Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane Book Review

TWO GIRLS, THOUSANDS OF MILES APART... Chelsea lives in Los Angeles; Miya lives in Tokyo. Other than the fact they're both half Japanese and obsessed with dressing like Gothic Lolitas, they would seem to have nothing in common. Or do they? THE BLOG THAT WENT AWAY. They got to know each other through their blogs. But three years ago something happened to Chelsea, an event so terrible that she stopped writing altogether. Miya's been checking Chelsea's blog ever since, to see if she's come back, but she never has. Until today. A LIFE AND DEATH CONNECTION. Today is the day Chelsea finally goes back online and tells Miya everything. And today is the day that Miya's life could change forever because of it. Like a Japanese manga come to life, Gothic Lolita is a mythic fairy tale about love, death, and rebirth...and the courage it takes to reach out to another soul.

-Amazon

Gothic Lolita is a strange, and melancholy tale of two girls who share a possibly supernatural connection to each other, and bond over online journals and the Gothic Lolita subculture/manga. I originally picked up this novel, because I melt for narratives that are unconventionally stylistically. Gothic Lolita reads as a long poem broken up into chapters and perspectives. Dakota Lane's writing is beautiful and lush, truly something to be experienced. To top it all off, Lane even incorporates her own ethereal photography into the story line, creating an all the more haunting feel to this novel. I also picked up this novel because I find myself quite fascinated with different subcultures, Gothic Lolita's included. I often wonder what it's like to literally drape your life in costume, and find this to be your normal. Lane includes wonderful passages about Miya and Chelsea's love for this culture. It is specific and decadent, almost seeming to take inspiration from Francesca Lia Block. I definitely sensed a bit of a Murakami influence in terms of its otherworldly sense of another dimension. This novel brought back an old love for online journaling; Those days when no one could peel me away from my LiveJournal, and everyone out there seemed artistic and beautiful.

Unfortunately, even with all of the beautiful descriptions and photography, I found myself a bit disappointed with this novel. The cover claims that it is a mystical thriller, which automatically got my attention. I immediately wanted to know what happened to make Chelsea stop writing and communicating with Miya. However, it seems that all of the important mysterious facts are all ready known after a bit, we only need for Miya and Chelsea to explain these facts to each other. Also, I found it quite hard to differentiate one point of view from another, and at times I had to go back to the start of the chapter to remember which character was speaking. The novel also lacks action, that I'll say I'm not often bothered by, I love exposition and thoughts, but for something deemed a 'mystical thriller' it would seem to need a bit more action to keep a readers' attention.

Bare in mind: Gothic Lolita contains profanity, what could be seen as disturbing scenarios, and supernatural elements.

Bottom line, I would recommend this novel to anyone who, like me, loves to take in beautiful, unconventional  poetry, and photography. Read it because it's an oddity in the market. But if you're looking for action, and fast paced tension...I wouldn't move forward with this title.

I give Gothic Lolita by Dakota Lane 3 out of 5 cups of Earl Grey.

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare Book Review

This review may contain spoilers of Clockwork Angel, and slight spoilers of Clockwork Prince.

In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street—and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa’s powers for his own dark ends. With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them. Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do? As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart. 

-Amazon

Clockwork Prince. That's all I can say as I'm still reeling from the awesomeness of it. This being my first Steampunk series, I'm so happy I encountered this one first. It's filled with dark intrigue, smokey London, and two lovely guys that I really can't get out of my mind. This novel follows the lovable gang on a race against time to find Mortmain and stop his army of clockwork devices before Charlotte losses the institute forever.

Cassandra Clare did an excellent job in Clockwork Prince. She set the stakes a bit higher, created a driving tension that made me unable to stop reading, and set up a love triangle that is believable and heartbreaking. 

Tessa faces some tough decisions in this novel, and I appreciated her courage and growth. She did, however, make me a bit irritated with her confusion towards Will and Jem. Even as the novel draws to a close, I could see the emotional tug and pull of her heart as she tries to stand on her own two feet and choose the path most beneficial.

This whole business with Will, and his unrelenting doubleminded crankiness is finally sorted out and answered. I joined Team Will in the last novel, but in this one I can say it with more fervor, as the secret he holds justifies his oftentimes harsh demeanor towards Tessa. The only problem is now he has managed to push her away, and right into the arms of his parabatai, Jem. It's an  awesome writer that can pose two sides, two choices, and have them both be so beautiful. Jem is the picture of a perfect gentlemen, always tender to Tessa (though we do see this idealist side of him pull away a bit, which makes him all the more sincere). I cannot foresee how this will end, but as much as I'll be disappointed if she doesn't choose Will, I can't even be sad about Jem. It makes me all the more disheartened if this triangle threatens Will and Jem's brotherhood.

