Review: Godsgrave by Jay Kristoff || Where everything took a whole new turn

Title: Godsgrave
Author: Jay Kristoff
Series: The Nevernight Chronicle, book 2
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 421 pages, Hardcover
Published:  September 7th, 2017 by Harper Voyager UK
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

A ruthless young assassin continues her journey for revenge in this new epic fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Jay Kristoff.

Mia Corvere has found her place among the Blades of Our Lady of Blessed Murder, but many in the Red Church hierarchy think she’s far from earned it. Plying her bloody trade in a backwater of the Republic, she’s no closer to ending the men who destroyed her familia; in fact, she’s told directly that Consul Scaeva is off limits. But after a deadly confrontation with an old enemy, Mia suspicions about the Red Church’s true motives begin to grow.

When it’s announced that Scaeva will be making a rare public appearance at the conclusion of the grand games in Godsgrave, Mia defies the Church and sells herself to a gladiatorial collegium for a chance to finally end him. Upon the sands of the arena, Mia finds new allies, bitter rivals, and more questions about her strange affinity for the shadows. But as conspiracies unfold within the collegium walls, and the body count rises, Mia will be forced to choose between love and revenge, and uncover a secret that could change the very face of her world.

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If you thought Nevernight was a torturous read, wait until you’ve read Godgrave because the wait for the next book is literally unbearable…

“If Vengeance has a mother, her name is Patience.” 

HOLY GUACAMOLEYYY!! This book simply took everything to a different level. I expected that, but not thaaaat much. I remember falling into a slump after finishing Nevernight because no other book was living up to my expectations after reading that one and the experience was quite similar to this book too (fortunately, I’m out of the slump now…). I also feel like it’s best to go into this book without knowing anything, even the blurb for the best reading experience.

After everything went down in the previous book, Mia is finally working for the Red Church but when she comes face to face with an old enemy, her perception towards the Red Church begins to sway and when the actual truth comes out, the line between right and wrong begin to blur. Not there was anything, to begin with, but now it’s up to Mia to decide where she wants her final destiny to be.

Interesting writing style!

In Nevernight, the writing style felt a little way too much in the beginning but I didn’t feel like that for a second while reading Godsgrave, I was hooked from the very first page and the jumping between the past and the present was actually quite fun, I usually don’t like when that happens but that very fact made things much more interesting in this book.

An Intense Plot!

The plot was bloody awesome! And intense! How does Kristoff do that? Everything was a bloody mess but it was amazing at the same time. It was really hard to put this book down, I just wanted to leave everything and read this book for the whole day! Okay, so in Nevernight, we saw Mia entering the Red Church as a student and now in Godsgrave, she is a full-fledged blade, who still wants revenge for her family despite the warnings from her masters. But as the book proceeded, things became just so much more than just revenge. But this book was sooo bloody, oh so bloody and dark. Oh, oh and I also missed Mister Kindly soooo freaking much. Also, wolfie was a nice addition, the constant bickering of those two provided the necessary relief and it was quite humorous and funny at times.

Character growth!

We are introduced to a lot of new characters in this book as Mia takes on a new journey and becomes a gladiator. I loved Mia’s character growth as a person in this book. She was a closed-off character in the first book and here we get to see a whole new side of Mia, she also discovers her sexual orientation in this book and I definitely enjoyed how everything was executed. It’s so hard to review this book without spoiling anything. So. Freaking. Hard. People.

Mia closed her eyes.
Raised her blade.
‘O, Mother, blackest Mother, what have I become?’

Anyway, I freaking loved the new characters and the relationship Mia shared with them. It was amazing but heartbreaking at the same time. Jay Kristoff is cruel, people. And that’s not a fact but a reality. How am I supposed to live until the next book?

Plot-twist that’ll ruin your life! (if you still have any after finishing this book…)

And the FREAKING PLOT TWIST!! Who does that!!! My goodness, there are some plot twists you are amazed at and some are too much to handle. Combine those two! That’s exactly how I felt after turning the last page. 2 major plot twists and I have no freaking idea what’s going to happen next. I had 1% hunch about the 2nd twist but the 1st one was out of completely nowhere. It smacked me right in the goddam face!! I mean, it completely changed the whole game dude!

I have to stop now otherwise my rambling will never end!!

Overall,

Godsgrave was an amazing, heart-pounding read. This was a fast-paced read and I enjoyed every moment of it. Also, this book was more dark and intense than the first book, so brace yourself guys! This series is absolutely perfect for fantasy and action lovers!

