Review: Beautiful Darkness

Ethan Wate used to think of Gatlin, the small Southern town he had always called home, as a place where nothing ever changed. Then he met mysterious newcomer Lena Duchannes, who revealed a secret world that had been hidden in plain sight all along. A Gatlin that harbored ancient secrets beneath its moss-covered oaks and cracked sidewalks. A Gatlin where a curse has marked Lena's family of powerful Supernaturals for generations. A Gatlin where impossible, magical, life-altering events happen.

Sometimes life-ending.

Together they can face anything Gatlin throws at them, but after suffering a tragic loss, Lena starts to pull away, keeping secrets that test their relationship. And now that Ethan's eyes have been opened to the darker side of Gatlin, there's no going back. Haunted by strange visions only he can see, Ethan is pulled deeper into his town's tangled history and finds himself caught up in the dangerous network of underground passageways endlessly crisscrossing the South, where nothing is as it seems.

Title: Beautiful Darkness (Caster Chronicles ~ Book 2)
Author: Kami Garcia | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website | Blog
Author: Margaret Stohl | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website
Publication Date: October 12 2010
Publisher:  Little, Brown and Company
ISBN: 0316077046
Length: 508 Pages
Add it to your TBR Pile: Goodreads
Buy It: Amazon US / Amazon UK

Source: Purchased (Kindle Edition)
Cover Love: Lovely as ever... the script is perfect and the stairs fit the story.
Point of View: 1st person, following Ethan

My Rating: 4 Stars

Hhhhmmm.... I am going to be honest right from the start of this review. I read Beautiful Creatures right before I watched the film. I really enjoyed the book but the film was such a let down to me. To the point that I have a friend that was going to start the series after watching the film and now she doesn’t want to even read the book.  I was even finding it hard to start Beautiful Darkness because of disappointed I was with the film. But I knew I shouldn’t be judging the series by the film so I bit the bullet and started.

“We don't get to chose what is true. We only get to choose what we do about it.”

Sadly I struggled to get into it... The first half of the book was just so-so and would have given it three stars if it had stayed that way.  However, the second half was so exciting and fun and I would have easily given it five stars if the entire book had been that good.  Since there was a mixture of the two I think a solid four is the most fitting.

The reason I enjoyed Beautiful Creatures was because of the relationship between Ethan and Lena.  Yes the side characters are fun and the story telling is simply beautiful... like really beautiful.  You can almost hear the sounds of the town and you feel as though you could walk down the street and know your way around Gatlin.  But it is Ethan and Lena that make this story.

“I had never been this mad at her before. It was one thing to be attacked by someone you hated, but this was something else. This was the kind of hurt that could only be inflicted by someone you loved, who you thought loved you. It was sort of like being stabbed from the inside out.”

So the struggling? Ethan and Lena are just not the same... Lena is pulling away from Ethan.  Ethan tries to keep her close but off she goes.  So the entire book is really about Ethan trying to find Lena and to save her from... well herself really.   I just couldn’t get into the story because of what was happening to them.  I know that couples will always at some point have a hard time of things and there are always rough patches, but this entire book was a rough patch for them.

“In Light there is Dark, and in Dark there is Light.”

Then... somewhere after around 65% things started to get really interesting and fun. The story that was unfolding kept my attention and I honestly couldn’t put the book down from this point to the very end. I was so happy to have that same excited feeling as I had from book one again.  So much happens at the end of this book.  It is just one revelation after another.

“She was my destination. I was always on the way to Lena, even when I wasn't. Even when she wasn't on her way to me.”

So would I suggest this series? My answer at this point would be a big fat yes. As I said I adore Ethan and Lena and I am invested in their future and I want to see what happens next.

However... I think I need a little break from the series.  I plan to read a few different books next and then I will come back to them.  The writing truly is wonderful and as I said before you really do feel like you are there so with that said there is a lot of drama and I just feel like a need a tiny breather before I step back into Gatlin.  I know there are still going to be rough patches but I am looking forward to seeing where the story takes Ethan and Lena next... Just not right away.

“Because life goes on, L. The birds do their thing, and the bees do theirs. Seeds get scattered, and everything grows back.”

