"Brooklyn" Review

Hello to all of you lovelies! Thanks so much for stopping by. I'm really excited to discuss the most recent novel I have finished. "Brooklyn" written by Colm Toibin, tells the story for Eilis Lacey. Eilis is a small town girl from Ireland, who makes the brave choice to start fresh in America, during the hard years that follow World War II. 

The decision to move did not come easy for Eilis. She was comfortable with her life in Ireland-- though she wasn't exactly the happiest girl in the world, while she was there-- it was home. But with the support of her sister, Rose and a family friend/priest, Father Flood, who offers to sponsor Eilis in America-- she makes the choice to move to Brooklyn. However, Eilis's journey has a rocky start-- sea-sickness, rude suite-mates and bad weather make the boat trip over a challenge. But with a little luck and determination, Eilis finds her way to a Brooklyn neighborhood that is "just like Ireland," and living in a boarding house with four other girls and the woman who runs it, Mrs. Madge Kehoe-- a fellow Irish native. 


For the first few months, Eilis is home-sick and lonely. Her only constellation are letters from her sister Rose and her mother. Though Eilis tries to busy herself with her job at the department store on Fulton Street, getting involved with Father Flood's church and taking bookkeeping classes at night, she is struggling to feel "at home" in her new city. 
Until one day, Eilis attends a church social and meets a young, Italian plumber named Tony. As the two of them grow closer, Eilis and Tony develop a deep bond and fall in love. Their connection is true and Tony becomes Eilis' rock and emotional tether to Brooklyn. Their relationship evolves quickly and Tony introduces Eilis to his family and begins including her in family holidays and traditions. Slowly this bond with Tony and her accounting qualifications from night school, helps Eilis begin to find her way in this strange new city-- which has now become her home. But just when Eilis's life in New York begins to make sense, tragedy strikes back in Ireland.
Eilis discovers the death of her sister Rose and is asked to return home. But before she leaves, Tony wants Eilis to marry him. When the two get married in a private ceremony at City Hall, they believe that this is the beginning of their lives together.
However, life has a tendency to throw a wrench into the mix. While Eilis returns to Ireland to mourn the loss of her sister, she quickly falls back into the town society with ease. Eilis finds herself spending a lot of time with her childhood friend, Nancy, Nancy's fiance George, and their friend Jim Farrell. Though their friendship starts off innocent Jim is obviously interested in Eilis and wants to take their relationship further. And Eilis' mother is all too eager to have Jim apart of their family. The Farrells are well-known among the town, as the owners of a successful, local pub and Jim is about to take over the pub entirely. 
As Eilis and Jim grow closer, she begins to distance herself from her life in New York--including her feelings for Tony. But "real-life" has a way of interfering and Eilis is conflicted about whether or not to return to Brooklyn. Leaving letters from Tony piling up and remaining unopened, she continues to extend her stay in Ireland. She begins to doubt the choices she made in America and finds it difficult to leave he life she is building in Ireland. She is faced with an impossible decision-- because in both worlds Eilis has a job, a relationship and family.  But only one can be the right choice.


After weighing he options, Eilis must decide if she wants to stay in Ireland, where it will always be simple and comfortable or return to New York, where she has carved out a life of her own. It is a nearly impossible choice, but personally I think Eilis makes the right choice for herself. She has built something in New York that solely belongs to her and no one else. And she share's it with other people, however it is a unique experience that Eilis has created on her own, through her determination and her spirit. 

While I was reading "Brooklyn," I became very emotional. It was heartbreaking to read Eilis' struggles, leaving behind everything and everyone she had ever known, in order to create her own way in the world. And I can completely justify and understand her wanting to stay in Ireland. But in saying that, I didn't like how Eilis handled the situation. I was frustrated with Eilis for not being honest with her mother, Jim and most especially Tony.

Yet, I loved the both relationships Eilis was able to build with both Jim and Tony. Both men, brought out a side of Eilis that was true. I appreciated how Toibin was able to create these two very distinctive worlds and relationships that addressed problems and choices that real people faced. 
 Have you had a chance to read "Brooklyn," yet? If so, what do you think? Who was your favorite character? Would you have made the same decision as Eilis? Would you have returned to New York or stayed in Ireland? Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. ~BL 

"The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id” Review

Hello to all of you lovelies! Last week, I had the opportunity to meet Aaron J. Lawler, and author of YA novel "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id.” And now I have the opportunity to share my thoughts with all of you wonderful readers.

