{Review} Silver Shadows (Bloodlines #5) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Release Date: July 29th, 2014
Finished Date: July 28th, 2014

Publishers: Puffin 
Genre: YA, Paranormal, Romance
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback

Pages: 380

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

In The Fiery Heart, Sydney risked everything to follow her gut, walking a dangerous line to keep her feelings hidden from the Alchemists.

Now in the aftermath of an event that ripped their world apart, Sydney and Adrian struggle to pick up the pieces and find their way back to each other. But first, they have to survive. 

For Sydney, trapped and surrounded by adversaries, life becomes a daily struggle to hold on to her identity and the memories of those she loves. Meanwhile, Adrian clings to hope in the face of those who tell him Sydney is a lost cause, but the battle proves daunting as old demons and new temptations begin to seize hold of him. . . .

Their worst fears now a chilling reality, Sydney and Adrian face their darkest hour in this heart-pounding fifth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where all bets are off.

The Review: Richelle Mead is back with Silver Shadows, the fifth instalment in the Bloodlines series and what an experience it was. Engrossing, emotional and so exciting, and let’s not forget more Adrian and Sydney!

After The Fiery Heart, which was a masterpiece of work, I knew that anything after that would be hard to top. It brought so many spectacular moments and while Silver Shadows in parts, was just as good, the first 150 pages really were quite slow. I hate to stay that but it really was. I found myself getting frustrated with Adrian and Sydney’s situations and more so with Adrian and the way he ‘handled’ it all. I wanted movement, I wanted Sydney and Adrian back together but it was clear from the start that there would be quite a wait. But once I hit that 175 page mark, oh wow, Richelle Mead was back in force and what an amazing ride it was from there on out!

Sydney’s situation was simply horrid. It actually made me hate the Alchemists for how they treated their people who step out of line. I could see why they felt the need for a rehabilitation centre but they just handled everything so poorly and just damn right inhuman. I honestly don’t know how Sydney kept it together for so long. Her journey was emotional! And Adrian’s, without her he simply falls apart. He made some silly mistakes which had me so mad, but I’m glad he got his act together. I definitely enjoy the story more when the two of them are together, I simply don’t like them apart and I enjoy the story all the more when they are.
I think what made this instalment so memorable is that one scene in Vegas! I’m not saying more but it’s a whirlwind of emotions in a highly dangerous situation that will simply bring on the feels for the story. It’s was a fantastic and unexpected part of the story, hence why it’s so memorable!

The ending was good, it wasn’t on the level as The Fiery Heart’s ending but it was good in its own way, letting you see how things in the next book may go. Everyone’s stories are suddenly coming together and I just can’t wait for the final instalment. I need more Adrian and Sydney and I’m not ready to let these characters go just yet.

Favourite Quotes: “I know what love is, Mom. I’ve had love that burns in every fibre of my being, that drives me to be a better person and empowers me through each moment of the day. If you’d ever had something like that, you’d hold on to it with every bit of strength you had.” – Adrian

“Everything I’d fought for, every challenge, every victory … all of it was empty if anything happened to him. Without him, I wouldn’t have had the courage to become the person I was. Without him, I wouldn’t have realized what it truly was to live and love life. He was my centre, and there was nothing I wouldn’t do, nothing I wouldn’t give up, to keep him safe.” – Sydney.

Thank you to Puffin for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review. 

A Review for The Fiery Heart (Bloodlines #4) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jess
Release Date:  November 19th 2013
Finished Date: December 6th, 2013

Publishers: Puffin
Genre: YA , Paranormal, Romance
Source: Bought

Format: Paperback
Pages: 420

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . 

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this thrilling fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

Review: Well Richelle Mead has done it again. This lady never fails to amaze me with her books. She always manages to pull it out of the bag. 

I have been waiting almost a year for The Fiery Heart, and it most certainly didn't disappoint. Not a single bit. I always manage to get hooked on Richelle's books from the first page, and this book was no different. It felt so awesome to be back with the gang again, even some of the old ones made an appearance, to my absolutely delight. 

The Fiery Heart was  fantastic read from the start to the very end. This book was I thought very much a filler and  build up the what I am sure will be a huge excitement filled 5th round in Silver Shadows which publishes next summer. There wasn't a lot of action, but that was ok, because is carried on some of the stories we were left with in Indigo Spell last year, it was most definitely a book made to answer questions raised (kind of), and most definitely setting up for what I can be sure will be an explosions in the next.