Congratulations if you have made it to the end of my endless screaming, screechingly fangirling review where I simultaneously want to hug the book and throw it at the wall.

*SPOILER* Who the freaking saw that coming at the end???? The one she hated the most and now she shares blood relation with him? LIKE SERIOUSLY???!!! Alsoooo, I loved the romance between Mia and the Ashlinn though she did the one thing I hated the most in the previous book but THAT ENDING people!! That bloody freaking ending!! *END OF SPOILER*

Recommend it?

Jinjja! Do I still need to say that?!

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So guys, what are your thoughts on this book? Did you love it or did it felt flat for you? Or are you still waiting to read this book?

Also, if you want to discuss spoilers in the comments, please write spoilers before you state your thoughts. 🙂

Review: Nevernight by Jay Kristoff || When you shake up Hogwarts + Assassin’s Creed!

Title: Nevernight
Author: Jay Kristoff
Series: The Nevernight Chronicle, book 1
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 429 pages, Hardcover
Published: August 11th, 2016 by Harper Collins
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Destined to destroy empires, Mia Covere is only ten years old when she is given her first lesson in death.

Six years later, the child raised in shadows takes her first steps towards keeping the promise she made on the day that she lost everything.

But the chance to strike against such powerful enemies will be fleeting, so if she is to have her revenge, Mia must become a weapon without equal. She must prove herself against the deadliest of friends and enemies, and survive the tutelage of murderers, liars and demons at the heart of a murder cult.

The Red Church is no Hogwarts, but Mia is no ordinary student.

The shadows love her. And they drink her fear.

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This book was seriously SO. FREAKING. AWESOME!! I finally picked it up in July because the release of Godsgrave was coming near and I couldn’t wait to see what the fuss was all about. Oh, damn, I sooo understood because this book took me in for such a ride that I’ll never forget in this lifetime! But my order of Godsgrave got delayed and I’m dyiiiiing!! I need to know what happens next so bad!

“Never Flinch.’ A cold whisper in her ear. ‘Never fear. And never, ever forget.’ The girl nodded slowly. Exhaled the hope inside.

Mia Covere moves forward with only one aim in her mind. Her need to avenge her family keeps her going and there’s only one place which can train her for the mission she wants to accomplish, that is the Red Church. But reaching there is a big hurdle to begin with and being a student there is a whole other nightmare. Mia realises the ultimate challenge when not only she has to use her her mind but her heart comes on the line as well.

A Kickass Plot!

Nevernight was an awesome combination of assassination, kickassery and romance! Although I had read a number of reviews for this book, the overall idea for this book was still very vague to me, so I mostly went in knowing nothing. This book definitely had a slow beginning and the pace slowly picks up (at the rate that you’ll not be able to breathe during the last couple of chapters!) once she arrives at the Red Church. And once the actual journey starts, you know you are in for the ride. Mia has always wanted to learn the art of assassination and who could better teach her than the Red Church, she has heard various tales from her master and yearned to be a part of it because it would be the only be she would be finally able to take back what she lost long ago.

“The brighter the light, the deeper the shadow.”

This book was such an interesting read. The plot was unique and it never failed to surprise me throughout the book. Mia had an usual ability to manipulate shadows which was a pretty interesting aspect and as a character, she was neither perfect nor strong but she did not fail to make her mark. She was seriously so god damn awesome! And I really freaking enjoyed Mister Kindly though sometimes it gave me off vibes, well we’ll get to see more of that in the next book.

Intriguing Characters!

“If her face were a puzzle, most would put it back in the box, unfinished.”

This book had an abundant of characters which provided more layers to the plot. I enjoyed Mia’s friendship Tric, Ash and Charlotta though I didn’t like Jessamine and her brother much. The romance between Tric and Mia developed a little all of a sudden but I had no complaints. None at all. And most of all, I loved the fact that each and every one of these characters were unpredictable as hell and it kept me guessing throughout the book.

Mind-boggling twists and turns!

Things really sped up once the actual competition began at the Red Church. The masters were pretty creative, especially Aalea was cunning as hell and it was clear that each of them assigned their task after putting many thoughts to it, they were creative like them but dangerous as well and my heart was really beating fast whenever one of my beloved characters stood in the face of grave danger because that was available in abundance. The twists and turns never stopped coming! I also enjoyed the character of Lord Cassius and I really wished I had got to see more of him.

