The Madman's Daughter by Megan Shepherd

Hey guys, so it's like four days to Christmas. Needless to say, I'm in my holiday right now. Although it's a five-week holiday, I feel like I have so many things to do, but so little time. It's kind of like my last legit holiday with no homework and stuff. So, I'm cramming it all in and I'm pretty sure half of it is already filled with reading lol. So, here is a book I read recently.

Goodreads Synopsis:
Sixteen-year-old Juliet Moreau has built a life for herself in London—working as a maid, attending church on Sundays, and trying not to think about the scandal that ruined her life. After all, no one ever proved the rumors about her father’s gruesome experiments. But when she learns he is alive and continuing his work on a remote tropical island, she is determined to find out if the accusations are true.

Accompanied by her father’s handsome young assistant, Montgomery, and an enigmatic castaway, Edward—both of whom she is deeply drawn to—Juliet travels to the island, only to discover the depths of her father’s madness: He has experimented on animals so that they resemble, speak, and behave as humans. And worse, one of the creatures has turned violent and is killing the island’s inhabitants. Torn between horror and scientific curiosity, Juliet knows she must end her father's dangerous experiments and escape her jungle prison before it's too late. Yet as the island falls into chaos, she discovers the extent of her father’s genius—and madness—in her own blood.

Inspired by H. G. Wells’s classic The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Madman’s Daughter is a dark and breathless Gothic thriller about the secrets we’ll do anything to know and the truths we’ll go to any lengths to protect.

Here's what I think:
Okay so overall, this book is good but there is a slight annoyance. It's a dark book with blood and strange-looking creatures and you guess it, madman doing all sorts of shady experiments. Wah, damn siao (translate: crazy).

Anyway, the good thing about this book is the plot. I certainly did not see all those twists and turns. It just left me with a lot of OMG, "what the shit"s and "walao"s. It is really twisted and cray-cray but captivating. So, I have to laud the author here for thinking such a dark story. The unexpected plot is really intriguing and what kept me reading the somewhat lengthy book.

Juliet herself is uhh interesting, I guess. She doesn't exactly fit in like the society girls giggling over stupid things trying to catch men's attention. She is such a badass for being different in the beginning that I love her for it. You go girl! GO SHOW 'EM! But then the romance comes in and there comes the blushes -____- (I'll discuss this later). However, at the end I still applaud Juliet for her logic and fearlessness in the face of dark and gruesome things.

Off to the bad side, the romance, SIGH, This book makes me realize that I don't really like love triangles and other stupid shapes. JULIET, MAKE UP YOUR DAMN MIND. Stop being "but Montgomery.. but Edward.." It gets annoying especially when she is supposed to run for her life but instead she's having another of her episodes. ARGH. The romance is just not nailed perfectly and gets on my nerves.

The other part is the era. I know it's the Victorian Era which, you know, I loathe. Unless this is nailed perfectly (which is very rare), it annoys the hell out of me. Oh, I see a girl's bare ankles, SCANDALOUS. WhatthehellIcan'teven-- And those people going about gossiping and constantly aware of the norm is not really far from how we act today. But, it just played such a prominent part of their lives that it doesn't sit well with me. They are so constricted by society's judgement that it's just ARGH. At least in the 21st century, you can just heck care and show some individuality although it's not without its problems.

In a nutshell, this book is a fascinating read. The plot certainly makes up for the flaws but not wholly because STUPID ROMANCE, It also makes me want to read the sequel which I'm reading now. So I guess, it's worth checking out.

Bye guys!

Under a Painted Sky by Stacey Lee

Hey guys! So, it's two weeks to Os! I guess I'm nervous but you know it's ending soon. So, I just got to give it my all and have no regrets. I just finished this book last night - abandoning my homework, I might add - and I think it deserves a review.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Missouri, 1849: Samantha dreams of moving back to New York to be a professional musician—not an easy thing if you’re a girl, and harder still if you’re Chinese. But a tragic accident dashes any hopes of fulfilling her dream, and instead, leaves her fearing for her life. With the help of a runaway slave named Annamae, Samantha flees town for the unknown frontier. But life on the Oregon Trail is unsafe for two girls, so they disguise themselves as Sammy and Andy, two boys headed for the California gold rush. Sammy and Andy forge a powerful bond as they each search for a link to their past, and struggle to avoid any unwanted attention. But when they cross paths with a band of cowboys, the light-hearted troupe turn out to be unexpected allies. With the law closing in on them and new setbacks coming each day, the girls quickly learn that there are not many places to hide on the open trail.