For a filler book it was beautifully paced, full of witty banter, love, sex (yes sex). It had all the elements you come to expect in a Richelle Mead book, and I simply loved it and I was most definitely irresistibly hooked all the way through. We get a lot of Adrian, we get a lot of Sydney, we get a lot of Adrian and Sydney. Together. Told in alternate points of view from Adrian and Sydney, we are really thrown into their relationship and how they attempt to keep it under wraps so that neither get into trouble. I loved being in Adrian's head, from the moment we meet him Vampire Academy: Frostbite, I've wanted his point of view, and we get it in Fiery Heart and it didn't disappoint. 

Just to touch on the ending of the book (because this has been  bit of  a gushy review), the ending is, well, I guess expected to say the least, although you could sort of call it a 'semi-cliff-hanger' but really, compared to most Richelle Mead cliffys, this one really isn't that bad at all. Sure it's gonna want to make you want Silver Shadows, but it won't make you rip your hair out, cry or throw your book/kindle at the wall, and that's always a plus for me :). So not much of a cliffy, but sort of a semi one, but an expected ending none the less.

Overall,  fabulous new instalment to the Bloodlines series. If you haven't already picked up this series, then you probably should do that. GO!

A Review for The Fiery Heart (Bloodlines #4) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Release Date:  November 19th 2013
Finished Date: December 11, 2013

Publishers: Puffin
Genre: YA , Paranormal, Romance
Source: For Review

Format: Paperback
Pages: 420

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

In The Indigo Spell, Sydney was torn between the Alchemist way of life and what her heart and gut were telling her to do. And in one breathtaking moment that Richelle Mead fans will never forget, she made a decision that shocked even her. . . 

But the struggle isn't over for Sydney. As she navigates the aftermath of her life-changing decision, she still finds herself pulled in too many directions at once. Her sister Zoe has arrived, and while Sydney longs to grow closer to her, there's still so much she must keep secret. Working with Marcus has changed the way she views the Alchemists, and Sydney must tread a careful path as she harnesses her profound magical ability to undermine the way of life she was raised to defend. Consumed by passion and vengeance, Sydney struggles to keep her secret life under wraps as the threat of exposure—and re-education—looms larger than ever.

Pulses will race throughout this thrilling fourth installment in the New York Times bestselling Bloodlines series, where no secret is safe.

The Review: “I didn’t care about anything except her and the way touching her drove me wild, even as her calm and steady presence soothed the storms that raged within me.” 

Oh my gosh! The Fiery Heart literally took my breath away. There was me thinking The Indigo Spell was the best of the series so far, well, I was wrong. It's definitely The Fiery Heart and once again, Richelle Mead creates another spectacular read. 

After the events in The Indigo Spell, Sydney's choices left us readers breathless and completely over the moon. Her choices lead to so many awesome things in this instalment, but it also comes with some bad ones too. When her sister; Zoe arrives, Sydney has to be more careful than ever,  if she wants to crack the Alchemists secrets and continue to working with Marcus....and of course, sneaking in some Adrian time too. But the more time she works with the Moroi and Dhampir's work, the more suspicions starts to grow.

The Fiery Heart was a very special treat for all us Adrian fans, mainly because we finally get his point of view. Squeee!! I know you're all doing a little happy dance, and it's definitely a happy dance you should be doing, because Adrian's POV is fantastic. In the VA series, we all knew who Adrian was and even at the start of the Bloodlines series, we see him slowly start to change, but actually getting in his head...wow! To see all his struggles and to see how he deals with his magical element spirit, at times, was completely heart-breaking. He's driven to always help people - it's who he is - so as soon as Lissa, the Moroi vampire Queen asks him for help, of course, he's first in line. What people don't realise is how much spirit is affecting him and they don't know how he feels, but we do in this and I'm lost for words. It's hard to describe. At times I want to hold Adrian because I feel so bad for him, we really do see him at his worst in parts of the story and it all results into the amount of spirit he uses. Adrian is a very well developed character, he's honest, brave and very caring and I still believe there is more to come from him. 