MORE QUOTES FROM BEAUTIFUL DARKNESS

Book Blogger Spotlight: Paper Riot

Hi! I’m Judith, 19 years old, and I’m from the Netherlands. Besides being an obsessive reader and compulsive book buyer, I’m also an aspiring writer. And currently, college student. When I grow up, I want to be a writer or an editor, please. (So don’t be alarmed if any of the following answers are unnaturally long. I just happen to write a lot. Sorry.)

When and why did you become a book blogger?

I’ve been blogging since I was fifteen, but somehow I never thought about book blogging until I came across one in July 2012. I immediately knew that I wanted to do that too (Talking obsessively about books? With people that actually love those books too? Sign me up!). I started my blog on August 2, 2012, so I haven’t been blogging for that long, but I have enjoyed everything about it so for, and I’m not planning to leave anytime soon!

How did you come up with the name of your blog?

This was a terribly long, terribly boring process of me thinking of all possible words that had something to do with books. I’m the worst when it comes to picking names, probably because names are so important so me. (Seriously, I’ve spent quite some time scanning long lists of baby names to come up with the perfect names for the characters in my own stories. Yeah...) But when a name feels right, it’s usually right. I didn’t pick Paper Riot for any reason other than that I just love those two words. I also wanted a name that was short, something that’s easy to remember.

What is your favorite thing about blogging?

Both writing my posts and connecting with other bloggers. I love being creative and to keep challenging myself in the process of creating new content, but I also love the contact with other bloggers. I didn’t think that I would end up in such an open, kind and heartwarming community and I’m having the best time talking books with you guys!

What do you find the hardest about blogging?

Writing negative reviews is one of them. Well, I don’t particularly mind it, because I want to be honest to people who read my reviews, but I can’t help but feel guilty towards the author who’s spent all their time on a book, even though I know my opinion is subjective and, oh well…

Does your blog participate in any weekly features and if so which is your favorite?

I’m currently in the process of developing some features of my own, but so far, the only feature I regularly participate in is Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by the Broke and the Bookish. I don’t want my blog to be all features and no “real” content, so I picked one feature and decided to stick to that. And I’m also a big fan of making lists…

What has been your favorite moment since you became a book blogger? Which review, interview or giveaway have you been most proud of?

To name one thing as my favorite is a difficult task. Besides meeting so many amazing people who recommended me the most amazing books, I like the way I’ve grown as a blogger. In the months I’ve been blogging I’ve discovered the type of reviewing style that suits me best, and therefore I’m pleased with some of my more recent reviews. But the post I loved writing most was the one where I share my thoughts on book hangovers (part serious, part sarcasm), since I had such a fun time writing it.

What kind of genres do you enjoy reading and reviewing the most?

I love anything YA from contemporary to dystopian to fantasy. I haven’t been reading a lot of historical fiction and sci-fi recently, but I’d love to explore those more.

What is your favorite individual book or series? What makes you love it so much?

Harry Potter, forever and always, just because I can’t imagine not having that series in my life. I’m also a big fan of The Hunger Games, because I’ve been following the series since 2008 and I love how more and more people fell in love with it over the years. (Just want to add that I didn’t really enjoy the movie and I’m team Katniss all the way.) I’m also obligated to mention Looking for Alaska by John Green, which is amazingly, incredibly, heart-wrenchingly perfect and makes me feel all the things every time I read it.

Who is your favorite fictional male character, why and from what book or series are they from?

Right now, I’m a big Magnus Bane fan. I mean, he’s fabulous and hilarious. But if we’re talking fictional crush, I’d have to say either Four from Divergent or Jase from My Life Next Door.

Who is your favorite fictional female character, why and from what book or series are they from?

I always say Katniss Everdeen, because she’s a combination of everything I’d want to be and everything I admire in other people.

Who are your favorite three authors and why?

John Green. If you’ve ever read any post on my blog, you know I’m a massive John Green fan. Not only are Looking for Alaska and TFiOS the only books I’ve reviewed and rated as ‘perfect’ on my blog, but his awesomeness is sky high.

I obviously admire J.K. Rowling. No explanation needed.

