Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

     About the book: Galen is the prince of the Syrena, sent to land to find a girl he's heard can communicate with fish. Emma is on vacation at the beach. When she runs into Galen -- literally, ouch! -- both teens sense a connection. But it will take several encounters, including a deadly one with a shark, for Galen to be convinced of Emma's gifts. Now, if he can only convince Emma that she holds the key to his kingdom... 
     Told from both Emma and Galen's points of view, here is a fish-out-of-water story that sparkles with intrigue, humor, and waves of romance.

     Quote of the Book: "If you think I'm deadly in flip-flops, you should see me in roller skates." -Emma McIntosh 

     My thoughts and opinion: Because I really want to talk about a lot of things, let's start first with the cover. Isn't that a nice cover?? The contrast between the blinding white and the midnight blue is genius! I also thought the title was interesting, how the "Of" is inside the O of "Poseidon". 
     This book just melted me into a gooey goop of goo especially when I was reading parts where Emma and Galen showed up. They are like two puppies or lovebirds as Rachel puts it. Most of the characters like Emma and Galen were hilarious, but the award really goes to Emma because whenever it was her turn being the point of view, I was either laughing or laughing. Of course there were parts where I felt bad for her. 
     Emma is lucky to have Galen in her life because, haha, Galen is a great guy. I already knew I would like him within the first few pages of the book. He was very funny and then he was really serious and then he was jealous. I thought Galen's emotions were extremely intense, but that's either because of Emma or Rayna. Oh speaking of Rayna, what a feisty Syrena! She totally belongs with Toraf since he balances her out! Goodness, if only Emma and Galen's relationship were as simple as Rayna and Toraf's relationship! Everyone including me would be happy. Then again the story would end much too soon. 
     Putting all the romance and love and relationships aside, I thought this book was awesome. Banks did a wonderful job with the two point of views; I was hesitant when I realized that, but the outcome of the story was extraordinary. 
     I loved how realistic Banks described the Syrena and the ancient history behind them. I thought the feud between the Poseidon House and the Triton House was foolish, but if I had to pick, I'd go with Poseidon. I don't think I could ever hate anyone or anything so I could never actually hate humans like Syrena of Triton do. 
     I should also mention how amazing the foreshadowing was! Of course, I was too distracted with the characters to notice the hints and clues Banks left. That is why the ending was a major bombshell to me; it was totally unexpected! And if I truly know myself, then I know that I love, love, LOVE surprise endings!
     Overall, I'm glad I actually bought this book. That way, I would be able to treasure it and read it until I can recite it in my sleep. Absolutely cannot wait for the sequel to come out. Even if you don't love the ocean, read Of Poseidon! It'll blow (or shall I say) wash your mind away!

Cracked Up to Be by Courtney Summers

     About the book: When "Perfect" Parker Fadley starts drinking at school and failing her classes, all of St. Peter's High goes on alert. How has the cheerleading captain, girlfriend of the most popular guy in school, consummate teacher's pet, and future valedictorian fallen so far from grace? 
     Parker doesn't want to talk about it. She'd just like to be left alone, to disappear, to be ignored. But her parents have placed her on suicide watch and her counselors are demanding the truth. Worse, there's a nice guy falling in love with her and he's making her feel things again when she'd really rather not be feeling anything at all. 
     Nobody would have guessed she's turn out like this. But nobody knows the truth. 
     Something horrible has happened, and it just might be her fault.

     Quote of the Book: "Cardboard cutouts of cheerleaders operated by arthritic monkeys would move more fluidly." -Parker Fadley

     My thoughts and opinion: I seem to read books with covers of something plaid now. It's not intentional, but when I took a break, somewhere in the middle of the book, I studied the cover and realized that Parker was wearing a plaid skirt. Hahaha. Isn't that a coincidence? Not that I don't like her uniform; I love plaid uniforms or any kind of uniforms. 
     So, I thought this book was going to be a light read. Just something to keep me occupied while I try to search for the next Gallagher Girls book at the library. Boy, was I wrong. This book was absolutely not a light read because it was packed with raw emotion and I felt Parker's pain like it was my own. That being said, I really thought this book hit close to home; some parts were confusing though. For example, I was not quite fond of the flashbacks being chopped up into pieces and then glued back together at the end. I was grateful that Summers italicized the flashbacks because that clearly told me that, "Hey you're reading a flashback now!"
     Parker Fadley was the most complicated, moody, sarcastic, hilarious character I have ever read. While reading, I had a difficult time deciding if I liked her or not. I still don't know now! She was brilliantly funny, but she was also frustratingly shallow. Parker was definitely an unbearable girl sometimes, but I don't think I could ever hate her. Just like how Chris and Jake can't ever hate her.
     I thought Jake was such a fool because clearly, Parker did not want anything to do with him yet he kept coming back. In fact, Parker didn't want anything to do with anyone. But did that stop Jake Gardner? I did admire his persistence to get to know Parker. 
     Cracked Up to Be was a great book and I did not want to stop reading; it was like I had to finish the book or else. I wish I could say I read it in one sitting but there was just so much emotion to digest. This book will certainly be one of those unforgettable books; seriously, I don't think I will ever forget how the flavors of Cracked Up to Be tasted. 

Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy by Ally Carter

     About the book: Cammie Morgan is back, and it's clear that her life hasn't calmed down since the events of I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You. At first, giddy anticipation is in the air. Gallagher Academy, Cammie's elite spy school, is hosting a visit from a covert training center for boys. Soon after the boy's arrival, though, everything goes dangerously awry when a series of security breaches are discovered at the academy. Worse yet, teenage agent-in-training Cammie is being blamed for the penetration.With the school's top-secret status at risk, the Gallagher Girls have to work quickly to save their beloved school.

     Quote of the Book: "But even the Gallagher Academy hadn't figured out a way to help us protect our hearts." - Cameron "Cammie" Morgan.
   
     My thoughts and opinion: Man, I really love these school uniforms! Every single skirt must be some form of plaid! 
     Cammie really has a lot to manage! Her studies in Gallagher Academy, her CoveOps, her mother, her friends, and now there's Zach. Seriously, hasn't Cammie had enough guys? I think she really deserves a break from all these emotional roller coasters!
     I'd like to meet the boys from Blackthorne Institute. ;) Of course, the main guy who's enrolled there is Zach and let's talk about him. Zach is such a cocky spy! He's like the younger version of James Bond. (although Zach lacks that cool, British accent). I didn't really like his tough guy shell; later in the book, that's when I started to like Zach. I liked him when he was caring and softer; this sort of goes without saying, but Zach's not Josh. Not at all. Come to think of it, I prefer Josh because he's so sweet and loving without all the cockiness.
     However, I think Cammie can survive without Josh; she absolutely can't survive without Zach (literally)! Zach actually knows who Cammie is and she doesn't have to hide herself from him. Plus they would make a great spy couple!
     I really liked this second book because, well, there are a lot more CoveOps assignments. Especially the last one which I'm not going to spoil for you guys, but it's awesome! I totally did not expect that to happen. And then what happened afterwards. Hilarious.
     I took quite a while to finish this book mainly because I had a lot of things to do. But you guys have got to read this book! Whether it be all in one sitting or not! Find the time to get your hands on the book, sit down (or lay down), and read, read, read Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy! After finishing I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You of course. :-)

I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

     About the book: Cammie Morgan is a student at the Gallagher Academy For Exceptional Young Women, a fairly typical all-girls school -- typical that is, if every school taught advanced martial arts in PE and the latest in chemical warfare in science, and students received extra credit for breaking CIA codes in computer class. The Gallagher Academy might claim to be a school for geniuses but it's really a school for spies. Even though Cammie is fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways, she has no idea what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, or track him through town with the skill of a real "pavement artist"--but can she maneuver a relationship with someone who can never know the truth about her?
     Cammie Morgan may be an elite spy-in-training, but in her sophomore year, she's on her most dangerous mission--falling in love.

     Quote of the Book: "'...tell Suzie she's a lucky cat.' Have sexier words ever been spoken? I seriously think not!" -Cameron "Cammie" Morgan.