What I loved about The Fiery Heart was the fact that Adrian and Sydney got so much time together. It was a great change from the previous books and at times, they even got a little reckless. I loved seeing them like that. It was good that they let loose, and even though the ending of the book, well, the ending isn't great for them, I believe in Richelle when she says it will be all worth it in the end. Even though there really wasn't a plot for this story, it was kind of a filler setting you up for the next two books. If anything it was much more enjoyable....even though it was pretty tense because all the while, you just know something is coming....and something is coming! 

In all, Richelle Mead has wrote another fantastic read and left me hanging by a thread until the release of Silver Shadows. I can not wait! 

A Review for The Indigo Spell (Bloodlines #3) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Release Date:  February 12th 2013
Finished Date: December 8th, 2013

Publishers: Puffin
Genre: YA , Paranormal, Romance
Source: Bought

Format: Kindle
Pages: 388

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets--and human lives." 
In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that  her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

Review: “I don't care if you say we can't be together. I don't care if you think I'm the most evil, unnatural creature walking on earth. You can think whatever you want, go whatever you want. I'm going to just go on loving you, even if it's hopeless.” 

4.5 Stars! 

The Indigo Spell….wow! It’s easily my favourite of the series so far! I loved every minute of it and I couldn’t put it down. My reading has been pretty slow lately but I managed to finish this in just under 48 hours, and most of that was because of Adrian ;) Can this guy get any sweeter? 

The story kicks off with Mrs Terwilliger informing Sydney that an evil witch could possibly be after her, leading Sydney to step up her magic and try more complicated spells. Adrian is there every step of the way for her, in more ways than one – much to Sydney’s disapproval, but not only that. Sydney finally seeks out Marcus Finch where she finally starts to get some real answers about the Alchemists, but she’s left torn. Can she really turn her back on them? 

Awww I loved it! Really, I did! I couldn’t have asked for a better book….honestly, it kind of blew me away. Richelle definitely stepped up her game! What I loved was how the story kicked off from the get go. There was always something going on and it was so entertaining. The plot is getting thicker and thicker, and more scarier if I'm honest. I'm scared for Sydney, I can kind of guess what's coming and I'm worried for her. This whole Alchemist business is freaky. They moan about the Moroi and Dhampirs but surely what they're doing is wrong too? I have to say I'm excited to see the outcome though. 

As you can probably guess Adrian was a huge factor for me in this book. He continues to surprise me and as a character, he's developing a lot too. He has so much on his shoulders and I honestly can feel his pain. It's his honestly that stands out the most though and the way he is with Sydney. If I thought I swooned at Dimitri, then Adrian just knocked him off the top spot! And yes I do see why Sydney went so back and fourth in this one. It was about her coming to terms with who she really wants to be and that does take time, no matter how frustrating it was to read. 

I honestly couldn't fault The Indigo Spell and I'm even more excited now to start The Fiery Heart! I need more Adrian! Bravo Richelle! 

A Review for The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Release Date:  June 12th, 2012
Finished Date: December 5th, 2013

Publishers: Puffin
Genre: YA, Paranormal, Romance
Source: Bought

Format: Kindle
Pages: 418

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Sydney Sage is an Alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of humans and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives.

Sydney would love to go to college, but instead, she’s been sent into hiding at a posh boarding school in Palm Springs, California–tasked with protecting Moroi princess Jill Dragomir from assassins who want to throw the Moroi court into civil war. Formerly in disgrace, Sydney is now praised for her loyalty and obedience, and held up as the model of an exemplary Alchemist.

But the closer she grows to Jill, Eddie, and especially Adrian, the more she finds herself questioning her age–old Alchemist beliefs, her idea of family, and the sense of what it means to truly belong. Her world becomes even more complicated when magical experiments show Sydney may hold the key to prevent becoming Strigoi—the fiercest vampires, the ones who don’t die. But it’s her fear of being just that—special, magical, powerful—that scares her more than anything. Equally daunting is her new romance with Brayden, a cute, brainy guy who seems to be her match in every way. Yet, as perfect as he seems, Sydney finds herself being drawn to someone else—someone forbidden to her.

When a shocking secret threatens to tear the vampire world apart, Sydney’s loyalties are suddenly tested more than ever before. She wonders how she's supposed to strike a balance between the principles and dogmas she's been taught, and what her instincts are now telling her.

Should she trust the Alchemists—or her heart?

