[Review] Death of the Mad Hatter

I adored Death of the Mad Hatter. Alice in Wonderland is one of my absolute favorite stories and now I’ve come to read the adaptations of the stories. I’ve always been kinda leery to read the adaptations, for I feared it would ruin my perception of Alice in Wonderland. However, Sarah Pepper’s novel was my first adaptation and I have to say that I’m more than completely satisfied. I loved the fact that this story was nothing like the storyline in Wonderland. I truly enjoyed the twists and turns as well as the characters. I loved that most of the characters stayed the same and were true to Wonderland, but still had that eerie twist. 

"A world where the impossibilities of our most farfetched dreams come true--that was the essence of Wonderland."

The characters were completely amazing. Alice Mae was true to herself, but completely different at the same time. She was strong, independent and loyal. She could travel between the real world realm and Wonderland, but needed the secret candies to keep her sanity in the real world realm. Ryley was obviously my favorite, I instantly fell in love with him and I loved the connection between him and Alice Mae. I liked that he had a mysterious past to everyone except for Alice, and her strange Aunts. 

“Up wasn’t up, but down was up…and off to the side in a slightly twisted manner. I was falling down (or up?) a rabbit hole.” 

Hearts was still the evil master who loved to say “Off with their heads!” and there is a devious back story behind how Hearts became the Queen was perfect. I’ve forever been in love with Cheshire Cat, since the original Wonderland by Disney. I loved his loyalty and the fact that he is always a spy. I loved how in this novel Cheshire was Chez, and that he was orange. The fact that he was orange brought back memories of when I had my cat Milo, he was an orange tabby and I absolutely adored him. It didn’t help that my favorite colors are pink / purple. I really liked how the Joker had an alternative role in this novel. The prophetic undertone was crazy good, too.

I loved how the story progressed and grew upon itself. Although I was a bit confused at the beginning, I quickly recovered. I wasn’t quite sure if I was supposed to be confused, because it’s Wonderland… or if I wasn’t understanding the beginning. I really got the feels with this novel. I mean I really went from ecstatic to devastated. Then at some points I was just utterly pissed off and upset. However, I was enthralled with the connection between Ryley and Alice. The devious plots were fantastic, and I thought that Sarah Pepper wrote this phenomenally. 

I’m such a sucker for a dual POV. I love that you get to see into both sides of the characters, how they are feeling and how they react to the situations differently. I feel like every issue that went on was resolved in a beautiful way. I was super upset towards the end, but I’m glad everything worked out the way it did. I don’t think I would have liked it any other way. The witty banter between Ryley and Alice Mae was charming, along with how they hated and loved each other so fiercely at the same time. I won’t lie, this reminded me of my husband and I… and the song by Pink called True Love. The honesty behind the relationship that revealed the flaws between the characters was definitely a fresh interpretation for any novel, let alone Wonderland. 

I loved this story, and I believe that Sarah did an amazing work of art with a twist from a classic. Honestly, I think I liked this version better than the original. I’ll always love Wonderland, and I think that now I’ll be more open to adaptations, even though I’m not sure any will be able to compare to this novel. The research and original thought put into this was beyond my expectations. I’m so glad that I got the chance to read this and I want to seriously thank Sarah writing this wonderful story. I suggest that anyone who is in love with Wonderland like I am, you’ll definitely enjoy this fantastic take on such an amazing classic. I can’t wait to read more works from Ms. Pepper! 

Oh, and I absolutely love the cover of this novel! As well as the depth in detail between not only the cover and the story, but the lasting impressions that I now have of Alice Mae. It truly made this novel stand apart from the classic Wonderland. 

Purchase Links:

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[Waiting On Wednesday] #4

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly Meme started over at Breaking The Spine.

Kait's Pick:

City of Heavenly Fire - Cassandra Clare
Expected Publication: May 27th, 2014


ΕRCHOMAI, SEBASTIAN HAD SAID. 

I am coming.

Darkness returns to the Shadowhunter world. As their society falls apart around them, Clary, Jace, Simon and their friends must band together to fight the greatest evil the Nephilim have ever faced: Clary’s own brother. Nothing in the world can defeat him — must they journey to another world to find the chance? Lives will be lost, love sacrificed, and the whole world changed in the sixth and last installment of the Mortal Instruments series!

                      

Beth's Pick:

Pretty Little Things - Theresa Mummert
Expected Publication: March 11th, 2014

Annie grew up with a warped family who didn't shelter her from the horrors of the world. In fact, they threw it at her feet. 
When she meets a boy who shows her affection she struggles with feelings she had never experienced before. But her family is not willing to let her go easily. 
Even if Annie is able to escape their control, the damage done to her will haunt her for the rest of her life. 