“Sometimes weakness is a weapon. If you’re smart enough to use it.”

I think I was a bit reluctant to pick up Nevernight in the first place because one thing was common in multiple reviews I had read, the writing style. And when I started this book, I could relate. The writing was really hard to get into, sometimes I had to stop and clear my head before I proceeded but I only had this problem in the beginning, as I read along, I didn’t realise when this problem had gone away and I was breezing through the book in no time. In the end, I ended up loving pretty much everything, including the writing style.

Overall

Nevernight was a fantastic read! The plot was intriguing as well as the characters which kept my interest throughout the book. I couldn’t keep this book down. I enjoyed the action and the romance and I sooo can’t wait for Godgrave!! I seriously hope my copy arrives soon. My patience is wearing veeery thin!!!

Recommend it?

Yes!

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So guys, what are your thoughts on this book? Did you love it or did it felt flat for you? Or are you still waiting to read this book?

Review: Confess by Colleen Hoover (Book + TV Show) || Where the confessions broke my heart

Title: Confess
Author: Colleen Hoover
Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Heat Rating: Warm
Page Count and Format: 320 pages, Ebook
Published: March 10th 2015 by Atria Books
Source: Purchased
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

At age twenty-one, Auburn Reed has already lost everything important to her. In her fight to rebuild her shattered life, she has her goals in sight and there is no room for mistakes. But when she walks into a Dallas art studio in search of a job, she doesn’t expect to find a deep attraction to the enigmatic artist who works there, Owen Gentry.

For once, Auburn takes a chance and puts her heart in control, only to discover that Owen is keeping a major secret from coming out. The magnitude of his past threatens to destroy everything important to Auburn, and the only way to get her life back on track is to cut Owen out of it.

To save their relationship, all Owen needs to do is confess. But in this case, the confession could be much more destructive than the actual sin.

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This was such a heartwarming read! And I loved the concept so much! Colleen Hoover’s books haven’t disappointed so far and I hope that continues to happen in the future.

Auburn Reed has only person left in her life that she can call her own but she even doesn’t have the right. In the chaotic mess, she meets Owen, an artist who has a unique way of bringing his creations to life. They are immediately attracted to each other but they both have secrets of their own and if they come out, it could ruin their lives and Auburn can’t take that risk. Will a relationship like theirs ever succeed?

*A little spoilery*

The plot of this book was really unique and interesting! We are gently eased into the story as the secrets are revealed. Auburn has pretty much lost everything, including the love of her life.  The only thing that is holding her in place is her son, A.J but his custody is in his grandmother’s hands and she is not ready to give up on him yet because she considers Audrey unfit for being a mother. My heart went out for Aubrey, she was hardworking and everything she did was for her son and to prove that she was worthy of being a mother that her son deserved. And I hated Lydia (the grandmother or a kind of monster-in-law) for doing everything in her power to keep A.J away from her. I knew she was clinging to the last hope of her younger son but she was a manipulative and viscous woman indeed. Nonetheless, I loved how Auburn was with A.J, she definitely proved how capable she was as a woman and a mother.

“There are people you meet that you get to know, and then there are people you meet that you already know.”

Owen was dreamy. I fell in love with that guy so freaking much. I loved how he used confessions as his muse for his art. It was simply a unique technique. Auburn comes fact to face with Owen when she scores a part time gig at his art show from where their story begins. I love how Colleen Hoover can execute heart-wrenching stories every freaking time and this was no different. Owen and Auburn both had secrets they couldn’t run away from and which could possibly destroy their future yet their attraction and chemistry was undeniable. They resisted the pull they felt for each other but in the end, something like what they had, was inevitable to happen.

“I love you so much.” His voice is breathless and full of fear. “I’ll love you forever. Even when I can’t.” My tears fall harder at his words. “And I’ll love you forever. Even when I shouldn’t.”

But their road was definitely not smooth and lined with hurdles provided by none other than Trey, Lydia’s older son. He was a cop and he took full advantage of his profession. That guy didn’t have an ounce of work ethics and he used it against Owen just to get Auburn all to himself. He was just like his mother. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time and I couldn’t put this book down. Though I kinda did predict how everything would come down as the end neared and I was so relieved and glad when that happened. I was completely satisfied how everything tied up in the end.

Overall, Confess was a great read. The plot was executed neatly and I fell in love with the protagonists. The romance between Owen and Auburn was just awesome! I loved their relationship so much! The writing was beautiful and the pace was even throughout the entire book. I can’t wait to devour more of her novels!