"The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," tells the story of how Fitz, Hollis and Josey solve the murder of Professor Oliver Crowley, Fitz’s mentor and friend. The trio tries to balance their crime-solving as they navigate through mysterious and traumatic events, all while trying to figure out love, death and high-school (obviously the most terrifying of all). However, this could not be accomplished without the help of one of Professor Crowley's inventions. Soon, Fitz discovers he has the ability to bend the field of “Id,” a stream of golden dreams and wishes. And in doing so, Fitz finds himself pulled into a world he never knew existed, let alone, realizing he can manipulate it. But with a little help from his friends Hollis and Josey, Fitz recognizes he can use this “gift” to solve Professor Crowley’s murder and exonerate the town bully, Eddie Thompson, who is being framed for the murder.

Now before I break-down the plot and characters, I want to say that I really enjoyed this book. I found that the crafting of each character was flawless—each one had a unique and specific identity. As well as, being tremendously relatable. I found myself feeling akin to several of the main characters (though at times I found myself feeling extremely anxious on their behalf). However, I like to attribute that intense emotion to the level of connection I found with certain characters within the story. As a reader, when I develop an attachment to a character(s), I become protective, annoyed, and even angry with them at times. This was the case with "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id." I so desperately wanted the characters to make different choices, to make the right decisions and to speak their mind. But a good story-teller knows when to let the characters lead and have the story unfold naturally, which I believe Lawler was able to achieve. I enjoyed how the characters drove the plot, instead of the plot pushing forward, and the characters just so happened to be there.

Okay, so that’s as much as I can say without spoiling too much. So, if you haven’t read "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id,” yet and don’t want to be spoiled, stop here. Go read and then come back so we can discuss it together.

And now for the good stuff…

Continuing with the idea of the characters driving the plot, I also appreciated the balance of science, fantasy and emotion. In many YA/fantasy novels, the “extra-ordinary” aspects over-shadow the real story, making the characters and other key points secondary. But with "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," I could imagine being friends with these characters—even if Fitz Faraday and his best friend Holluschikie “Hollis,” are from the “wrong-side-of-the-tracks.” The reader can tell that these two boys are good people—definitely rebellious and a bit stubborn, but good nonetheless.

Their bond goes beyond the average high school friendship. For me at least, I pictured Fitz and Hollis relying on one another, that they were each other’s emotional rocks and undoubtedly trusted each other, which is a relationship that resembles more of brotherhood, then just mere friends.

But this story would not be the same without Josey (aka Fitz’s dream girl). Josey is the “new girl,” but she is also a self- proclaimed free-spirit. Her interests span from identifying leaves and calligraphy to Buddhism and Kirlian photography. Not to mention she is also the girl that Fitz stays up thinking about. Josey is also the person that challenges Fitz, pushes him to be better and the girl that has the power to drive Fitz’s 15-year old hormones absolutely crazy—whether that is out of fascination or jealousy.

“She is like a fawn hiding in the wood. The more he chases her, the deeper she goes into the dark forest. And the deeper he goes, the more lost he becomes.”

I also really enjoyed reading about Fitz and his mother’s relationship. Especially, when Fitz dreams about his mother. That scene, had me in tears. It was heart wrenching to see this young boy, become burdened with not only holding his mother’s hand and watching her die, but also with the notion that his mother was scared. In that moment, I wanted to hug Fitz and shield him from this reality.

But personally, I believe Hollis was the character I found most intriguing. He has his own demons—a hard father that would rather spend time with a bottle, than spend time with him and a mother that is no longer in his life. But at the end of the day, if Fitz asked him to, Hollis would risk everything to be there for his friend. I think I enjoyed Hollis’ character so much, because what high-school student wouldn’t want a friend like Hollis. He was also a character I found myself wanted to protect. As I was reading I got the distinct impression that Hollis hid his vulnerability from the outside world. And I’m curious to see Hollis’ story arch in the future.

It’s no surprise that as I reader, I enjoy stories with compelling characters and I found that with "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id." I believe one of the worst crimes an author can commit is telling their readers, something they already know. However, while I was reading “The Marvelous Paracosm,” I found myself surprised with the different turns the story took. Yes, there were points where I foresaw the outcome—Fitz and Josey getting together for example. But I could appreciate the route it took. The pacing was spot-on. It didn’t feel rushed or forced, it felt like a natural progression of their friendship, turned relationship.