Charlotte is particularly frazzled in this novel, and it was nice to see her tough exterior melt away as the reality that she may lose the Institute comes to a head. She and Henry are the most adorable couple. Henry literally warms my heart no matter what scene he's in. I only wish that those around him would stop selling him short, and I hope that in book three he creates an invention that will blow them all away!

This novel's also packed with some surprises that I loved. I was a bit disappointed that I could predict who in our lovable team would defect, but Clare packs so many other surprises that you never see coming. The end carries an especially awesome surprise that I can't wait to witness how it all plays out.

The only thing I didn't enjoy, was its oversaturaturation of demonic practices.

Bare in mind: This novel discusses demons, the occult, and witchcraft. This novel also depicts violence, and sensuality.

Clockwork Prince was an entertaining story, filled with such intrigue, suspense, romance...all of the good stuff!

I give Clockwork Prince 4 out of 5 cups of steaming Earl Grey in the library.

I'm With The Baker: A Peeta Appreciation Post

There will be spoilers for the whole Hunger Games Trilogy. 

Look Away :-).

{via}

In lieu of The Hunger Games DVD release, I thought I'd throw some HG love on Novel Days for a moment. Being Team Peeta, I thought I'd adequately express my love for him in this little homage. Now, for all of you who are against the whole Team Peeta/Team Gale game that is prevalent throughout the fandom, or who argue that the story is not about a man, it is about a young woman's journey towards herself...I am in full agreement with you. This is not a story that can be simply lumped together with other YA romances on the market. But I remember hearing something profound whilst listening to an interview where Cassandra Clare has fascinating thoughts about love triangles. Clare expresses that the love triangle, when done right, can be a symbol of a life decision, or direction. Each choice presents an ideal which represents the future of the chooser. 

That being said, Peeta is one of the most slept on characters in The Hunger Games series. Everyone looks at Gale, because he's archetypal of strength, masculinity, and has been in Katniss' life forever. I can respect why loads of people in the fandom would side with Gale, as he is passionate, and has strong thoughts of rebelling against the Capitol. Meanwhile, Peeta is, for the most part, an observer of Katniss, often fading into the background of her life. It can be said that if it were not for the games, Katniss and Peeta would probably never have grown any closer than they did with the toss of bread when she really needed it (which has a strong enough connotation about Peeta's feelings). But the games did happen, and as readers, we were able to encounter an extraordinary guy. I can't help but believe that this is Collins' own way of showing us that the person, or society, that is second guessed, is the one who is victorious in the end.

Not only does Peeta come from a district that the rest of Panem shrugs off, he goes into this sadistic competition with the knowledge that even his own mother expects him to die. What further grabs my heart, is it seems from the very beginning, Peeta sets out with the mindset that he will die, so he makes his purpose to sway the game in Katniss' favor. He is not your stereotypical fighter, and has a gentle aire about him as the Baker's son, but he is very calculated. He uses his charm, his strength, and his ability to win people over so that he can manipulate the game. Of course manipulation is not the most  positive attribute, but it is a weapon used effectively in these games. He knows how to camouflage his appearance, after years of cake decoration, and he's merely using the Capitol's own facade against them. It's quiet and yet effective, because sometimes jumping in with guns slinging can get you killed. While Katniss is in the process of discovering herself and her feelings, Peeta continues to put himself on the line, knowing that it's even imminent that she will not return his feelings.

The unthinkable happens when he is captured by the Capitol, his mind hijacked, so that he does not know what's real anymore. Right after finishing Mockingjay, I saw someone's post on Tumblr basically saying, 'What about Gale?", and I was a bit floored. What about Gale? After all that Peeta endures for Katniss, the torture, the Capitol trying to make him someone else (the very thing he said he didn't want to happen), we still wonder about Gale? Peeta is not perfect, or prince charming, but he has it right. I'm going to side with the guy who can still love Katniss in the midst of echoed lies from the Capitol that she's an enemy.

It was no surprise to me, that Peeta, is the one Katniss chooses at the end. Gale represents unharnessed passion, and such is needed when fighting against injustices, but hope, gentleness, love, and endurance are needed to live life after you've lost everything. They both spur each other on, give each other a hope to hold on to, and have gone through an experience that no one else (unless they were tributes) can understand. Peeta's the dandelion I couldn't resist.

Y'all have fun watching The Hunger Games!!!!