Recommend it?

Yes!

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Show name: Confess
Director: Elissa Down
Starring:  Katie Leclerc, Ryan Cooper, Sherilyn Fenn, Elliott Smith, Rocky Myers
Hosted by: Awestruck
No. of Episodes: 7
Release Date: 4th April, 2017
My Rating:
 

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This show was a pretty great watch. It was kind of unfortunate that this show only had 7 episodes but this was one of the best adaptations I’ve seen so far and it did the book justice.

There were only a few changes from the book like the time gap and the age of the characters which according to my opinion felt more realistic. And I was very excited to see Katie Leclerc in this show because I love her in Switched at Birth. She portrayed Auburn’s character perfectly, she made up believe the pain that Auburn felt each day was so much real. The actors brought the characters to life and I couldn’t have been more happier with the cast. Ryan Cooper was the perfect Owen and I loved the chemistry between the two main leads. I liked the fact that Lydia’s character in the show was redeemable than she was in the book which added another layer. A.J was great fun to watch too.

Overall, I loved pretty much everything in the show, I just wish it was a little bit more longer. If you guys haven’t seen it yet you should watch it go90 app or in YouTube.

Recommend it?

Yes.

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So guys, what are your thoughts on the book as well the show? Have you watched it yet? 

Review: The Truth About Happily Ever After by Karole Cozzo || Heavily disappointing

Title: The Truth About Happily Ever After
Author: Karole Cozzo
Standalone
Genres: Contemporary, Romance, [New-Adult]
Heat Rating: Cool
Page Count and Format: 321 pages, Ebook
Published: May 16th, 2017 by Swoon Reads
Source: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My Rating:

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Chin up, Princess, or the crown will slip.

A theme park princess must put her life back together after her happily ever after falls apart in The Truth About Happily Ever After, a contemporary YA romance from Karole Cozzo, author of How to Keep Rolling After a Fall and How to Say I Love You Out Loud.

Everything was supposed to be perfect. Alyssa has a job she loves, working as Cinderella at her favorite theme park; a fantastic group of friends; and a boyfriend who will no longer be long distance. But as the summer progresses, her prince becomes less charming and more distant, and Alyssa’s perfect summer falls apart.

Forced to acknowledge that life is not always a fairy tale, Alyssa starts working to pull her herself back together. Fortunately, she doesn’t have to do it alone. With her friend Miller’s support, she’s determined to prove that she’s more than just a pretty princess. And with his help, maybe she’s finally ready for something better than dreams. Maybe she’s ready for something real.

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Karole Cozzo is one of my favourite authors and when I heard she was releasing a new book, I was soo damn excited! Unfortunately, this book let me down pretty badly. Anyway, you can read my review of her other books, How to Say I Love You Out Loud, here and How to Keep Rolling After a Fall, here.

Alyssa has her summer perfectly plan out. She’s going to focus more of her job as a Princess in a theme park along with spending time with her boyfriend who is coming for a visit. But things start going the opposite direction that Alyssa had planned. She could let how things are happening to go on or she could take everything in her hands, now the question is what would she do?

I had so much expectation from this book. Usually, her books grasp you from the very first page but for this book, I struggled to finish it. One of my major problem was I couldn’t connect with the characters at all, and that being mainly Alyssa. Although I did love her dedication towards her work but sometimes it felt she was too overfocused on her relationship, which I think deep down even she knew it wasn’t working. Jake felt superficial from the very start and I knew there was something wrong with him and after the truth comes out, I loathed him.

As the story progressed I hoped something or the other would happen that would make me rethink my rating for this book. But nothing sort of interesting ever happened, the events of this book kind of felt a bit repetitive. Alyssa’s friend, Miller was a great guy and it proved you can find your prince charming where you least expect it, but frankly, I couldn’t see an ounce of chemistry between him and Alyssa. The thing is we don’t really get so much of Miller, just a glimpse here and there and suddenly Alyssa is feeling different towards him and everything just felt completely random.

I did enjoy the ending but it didn’t manage to satisfy me either. The progression of the story was pretty slow throughout the entire book and I was so bored throughout the whole thing though there were some parts which I actually enjoyed. I did want to dnf it at some point too but I somehow managed to trudge through to the end.

