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This book was pretty awesome. I was on the edge from the very start and couldn’t put this book down.

The threat that looms over their shoulder is becoming bigger and bigger and when Violet finally learns the truth, she knows she has to do something to save them all. With the help of Caleb, will she be able to stop the impending disaster?

This book was not devoid of politics and it was quite and interesting aspect. So many things happened in this book which kept me interested till the very end. I really enjoyed seeing the characters from the previous Bad Bloods duology as well. The character development in this book was one of my most favourite things about this book. I really loved how Violet handled every situation maturely and protected the ones she dearly loved.

The storm added a violent twist to the story. And along with that, the rebellion played a huge role and when we finally get to know who was behind everything, I was a little shocked. Violet knew she couldn’t stop that person and she along with her friends did everything in their power to save everyone but there were tear-jerker moments as well.

“A heroic act is not always followed by glory and parades and forever freedom,” she said. “It’s often small, disregarded, or forgotten. But it matters.”

Another fact that I loved was that Caleb finally forgiving his family and accepting them. He was a real strong character and it took strength what he had to do in the last moments though it was Violet who stole the show for me. This book was unpredictable and although it ended on a bittersweet note, I was left satisfied with the ending.

Overall, July Thunder & July Lightning were a great read. I enjoyed how the plot was executed and the character development throughout the books. The writing was beautiful and smooth and it was fast-paced, I can’t wait to read more by this author.

Recommend it?

Yes!

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So guys, what do you think of this series? Have you read any other book by this author?

Review: Zenn Diagram by Wendy Brant || Where maths makes magic

Title: Zenn Diagram
Author: Wendy Brant
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Slightly warm
Page Count and Format: 332 pages, Ebook
Published: April 4th 2017 by KCP Loft
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

An irresistible novel about math and romance, with a hint of the paranormal.

Being a math genius is not exactly a ticket to popularity for seventeen-year-old Eva. Even worse, whenever she touches another person or their belongings, she gets glimpses of their emotions, secrets, and insecurities, making her keep her distance from everyone. So when Eva realizes she can touch Zenn, a handsome and soulful artist, without getting visions — only sparks — she finds herself drawing closer to him. But then she discovers the history that links them, and the truth threatens to tear the two apart.

Readers will swoon over Zenn and connect with Eva, the most fully drawn prodigy in teen fiction today.

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I went into this book with low expectations but this book definitely exceeded it. There were definitely ups and downs but the characters grew on me and in the end, I loved it!

Eva gets fractals when she touches anybody, due to this she maintains her distance from everybody until she meets Zenn. He is the only person she can touch. They are both different and a lot alike. The two starts to grow closer not knowing the secret that ties them together. When the truth gets revealed, it may shatter any hope of the possibility of a future they had hoped together.

The plot was refreshing and I enjoyed it quite a lot. Eva is different from everybody, whenever she touches anyone she gets a glimpse into their lives in the form of fractals. I didn’t exactly know what exactly that was and I have to say, it definitely made this book more interesting. Due to the fractals, she gets major headaches sometimes among other things and because of that she mostly kept everybody at a distance. But I enjoyed the fact that she definitely used her fractals to her advantage as well, by learning where her student’s problem lay in maths during her tutoring sessions. (Oh, how much I wish I was even a little bit good in maths like her…)

One of the things I didn’t enjoy about this book was that nothing much practically happens in the first part of the book, we get to see the full of Zenn way later on. The second half of the book was way more interesting than the first half which made the first half a bit of a drag on.

Nonetheless, I pretty much loved the characters. Eva was definitely an interesting and Zenn was equally swoon-worthy. I loved how much they cared for each other and another thing which was refreshing was that they talked about the difficulties and problems that came into their way maturely. I kind of saw the plot twist coming which was a bummer. Anyway, their friendship developed slowly into something more which I absolutely loved and their chemistry was awesome! The ending was kind of cheesy but it left me satisfied.

Overall, Zenn Diagram was an enjoyable read. The plot was executed neatly and I fell in love with the characters. The romance between Zenn and Eva was absolutely amazing! The writing was smooth and easy to read though the pace was a little faster in the latter half of the book.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So, guys have you read this yet? What do you think about this book? Want to give it a chance? Or is it in your tbr?

Review: Descendants by Rae Else || Plus Interview!

Title: Descendants
Author: Rae Else
Series: The Arete series, book 1
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 226 pages, Ebook
Expected Publication: April 12th 2017 by Rae Else
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

There are lots of stories about the children of gods. But what about those cursed by the gods, and their descendants…

El, a seventeen-year-old has inherited an ancient and deadly power. She loses control of it, causing a horrific accident, and becomes the prey of a secret organisation, known as the Order.

