Legacy (Keeper of the Lost Cities Book 8) by Shannon Messenger

Legacy is the eighth book in the middle grade fantasy series, Keeper of the Lost Cities. Sophie Foster is tired of endless secrets and is determined to uncover the truth about her family and her friends' legacies. As the Dwarves land in danger and Keefe ultimately launches headfirst into his destiny, Sophie must face that some mysteries might be better left unsolved.

My favorite element of Legacy is the involvement of more characters shown in different lights. Messenger has a true talent for world building with dozens of characters emphasized in balanced amounts of attention and value. In addition, I love how Messenger is able to shock me with plot twists and revelations that are extreme but also believable.

Stina had extremely interesting character development because now she is no longer simply a "mean girl" or an enemy but an alliance with a developing friendship. I also enjoyed the greater role of Maruca and other previously backseat characters. Keefe's mom has always been a mysterious villain in the sense of her devoted love for her son and righteous points of view, and her development and plan by the end was rather shocking. The introduction of Glimmer as a character is fascinating and mysterious, and I cannot wait to see what Messenger has in store for her in the next book!

I also really liked the further development of Sophie's inflicting ability. In addition, I am so happy that one of Sophie's genetic parents is revealed! As usual, Messenger wrote an incredible cliffhanger and I cannot wait to read the ninth book when it is released next year! I started reading this series back in seventh grade and it amazes me that in next November when the ninth book comes out I'll be in college already! This is a series I will always keep with me.

I will say that I did have a few issues- primarily the pacing. For 800 pages, the huge climactic event at the end seemed too short and fast paced while other parts, like the beginning of the book, were slow and drawn-out and had the potential to be removed. While I do have tremendously high standards for Messenger as this is my favorite series, I love some of the previous books, like Neverseen, more.

I recommend you read this book!

Read my previous reviews of books in this series here.

Title: Legacy (Keeper of the Lost Cities Book 8)
Author: Shannon Messenger
Publisher: Aladdin
Pages: 816
Series: Yes, Book 8
Rating: 4 Stars
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Poseidon's Trident (War on the Gods Book 2) by A.P. Mobley

Poseidon's Trident is the second book in the YA Greek mythology trilogy, War on the Gods. This book was sent to me by the author and will be released next week on December 3. While Andy and Zoey have managed to steal the Helm of Darkness from Hades, they will need much more than that if they have any chance of defeating the Gods and restoring humanity's freedom. Next on their list is Poseidon's most powerful weapon: the Trident. In order to get it, the teens will have to enlist the aid of the Giant Prometheus and battle demigods, all whilst discovering the truth of their past and why they were chosen to complete the prophecy.

I love that contrary to Percy Jackson or most other mythology books surrounding demigods, this series uniquely discusses the potentially evil side to the Gods and the moral conflict that surrounds their children as a result, like Karter. While he has experienced terrible tragedies due to his father's (Zeus') selfish, horrific decisions, he still feels indebted to him and tempted to serve out his destiny and make his father proud. I vastly enjoyed watching him struggle with his choice to save humanity or to stand with his family. As consistent with the previous book, the imagery was substantial and Mobley has created a full world packed with intense action and emotion.

I also enjoyed the major plot revelations regarding Zoey and Andy's past and their true destinies. Choice verses destiny was a huge theme of this book. Speaking of Zoey and Andy, they are truly inspiring characters who never gave up, no matter how bleak their future looked. The dedication they had to keep fighting and save the ones they love is a rarity. Something else I enjoyed was the added hint of romance between Andy and Zoey, and I love how all the characters and their worldview keeps evolving.

I highly recommend this book! If you would like to know how to enter to win the presale/giveaway prizes, click here. It expires on December 17th, 2019.

Read my review of the previous book in this series, The Helm of Darkness. I can't wait to read the final book in this series, The Master Lighting Bolt!

Title: Poseidon's Trident (War on the Gods Book 2)
Author: A.P. Mobley
Publisher: Sea of Ink Press
Pages: 320
Series: Yes, Book 2 of 3
Rating: 5 Stars
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Grape! by Gabriel Arquilevich

Grape! is a middle grade realistic fiction book set in 1976 that was sent to me by the author. Gaby, (who changes his name to Grape) is a fifth grader at Rolling Hills Elementary school. You see, Grape is not an ordinary kid. He's got these spiders in his brain that make him do strange things and be quite impulsive at times. After he punched a teacher, the principal gives him one last chance, and he must write for an hour a day, reflecting on himself and explaining his side of the story.