But I think the biggest surprise for me was at the end when Lector Branham loses all control and Dr. Hagin, Madam Drood and Branham all die. Though I have a feeling this may not be the last time we see them. And might I just say, how much I wanted to punch Madam Drood and Lector Branham in the face throughout the story. However, it was exciting to see where those characters drove the story (even if they were evil).

“Eddie Thompson is innocent!... Eddie Thompson didn’t kill Professor Crowley. He did! Fitz is almost surprised to find himself standing and pointing at Lector Branham.”

Though I ended the novel with some questions, I feel that is was a wonderful example of story-telling. And I would recommend "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," to readers of all ages, especially to those whom enjoy novels that create a new world to discover.

What do you think? Have you read "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," yet? If so, what do you think of the story or how the story evolves? Who was your favorite character? Are there any characters you want to see in a sequel? Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm.
~BL 

"The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id": Q&A with author Aaron J. Lawler

Aaron J. Lawler signing a fan's book

Hello to all of you lovelies! Thanks so much for stopping by. It's been awhile since I've posted a review, but with the New Year in full swing, I've decided to break the silence with amazing news. This past November, a great YA novel was published by Black Rose Writing, "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id."

As a avid fan of literature, and someone who enjoys participating in intelligent conversations about stories with real depth. I'm excited to discuss, "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," book signing and Q&A hosted by author Aaron J. Lawler. 

The novel revolves around our main character Fitz, a 15 year old boy with an aptitude for science and two of his favorite people and sidekicks Hollis and Josey. This trio must band together to solve a murder, which has thrown their small town into a frenzy.

But for now, I want to discuss Lawler's book signing, on January 7, 2017 at Barnes & Noble in Naperville, IL. Fans of the book, were fortunate to sit down and talk with Lawler about his writing process, his background and his hope for sequels to the "The Marvelous Paracosm" series. 

Aaron J. Lawler Book Signing and Introduction

Lawler used his extensive knowledge in science and education as a way to assist the characters and to help them navigate through the varies twists and turns that they face, as well as a way to explain the fantasy/science fiction aspects of the story. "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," incorporates elements of science, fantasy and a great deal of emotion. Fitz, Hollis and Josey have all overcome obstacles, with the help of each other. And according to Lawler, "teamwork" is one of the morals of the novel and something that is missing from many contemporary YA novels. 

Fans of all ages will enjoy "The Marvelous Paracosm" 

In the future, Lawler will be hosting a Facebook Live event in February and will be touring to different Barnes & Noble locations in the Chicagoland area. You can also watch Lawler on Jovie Calma's channel at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCleGOH2EuU8mxEdSdsQuuXA.

For more information of Lawler's future book signings, please visit: http://writeraaronjlawler.strikingly.com/. 

You can also purchase your copy of, "The Marvelous Paracosm of Fitz Faraday and the Shapers of the Id," in both paperback or ebook at http://www.blackrosewriting.com/scififantasy/theshapersoftheid, and/or at https://www.amazon.com/Marvelous-Paracosm-Fitz-Faraday-Shapers and/or participating Barnes & Noble stores.

Fans of all ages will enjoy "The Marvelous Paracosm"

A more in-depth book review is coming up next, so stay tuned. But for those of you who have already read about Fitz's adventures, what do you think? Do you like how the story evolves? And how the character's react? Would you respond in the same way? Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that the my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. 

~BL

"After" Review

Hello to all of you lovelies! As a fan of a wide variety of novels, I enjoy reading books with creative perspectives and different point of views, as well as interesting story lines. A lot of the time, this comes from novels revolving around situations that drive character development. I try to find books with compelling characters, social satire and story evolution. 

In say this, I was initially intrigue by the novel "After," written by Anna Todd. I had heard of the YA series a couple of years ago, but hadn't picked up the book until now. Unfortunately, as I was reading the novel I found it extremely difficult to relate to any of the characters-- especially the main character Tessa. 

"After" follows the first semester of Tessa's freshman year of college. On the surface, Tessa appears to be a "good-girl." Beginning the year, Tessa has a kind and loyal boyfriend and a committed, albeit overbearing mother, but her world turns upside down when she meets Hardin. As the stereotypical "bad-boy," Hardin displays aggression, angst and turmoil. However, when I was reading the character of Hardin I found him to be an emotionally crueler version of  Christian Grey from the series "50 Shades of Grey." 

Hardin is manipulative and harsh. He treats the people around him severely and has violent outbursts. Similarly to the "50 Shades of Grey" books, Hardin and Christen both have a traumatic pasts. But unlike Christen Grey, Hardin's emotions don't manifest in S&M, but come out in vicious arguments and possessive demands. 