The Review: “I tried to be a better person for her– but it was to impress her, to get her to want me. But when I’m around you, I want to be better because… well, because it feels right. Because I want to. You make me want to become something greater than myself. I want to excel. You inspire me in every act, every word, every glance. I look at you, and you’re like… like light made into flesh. You have no clue how beautiful you are or how brightly you shine.” 

It too me forever to read this book. Well not forever, but like two weeks....and honestly it wasn't even the book that was the problem, it was me. I wasn't really in a reading mood, but I pushed through and YAY for me because this book was awesome! 

The Golden Lily starts just slightly after Bloodlines and the gang are back, working hard at school and trying to find out some more clues about how spirit works on Strigoi. There's love in the air as both Sydney and Jill start dating, danger lurking around the corner for Sonya, Mrs Terwilliger  is still pushing magic onto Sydney, but most of all, a new threat has moved to Palm Springs. It's never a dull moment! 

I really enjoyed this sequel, I didn't it was quiet as packed as Bloodlines, mainly because the story doesn't kick off until around 40%. So it was a little bit slower, but still enjoyable because of the awesome characters. What I loved about this one was how the story is getting more complex. There's not just one thing going on, there are several, and it makes the story that more interesting and really kept me on my toes.

And what made me love this book was of course, Sydney and Adrian! Well, mainly Adrian. Gosh can this boy get any sweeter? Seriously, I literally melted! I love how honest he is but what I love most is how much were starting to unravel him as a character. He's was present in most of the VA books but you don't really SEE him. You know he likes to drink, smoke and play the field but he has reasons for that. It comes down to him hiding who he really is, and deep down, not even Rose knows the real Adrian.....but Sydney's starting too. Their relationship slowly blooms and it's really beautiful seeing the connection they have - even though they don't completely see it themselves. 

In all, The Golden Lily was a good sequel, one that improved as the story went along but one that was still highly entertaining...and I can't wait to read more in The Indigo Spell. 

A Review for Bloodlines (Bloodlines #1) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Release Date:  August 23rd, 2011
Finished Date: November 19th, 2013

Publishers: Puffin
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Source: Gifted

Format: Paperback
Pages: 432

Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

Blood doesn't lie...

Sydney is an alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of human and vampires. They protect vampire secrets - and human lives. When Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle of the night, at first she thinks she's still being punished for her complicated alliance with dhampir Rose Hathaway. But what unfolds is far worse. Jill Dragomir - the sister of Moroi Queen Lissa Dragomir - is in mortal danger, and the Moroi must send her into hiding. To avoid a civil war, Sydney is called upon to act as Jill's guardian and protector, posing as her roommate in the last place anyone would think to look for vampire royalty - a human boarding school in Palm Springs, California. But instead of finding safety at Amberwood Prep, Sydney discovers the drama is only just beginning...

The Review: “My God, Sage. Your eyes. How have I never noticed them?" That uncomfortable feeling was spreading over me again. "What about them?" "The color," he breathed. "When you stand in the light. They're amazing... like molten gold. I could paint those..." He reached toward me but then pulled back. "They're beautiful. You're beautiful.”

It’s been a long time since I’ve read anything by Richelle Mead and most of that is my fault, because once I heard she was writing Bloodlines, the spin off to Vampire Academy series; I knew I wanted to read it, however, I also knew I wanted to wait for a few books to be released in the series before making a start on it. So, as you can see, with the release of the fourth book in the Bloodline series, I now felt it was the perfect time for me to start, and I’m so glad I did.

Bloodlines was a great start to this new series. Richelle Mead is a fantastic writer and it was so easy to slip back into her style of writing. I have to admit I was slightly unsure if I was going to enjoy the story being told from Sydney's point of view, however, I was completely taken by surprise by how much I come to enjoy and love her. Sydney was a great narrator! And of course it was great to get to know Eddie, Jill and Adrian more...or course Adrian. I was always a fan of him in the VA series, even though Rose did pick the right guy for her, sadly Adrian suffered because of that. I think it was a wise choice by Richelle to continue Adrian's story through out the Bloodline series. We all love him and we all want that happy ending for him, so hopefully he will get one. 