     My thoughts and opinion: I just want to start off by saying how great Cammie's outfit looks. Not that I would ever want to wear a skirt, but it appears really clean and sophisticated! And I just love plaid; so the skirt is very cool, but short! The ransom, cut-off-of-a-magazine words in the title is cool and whimsical, too!
     I liked reading in Cammie's point of view because well, she's attending Gallagher Academy and that's a spy school so how is that not fun and awesome? Mr. Solomon. Why do only books have hot male teachers because I can tell you guys that that never happens in reality. However, I would not be comfortable thinking about my mom and my teacher have an interest in each other. That's just so wrong on so many levels. And I'd like to try one of Dr. Fibs's experiments! Ooh! Evapopaper sounds cool since you can eat something that was written on to keep it secret.
     Onto the characters. I love each of them differently and I don't think I dislike any too much. Well I guess I hated Dillon, but guys like him are inevitable in stories like these. And plus, it makes his friend, Josh, look way better.
     Speaking of Josh, why can't Cammie and Josh be with each other without dumb complications like her being a spy and him being a regular guy who can't know about her true identity? Goodness. I did like their history and the events and things that led up to their relationship. Also, of course, their relationship was wonderful (while it lasted). I just didn't think the book focused much on the actual relationship; it was more on the stalking and digging through his personal information (not to mention, digging through his trash!)
     I think Josh is the nicest, sweetest, (cutest), most gentlemanly, down-to-earth character I have ever read! Unless I read about another guy that's better than him at the manners department. So, I definitely was heartbroken when she had to end the relationship. That had to be done because as I was reading, I even thought that the lies were too much! Oh, but my heart was temporarily taped together when Josh appeared and told Cammie he called 911 because he saw her being kidnapped. And then he surprised her by reappearing with a bulldozer! Hahaha, that part was hilarious because I did NOT expect Josh to do such a thing.
     I enjoyed reading about another friendship and in this book, it was Cammie, Liz, Bex, and just now there's Macey. It was awesome to read about Liz, a character who is intelligent and good with computers (like hacking into emails) and who is friends with the main character! I felt like I could relate to Liz. And then there's Bex who is the tough, destroying-your-boyfriend-if-he-hurts-you friend and you know she will have your back (in this case, it might be literally!) Finally, I thought Macey was out of place at first, but Macey is the diva in the group! I need to make friends with a girl like her so I could get some fashion tips and advice.
     I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You was a nice, funny read and I enjoyed it. The characters were really different and separate in their own ways. I wish I could say that I read this book in one sitting, but school kind of got in the way. Read this book, but be sure to read it someplace where you know you won't be seen; reading this book must be done in secret!

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

     About the book: A SACRED OATH, A FALLEN ANGEL, A FORBIDDEN LOVE
     Romance was not part of Nora Grey's plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgement. 
     But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. 
     For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life. 

     Quote of the Book: "Keep in mind that people change, but the past doesn't." -Patch Cipriano

     My thoughts and opinion: I am really glad that I chose to read this book again! Every time I do, it's like getting on the Archangel roller coaster for the first time. I don't even know where to begin. 
     Nora is such a lucky girl; she has the best friend ever and she has Patch's interest. I really liked her cautious personality and how she tried to stay away from Patch, but couldn't. That part of her just made Patch more determined and it just made him more attractive! It was really amusing to read about Nora's growing curiosity for Patch and their meetings got more serious, in a sense. 
     Shockingly, I did not like Vee, even if she is Nora's best friend. Vee introduced Nora to Elliot Saunders and Jules and THAT started all the trouble. I guess Vee's wild personality balances out Nora's safe personality and their friendship is important. 
     Deborah or Miss Greene is a crazy lady. I never would have imagined her in a relationship with Patch. But then again, it's not like Patch isn't a good looking fallen angel so of course she was in a relationship with him. However, what did Patch ever see in her? Deborah is a psycho! 
     Jules is just as creepy. Creepy and stupid. All that time he spent explaining his genuis plan to Nora was wasted; he had loads of chances to kill Nora, but nooo. All the stupid bad guys have to take their time doing whatever. Poor Elliot; he had no idea what he got into. He was creepy as well. 
     And then, there's Patch. Where do I begin? Everytime Patch is with Nora, there is this spark that I really enjoyed reading. Seriously, Patch and Nora are meant to be! Patch's sarcasm and humor is wicked. I laughed the most at parts where there was Patch. And his attitude is smooth and Patch has charm, which he uses to get Nora's attention. Did I mention his awesome body? No wonder Nora couldn't resist Patch! There is also the fact that he can go into Nora's mind and speak to her. How cool is that! 
     Go, go, go and read this book! It will engulf you and you'll love this book; unless you don't like sexy, mysterious guys like Patch, I really recommend this book. And Patch becomes something else in the ending (which I don't feel like giving away) so I cannot wait to read the second book, Cresendo, even if it will be for the second time. Hush, Hush was a fantastic read with a lot of spiciness. 