Overall, The Truth About Happily Ever After was a disappointing read. Although the plot was executed neatly, it just felt meh and the characters didn’t manage to make it any exciting either though the writing was smooth and easy to read. I hope her next book lives up to my expectations!

Recommend it?

Maybe.

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So, guys have you read this book yet? If yes, what were your thoughts about this one? 

Review: Lord of Shadows by Cassandra Clare || Which left me utterly heartbroken

Title: Lord of Shadows
Author: Cassandra Clare
Series: The Dark Artifices, book 2
Genre: Fantasy, Romance, [Young-Adult]
Heat Rating: Slightly warm
Page Count and Format: 699 pages, Paperback
Published: May 23rd, 2017 by Simon & Schuster Children’s UK
Source: Purchased
My Rating: 

Blurb (from Goodreads):

Would you trade your soul mate for your soul?

A Shadowhunter’s life is bound by duty. Constrained by honor. The word of a Shadowhunter is a solemn pledge, and no vow is more sacred than the vow that binds parabatai, warrior partners—sworn to fight together, die together, but never to fall in love.

Emma Carstairs has learned that the love she shares with her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, isn’t just forbidden—it could destroy them both. She knows she should run from Julian. But how can she when the Blackthorns are threatened by enemies on all sides?

Their only hope is the Black Volume of the Dead, a spell book of terrible power. Everyone wants it. Only the Blackthorns can find it. Spurred on by a dark bargain with the Seelie Queen, Emma; her best friend, Cristina; and Mark and Julian Blackthorn journey into the Courts of Faerie, where glittering revels hide bloody danger and no promise can be trusted. Meanwhile, rising tension between Shadowhunters and Downworlders has produced the Cohort, an extremist group of Shadowhunters dedicated to registering Downworlders and “unsuitable” Nephilim. They’ll do anything in their power to expose Julian’s secrets and take the Los Angeles Institute for their own.

When Downworlders turn against the Clave, a new threat rises in the form of the Lord of Shadows—the Unseelie King, who sends his greatest warriors to slaughter those with Blackthorn blood and seize the Black Volume. As dangers close in, Julian devises a risky scheme that depends on the cooperation of an unpredictable enemy. But success may come with a price he and Emma cannot even imagine, one that will bring with it a reckoning of blood that could have repercussions for everyone and everything they hold dear.

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I picked up Lord of Shadows right after finishing Lady Midnight. This book lived up to my expectations in so many ways. As much as I loved this book, it also broke my heart and I am not going to recover completely until I get my fix, aka the conclusion to this trilogy!!! I sooo wish I could get it now because I am dying to know what’ll happen next!

*Spoilerish, mundanes!*

Surrounded by enemies, the only hope of breaking the cold peace and having the Seelie Queen by their side is if the Blackthorns and Emma can bring her the Black Volume of the Dead. Meanwhile, Emma relationship with Julian becomes more complicated due to their love for each other despite being parabatais. When faced with the ultimate challenge, will Julian and Emma be able to stop the Dearborns from taking their home, the Institute and from starting another war or will it result in a bloodbath?

I was sucked into this book from the very first page. The plot was seriously addicting! Emma continues with her fake relationship with Mark in hope of trying to get Julian to hate her. Despite that, the affection between them continues to grow. The fae realm always gives me kind of creeps but the adventure in those lands are equally memorable. So, when Gywn comes up with the news of Kieran’s execution for helping them, despite bitter feelings Mark goes out to help him and Emma, Julian and Christina follows. It was definitely an exciting and daring adventure, though the fae realm always leaves a mark. And Auther’s death was so sudden, I didn’t even know how to react to that!

“Sometimes the most ruthless heart speaks the most truth.”

Emma reminded me a lot of Jace, she is equally sassy and humorous as well as a kickass fighter. She continues to amaze me. And Julian. Oh, my dear Julian. Sighs. His love for Emma did make him scary sometimes but other than that nobody could be more loyal than that guy and his love for his family melted my heart but his planning of presenting Annabel in front of the Clave and getting the Black Volume anyhow showed another (a little sinister) part of him. Despite everything, the duo of Emma and Julian is everything!! Their chemistry was off the charts!

“It was terrifying to love someone who was forbidden to you. Terrifying to feel something you could never speak of, something that was horrible to almost everyone you knew, something that could destroy your life.”

The family aspect was as usual pretty awesome!! And the representation of Autism was done well once again. I simply loved Ty so much. Kit made a lot of appearance in this book and along with Livvy, these three made a great team! I especially loved the relationship between Ty and Kit, Kit was Ty’s Watson to his Sherlock!