I really enjoyed the whole plot of Bloodlines too. It was something new and different. Not only do we get more from the Moroi and Dhampirs but we get the Alchemists too. It was interesting to unravel Sydney's beliefs and find out more of the gritty stuff to her work. We get more than one bad guy and we get some hope of a relationship between Adrian and Sydney.....eek! I'm super excited for that. 

Anyway, Bloodlines was a good start and I look forward to reading more in The Golden Lily. 

A Review for The Indigo Spell (Bloodlines #3) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jess
Release Date: February 12th, 2013

Finished Date: February 20th, 2013

Publishers: Razorbill
Source: Birthday gift from Donna

Format: Paperback

Pages:  432
Buy: Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

In the aftermath of a forbidden moment that rocked Sydney to her core, she finds herself struggling to draw the line between her Alchemist teachings and what her heart is urging her to do. Then she meets alluring, rebellious Marcus Finch--a former Alchemist who escaped against all odds, and is now on the run. Marcus wants to teach Sydney the secrets he claims the Alchemists are hiding from her. But as he pushes her to rebel against the people who raised her, Sydney finds that breaking free is harder than she thought. There is an old and mysterious magic rooted deeply within her. And as she searches for an evil magic user targeting powerful young witches, she realizes that her only hope is to embrace her magical blood--or else she might be next.

 Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, the Bloodlines series explores all the friendship, romance, battles, and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive—this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone’s out for blood.

The Review: "Because I can't help doing it," he said with a shrug. "And hey, if I keep loving you, maybe one day'll you'll eventually crack and love me too. Hell, I'm pretty sure you're already half in love with me"-Adrian

Well Richelle did it again! She’s created another great instalment to the Bloodlines series. I really enjoyed this one, so much more than the one before (and that one was awesome).  

I eagerly anticipated this book, from the moment I put down The Golden Lily, I wanted this book. I always have high expectations with Richelle Mead’s books…and she totally doesn't disappoint me. Never, ever.

I'm pretty biased when it comes to Richelle’s books. Because I love her and she’s one of my favourite authors, I find that anything by her is pretty fantastic. She has a great way of sucking you into her stories from the first line. With The Indigo Spell, it’s not different. From the moment I started this book I fell back in love with her writing and couldn't wait to continue Sydney’s story.

The story continued and rolled over to being far more intriguing than the last book. We learn more about Marcus Finch and the other Alchemists. There’s a ton more of Adrian…*sigh* yup, Adrian makes a prominent appearance throughout the book and keeps it all steady with his charm and wit. I enjoyed reading more about his and Sydney’s developing relationship, Richelle Mead manages to create slow romances, no insta-love to be found.

I loved Sydney in this one, she did frustrate me a lot too, but that came down to her feelings for Adrian and denying herself because he’s a ‘dark creature of the night’ (pffft…). There doesn't seem to be a love triangle brewing…yet. And I like that. I hate love triangles if they aren't from book one.

The Indigo Spell is full of mystery and suspense leaving you to work out everything. I must admit I really enjoyed the storyline of Ms. Terwilliger’s missing sister, Veronica. I love to see a bit of mystery and to see more magic being used in this book was excellent.

The ending is pretty good. You’ll be pleased to k now it’s not a HUGE cliffhanger like Golden Lily, but it WILL make you want the next book. And I await impatiently for it.

Anyway, there really isn’t much else I can say about this without gushing about how, like, totally awesome it is.

The Indigo Spell is filled with mystery, comedy, charm, a couple of budding romances, and some really fun characters that you’ll fall in love. Naturally I highly recommend anything by Richelle Mead, and if you haven’t quite gotten around to reading her VA series, I suggest you do…because then you can move to her Bloodlines series. It’s not a disappointment. 

A Review for The Golden Lily (Bloodlines #2) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jess

Release Date:  June 12th, 2012

Finished Date: June 17th, 2012

Publishers: Razorbill

Source: Bought

Format:  Paperback

Pages: 418
Buy : Amazon UK / Amazon US / The Book Depo

The second thrilling instalment in Richelle Mead's Vampire Academy spin off series

 <

Tough, brainy alchemist Sydney Sage and doe-eyed Moroi princess Jill Dragomir are in hiding at a human boarding school in the sunny, glamorous world of Palm Springs, California. The students--children of the wealthy and powerful--carry on with their lives in blissful ignorance, while Sydney, Jill, Eddie, and Adrian must do everything in their power to keep their secret safe. But with forbidden romances, unexpected spirit bonds, and the threat of Strigoi moving ever closer, hiding the truth is harder than anyone thought.