Forced from her family and home, she hides in plain sight amidst the crowds of London, and is thrust into a world she never knew existed; one full of arete: beings with extraordinary powers like hers.

Arete are beings that can trace their lineage and powers from ancient Greece. They do not claim their inheritance comes from the gods, rather legend says they are descended from cursed beings, such as Medusa.

At the heart of their world is the kerykeion, the symbol that protects them from the humans and the humans from them. El is trapped between two factions, one that has built an empire around the kerykeion and another that is determined to bring it down.

As she is drawn deeper into the conflict, the only way to find the truth is to take matters into her own hands, and the line between friend and foe becomes dangerously blurred.

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This book was interesting, there were definitely ups and downs but overall, I enjoyed it.

El can always manipulate people when she focuses too much on anybody. That’s why her grandmother didn’t let her out much but when one incident goes horribly wrong, her long lost mother resurfaces to take her with her. She is bewildered to learn the truth about herself and how she has to hide from the people known as the order but when someone from the other side says the opposite thing, she doesn’t know which one to believe. When things get out of control, it’s up to El to decide is she wants to fight back or run.

The plot was pretty unique and interesting. El has the power to control people with her one look but she tries her best not to use her power at all but one incident changes everything. I liked El from the very start, she reacted just as any person would when she learns about the truth of her heritage and I have to say, the backstory was one of the most interesting things I’ve ever read, descendants of Medusa? I was hooked. It has so much potential, I so hope we get to know more about it in the next book.

I enjoyed how the plot was executed but the first half of the book was way more engaging than the second half and I wanted more, more info about everything which made the world-building a bit lacking. El was genuinely confused whether to believe her mother who suddenly appeared in her life for the first time ever or the guy she befriended, Luke who said he knew the Order were the good guys as his father was one of them and he aspired to belong to that too. And then there was Dan, I liked both the guys but I am still not sure which ship I want to board yet and I sense a love-triangle building up. I was so right about the Order and I wish everything was explained a bit more but I do hope we get see a bit more of everything in book 2.

Overall, Descendants was a good read. The plot was executed neatly and I liked the characters but I had difficulty in connecting with them. I enjoyed the writing, it was smooth and easy to read and it was fast-paced.

Recommend it?

Yes.

I also had the opportunity to interview the author, I hope you guys enjoy it!

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Interview:

Hey there! I’m so glad to have you on my little blog today!

Thanks so much for having me. Sooo – here it goes!

1. Describe your book in 140 characters.

It’s a Young Adult, Urban Fantasy about the descendants of beings cursed by ancient gods. Set in the modern world and narrated by El, our 17-year-old heroine.

2. What is the thing that you love the most about El, the lead protagonist of this book?

I love that she’s naive – she wears her heart on her sleeve and is a very vulnerable character throughout the story. She’s been kept from the outside world, away from most other people and she has very little awareness of other people’s motives.

3. How do you develop your plot and characters?

I’d say I get a vivid picture of character and setting. I then might ask what if questions. What if that happened? I let the idea character, setting percolate) and then start sketching out plot. At the early stages of sketching out a plan I’ve found it useful to interview/talk to characters. Write down how they would say something, what language they would use (or wouldn’t), creating character bios full of info that won’t go into the novel but is useful as the author to get to know them – their strengths, weaknesses, fears and hopes. After that comes the sketching out of the plot as I know the kind of things they would and wouldn’t do to remain authentic to themselves.

4. Give us an interesting fact about this book.

The panels that El is talking about in the opening scene and getting weirded out about were inspired by the Hawstead Panels at Christchurch Mansion which is in Ipswich. I spent a lovely evening there with my sister going on a historical/ghost story visit and this little inspiration of the panels that have strange little pictures and mottos (in Latin) about sight and concealment are real. And they found their way into El’s story.

5. What was the hardest thing to write in Descendants?

I’d say the plot twists – keeping information from El and the reader but saying enough so that the story flows well. (As this is my debut novel I’m still working on improving this area and have had some excellent, constructive feedback from a few advance readers and reviewers. I know that it will really help me make the final version that comes out this month the best it can be.)

6. If you could spend your time with any one of the characters from Descendants, who would you choose and why?

No offence to El and Dan, who I love dearly (lol) but I would have to choose Janos, the graeae. Because of his powers to look into the past and future. I’d love to have long chats with him late into the night over wine (not that I don’t anyway!) But I’d talk to him about all the things he’s seen over the course of his long lifetime, (300 years).

7. How do you overcome writer’s block?

Sometimes it’s a question of powering through – writing something down and being routine about the time you sit down and write or forcing yourself to write a set number of words or get to the end of a chapter, etc. Other times I might need a bit of change of scene so go work in a cafe or if I need some inspiration – take some time to go write in the London British Museum (my favourite museum) or perhaps the National Portrait Gallery or Natural History Museum. Sometimes writing outside in the park is really refreshing and the fresh air unlocks something.