Once Tessa and Hardin start their relationship, the reader is exposed to two different sides of Hardin. As well as, confronted with so many questions about the relationship-- why Hardin behaves the way he does and why Tessa trusts Hardin so much, so quickly and why Hardin is extremely possessive of Tessa. Especially, after observing how tumultuous the relationship is between Tessa and Hardin, the reader is constantly questioning Hardin's motives. 

Furthermore, "After's" main plot had very little depth and was surrounded around superficial relationships. I also found Tessa's character to be frustrating and kindof annoying, she had little to no self-respect and allowed people to manipulate and take advantage of her. Hardin on the other hand is cocky, overtly possessive and controlling. I found that "After" displayed a poor depiction of women, as well as a negative and unhealthy view of relationships. 

As I was reading the novel, I kept drawing comparisons between two narratives: "50 Shades of Grey" and the early 2000's teen movie "She's All That." And as "After" came to a conclusion, I believe my comparisons were spot-on. The climax of the relationship between Hardin and Tessa, reveled that it was basically all a lie. It was based off of a cruel, manipulative bet Hardin had made with his friends to take Tessa's virginity. 

Though, I know my opinion may not be the popular one. "After" does have an elaborate and extensive fan base, I didn't really enjoy the book and I probably won't read the rest of the series. I found the characters to be impossible to relate to and I could wrap my mind around the idea of Tessa actually dating Hardin. He belittled her, made fun of her, was cruel to her, showed no remorse of his actions and repeatedly lied her. And that was before they started dating. As someone who has dated guys throughout high school, college and post college, I could not comprehend entering into a relationship with that behaved that way. I don't find this type of story romantic or find the character redeemable. I think this story displays overtly sexual scenes that are demeaning to women and a negative view for young women to "aspire" to.

What do you think? Have you read the book "After" or the other books in the series? If so, how do you think of the story or how the story evolves? Do you think I'm wrong and should give the "After" series a second chance? Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that the my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. 

~BL 

"Where She Went" Review

Hello to all of you lovelies! I'm a bit behind on posting this month. I have already read/listened to a few books, and I am incredibly excited to share my thoughts with you all. But more than that, I'm eager to hear from all of you. Although, many of the books I have written reviews on have been categorized as "YA" or "Young Adult," I don't believe that should hinder anyone from enjoying a good story. As I have stated in the past I am a sucker for a enticing tale-- whether that is a novel written for young adults or adults. A biography written on someone I find interesting or admire, or even a fable-- navigating the journey of one of my favorite heroes/heroines. 

The fact is, that I enjoy the act of reading, I enjoy learning and I enjoy taking lessons away from a good book. I believe, reading opens the mind. It gives new perspectives, it allows the audience to escape and travel between space and time, but most importantly it is a way to venture outside of yourself and exceed your own expectations. 

So, I hope you all continue to read. But more than that I hope to hear from you. I'd love to hear what you think. What characters you believe are redeemable, evil/good or even what characters you relate to the most. I'm also always looking for good books to read, so if you have any recommendations let me know in the comment section. 

Now that all of the housekeeping has been taken care of, let's get to the good stuff. 

The book I'm going to review is a sequel to one of my favorite stories. It is also I book that I picked up a while ago but just now gotten around to reading it-- and I am kicking myself. "Where She Went," by Gayle Forman, is the sequel to the novel "If I Stay."

If you are unfamiliar with book "If I Stay," it revolves around a young girl named Mia Hall and a devastating car accident, which killed her family and forced her "spirit" to decide whether to live or die. "Where She Went," picks up three years after Mia's car accident. But this time around, the story is told through Mia's high school boyfriend, Adam's point of view. 

Adam's story from the outside world-- is one that most people would do anything to have. His dream of making it as a musician came true. He is officially a "rock-star." His band "Shooting Star" is chart topping, with world tours, platinum albums and record breaking sales. But not just that-- he has the bank account of a "rock-star," the girlfriend of a "rock-star" and the habits of a "rock-star." And yet, Adam remains haunted by his past. 

After the death of the Hall family and loosing Mia because of time, distance and heartbreak, Adam becomes anxious and distant from the people around him-- including his family and friends, "Where She Went," follows Adam's journey as he begins to pull his life back together and as he starts to make choices that mend his mind and heart. 