Moonlight and Oranges by Elise Stephens Book Review

Lorona Connelly is ready for a change from her carefully planned, bookish life. When sparks fly at a costume party, she embraces a chance for romance with the handsome Kestrin Feather. However, she quickly realizes that even love and destiny may not be enough to overcome the reality of an overprotective mother-in-law and Kestrin's long, tarnished history of relationships. When Lorona's curiosity leads her to Kestrin's journal, doubt plagues them both with insecurities and threatens the relationship. Can true love overcome the odds, or was their whirlwind romance just a frivolous crush? Author Elise Stephens shares a journey of young love, fate, and wounded trust in the story of Lorona and Kestrin, a couple who must learn to overcome their fears to share a life together.

-Barnes & Noble

Sent from the Publisher

When I read the premise for Moonlight and Oranges by Elise Stephens, I was very intrigued with it. I learned that it is inspired by the Greek myth Cupid and Psyche, and that made me even more excited to dig into this enchanting story. I love modern retellings because it takes an awesome writer to keep the essence of the original, while infusing it with their own fresh take.  While there were some aspects of this novel that I didn't quite connect with, as I read further, I became more and more enthralled with it. 

Moonlight and Oranges tells the story of Lorona and Kestrin. Lorona, a seeming girl next door, meets playboy Kestrin at a holloween party, where Kestrin realizes that she is the woman that he dreamed would be his wife. In a whirlwind, he proposes, and for a moment they are in a chrysalis of their own making, but soon reality, and the actions of Kestrin's conniving mother threaten to tear them apart. 

I'll admit that in the first few chapters, as much as I tried to jump in and feel excitement at the thought of Kestrin asking Lorona to marry him, I found it was a bit hard to connect with. Perhaps it's because it felt a little contrived, but what I began to love about this story is that these suspicions are answered. Stephens is not afraid to throw her characters into a starcrossed dream, and then shake them out of their own preconceived notions, as well as the opinions of other characters that try to turn Kestrin and Lorona against. It was right when the 'scent of deception' rises midway in the novel that I became enamored with the story line. Stephen's has a talent for suspense and conceiving a plot that pulses with energy, humor, and drama. 

Lorona and Kestrin's characters were interesting, and I wanted to know more about their upbringings, and beliefs. I had hoped that they would be a bit more fleshed out. Kestrin's mother, Amanda, is a wonderfully painted villain. The low that she stoups just to keep Kestrin and Lorona apart was ridiculous at times. She is the portrait of a woman you would never want to meet. I also loved Yuki and Kahlil. They were awesome best friends, and counsel for Lorona and Kestrin. I loved their interactions with each other. 

Elise Stephens has a great imagination that I felt rising from this novel. I could feel her love for the story especially as it progressed, as well as her love for the surreal. I loved that she based Lorona's name from a Mexican legend called La Llorona, because it further enhances the magical feel of this story. There are places in the novel where descriptions of setting are so beautiful, especially those beneath the moonlight. 

Moonlight and Oranges by Elise Stephens is an interesting story with loads of page turning moments to suck you in. Although there were moments that I didn't quite connect with, I feel it is a good story, and would love to read more of her work.

I give Moonlight and Oranges by Elise Stephens 4 out of 5 cups of mandarin orange juice under a frosty moonlit night. 

Sugar Cube Reviews: The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz / Angela Barrett Book Review

What would happen to a fairy if she lost her wings and could no longer fly? Flory, a young night fairy no taller than an acorn and still becoming accustomed to her wings — wings as beautiful as those of a luna moth — is about to find out. What she discovers is that the world is very big and very dangerous. But Flory is fierce and willing to do whatever it takes to survive. If that means telling others what to do — like Skuggle, a squirrel ruled by his stomach — so be it. Not every creature, however, is as willing to bend to Flory’s demands. Newbery Medal winner Laura Amy Schlitz and world-renowned illustrator and miniaturist Angela Barrett venture into the realm of the illustrated classic — a classic entirely and exquisitely of their making, and a magnificent adventure.

-Amazon

This will be a short and sweet book review for a lovely tale about a little fairy learning to fly again. I decided to take a break from angst filled teen lit, to indulge in some hardcore whimsy, and more attitude than I expected from a little fairy. In The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz, adorable Flory has experienced grave trauma one night, and has as a result, lost her wings. Afterwards, she becomes paralyzed with fear, and tries to change everything about herself so that she will not have to face frightful creatures of the night.

What else can I say other than that Flory is such a 'boss' fairy. She faces her fears, sometimes head on, sometimes not, but she has loads of heart that I think will melt yours. The friends she makes in this adventure are also wonderful, hilarious, and well portrayed. Skuggle the lovably hungry squirrel who becomes a good friend, and banter bud is quite fun. 