“You’re such a pretty little thing, Annie.” Nana rocked on her wooden rocker. The paint was pealing and it squeaked as it rolled over the dingy linoleum. 

“Thank you, Nana.” I smiled as I smoothed down the knotted hair of my Barbie. 

Nana’s lips puckered and pulled together in a hard line, her wrinkled skin creasing around the ledge of her lips. She leaned closer to me, grunting as she stretched and tapped her old cane against the floor to get my attention. I glanced up at her through tangled dirty blonde locks, green eyes wide and waiting. 

“You’re an ugly little thing on the inside, aren’t you dear?” He eyes narrowed, the milky like covering over the pupils made her look like she was possessed.

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[Review] There Is No Light In Darkness

“You're the only one that fucking matters...only you...always.”

There is No Light In Darkness was such an amazing read. I completely devoured this read in one sitting. From start to finish it’s a page turner of suspense, twists and turns, and a complete mystery you just didn’t see coming. The characters are relatable and easy to fall in love with. I have to say that this is probably one of the best DEBUT novels I’ve ever read. I’m upset with myself for taking so long to finally read it, but I’m glad I finally gave it a chance. Claire Contreras  leaves you wanting more, and giving you the ultimate feels. 

“I am scared of the unknown. I am scared to be alone. I am scared to not be alone. I am scared to have people love me, and I am scared to have nobody loves me. I live my life constant state of fear and need for control.”

The main characters have such a unique and tortured past. I instantly fell in love with Blake, and the rest of the group. The story was seriously intense and everything about it was beautiful, yet damaged. The ideation of family and friendship in this novel was truly amazing and remarkable. The romantic side of the novel was even better.  Between all of the characters, is a deep seeded love for one another. They all grew up together, and now that they’re adults, are still the friends they were when they were kids. The bonds between them all are extremely strong and definitely unbreakable.

Swoon time. I am absolutely in adoration of Cole. He’s funny, sexy, smart, protective, irrational at times, caring, and oh so passionate. I almost want to put him in an Alpha male catergory, but he doesn’t quite fit the profile, although he has some of the qualities.  The relationship that builds between Cole and Blake is utterly amazing. The devotion that they have to eachother is simply irresistible, and you can’t help but want the happiest ever after for them. As for Blake, I loved how strong she was. Even with secrets and unknown pasts, I gotta give it to the girl. She just doesn’t give up, and I loved that about her. 

“I'm in love with you, Blake. I've been in love with you from the moment I saw you. I've been in love with you from the day I was born and possibly even before then. I belong to you. My body belongs to you. My heart belongs to you.”

As secrets get unveiled, The two of them are always there to support each other.  Then more secrets become revealed and shit hits the proverbial fan. Holy hell does it hit the fan! Twists and turns galore, I was constantly moving around sitting at the edge of my seat while reading, anxiously waiting for the next page to see what happens next. 

I’m in complete awe of how Claire wrote this novel. I felt like I was an investigator putting pieces of the puzzle together, one piece at a time. Once you find out the connections between everyone, it’s easier to figure out what you think is going to happen. Don’t be fooled though. I had a few theories that got shot down, and then a few that were absolutely on point. There are so many new questions and not every question you did have gets answered, but the ones that do... Holy shit. 

The one good thing about waiting to read a book is cliff hangers. Well. This is one hell of a cliff hanger. I think I would have died if I had to wait for the second book to come out. I mean damn, THAT was intense. I’m so glad that I get to delve right into the second book.  Again, this book was absolutely spectacular. I would recommend this to EVERYONE. Unless of course you aren’t old enough to handle the “mature” situations. ;) 

[Book Blitz] Scarred by Love

Book Title: Scarred by Love Author: C.A. Harms Genre: Romance Release Date: January 10, 2014 Hosted by: Book Enthusiast Promotions

Riley thought she was in love. She thought she found the perfect guy until his aggressive behavior became too much to handle and she ran. Becoming withdrew from the world and hiding from the chance of loving again. Having four older brothers and a determined best friend she had no choice but to stand strong. Over time Riley was able to open up once again. She had no idea that the one person she needed was right under her nose. She was guarded and hesitant when it came to bad boys...after all it was a bad boy that shattered her once before. Zander wanted the girl from the party. He wanted to be near her even though she continued to push him away. He couldn’t let go of the gorgeous girl with those stormy eyes. They both had secrets they kept hidden from one another. They found it easier to talk to others than to confide in each other. Riley begins to realize Zander isn't who she thought he was and falling for the sexy voiced Lead Singer/Guitar player may be just what she needs. They struggle through hard times and learn to trust again. But will the love that grows be enough to hold them together or will the heartache they suffer drive a wedge between them forever. They could be toxic to one another or they could heal the wounds that run deep within their souls. THIS BOOK COTAINS ADULT CONTENT AND IS MEANT FOR MATURE AUDIENCES