 <

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Richelle Mead's breathtaking Bloodlines series explores all the friendship, romance, battles, and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive. In this second book, the drama is hotter, the romances are steamier, and the stakes are even higher.

The Review: "Nice blouse, Sage," he told me, deadpan. "It really brings out the khaki in your pants." -Adrian
<
Well, Richelle Mead never disappoints. I loved Bloodlines when I read it last year, and I loved this even more. Richelle, like with all her books always finds a way to suck you in from the start. Her characters get right in there, and you connect with them from the get go. There was nothing different about The Golden Lily with regards to that. It was amazing, and it felt really good to get back with the characters. 
<
Sydney has come a long way from the days of Vampire Academy. Back then she wasn't overly likable. But now having seen her story from the beginning in Bloodlines to now, she's very likable. She isn't Rose, but that's fine. To begin with Sydney is against vampires, but this is based on what she has been taught all her life by the other Alchemists. She follows the instructions and the rules. She tries not to get emotionally involved but from working so close with Jill, Eddie and Adrian she learns that maybe vampires aren't all that bad, but human can be just as evil.
<
Adrian is back. Oh boy is he back. He's still his witty self. Full of charisma and charm. I didn't realise how much I really missed him until he came back in the book. As most of you will know I've always been Team Dimitri, but reading this series will make you love Adrian just as much. He doesn't take away the love I have for Dimitri, but he's a perfectly good substitute for it. You'll be pleased to know that Dimitri does in fact make an appearance, he's very much a secondary character now, and that's fine, because there's enough story and enough Adrian to help you through it.
<
The plot itself went from strength to strength. Like all Richelle Mead they're never predictable, and always full of shocks and revelations that leave the reader reeling and wanting more. This was no different. I was completely enthralled. Although it had been a while since I'd read Bloodlines, and I probably should have done a re-read, but in all honesty, Richelle adds refresher hints through out the book that it all eventually comes swinging back to you. There was constant action, new characters, old characters and well thought out plot that leaves you interested and keen to go on reading. 
<
The ending to this book...killed me. You'll find out why when you read this. It made me want to scream, but this is what Richelle does best with her books. She leaves you wanting to scream and also wishing that the next book was right there. And the ending to The Golden Lily is no different.
<
Overall, The Golden Lily, was wonderful. I couldn't get enough of it. With it's mystery, unpredictability and witty repartee between the characters, provides for a very addictive read that will simply leave you wanting more and more.
<
I look forward to reading book 3 The Indigo Spell, February 2013 cannot come soon enough.
<

A Review for Succubus Revealed (Georgina Kincaid #6) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jess
Published Date: September 15th, 2011 (UK release)
Finished Date: September 19th, 2011
Publishers: Bantam 
Source: Bought
Format: Paperback
Pages: 320


The blurb from Goodreads: Georgina Kincaid has had an eternity to figure out the opposite sex, but sometimes they still surprise her. Take Seth Mortensen. The man has risked his soul to become Georgina's boyfriend. Still, with Lucifer for a boss, Georgina can't just hang up her killer heels and settle down to domestic bliss. In fact, she's being forced to transfer operations… to Las Vegas. 

The City of Sin is a dream gig for a succubus, but Georgina's allies are suspicious. Why are the powers-that-be so eager to get her away from Seattle—and from Seth? Georgina is one of Hell's most valuable assets, but if there's any way out of the succubus business she plans to take it—no matter how much roadkill she leaves behind. She just hopes the casualties won't include the one man she's risking everything for…

The Review: "Stop," I said, feeling flustered. I ran a nervous hand over my hair. This conversation wasn't going how I expected. "I probably have bedhead." My makeup had probably smudged while I slept too. He grabbed my other hand and-gently-drew me near. "You look perfect".

*Inhales*- Where do I start. I sort of don't want to write a huge review because I just know it won't do it justice. I'll try and keep it short.

What an absolutely perfect ending; to a perfect series. All series books should end like that! It was so incredibly perfect. I still can't believe it's come to an end. No more Seth and Georgina. I'm going to have withdrawal symptoms. I can feel it.