“Fiction is truth, even if it is not fact. If you believe only in facts and forget stories, your brain will live, but your heart will die.”

Although I was wary of Mark in the first book but he totally earned my forgiveness. Although he misses the freedom of the sky, his loyalty to his family was commendable and also Cristina might have been a teeny-tiny reason too. Which brings me my next point, the trio of Mark, Cristina and Kieran was a little weird, I didn’t mind much but it sure felt like another love triangle though I am definitely team Mark and Cristina!

“I think you cannot root out love entirely. I think where there has been love, there will always be embers, as the remains of a bonfire outlast the flame.”

Annnnd Magnus was in this book! I love Magnus, so freaking much! ❤ I love how he and Alec pop up everytime somebody needs help. And I love his sense of humour! My heart broke after seeing Alec’s reaction after everything went down in the final meeting. The mess wouldn’t have happened if not for Dearborns and other downworlder haters. They are no good than Valentine and Zara, my god!! I hate her so freaking much! All of the anti-downworlders were narrow-minded as hell.I seriously hope she gets the deserved punishment for everything she did in her lifetime! Oh, but what I loved was Diana’s backstory!! I loved the diversity in this book!!

Overall, Lord of Shadows was a fantastic read! I don’t have a single complaint about this book BUT WHY IS THE NEXT BOOK SCHEDULED IN 2019!!! I won’t be sane till then! That is pure torture guys, pure torture. I am still devasted by how everything ended! This was the meanest cliffhanger ever!

Anyway, the plot was executed neatly and perfectly and I fell in love with the characters all over again. The writing was beautiful and it flowed smoothly and the pace was even throughout the book. I seriously need book 3 in my life right now!!

Recommend it?

Do I even need to say it?

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So guys, have you finished this book yet? How was your experience? Or are you still waiting to pick it up?

Review: Inferno by Dan Brown

Author: Dan Brown

Tittle: Inferno

Series: Robert Langdon series, book 4

Genre: Thriller/Mystery

Pages: 461, Hardcover

Published: May 14th, 2013 by Doubleday (1st published on January 1st, 2013)

Source: Purchased

My rating: ★★★★☆

I woke up in the morning one day and read in the newspaper that a new novel by Dan Brown was up for pre-order. Firstly, I jumped and squealed a lot and then after I calmed down I placed my order. Heck, I couldn’t wait to read this book and you know what, it was worth it. I absolutely loved this book.

This time it starts in the middle of a real Inferno.

‘Seek and ye shall find.’

With these words echoing in his head, eminent Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon awakes in a hospital bed with no recollection of where he is or how he got there. Nor can he explain the origin of the macabre object that is found hidden in his belongings. This time we have an improbably clever, beautiful and resourceful young doctor, Sienna Brooks, and together they dash through museums and various destinations like Florence, Venice and Istanbul as they prevent to attempt a brilliant scientist from bringing the end of the world.

With only a few lines from Dante’s dark and epic masterpiece, The Inferno, to guide them, decipher a sequence of codes buried deep within some of the most celebrated artefacts of the Renaissance sculptures, paintings, buildings to find the answers to a puzzle which may, or may not, help them save the world from the terrifying threat. From the very first page, a chain of events starts to take place at a fast pace.

It’s a hell of a plot. It’s based on a theory by the 19th century Malthus, predicted the real current chaos of the global over population and it’s consequences. The mad scientist is a Dante super fan who takes theatrical delight in referring to himself as The Shade and is hell bent to bring about a great Renaissance for humanity, a reawakening similar to the one that occured following the Black Plague.

There are major twists and turns and the revelations are quite SHOCKING. The plot twist, yeah that one, is superb. You think you know what is going to happen and then BAMN! I was left with my mouth hanging open, literally.

Again, one of the things I love about his books are the vivid descriptions of the historical places, art and architecture. They may seem like a drag to some but I thoroughly enjoy it. I have never got the chance to go anywhere abroad and while reading his books, I feel like I’m there. His writing is cinematographic and kept me at the edge of till I turned the final page.

Dan Brown is often criticized that all his books are written in the same manner. Personally, I don’t find that to be a disadvantage. Yes, he uses the same formula but this isn’t necessarily bad and it doesn’t mean all his novels are the same. Many great authors have done the same before.