 C.A. Harms is like any other addicted reader. She enjoys happy endings and HEA love stories. She hasn't always been a lover of Romance and had once been addicted to a good Mystery. Just recently she has taken on a new liking and now is a full blown Romance novel addict. She lives in Illinois and enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. You will always find her with her kindle or paperback in hand as it is her favorite pass time.

 

“I wouldn’t eat any of that if I were you.” She turned so quickly we almost bumped heads. I pulled back slightly and her lips we so close to mine as she looked up into my eyes. “And why’s that?” Fuck Zander…pull it together. “Well look around the room. Do you see all these guys here? “Yes.” Her voice was just above a whisper as she scanned the room before focusing back on me. I took just a few seconds to look at her curious eyes, when I felt my heartbeat slow just enough, I continued. “Well imagine that at least half of them have had their hands inside that bowl of chips.” I paused for just a second allowing her to think about it. “And then imagine that at least seventy five percent of those have used the bathroom without washing their hands after.” Her nose wrinkled up in the cutest way. I struggled with the chuckle I felt in my chest. “You see where I’m going with this?” Her nostrils flared and she took a deep breath. “Oh…that’s really gross.” I couldn’t help it; this time I laughed. “Yep, it’s honestly pretty nasty.” When she laughed and her eyes fluttered I almost lost it. Damn she was sexy. She wasn’t sleazy sexy…not at all. She was what my mom would have referred to as Beautiful sexy. She wasn’t throwing herself at me to gain my full attention. She was dressed pretty hot but yet covered up. “You’re staring.” Shit…I shook my head just a little. She had caught me. “Sorry, I couldn’t help it. It’s your lips and your eyes.” “Smooth.” “What? You want me to lie?” She bit her lower lip and I could see the smile pulling at the side of her mouth. “You’re kind of distracting.” Her eyebrows shot up as she stared at me. “Oh, really? Would you mind explaining how I’m distracting you?” I was mentally counting to ten. I so needed to breathe. My mind was racing. I was usually pretty relaxed around girls. I needed to climb out of my head…I was working myself up entirely too much. Okay, Zander time to man up. I reached out and traced my fingertip across her cheekbone just below her left eye. “You’re eyes remind me of the sky just before it storms. That hazy blue color…it’s really unique.” She watched me with no reaction, nothing. I let my hand fall back down and was about to say something to break the silence when she broke out in laughter. Not just a little giggle…I mean a hunched over heavy as hell laugh. Her eyes seemed to gloss over and I watched in confusion. I stood in front of this gorgeous girl watching as she continued to laugh at me. “What?” I had to ask because I was lost. Once she calmed herself enough to answer she spoke. “So does that shit really work for you? I mean that was a pretty lame ass pick up line.” She placed her hand on my cheek and took a step toward me. “Your eyes look like the sky right before the perfect storm.” Then she laughed again. Fuck I was really bombing…big time. I smiled, “I’m being serious. Have you ever fucking looked closely at your eyes? I’m not trying to spout lame pickup lines. I mean it.” She pulled her hand back and I missed it instantly. “What’s your name?” Maybe I didn’t bomb as bad as I had thought. “Zander…What’s yours?” She brushed her hair away from her face and tucked it behind her ear. Son of a bitch I was acting like such a pussy. She was so fuckin’ beautiful. She had me forgetting how to breathe. “I’m Riley and Zander it was really nice to meet you. Thanks for the laugh.” She handed me a full bottle of beer and walked away. That’s right, she fucking walked away. I watched her disappear into the crowd of people. I watched until I could no longer see her before I hung my head and turned back toward to Beth. When I looked up she was laughing so hard she literally fell sideways into Mark’s lap. I walked in their direction and flopped down next to her, “Fuck off Beth. Seriously just fuck off.” She patted my back, “What’s wrong Z…wasn’t she impressed?” I shook her off, “I panicked.” I hung my head in defeat. Her laughter broke out once more and I couldn’t help it, I laughed too. What the hell was wrong with me? I know how to charm a girl. I had done it a million times. For some reason Riley had me stumbling at every turn. She wasn’t a girl that fell for the everyday charm…she was tougher.