I loved Grape!! One of my favorite things about this book is how honest and revealing it is regarding peer pressure and bullying. Grape is also quick to apologize and I love his explanations regarding the spiders in his brain. Yes, Grape acted impulsive and made not-so-great choices, but he is still a wonderful boy who had best intentions at heart and never meant to cause trouble or hurt anybody. A lot of the cringe-worthy embarrassing scenes were hysterical, and I would have liked to be his friend.

As a future teacher, I love how the book proves the value of second chances and the importance of taking the time to understand the motivations and reasons behind children's actions and not jump to punishing conclusions. It was also shockingly honest regarding issues like bullying, jealousy, crushes, immigration, divorce, and religious disagreements. Grape! also would be a great guide to teachers, and there are a lot of amazing excuses and reasons for his behavior that I wouldn't have thought of if I were in those situations.

I highly recommend this book!

Title: Grape!
Author: Gabriel Arquilevich
Publisher: Regal House Publishing
Pages: 185
Series: No
Rating: 5 Stars

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Where I Live by Brenda Rufener

Where I Live is a YA realistic fiction book. Linden Rose is homeless, living in the dirt behind her school. After her mother was beat to death by her father, Linden has been on the run, living in the back of her school. Flying under the radar used to be her specialty, but when she gets involved in a classmates' abuse and a reporter starts digging around, her cover may be blown.

The issue of domestic abuse was definitely represented clearly, but a surprising element that made me question the focus of the novel. The plot didn't have a clear path or real climax, jumping all over the place in no particular organization. It also felt like the author shoved too many serious issues in one book.

I was ecstatic to read this book, but it did not turn out at all what I had hoped. I wanted something touching and tear-jerking about the real issue of teen homelessness, but I was disappointed when it became a discussion about domestic abuse and running away rather than actually forced to live on the streets with nowhere to go. Linden had it easier than most and had friends she could rely on for food and a shower. Yes she was technically homeless, but she had a support system that undermined the gravity of homelessness that I was looking forward to.

However, this book can go to show the importance of having true friends and how to earn them. The support system of her teachers and friends saved her life and does prove that people are kind and willing to help you if you let them. It also still clearly illustrated how burdensome not having a home was, and could help educate people to look for the warning signs. I also love the inspirational tone of hope and learning to speak up for yourself and tell your story.

I do recommend this book and I enjoyed reading it, but just don't get your hopes up too high.

Title: Where I Live
Author: Brenda Rufener
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 352
Series: No
Rating: 3 Stars
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Anger is a Gift by Mark Oshiro

Anger is a Gift is a YA realistic fiction book about police brutality and racism in a high school. West Oakland High School is literally falling apart at the seams. Instead of purchasing textbooks and science equipment the principal is spending money on metal detectors. The police sweep the halls, randomly inspecting lockers and patting down the students for "weapons", inappropriately touching the girls and physically assaulting them with zero probable cause. When the police attack the students during a peaceful walkout, Moss Jefferies decides to use his anger to earn justice for his fallen friends.

Anger is a Gift made me very angry- though I suppose that was the point, to show readers that their anger and sadness can be turned into a force for change and inspire people to stand up for what's right. This book is shocking, and it is hard to imagine that these atrocities occur, especially by the ones who are supposed to protect us. The police are supposed to uphold the law, not break it. Obviously I know from the news about police brutality but it is entirely different to watch it unfold in your lap and be powerless to stop it. It felt real. I would say this book serves as a scary wake-up call to alert people that racism and police brutality is real.

My one complaint would be that I wished the book explored the legal side of the issue. Everything that occurred in this book completely breaks the Eighth Amendment, the Fourth Amendment, and Title 6 of the Civil Rights Act, and even parts of the 14th Amendment. In all these meetings and town hall discussions and media coverage I am shocked that nobody ever discussed how the entire department could be criminally prosecuted- any lawyer watching the news with common sense could have jumped on this.

Other than that, I recommend this book!