But this book, it totally took a new turn. I was in a major dilemma on whose side to take. I can’t explain in brief without spoiling the book but the theory and it’s answers scared me. My own choice scared me. If I try to explain further, you all will be confused, so find out for youself.

In this book, Dan Brown uses detailed knowledge of art, symbols and Dante’s ‘The Divine Comedy’ and combines mystery, history and science in an outstanding way and creates an action packed thriller you can’t put down.

Recommend it?

Absolutely!

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Have you read this book? Did it kept you on the edge like me? What did you think about it? On whose side were you on?

Do let me know in the comments below!

Review: The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

 Author: Dan Brown

Tittle: The Lost Symbol

Series: Robert Langdon series, book 3

Genre: Thriller/Mystery

Pages: 670 pages, Paperback

Published: September 15th 2009 by Doubleday

Source: Purchased

My rating: ★★★☆☆

I definitely liked this book but it did not captivate me like the previous books in this series and hence the rating. But nevertheless, I did enjoy this book.

The Lost Symbol once again has my favourite (not so heroish) hero, Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon. The story starts as Langdon answers an unexpected call which summons him to appear at the U.S. Capitol Building. His planned lecture is interrupted when a disturbing object, an artfully encoded with five symbols is discovered in the building. Langdon recognizes in the find an ancient invitation into a lost world of esoteric, potentially dangerous wisdom. When his mentor Peter Solomon, a longstanding Mason and beloved philanthropist is kidnapped, Langdon realizes that the only way to save Solomon is to accept the mystical invitation and plunge headlong into a clandestine world of Masonic secrets, hidden history, and one inconceivable truth . . .

The first half of the story was a bit boring for me but as the 2nd half neared, it began to pick up its pace. I liked the discussion about science vs religion and how they entwined rather than opposing each other.

The plot centres around the society called Freemason and a secret they carry. The villian wants to discover that secret and he manages to trick Langdon into finding it. In this story, there is physical and emotional danger. And the villian is at once brilliant, physically superior and extremely motivated.

The plot twist is great. Didn’t see that one coming. It comes as a shock to the readers as well as the villian when he finds out about his true identity. But instead of feeling any pity for him, you are bound to feel angry because of his actions throughout the book. Personally, I wanted to bash his head but well I had to keep reminding myself that is just a fiction.

There is a great message about religious tolerance and opening ones mind to expore the existence of God. So, this one’s another thrill ride by Dan Brown. I loved the characters and the plot. I just felt it dragged a bit in the first section of the story. Otherwise it’s a good thriller that I enjoyed.

Recommend it?

If you love symbology, etymology and solving mysteries, then go for it.

Review: The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

 Author: Dan Brown

Tittle: The Da Vinci Code

Series: Robert Langdon series, book 2

Genre: Thriller/Mystery

Pages: 490 pages, Paperback

Published: March 28th, 2006 by Anchor Books (1st published in 2003)

Source: Bought it

My ratings: ★★★★☆

The Da Vinci Code was actually the first book I read in the Robert Langdon series by Dan Brown and instantly fell in love with. I have noticed one thing that either people passionately love it or hate it. I thankfully, happen to be the former one.

The story starts as Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon is awakened by a phone call in the dead of the night while his stay in Paris. He gets the information that the elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered inside the museum, his body covered in baffling symbols. As Langdon and gifted French cryptologist Sophie Neveu sort through the bizarre riddles, they are stunned to discover a trail of clues hidden in the works of Leonardo da Vinci, clues that are visible for all to see and yet ingeniously disguised by the painter. Even more startling is the late curator was involved in the Priory of Sion—a secret society whose members included Sir Isaac Newton, Victor Hugo, and Da Vinci and he guarded a breathtaking historical secret. Unless Langdon and Neveu can decipher the labyrinthine puzzle while avoiding the faceless adversary who shadows their every move, the explosive, ancient truth will be lost forever.

“Life is filled with secrets. You can’t learn them at once.”

Goodness me, this book raised so many questions about Jesus, Mary and about Christianity. It directly challenges the authority of the Vatican intermixing real facts with clever fiction. I really loved the conspiracy theory, so for me the whole basis of the book was very intriguing.

I do love the fact that he doesn’t force his opinions on the readers and gives them a free choice on the matter. And the fact that he uses real places and events added more to the story. One thing you do have to keep in mind while reading this story is that it is a work of fiction.