Is it cheating to list Jackson Pearce even though I haven’t read any of her books? I follow her on You Tube and basically, she’s hilarious.

If you could turn one book or series into films, what would you pick and who would you cast as the main characters?

Confession: I don’t like visualizing characters. I have big issues with it. When I’m reading a book, I can’t see characters. I know them, and I love them, but I don’t see them. This is the reason why I have such a big problem with books turned into movies. I don’t mean I don’t love those movies, but it takes time for me to adapt to a different medium. So I’m not casting anybody. But I’d love to see The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer because it would be creepy in a GOOD WAY.

What books are you most looking forward to in 2013?

I have a top 3, consisting of Scarlet by Marissa Meyer, Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi and Divergent #3 by Veronica Roth. There are obviously more books I’m looking forward to, but these are the ones that always pop into my head immediately.

Paper books or ebooks?

I love how e-books are easily accessible, but I definitely love paper books more. I like holding a physical book and I like turning pages and I’m still building my own library. I won’t stop buying paper books, even when I finally buy my own e-reader.

Where is your favorite place to read?

Anywhere in my house: whether it’s curled up in my bed late at night, or under a blanket on the couch, or in the garden on a warm summer day… at long as I’m sitting or lying somewhere comfortable with some snacks or drinks nearby haha.

Milk chocolate, white chocolate or dark chocolate?

A light dark chocolate. (Ha!)

Coffee, hot tea or hot chocolate?

Hot chocolate!

Would you like to give any other details about yourself? How can others find you around the web? Such as Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, etc...

Blog: http://www.paperiot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/paperiot
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/paperiot
Instagram: http://instagram.com/paperiot

Wooo, I think I did okay on the length of my answers! I tried keeping everything as short as possible, haha.  And Christine, thanks so so much for having me! I feel very honored and I loved being a part of your feature.

Feature and Follow Friday #10

Hosted by Alison can Read and Parajunkee

Gain new followers and make new friends with the Book Blogger Feature & Follow!

If you would like to join in the fun just visit one of the host's blog for the rules.

Q: Write a letter to a favorite character.  Rant, rave or gush… just pretend like they are real and you just want to let them know a "few things".


Dear Tony,

I forgive you and I love you.

With all my heart,
Christine x


So... what about you? What is your answer?

Feel free to leave your links below so that I can check them out and if you are a new follower be sure to let me know so that I can come and check out your blog in return!

Swoon Thursday #13

Who doesn't love a good swoon?
The ladies over at YA Bound have created this hot and fun meme!
If you want to join in here's all you need to do.
From the book you’re currently reading, or one you just finished, tell us what made you SWOON. What got your heart pounding, your skin tingling and your stomach fluttering?

Then pick a smaller portion of your swoon and tweet it, just don't forget to add the #YABOUND Hashtag to your tweet!

I have fallen in love with Ethan and Lena.  Why, oh why, did it take me so long to start this series?  Ethan is just the sweetest guy and I love that it is from his point of view.  I just want nothing more than for these two to have a happy ever after... together.

By lunch, I couldn't take anymore.  I waited for her to come out of Trig and I pulled her over to the side of the hall, dropping my backpack to the floor.  I took her face in my hands, and drew her in to me.

"Ethan, what are you doing?"

"This."

I pulled her face into mine with both hands.  When our lips touched, I could feel the warmth from my body seep into the coldness of hers.  I could feel her body melting into mine, the inexplicable pull that had bound us together from the beginning, bringing us together again.

Lena dropped her books and wrapped her arms around my neck, responding to my touch.

What is your swoon worthy moment this week?

Feel free to leave your links below so that I can check them out and if you are a new follower be sure to let me know so that I can come and check out your blog in return!

Review: Beautiful Creatures

Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.

Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.

In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.

Title: Beautiful Creatures (Caster Chronicles ~ Book 1)
Author: Kami Garcia | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website | Blog
Author: Margaret Stohl | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website
Publication Date: December 1 2009
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
ISBN: 0316042676
Length: 576 Pages
Add it to your TBR Pile: Goodreads
Buy It: Amazon US / Amazon UK

Source: Purchased (Kindle Edition)
Cover Love: I love this cover.  The font is beautiful and the scene sets the mood for the book.
Point of View: 1st person, following Ethan

My Rating: 4 Stars

“There was a curse.
There was a girl.
And in the end, there was a grave.
I never even saw it coming.”