Title: Anger is a Gift
Author: Mark Oshiro
Publisher: Tor Teen
Pages: 463
Series: No
Rating: 4 Stars
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The Spirit of London (Spirits Book 2) by Rob Keeley

The Spirit of London is the second middle grade fantasy book in the Spirits series. This book was sent to me by the author. After Ellie's parents get divorced, Ellie, Charlie, and their mother move back to London. Ellie figures everything will return to normal until she starts having visions and receiving panicked pleas for help from the ghosts of Mary and her father Henry, who are in danger after the evil murderer James Meadowes escapes his imprisonment. As Ellie tries to put her family back together and help Mary, she finds her worlds colliding- and realizes that nobody is who they seem.

I loved the family conflict. Ellie was caught in the middle of her parent's messy divorce and living in a tiny cramped flat with her mother acting bizarrely neglectful. For me personally, her conflict in the real world with her seemingly insane mother and scheming father was more interesting than the spirit world conflicts. Her emotion and fear was raw and I could connect to her easily.

I enjoyed the vast change in setting from the rural castle to the busy city. Similar to the previous book, I also saw the clear plot escalation with a terrifying climax. I loved how the intensity and mystique increased so drastically throughout the book. The mind-controlling aspect was superb and it was really cool when reality blurred with the spirit world. For a children's book, it was skillfully written with great imagery. This is a great mystery children's book that is easy to get into and hard to stop!  On a side note, I also love the cover!

I highly recommend you read this book! I cannot wait to read the third book in this series, The Sword of the Spirit! See my review of the previous book, Childish Spirits!

Title: The Spirit of London
Author: Rob Keeley
Publisher: Troubador Publishing
Pages: 152
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 5
Rating: 5 Stars
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Top Ten Tuesday: Top Ten YA Scary Books For Halloween

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl. If you want to participate, click here. This week's theme is a Halloween freebie! I'm not personally one for thrillers or scary stories, but in case you are, below is a list of the top ten (mostly in order) terrifying books I've ever read!

3. H20 (The Rain) by Virginia Bergin

Regardless of whether or not I enjoyed the series, the concept of the bacteria-infested rain and the descriptions of the dead bodies was gruesomely horrifying. This was the ultimate apocalypse that was truly frightening!

 

2. Miles From Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams

This book is hands down the creepiest, most thrilling book I've ever read! Don't be fooled by the seemingly harmless concept of a girl looking for her mother- it's a physiological thriller that was extremely terrifying by the end! 

3. The Bunker Diary by Kevin Brooks

This book definitely is one of the most disturbing books I've ever read. No spoilers, but by the end I was seriously freaked out!

4. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey

This was required reading in my AP English class last year- and it's safe to say that it's not a book to read before bed! 

5. After: Nineteen Stories of Apocalypse and Dystopia by Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling

It's basically a book of all the ways the world could end- how is that not terrifying?

6. The Lord of the Flies by William Golding

I read this book a little more than two years ago in one of my English classes. The Lord of the Flies's initial survival concept is not scary, but what happens to these characters' personalities and what their new "society" becomes is one of the creepiest things to ever be envisioned.

7. Screamcatcher: Web World by Christy J Breedlove

The entire setting of this book is in a world created by nightmares and filled with monsters- while the book itself wasn't very scary, the ideas certainly were!

8. Wake by Lisa McMann

By the end this book definitely became terrifying- but you have to be patient for about 100 pages first before it truly starts to be disturbing. But I would say that Wake is probably one of the most well-written books on this list.

9. The Vault of Dreamers by Caragh M Obrien

Oh boy, by the end here it's totally terrifying when the mystery is solved! While creepy in it of itself, the more you read the more freaky it becomes.

10. The Safest Lies by Megan Miranda

While this is one of the most thrilling books I've ever read, I never was truly scared or disturbed, which is why this is last. However, this fast-paced mystery is one to read!

Dark Irregular by Kaitlyn Legaspi

The Dark Irregular is the first book in a YA fantasy trilogy. This book was sent to me by the author. While previously published in March 2017 by Page Publishing, in one week on November 1 the author will be self-publishing it.