Face Down -- The Red Jumpsuit Aparatus 

I Hate Myself for Loving You -- Joan Jett

 Don’t Speak -- No Doubt 

Jar of Hearts -- Christina Perry 

Black Eyes Blue Tears -- Shania Twain

 Control -- Puddle of Mudd 

Fighter -- Christina Aguilera 

Call Me When Your Sober -- Evanescence 

She Fuckin’ Hates Me -- Puddle of Mudd 

S&M Remix -- Rhianna/Britney 

Spears Addicted -- Saving Abel

 Whataya Want from Me -- Adam Lambert

 I Believe in this Thing Called Love (The Darkness) 

I gotta Through This -- Daniel Bedingfield 

Stormy -- Hedley 

This -- Darius Rucker 

When You Kiss Me -- Shania Twain

 Fall for You -- Secondhand Serenade 

Sad -- Maroon 5

 
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[Book Blitz] Ransom

 

Book Title: Ransom Author: Denise Mathew Genre: New Adult Release Date: January 3, 2014 Hosted by: Book Enthusiast Promotions

 Two tragedies miles apart, a chance meeting, one running toward the truth the other running away. And in the ruins of devastation love grows… When one selfish choice leads to a lifetime of regret, twenty-year-old Lexie Adams struggles to survive in her new reality. Unable to move forward, she searches for answers and meaning in a tragedy that stripped her of the life she had once taken for granted. There’s nothing she wishes for more than a chance to go back in time, to change the fateful night that left her broken. Now faced with the stark truth that she needs to move forward, or be crushed by the past, she pins all her hopes and dreams on one person saving her, famed child faith healer and medium, Gabriel Sanders. Slippery handsome Ransom Sanders loves his brother Gabriel as much as he despises his domineering father. From as far back as Ransom can remember, his days have been an endless string of venues, hotel rooms, and cheap diner food, his nights filled with as many women as he can get into his bed. But when everything he has built his life on is ripped away, he searches for meaning in the chaos that follows . When a chance meeting pushes Lexie and Ransom’s paths together, neither of them can trust enough to be honest about their intentions and needs. But what begins as a Pandora’s box of secrets, lies, and deceit, soon becomes something much more than either Ransom or Lexie thought they could have. Where fate offers them a chance at something that is uniquely their own, a safe place where their broken spirits can be healed, and where love isn’t just a word, it’s a reality. 18+ for sexual content

★★★★★5 STAR REVIEWS★★★★★

Anny Books Miscellaneous Thoughts of a Bookaholic Made for You Book Reviews Amazeballs Book Addicts Cruising Susan Reviews My Favorite Things

 Denise Mathew loves good chocolate, lots of coffee, her kids and husband, when they behave, and of course writing stories. She believes that housework should be banned and wishes that potato chips were the most healthy and nutritious food on the planet. She worked as a pediatric nurse for eleven years, once owned an online jewelry business and even taught English in Thailand. She plans on writing until the stories run out, something she hopes never happens.

 

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[Waiting On Wednesday] #3

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly meme started over at Breaking The Spine

Beth's Pick:

Rare and Precious Things - Raine Miller
Expected Publication: February 28th, 2014

The fourth part in the New York Times bestselling series, The Blackstone Affair: A bright beginning for two damaged souls fighting for their hard-won love, and the promise of a new hope to secure their happily ever after.

Fresh from an idyllic honeymoon along the Italian coast, the Blackstones prepare for the birth of their precious baby and the challenges of settling into a new home. But things get complicated when specters from the past reappear to threaten the very foundation of their relationship. Ethan and Brynne will have to fight harder than ever for each other. Rare and Precious Things is the story of two people who both need the other in order to be complete, but learn just how "rare" their brand of love is when they have to risk everything in order to hold onto it.

Kait's Pick:

Ignite Me - Tahereh Mafi
Expected Publication: February 4th, 2014


The heart-stopping conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Shatter Me series, which Ransom Riggs, bestselling author of Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, called "a thrilling, high-stakes saga of self-discovery and forbidden love"

Juliette now knows she may be the only one who can stop the Reestablishment. But to take them down, she'll need the help of the one person she never thought she could trust: Warner. And as they work together, Juliette will discover that everything she thought she knew-about Warner, her abilities, and even Adam-was wrong.


In Shatter Me, Tahereh Mafi created a captivating and original story that combined the best of dystopian and paranormal and was praised by Publishers Weekly as "a gripping read from an author who's not afraid to take risks." The sequel, Unravel Me, blew readers away with heart-racing twists and turns, and New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia said it was "dangerous, sexy, romantic, and intense." Now this final book brings the series to a shocking and climactic end.

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