This beautifully written debut is an exciting adventure and heart-wrenching survival tale. But above all else, it’s a story about perseverance and trust that will restore your faith in the power of friendship

Here's what I think:
Guys. This. Book. IS. Awesome! It's just a fantastic blend of friendship, surviving through hardships, amazing self-discovery and loads of fun. Plus it's something new! It's historical fiction about that period in America where they ventured in the Oregan Trail in search of gold. So, it's great to understand it.

So, first things first, the friendship of Sammy and Andy. They are these two girls bound together by circumstances. This unlikely duo, a Chinese girl and an African-American girl, really struggled to understand each other despite having to stick together to avoid suspicion. But after this journey, the whispering, the panicking, the encouragements, the constant reminders and signalling to act like tough boys, they really bonded. These two personalities of one stubborn, but soft and the other tougher, but hold so much pain, really complement each other. They are yin and yang and this unlikely friendship really blooms into sisterhood. The great portrayal of friendship really touches me and I see a whole lot more meaning in this bond.

Next thing, the three cowboys added create a more diverse mix, with really contrasting and amusing personalities. Two Americans and Mexicans who look and act tough but they are actually great and understanding companions. They are funny and a whole lot of hot. Although they are suspicious of the two, they never push it. They are kind and gentle and fierce. Oh protectors of my heart!

Although it's not the main highlight but I actually like the romance, the palpable tension. You can see them feeling something more than friendship but denying it. So, it's actually very funny to see them pining and staring and diverting their glances. However, they suit each other so well so it's kind of frustrating when they never realize it. But its slow build-up is all worth it. SWOON.

The whole plot itself is very, very engaging. Seeing as I've never read books about the Oregan Trail,  the Wild West intrigues me. The whole cowboy act, herding of cattle, throwing lassos, shooting game is described very clearly it's like I'm transported right there. The story itself is very believable and it captures many themes. Delivered with humor, there are times when I just laughed and smiled reading their antics. So, now I'm seriously going to read more of her books.

You see, with the mix of races and culture, this highlights very interesting insight on each of them. I like the fact that the author throw in some really good knowledge on Chinese Zodiac with American Christian beliefs as the backdrop. This creates a very interesting read as they try to understand each other. I really could not put my book down. Finished this book in three days and they are worth it. (Sorry, not sorry Os)

This book is excellent and great if you are looking for a light read and tons of amusement. It's pure awesomeness!

So, I guess the reason why I feel the urge to post this review is because it really highlights friendship. Yesterday was actually my last official school day in SC since I am off on study leave for the next two weeks. You know, I actually do not feel melancholic or whatsoever. But after reading my schoolmates' numerous post on Instagram about them being glad to have found great friends in SC and reading this book, it really struck me that friendships do last. Friends are the ones who make your day a little brighter. They make your steps a little lighter. And they make you laugh a little louder. So, although I do not have that many friends in this school. Those who have touched me really make a difference in my life. So, we really should cherish our friendships and not take them for granted. Because like Sammy and Andy, their unlikely friendship will certainly last forever.

Bye guys! And good luck for those taking Os.

4PR! (plus Ms. Lim)

His Fair Assassin series by Robin LaFevers

Hey guys! So, I guess I'm back to blogging! Errrr.... we'll see. Well, at least I'm reviewing books, so that counts, right? YEAH, I'm gonna go on a hiatus again after this...

Goodreads Synopsis :

GRAVE MERCY

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts--and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany--where she finds herself woefully under prepared--not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death's vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

DARK TRIUMPH

When Sybella arrived at the doorstep of St. Mortain half mad with grief and despair the convent were only too happy to offer her refuge--but for a price. The sisters of this convent serve Death, and with Sybella naturally skilled in both the arts of death and seduction, she could become one of their most dangerous weapons.

But her assassin skills are little comfort when the convent returns her to the life that nearly drove her mad. Her father's rage and brutality, and her brother's love is equally monstrous. But when Sybella discovers an unexpected ally that discovers that a daughter of Death may find something other than vengeance to live for...

MORTAL HEART

Annith has watched her gifted sisters at the convent come and go, carrying out their dark dealings in the name of St. Mortain, patiently awaiting her own turn to serve Death. But her worst fears are realized when she discovers she is being groomed by the abbess as a Seeress, to be forever sequestered in the rock and stone womb of the convent. Feeling sorely betrayed, Annith decides to strike out on her own.