"Where She Went," bounces between the book's present and Adam's memories. Memories of Mia, memories of the early days of "Shooting Star" and memories of his love of music. The book's present begins with a reunion between Mia and Adam. On a day, which causes Adam significant torment he finds his way to Mia. Who is preforming the debut of her life at Carnegie Hall. It is the beginning of her classical, cello career and the beginning of the life she has worked the last three years to achieve. After a brief meeting in Mia's dressing room, Adam's anxiety takes hold and he leaves abruptly. He believed that it was a sign and that meeting Mia again would provide a sense of peace. But peace did not come. Instead, Mia tracked him down and persuaded him to rediscover her city. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future and each other.

When Adam and Mia see each other again, their spark is reignited and they begin to divulge their secrets, their fears and their desires for the future. Their confessions help to rebuild their bond and they realize that the love they once shared still exists.

Their bond is almost palpable and is one of my favorite aspects of the book. Gayle Forman's writing is incredibly vivid and the description of their past and present supports the idea that these characters remained devoted to one another. Though they have both suffered, they understand that their love of music and of one another will heal them. "Where She Went" is the a book love, closure and acceptance. 

"Mia's smile is melting chocolate. It's a kick-ass guitar solo. It's everything good in the world."

What do you think? Have you read the book "If I Stay," or "Where She Went"? If so, how do you think the sequel compares?  Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that the my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. 

~BL 

Book-Con: Chicago

Hello to all of you lovelies! Every year, the literary community gathers together for a must anticipated event-- BookCon. BookCon is an annual fan convention, which was established in New York back in 2014. Taking its name format from other fan conventions (ie Comic-Con), BookCon combines contemporary pop culture and the book industry.

Personally, I have been looking forward to BookCon for over a year. Now with the only a few weeks left before the big day-- May 14, 2016-- I cannot wait to see what is in store this year. Each year there are panels and Q&As with some of most beloved authors, comedians, celebrities and content creators. In addition to a Show Floor with the most influential publishers in the world and autograph sessions.

This year, there is over a dozen wonderful and creative guests that will be presenting and offering insight into their creative processes. For someone like me, who has been an avid reader since childhood and is an aspiring writer, BookCon's immersive experience is the ultimate celebration of the literary world. It allows an interactive, educational and creative outlet for all of my fellow book-nerds out there (don't worry, I say that with love). To be honest, I don't know what or who I'm most looking forward to-- there are too many wonderful authors and creators attending this year's event for me to choose from, but I will say that Pierce Brown, Scott Sigler, Susan Dennard, Cassandra Clare, Michael DiMartino and fellow Chicagoan Veronica Roth are definitely at the top of my list. 

I am hoping to attend as many panels and Q&As as possible, as well as hear about up coming projects some of my favorite authors/creators will be apart of in the future. If you are in the Chicago area, I highly recommend checking out BookCon this year. For more information go to: http://www.thebookcon.com.

For now, I say good night and hope that the my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. 

~BL 

"Lady Midnight" Review

Hello to all of you lovelies! Here today, I have my latest review. I'm incredibly excited to share my thoughts on the most recent book I have completed. "Lady Midnight," is the first book of the Dark Artifices series from author Cassandra Clare.

The Dark Artifices series, continues the adventures of the Shadowhunter world and connects The Mortal Instruments series and The Infernal Devices trilogy with overlapping characters and plot twits. Now, this is one of my favorite aspects of Clare's writing--especially within the Shadowhunter world-- she is able to intertwine plots from multiple locations, times throughout history and character connections.

However before I dive in, I want to disclose that I have read both of Cassandra Clare's previous series-- which is pretty important. For those of you that have not read The Mortal Instruments series and/or The Infernal Devices trilogy, you will be EXTREMELY confused jumping into this book. The other two series are quite extensive and gives important background details into the Shadowhunter world--which vital to have in order to understand "Lady Midnight." In The Mortal Instruments series and The Infernal Devices trilogy the characters explain the rules of this world, the types of obstacles Shadowhunters face and both series set up the plot for The Dark Artifices. Without having that background information, "Lady Midnight" would be almost impossible to understand, especially since characters from both series make appearances in "Lady Midnight" and Clare's newest series stems from the aftermath of  The Mortal Instruments series.That being said, The Dark Artifices has already established it's own identity among the other Shadowhunter novels. 

It is set in present day LA and follows Emma Carstairs. The latest, in a long line of Shadowhunters. Emma is not only a warrior, but she is one of the best (arguably the best of her generation) and she is the heroin we are supporting. Emma is a unique type of character, because she only truly had two motivations in life. 1.) To find out the truth about how her parents' died and 2.) her parabatai: Julian Blackthorn (basically the most important person in the world to her).