8. What is your advice for aspiring writers?

Firstly to write. Then to redraft and then write…and redraft…and continue that cycle. To persevere in other words. I think that the path for each writer is different but that it’s important that whichever one they believe is right – to stick to it. Whether it’s self-publishing, publishing with indie presses or seeking an agent and publishing traditionally – it’s important they choose what’s right for them. And mostly to never lose sight of why they’re writing in the first place – for the characters, for the story they feel they must tell. If you keep that in mind and at the heart of your writing, you’ll keep writing. (And, of course, it’s a lovely bonus when wonderful readers and reviewers connect and see the thing that you love in your characters and story) 🙂

It was great having you on my blog today! Thank you so much and I wish you much success in the future.

Thanks so much, Poulami – was so lovely to chat to you and look forward to connecting with you in the blogosphere soon.

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So guys, what are your thoughts on this book? Are you interested in reading it?

Review: Incriminating Dating by Rebekah L. Purdy || When fake turns into something real

Title: Incriminating Dating
Author: Rebekah L. Purdy
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 235 pages, Ebook
Expected Publication: April 10th, 2017 by Entangled Crush
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Ayla Hawkins is ready to stand up for change in her high school. But winning the election for class president against popular Jenna Lee will be impossible without a miracle. When she stumbles upon Mr. Perfect Luke Pressler defacing public property and catches it on camera: cue miracle. Ayla’s got the dirt she needs to get Luke on Team Ayla—in the form of her new fake boyfriend.

One mistake. All Luke wanted was a night to goof off, to blow off steam. The pressure of maintaining the perfect facade when his reality was crumbling around him had become too much, and next thing he knew, he was pretending to date Ayla Hawkins. But his little blackmailer turns out to be kind. Honorable. Opinionated. And just the breath of fresh air he didn’t even realize he was suffocating for. But Luke and Ayla come from different worlds, and once the election is over, their fauxmance will be, too.

Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book features adult language, sexual situations, and plenty of girl power. Reading may result in swooning, laughing, and looking for a Luke of your own.

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This book was really amazing. It had me laughing, swooning, I had so much fun! This was exactly the kind of read that I needed and I easily finished it in two sittings.

Ayla is tired of school politics, she decides it’s about time for some change due to which she enrolls her name for the class president against the most popular girl in high school, Jenna. But Ayla’s a nobody and to make everyone notice her, she has to do something big. She hits the perfect jackpot when she captures a video of the the school star player, Luke vandalizing the school property. She blackmails him to be her boyfriend until the election is over but when feelings come in the way, it’s up to Ayla to decide which path she should choose.

The plot of this book was no surprise, it was definitely cliched but the execution won me over. I have read a lot of fauxmance stories but I have to say, this is definitely one of my favorites, more so because the characters felt so real, they were not devoid of flaws which made them much more realistic. With a little push from Ayla’s bff, Chloe, Ayla decides to run for the class president against Jenna, one of the most popular in their school but she doesn’t know how to get people to notice. With dumb luck, she sees with her own eyes how Luke and his friends vandalize the school property and she captures it and uses it to blackmail Luke. The story was pretty fun to read about and I was never bored for a second.

I loved Ayla’s character from the very start and I could relate to her so much. She is also one of the girls who is not skinny or just perfect like most of the protagonists that we usually get to read, in fact she is on the other side and this was quite a refreshing change. Although she decides to blackmail Luke, but her conscious is always aware of the fact that she is doing something wrong but she never crosses the limit, in fact she was quite the opposite, helping out Luke whenever possible, taking care of his kid brother (who was adorable btw) and Luke was definitely swoon-worthy. He had no way out when Ayla blackmails him, he reluctantly agrees to play the part so that she doesn’t rat him out but I loved their friendship which made their chemistry perfect! 

The relationship between Ayla and Luke developed slow and steady, it didn’t feel forced which was an added bonus. Another fact that I really loved about Luke was that no matter her what her size was, his feelings were genuinely real. And Ayla was so real, she always stood up for the right and when the dress fiasco occurred, I felt so proud of her and how maturely she handled the situation. The ending was definitely realistic, about how things went down and I would love to see a little payback to Jenna and I really hope Chloe is the one who takes it. I felt so bad for Luke’s situation about his home, he so didn’t deserve that but I was glad how everything turned out for him at the end.

Overall, Incriminating Dating was a super cute read! I immensely enjoyed how the plot was executed and I fell in love with the characters. I really loved the romance between Ayla and Luke and I sooo wanted more. The writing was smooth and easy to read and the pace was even throughout the book. I am definitely looking forward to reading more by this author.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So guys, what do you think about this book? Do you want to give this one a try? Is it in your tbr yet?