In a world of fantasy, humans, elves, and spirits roam. But there is also the Void, where shadows and irregulars live. Those shadows attacked the royal family, killing the queen but sparing her newborn daughter- Kanna. Years later when the innocent orphan turns 15, Kanna is invited to the palace to train as a magical apprentice. This excitement soon turns to mystery when the dark shadows attack her everywhere she goes- ultimately endangering somebody Kanna cares about and forcing her to make a life-altering, sacrificial decision.

Kanna has a kind-hearted, strong spirit that blew me away! I love how her confidence increased drastically over the course of the novel. I also enjoyed how Kanna opened herself up and became more friendly and willing to trust others and have friends for the first time. Her selfless acts to help Kenneth were inspiring and shocking. Her bravery, as well as her emotional outbursts, were extremely realistic and relatable. In association with her tenacity, I saw a lot of myself in Kanna and eagerly hoped for her success and well-being.

The fantastical setting was really cool and I enjoyed the sharp contrasting imagery of the magical beauty of nature compared to the darkness of shadows. I also liked the clear presence of a climactic event. The mystery surrounding the Irregular kept me intrigued until the end. And unlike my original predictions of him being an evil demon of some sort, I feel sympathetic to him and look forward to further exploring his complexity in the next book.

I highly recommend this book! The next book is expected to come out in February 2020.

Title: Dark Irregular
Author: Kaitlyn Legaspi
Publisher: Kaitlyn Legaspi
Pages: 244
Series: Yes, Book 1 of 3
Rating: 5 Stars
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Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay

Sarah's Key is a historical fiction book that intertwines the lives of a present-day reporter and a 10-year-old girl who survived the holocaust. In Paris, 1942, Sarah thought her family was leaving the house for a few hours, not going to a concentration camp. She locks her younger brother in a closet to keep him safe from the police. Little does she know she'll not be back for years, leaving her brother to die while Sarah escapes and survives. 60 years into the future, a reporter investigating the holocaust finds a surprising connection between her and Sarah.

I loved Sarah's story and would have loved a whole book just about her! She was so innocent and determined to save her brother that it broke my heart. Unfortunately, Julia didn't appeal to me very much. I kept being disappointed whenever Julia's pages started and Sarah's ended! Sarah's story was so amazing and I wish that Julia's was held up with the same excitement. A concern of mine is how the book targets two separate audiences for two completely different characters. The connection between Sarah and Julia doesn't even really come until very far into the book at which point I am quite bored of Julia's romantic drama. I don't think the two stories were integrated together enough.

Sarah's Key is unique in the fact that it is not focused so heavily on the trauma that occurs in the concentration camps, but rather the events that led up to it and how to move on and have a life after losing everything and everyone you love. This book tells the story of a girl that managed to escape and showcases the kindness in people's hearts. This book also makes us realize how quickly we are to forget the atrocities in our past and teaches that we still have much to learn from them. Many people in this world are still extremely ignorant. But because I basically only liked half the book, I have to give it 3 stars.

Read this book if you want to.

Title: Sarah's Key
Author: Tatiana de Rosnay
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffen
Pages: 353
Series: No
Rating: 3 Stars
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A Step Towards Falling by Cammie McGovern

A Step Towards Falling is a YA realistic fiction book about two teens who fall in love while struggling to make up for their mistakes. Emily and Lucas froze that night at the football game. They both saw Belinda, a fellow classmate with disabilities, being attacked by the football players. They both froze and did not interfere. Sick with guilt, they try to find a way to help her while volunteering at a community center for people with disabilities.

I found this book tough to get into and somewhat confusing. For one thing, half of Belinda's POV was in the past and half was in the present with no indication of which time it was. The plot was also very simple and felt dragged out. I feel like there were scenes that could have been cut and the pacing could have been quicker. The plot also felt very predictable. Lucas and Emily's romance was very sweet and I adore them being together- however it did feel slightly circumstantial.

I also wished the book explored the psychological side of why they froze. The book also definitely stereotyped people with disabilities. And while the point may have been to prove them wrong, how many of the characters were described is somewhat offensive. A Step Towards Falling wasn't bad, it just wasn't great and I wouldn't be enthusiastic to read it again. I did appreciate how Lucas and Emily took to helping Belinda and saw how she deserves to have the same opportunities as others.

Read this book if you want to, just know that you may be disappointed.

Title: A Step Towards Falling
Author: Cammie McGovern
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 361
Series: No
Rating: 2 Stars
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