Girls Dinner Club by Jessie Elliot

     About the book: Ingredients 
                                   -one rainy afternoon
                                   -one huge crush on a boy
                                   -a few secrets
                                   -a kitchen, preferably somewhere in Brooklyn
                                   -fresh laughter - as much as you want
                                   -one or two broken hearts
                                   -a pinch of salt
                                   -a good friend - or even better, three
The love of Junie's life for the past year is suddenly acting like a crazed puppy. 
Celia's dad has found the most ridiculous woman in all of Manhattan - and decided, after fifteen years of being single, to date her.
Danielle's hot-guy-in-a-band ex-boyfriend is trying to convince her that he's "changed."
Sometimes living life is a recipe for disaster. 
Sometimes girls just have to make their own recipes.

     Quote of the Book: "May you keep on cooking together for years to come." -Max Clarke

     My thoughts and opinion: I loved this book when I first read it and if it's possible, I think I love it even more this second time! Junie, Celia, and Danielle's friendship is so hard to come by these days and I just loved how they clicked together by random or fate. 
     Food was a really cool part of this book, too. I'd love to cook with my friends and enjoy it like Celia, Danielle, and Junie do. It really seemed like so much fun! 
     I hated the guys in this book (well besides Max, Henry, and Rob). Steve was a big jerk and Brian was too desperate and needy and I just didn't LIKE them. What in the world did Junie see in Brian and what in the world did Junie NOT see in Rob? Poor Rob though, but I seriously hate smokers and in the book, Junie does, too. So, I guess Brian had to go. And why did Danielle give that piece of trash her time of day when old habits die hard? She should have known that Steve was going to cheat on her again! 
     Henry was really funny and a great guy for Celia. He spices up Celia's mature behavior a bit. Who doesn't love a nice, fun British person once in a while? Their departure at the airport was heartbreaking for me to read! The way Elliot wrote it and how Henry started tearing and Celia was already crying puddles. 
     Another thing that made me cry was Nonna's death. I really loved a grandma character for Danielle because it's just warm and nice! Nonna was so wise and I wish I could ask her for some tricks and tips for cooking. Now, there's a strong woman!
     I love, love, love this book because of so many things! Just read it and you guys'll see what I'm talking about! It's a tasty, delicious, full of flavor book! 

Just Listen by Sarah Dessen

     About the book: Annabel Greene is the girl who has everything. At least, that's what she portrays in her modeling shoots. But Annabel's life is far from perfect. Her friendship with Sophie ended bitterly, and her older sister's eating disorder is weighing down the entire family. Isolated and ostracized at school and at home, Annabel retreats into silent acceptance. Then she meets Owen -- intense, music-obsessed, and determined to always tell the truth. And with his guidance, Annabel learns to just listen to herself and gains the courage to speak honestly. But will she be able to tell everyone what really happened the night she and Sophie stopped being friends?

     Quote of the Book: "I'm just doing the best I can, under the circumstances." -Owen Armstrong   

     My thoughts and opinion: This book took me longer than I thought it would. Probably because I had first-day-of-school stuff to worry about. First of all, I love Owen and Annabel together. I thought Rolly and Clarke's relationship wouldn't last for a minute, but it was cute. 
     I'd like to be friends with Owen; he just seems like a cool guy who loves music (and has his own radio station! How cool is that!). He's such a patient guy, too. If I had a sister like Mallory, I wouldn't be able to stand her bubbly energy. Annabel frustrated me a bit in the story. She blocked out Owen so much that I was even feeling Owen's pain and hurt! I'm glad that Owen broke down Annabel's walls, even if it was a slow process. 
     Second of all, I was amazed at how Annabel was once friends with Sophie. Throughout the book, I thought, "She got you all these wonderful things like popularity, invitations to parties, and boys. So what?" I can't imagine ditching my best friend for someone who has Sophie's kind of attitude. The funny thing was, I kind of thought of Sophie as a younger version of Kirsten. However, that would be too mean to lump them together; Kirsten is not as horrible as Sophie is. 
     Finally, I loved seeing The Truth Squad again! That's one of the best things about reading books from the same author; he or she would most likely bring up other characters from other books. So, I was really happy I got to read about Remy, Dexter, and the rest; I got to read how they were doing. It is sort of like a sequel, but it's a sequel inside another book! 
     I recommend this book to quiet, shy people who love or don't love music. If you guys don't love music (I don't know what is wrong with y'all), but if you don't, that's okay. I did not think music was such a big part in this book; it was there, but it's not a major thing. Now, saying that, I still love Just Listen. Sarah Dessen did not disappoint because it was a musical read and eat; my taste buds are still singing!