My one and only regret is why, oh why, did I not read this series earlier?

“No, I'm too busy trying to deflect your Power of Stupidity. But I don't think I'm strong enough.”

I know there are a lot of mixed reviews to be found but I can easily say that I enjoyed Beautiful Creatures.  I don't know what it is about a 'popular' series but there are those that go into them with the mindset that they aren't going to like it.  Well, when you start out thinking like that there is very little chance for you to actually like it.

When I am reading a book I ask myself two questions.  Am I being entertained and do I care what happens to these characters?  If I can answer yes then I will enjoy the book.  It really is that simple for me.  I don't try to compare the book I am reading to other books or try to think of how I could make it better or 'more original'.  I am not a writer and have never dreamed of being one.  Why would I waste time thinking about how I could write it any better?  As I just said...  Am I being entertained and do I care what happens to these characters?  Thankfully while reading Beautiful Creatures the answer I had for both of these questions was yes.

“There were only two kinds of people in our town. ―The stupid and the stuck― The ones who are bound to stay or too dumb to go. Everyone else finds a way out.”

Being that the story takes place in South Carolina that truly sets the mood for the entire book.  Not to say that South Carolina is creepy or anything (I have actually never been) but you quickly become submersed in the history, the architecture and the over all feel of the places that surround the characters.  Ethan has always felt trapped by his life in the small town of Gatlin and those feelings of everybody watching you and knowing your business does come to life as you are reading.

Anybody that reads my reviews will know that I adore a book being told from the male point of view.  So many authors choose to tell the story from the female point of view and it is a refreshing change to have it the other way around.  Ethan is no exception.  He is a strong character and stands up for his relationship with Lena.  Be that going up against his family, friends and everybody else in Gatlin who thinks it their business to have an opinion on the matter.  Yes there is an instant attraction/love in this book and that didn't bother me in the least.  I loved being able to see them grow as a couple and there is always that feeling of it being forbidden because of Lena being a Caster and Ethan being a Mortal.  It is also clear from early on that the branches of their two family trees were intertwined long before Ethan and Lena were born.

“I never loved you any more than I do, right this second.  And I'll never love you any less than I do, right this second.”

The side characters really complete this book.  I loved Ethan's best friend Wesley 'Link' Lincoln.  As Ethan and Lena got closer Ethan's friends moved further and further away from him, Link never did.  He continued to be both of their friends and even stood up for Lena against the others.  I also loved Amma who has practically raised Ethan and Uncle Macon who has looked after Lena.  They both brought a level of mystery, suspense and laughs.  Uncle Macon has to be a favorite though.

“Mortals.  I envy you.  You think you can change things.  Stop the universe.  Undo what was done long before you came along.  You are such beautiful creatures.”

He is a larger than life character and is fiercely loyal to his family.  He will do anything within his power to protect Lena.

It is clear to me why this book has been chosen to be turned into a film.  There are so many wonderful scenes that will play out perfectly on the big screen.  I do plan on going to see the film on opening night and after finishing the book I am pretty excited about watching it.  It is rare that I have ever enjoyed the film version of a book better than the actual book but I can at least hope that they do it justice.

"She leaned into my shoulder. "Maybe you don't have to be a Caster to have power."
I pushed her hair behind her ear. "Maybe you just have to fall for one.”

I actually feel bad about giving Beautiful Creatures only 4 Stars... the reason being I really did enjoy it however with there being three books and a novella left in the series I wanted there to be room for the series to grow.  Maybe that sounds a little odd and I should probably give it 5 Stars but I just have a feeling the series is going to get even better.

“She looked up at me, and the whole world disappeared.  Like there was just us, like there would always be just us, and we didn't need magic for that.  It was sort of happy and sad, all at the same time. I couldn't be around her without feeling things, without feeling everything.”

MORE QUOTES FROM BEAUTIFUL CREATURES