It was pretty easy to fall back into Georgina's story, and it just felt good to be back. Succubus Revealed was wonderful-it wasn't my favorite-but I can't pick a favorite. So I'll stick with it was just wonderful. Everything just fell into place in this book, all my theories were confirmed just after half way through the book. It was wonderful to finally get the answers that we'd-I'd-been seeking when I first started this series a year ago. Everything that I thought had finally fallen into place. And it was oh so tantalizingly GOOD! Richelle Mead has outdone herself again.

Everything about this book just screams Richelle Mead! The mystery, the intrigue, the divine forces trying to rip the lovers apart. The final chapter was beautiful and I couldn't have asked for a better ending for Georgina. Which I think I mentioned at the start of this review. I told you this review wouldn't do it justice. I think I'll just stop now.

It was all so wonderful, if you haven't already picked this series up then you really should! Go! Go little readers go! I aim to pick up her Storm Born series very soon!

P.S-I still can't believe I don't know how Seth ended his Cady and O'Neill book series?! That's going to bug...

A Review for Bloodlines (Bloodlines#1) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jess
Published Date: August 30th, 2011
Finished Date: September 8th, 2011
Publishers: Razorbill
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback
Pages: 421
<
The Blurb: When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning. Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.


The Review: "You're eyes...they're beautiful. You're beautiful."

*Squeeeeeeee* :D I'm not even sure where to begin with this review. Richelle Mead has totally outdone herself. I was so excited when it was announced that there would be a spinoff to Vampire Academy; but also a little apprehensive. I just didn't think it was going to live up to VA. But....oh it so did! READ IT! READ. IT. NOW!!! GO...GO little minions GO!

As some of you know; I'm a huge VA fan...HUGE. It's one of my favourite vampire series...scratch that...its my FAVOURITE vampire series. It felt really good to fall back into the Moroi and Dhampir world, that it felt like I never left. Instead of being in Rose's head; we're in the Alchemists Sydney's head instead. At first I didn't think I was going to like it, being that her and Rose are so completely different. But I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought. We get a small glimpse of Sydney in Blood Promise and Last Scarifice but it's not enough for us to make up our minds about her. In Bloodlines, she's totally strong willed, vulnerable at the same time, and always up for anything that's thrown at  her (huh I guess her and Rose are more alike than we think). Ok so being in Sydney's head did freak me out a little, but because Mead is such a brilliant writer, you get so caught up and just read, read, read! It felt really good, and I missed it. I missed the characters too.

Speaking of characters, there are a few new ones here, Micah a human school boy he's just great. There's Lee; a new Moroi, he's great too but the ending with him wasn't a total shocker but I still didn't know what to make of it. (You have no idea how hard it was to write that sentence about him without spoiling...I deleted it a few times). Then we have our old characters. Eddie...ahhhhh I love Eddie, I loved him in VA and I love him now; he's Jill's guardian and he takes his job really seriously; especially after what happened to Mason in Frostbite. Sydney (well I've spoken about her...I don't need to say more). There is one more old character that you'll all be interested in...and that is one Adrian Ivashkov...Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh Adrian!! He's constant throughout the book; and I loved how when Sydney was having an issue; or needed to talk to someone, she went to Adrian. Adrian is still reeling from what Rose did to him (which by the way was totally mean...but I get why she did it). He still smokes, he still drinks (although a lot less than he used to). The snarky Adrian is still there though; he's still full of his old charm and wit, but we also see a vulnerable side to him which was a nice change.It felt nice to see a new side to Jill as well. She's 15 in the book and trying to adapt to a human school and it's pretty hard for her. Lots of complications arise, and a revelation regarding her and Adrian *dramatic pause for effect*.  Rose does make a short appearance but not for long; sadly there is no Dimitri :( never fear though Adrian fills all the missing Dimka holes :).

Now, romance. There isn't a lot of romance, and it certainly isn't the focus. Plot is solely the focus here. However having said that, Mead has left it open to interpretation as to where the romance will be. There was some underlying of 2 possible romances 1 of those being a possible triangle. We'll see.

Anyway, overall Bloodlines was fantastic, the plot was well thought out. The characters were all stronger than before. New characters included. There is a cliffhanger at the end...because well...it wouldn't be a Richelle Mead novel without a cliffhanger would it? And it's that particular cliffhanger that makes me want to read The Golden Lily NOW! It gives me hope that some old characters will be making a re-appearance :)




Bloodlines is fantastic, and its full of epicness! It's not even worth 5 stars, but I'm going to give it that anyway because that's all we have with regards to ratings. Go read it people...and go read VA if you haven't already!