The narrative is highly intriguing and interesting, thought provoking and unforgettable. I loved the precise amount of details he used which had been throughly planned. The plot is fast paced, it was nearly impossible for me to keep the book down for a moment and it kept me guessing the entire time. The Da Vinci Code is an incredible thrill ride that I enjoyed immensely.

Recommend it?

Yuup!

Review: Angels and Demons by Dan Brown

 Author: Dan Brown

Tittle: Angels and Demons

Series: Robert Langdon series, book 1

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Pages: 713 pages, Paperback

Published: April 1st 2006 by Pocket Books. (First published in 2000)

Source: Bought it

My rating: ★★★★★

Dear lordie, I so loved this book, it was an incredible journey for me which will stay with me throughout my life. I consider this book as my favorite by this author. I’ve already re-read this book a few times and everytime it’s the same mind-blowing experience.

From this book onwards the Robert Langdon series begins, though all the books can be read as standalones. This is the first book where the protagonist, Robert Langdon is introduced. He is a world-renowned Harvard symbologist and this was his first adventure which was breathtaking.

The story starts as Robert Langdon is summoned to a Swiss research facility to analyze a mysterious symbol seared into the chest of a murdered physicist, he discovers evidence of the unimaginable: the resurgence of an ancient secret brotherhood known as the Illuminati, the most powerful underground organization ever to walk the earth. The Illuminati has now surfaced to carry out the final phase of its legendary vendetta against its most hated enemy—the Catholic Church. Langdon’s worst fears are confirmed on the eve of the holy conclave, when a messenger of the Illuminati announces they have hidden an unstoppable time bomb at the very heart of Vatican City. With the countdown under way, Langdon jets to Rome to join forces with Vittoria Vetra, a beautiful and mysterious Italian scientist, to assist the Vatican in a desperate bid for survival.

The setting was one of the most gorgeous city in the world, i.e. Rome, the descriptions of the places and buildings were mesmerising. I loved the facts, throughout the story that were presented to the readers about Illuminati, the Vatican city and many more.

One of the most old argument was also presented in this novel which played a vital role- Science vs Religion. I appreciated the fact that he didn’t force any opinions but left it up to the readers to decide which path they were going to choose.

These lines form a beautiful image of its own-

“Faith is universal. Our specific methods for understanding it are arbitrary. Some of us pray to Jesus, some of us go to Mecca, some of us study subatomic particles. In the end, we all are searching for the truth, that which is greater for ourselves.”

The plot is fast-paced from the very beginning which kept me on the edge. The writing is cinematographic which was easy to read. This book is an incredible page turner, I couldn’t wait to find out more about the mystery which was well maintained. This book left me with wanting more….in a good way. The plot twists was definitely unexpected, it was awsome. I gasped at every turn as I found myself racing through time with the protagonist. All in all, this was an incredible read.

In this novel, Dan Brown intriguingly combines action with mystery, historical, political and science elements in an outstanding way and creates an action thriller that one can not put down.

Recommend it?

Absolutely!

Review: Digital Fortress by Dan Brown

Author: Dan Brown

Tittle: Digital Fortress

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Pages: 510 pages, Paperback

Published: In 2004 by Corgi books (First published in 1998)

Source: Borrowed from my cousin

My rating: ★★★★☆

Digital Fortress is Brown’s first novel. It starts as the NSA’s invincible code-breaking machine encounters a mysterious code it cannot break, the agency calls its head cryptographer, Susan Fletcher. What she uncovers sends shock waves through the corridors of power. The NSA is being held hostage … not by guns or bombs, but by a code so ingeniously complex that if released it would cripple U.S. intelligence. It takes place in two seperate locations, one, where the top two members of the encryption team is trying to break the program and hack down the pass-key from headquarters and the other in Spain, where the search is on for any possible physical pass-key possesses by the recently deceased creator of the program.

The plot is good, it is intersting and full of action but sometimes it’s a bit stretchy at parts. The characterisation is weak, David Becker is an expert in linguistics and Susan Fletcher is the head cryptographer and a beautiful and brilliant mathematician. I wish, there was more depth in these two main characters of the story. But the plot twist was definitely mind-blowing, the last few chapters kept me breathless.

One of my favourite scene in the novel is where David outwits an professional assassin, it was an indeed great scene. The description of the cryptographers work were terrific. Brown’s writing takes the readers into an entirely new world that most of wouldn’t have even dreamt of.

Recommended?

This book is not a top-level thriller, but if you like this genre, it wouldn’t be a bad book to pick up for a fun read.