Laura Amy Schlitz is a beautiful writer, and Angela Barrett's illustrations are enchanting.

The Night Fairy is just the break I needed for that dose of childlike wonder and enchantment.

I rate The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz 5 out of 5 cups of Earl Gray.

Top Ten Tuesdays: Top Ten Posts That Would Give The Best Picture of You

 

Here are some of my favorite posts at Novel Days that I think reveal the best portrait of myself:

• Sartorial Lit | Lessons from The Women of District 12: I think one of my favorite aspects of Novel Days are my Sartorial Lit features, because there's a place inside of me that loves dabbling in fashion. Challenging myself with the task of translating literature into something you can wear...that excites me!
• Shades of Milk and Honey Book Review: I've always been enamored by historical romances, particularly those likened to Austen. Who doesn't love romance, propriety, and a bit of magic?
• Pride and Prejudice Soapbox: Onto another Austen pick, I find myself really excited about this chronicling of my impressions of this highly lauded novel. Having a place where I can have a fun discussion about it is great. Please, join in. I know I'm not the only one who's been a bit put off by it. 
• The Subteranneans Book Review: I'm pretty much in love with Jack Kerouac. He's effected how I view writing in such a significant way.
• Perfect Chemistry Book Review: I love a good romance, and especially one that is surprising.  
• All These Things I've Done Book Review: Obscure little novels rock my world!
• ArmChair BEA Introductions: A couple of questions answered, and even a ukulele performance from, moi.
• Clockwork Angel Book Review: Team Will (Not that I don't love Jem...this is just a hard decision to make). Just saying.
• Kippa Picks | Reason To Breathe Book Review: Reading Reason to Breathe showed me an example of the awesome talent that exists within Self published titles. Now, I've such a soft spot for self published novels.
• Discovering the New Adult Genre: And last but not least, my discovery of the genre my novel falls into: New Adult.

Thanks for reading, and I look forward to perusing through your post self portraits!  

Happy Anniversary Novel Days!!!!

Wow. I just can't believe the anniversary of the day I decided to take on the coolest thing ever has crept up on me. Late Saturday night, I was planning posts when I glanced at the calendar and remembered. I have to say that it's been such a great year! I have come out of my shell in the book blogosphere so much!

Here are some ways that Novel Day's became the coolest part of my year:

• When I first started I posted my first author interview EVER with Rebecca Donovan (The Breathing Series), and I've watched her become an overnight success!
• I've discovered the beauty of the self published novel, and that there are many gems climbing to super stardom (e.g. Beautiful Disaster by Jaime McGuire). The fact that wonderful authors have contacted me to review their books has really blown my mind!
• I've gotten the chance to connect with some of my favorite authors (even if only via twitter) such as, Simone Elkeles, Lisa Schroeder, Nova Ren Suma, Matt de La Pena, etc.
• Had my FIRST giveaway for the wonderful Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by Kristina McMorris.
• I had the chance to experience my first BEA week via Armchair BEA, which was pretty awesome! I connected with so many awesome bloggers, and I felt like I was a part of a huge club of literature enthusiasts.
• I landed an internship at a wonderful Literary Agency, and had authors like Lauren Oliver check out my blog...which still has me fangirling! 
• I think I've become more novel obsessed than I was before, if that's even possible!

Ways I want to make year Two that much cooler:

• Interviews: I think I was so excited over my wonderful interview with Rebecca Donovan that it blinded me to the fact that I should get some more interviews going on Novel Days! I'm hard at work thinking of whom I'll connect with this year.
• Regular Posts: I would love to post at least two articles a week to keep you all excited about ND. 
• Blogger Buds: I would LOVE to connect with my fellow bloggers, and I find I have been a bit shy over the past year. Well, no longer!!!
• Attend BEA 2013 (God Willing): With this year being my first ever BEA experience by proxy, it all seemed so wonderful that I can't possibly miss it next year! It's an awesome chance to meet fellow bloggers, some of my favorite writers, and score some awesome goodies!
• Release my novel: If you've read my About page, you know that I've been penning my novel for the past 5 years (yeah, I know). Only in the last year have I gotten my courage to just go for it, and now I've almost 65,000 words. I'm almost there! I think I'll try querying it to agents to gauge a response, or I'll have it self pubbed and out to you all very soon! All I can reveal at this moment is that it is a New Adult novel!!!!

I really want to thank each and every one of you who take time out to include Novel Days in your blogs to read. It's been a fabulous year, and I've thoroughly enjoyed reading your comments and connecting with you. Do you have any new ideas or suggestions on how I could make Novel Days all the more awesome in this next year? I would love to hear them!

Love,

Britta.