Emma's story picks up, several years after the epic battle in Idris, known as the "Dark War." "The Dark War" concludes The Mortal Instruments series and begins the set-up for The Dark Artifices.

"The Dark War" was fought against Sebastian Morgenstern. This battle killed off the majority of the Shadowhunter community and resulted in the Cold Peace (a term used to refer to the harsh fallout of the treaty signed between Shadowhunters and the faeries of the Seelie Court). The Cold Peace unified the Shadowhunters, Vampires, Witches/Warlocks and Werewolves against the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. This treaty unified many (previously) warring communities, however it also divided families and friends. Anyone within these factions--specifically the Shadowhunters-- that had "faerie blood" were exiled. This very act, separated the Blackthorn family even further. Julian's parents were killed during the "Dark War," and now Julian's older sister-- Helen and older brother-- Mark were taken away from the rest of their family. Leaving a twelve year old Julian in charge of and responsible for his four younger siblings. 

However, when were are re-introduced to the Blackthorn family--it is present day and they are all older. Emma and Julian are tasked with patrols and though Emma is eager for battle, where Emma goes Julian is not far behind. And on a night like any other, Emma comes across a case that is eerily similar to one she holds most dear--the death of her parents. When the bodies of humans and faeries turn up murdered the same way Emma's parents were discovered, a secret and hesitant alliance is formed between Emma and the Blackthorns and the faeries. 

Emma sees this as an opportunity to discover the truth behind her parents' murders and Julian has the opportunity to have his brother, Mark back-- who was being held by the faeries and was forced to become a member of the Wild Hunt. 

"Lady Midnight," takes the concepts that readers have come to know and understand from Clare's previous works, but adds in new twists and turns. I really enjoyed the deep emotion and humor that seemed effortless between the characters and personally I could feel the paternal devotion Julian had for his younger siblings. I also really appreciated the intermingling of  past events, which helped shape the arch of the story. 

Although, I really did enjoy the dynamic between all of the characters, the Emma and Julian story line frustrated me--especially in the end. I didn't like that Emma, lied to Julian and decided to "pretend" to be in a relationship with Mark-- because I feel like that goes against the fundamentals of the parabatai bond. The parabatai connection binds two people together on a spiritual and emotional level. Furthermore, Emma and Julian's bond is stronger than most to the point where Julian literally almost drowned in his studio because Emma was trapped in the ocean, so I feel like Julian should be able to tell the Emma is lying. I also think, that once Emma discovered the truth about the parabatai bond she should have told Julian. She is now causing a deeper rift in an already unstable relationship, between Julian and Mark. 

But I really enjoyed the connection that was forming between Mark and Christina (a close friend of Emma's, who is doing her "travel year" in LA, but she is originally from Mexico). In general, I really enjoyed Christina's character-- she reminded me a little of Izzy from the The Mortal Instruments-- in the sense that they are both fiercely protective over the ones they care about and they are strong warriors that never back down from a challenge. I also, liked Mark's character a lot. He provided a great deal of comedic relief and also provided a lot of insight and knowledge about the faeries. 

Now, that I've completed "Lady Midnight" I can honestly say that I enjoyed the book-- even with the frustrating parts--predictable "love-triangle" and the lack of adult support, in addition to the possible inconsistencies with plot points (parabatai connection-- how it works, why is Emma's and Julian's connection strong enough to create a "super parabatai" bond, where if one dies so does the other, but not strong enough to detect when one of them is lying). 

However, if I am being honest I would also have to say I didn't enjoy "Lady Midnight" as much as I enjoyed some of Clare's other novels. Out of all of her series (so far) I would say that The Infernal Devices trilogy is my favorite and from collection, "Clockwork Princess" would be my top choice.

"I don't know... But I know Tessa. She's his-- well, girlfriend seems not the right word for it. They've known each other a long time. I have a feeling they're both watching over you."

Yet, I am excited to read what happens next in The Dark Artifices and where the story will pick up. What do you think? Have you read the book? How do you think it compares to Cassandra Clare's other series (so far)? Are you also hoping to see more of Jem and Tessa/ Jace and Clary? What do you think about the cliffhanger about the "lost Herondale"? Does that make Jace and Tessa related to him? I can't wait to see how Tessa and Jem fit into the next part of the story. What about you? Let me know, I'd love to hear your thoughts!

For now, I say good night and hope that the my random ramblings have peeked your inner bookworm. 

~BL