She has spent her whole life training to be an assassin. Just because the convent has changed its mind doesn't mean she has...

Here's what I think :

So, actually, I read this series quite a while back and felt inspired to post it today. (after hours of studying Geography, I might add)

I was pleasantly surprised that I really enjoyed this historical fantasy series. It was set in the late 1400s when Brittany (it's in France, btw. Thank you, Google) is fighting to protect her sovereignty from the French and a crazy abusive count. Needless to say, there is many court politics and good ole' deceptions. So much twist and turns! I was thrust into this complex and magical world where people still ride horses and nuns having badass powers and wars with swords and bows!

Ah, Ismae, Sybella and Annith are girls from the convent of St. Mortain, Death Himself. They are trained to be assassins and to serve him in delivering justice. They are trained in the lethal arts and kill a man with any possible ways imaginable. They are cunning, deadly and AWESOME. Their stories start when they venture out of the convent and discover the world and themselves! It is easy to identify with them when their faiths are tested and lives are turned upside down. Personally, Sybella's character hit me the hardest as she has to struggle with a crazy controlling family full of treachery and suspicion. Overall though, it is great to see how  these three girls' lives are very different yet intertwined. Their friendship is deep and meaningful. They would go to the ends of the world to save each other!

The GUYS. Are. Awesome. They complement so well with the heroines. They are fierce, crazy protective and downright sweet. They are almost always met with suspicion by our heroines. But in the end, love conquered all and yay, they are together! I SHIP THEM TO THE SEVEN SEAS! To me, I love the hate-to-love relationship between Ismae and Duval.

This series is Awesome! It actually made me want to read more historical fictions! Knowing that I hate where girls bring parasols and wear damn tight corsets, it's a feat that this series can make me want to read MORE historical fictions. Yes, it's that awesome! So, go read the books and SHIPPP! Bye!

When You are Procrastinating...

As the title suggests, I am procrastinating right now. I thought to myself, "What better way to not study but update on my dying blog?" So, here I am typing and clearly, CLEARLY, not doing what I have to do. Anyway, I've survived Term 1 of Sec 4 life. It's not too bad actually, it's still the same as last year (actually, I'm more slack, which I shouldn't be since Os @.@). This week is my "HOLIDAY" week. In case, you don't know, there is a lot of sarcasm there. I'm still studying for 3 days, then I have a CCA camp. (flips table). Yes, you heard it right! I have extended lessons... Oh, joy! 

I'm so done with life.

Anyway, enough of the boring stuff (called reality). Recently, I've discovered some things. Firstly, I sucked at writing English. I have not been receiving good marks for English. I swear I think my English is worse, HOWWWWW? Let me jump into a hole. In light of this realization, I'm quite scared and confused how to pursue Mass Communication (or something leading to publishing) later on in college. It's like am I even good at it? Could I succeed? I don't know. It's confusing. The future is scary. Next, I've been listening to a lot of Kpop these days. No, it's not Girls' Generation, etc. I've been crazy about Ailee and Sistar. They are so awesome! And of course, not to forget Eunji and Seo In Guk. As you might have guessed, I have finally watched Reply 1997 since I voiced out my wish for like 2 or 3 years. YESS! They are so cute together <3 <3. I think I might have pink bubbles coming out of my eyes when I watched the series (copyright : my friend, Pei Pei). Oh oh! I'm also watching The 100 right now, after reading many good reviews in the Internet. I have to say it's gory but quite interesting. It's like a very vivid post-apocalyptic world. I heard there was a ship but I haven't fangirled over them yet so still patiently waiting (may the ship fall from the sky to my feet).

OMG! Have you guys seen the cover of Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas? Calaena looked bad ass mannn. September, please come knocking on my door. And also Winter by Marissa Meyer. Gorgeous, as always <3 <3. Although I have to admit I haven't been reading a lot this year. Too busy, as always, Can't wait for Os to end so I can devour all my books, YES! (laugh maniacally) 

Anyway, one other thing I discovered (since I went a little bit off topic just now) is that I enjoy cross-stitching a lot, A LOT. Who would've thought I can be domestic? Yeah, who would've thought? I seriously changed so much since I came to Singapore. It might be the friends or the environment but I'm really grateful. And I really can't wait to graduate from SCGS. OMG, see I successfully waste 30 minutes. Yay! Procrastinating such a success! Bye guys!