Note: This is a re-post due to an error earlier...sorted now I hope. 

A Review for The Vampire Academy: Graphic Novel by Richelle Mead

Posted by Donna
Published Date: August 23rd, 2011
Finished Date: August 23rd, 2011
Publisher: Razorbill
Source: For Review
Format: Paperback
Pages: 144
<
The Blurb from Goodreads: After two years on the run, best friends Rose and Lissa are caught and returned to St. Vladimir's Academy, a private high school for vampires and half-bloods. It's filled with intrigue, danger - and even romance. Enter their dark, fascinating world through a new series of 144-page full-color graphic novels. The entire first Vampire Academy novel has been adapted for book one by Leigh Dragoon and overseen by Richelle Mead, while the beautiful art of acclaimed British illustrator Emma Vieceli brings the story to life.
<
The Review: I’m ashamed to admit this, but The Vampire Academy Graphic Novel is actually my FIRST EVER graphic novel. I know, I know, I should be burned at the stake but when the publishers asked if we wanted to review it, of course I snapped up the opportunity. Now I bet your wondering what I thought. Well…..I’ll tell you…..I loved it!

Vampire Academy is about two girls Rose & Lissa but the story is told from Rose’s point of view. Rose is a dhampir, half human – half moroi. Her duty, once she graduates from the Academy is too protect a person like Lissa - who is a Moroi, from the evil Strigio. The girls have been on the run from the Academy for more than two years, when they are finally dragged back and once again have to settle back into life there but their journey isn’t a smooth one.

I’ve always been a fan of the Vampire Academy books so it was only natural I was excited to see the characters I’ve grown to love in a graphic novel. We all know we imagine the characters one way in our minds but to see them on paper; it really is amazing. The art is drawn by Emma Vieceli and I have to say, I absolutely adored her work. With Rose, I believe she really portrayed her best features and it was honestly how I pictured her. She came across strong, fierce and independent, just like the books and I loved how all that was captured into each drawing. Dimitri was another character that I loved and I have to say, he looked even more perfect in these drawing. He was better than I ever could have imagined with his strong features, dark hair and those abs….wow! My only real complaint was Lissa, she wasn’t how I pictured her but I’m still glad that I got to see how she is supposed to look and now, whenever I read the books I know I will be replacing Lissa with the person Emma has created from my own.

The story itself was captured brilliantly. Within these 140 odd pages, you manage to grab hold of the whole story and not miss a thing. I’d read the first book a few years ago, so reading this novel, it felt good to be back. You notice how quickly the story comes back to you and it’s hard not to love with its fast, intense and exciting scenes.

Leigh Draagon, who adapted the novel, did an excellent job of capturing some of our favourite scenes. My favourite has to be with Rose, Dimitri and the necklace. I was really pleased to have that in the book and I was also pleased Emma did a fantastic job with it too. But I also loved the final scene with Christian in the woods, the colours used to show his powers were completely captivating.

Overall, The Vampire Academy Graphic Novel is a MUST for any VA fans. It’s a fantastic addition to the series and I cannot wait to see Frostbite in 2012.

A huge thank you to the publishers for giving me the opportunity to review this awesome book.

Advanced review for Storm Born (Graphic Novel Vol:1) by Richelle Mead

Posted by Jessica

Expected Published Date: September 20th, 2011

Finished Date: June 6th, 2011

The Blurb: Eugenie Markham never asked for any of this. Until now, she''s been content with her job as a freelance shaman, battling and banishing Otherworldly creatures. When a prophecy suddenly makes her the Otherworld''s most popular bachelorette, Eugenie finds herself fighting off unwanted supernatural suitors, as well as the evils that begin emerging from her past...

The Review: Okay so when Patrick over at Sea Lion Books asked me to review Richelle Meads Storm Born graphic novel, I was so excited, because he had me at 'Richelle Mead'. I love this woman! She's absolutely wonderful. I still haven't managed to read the actual Storm Born novel-for a Richelle Mead fan, that's pretty awful-anyway, after having some trouble opening the file, I finally managed to read the first 29 pages of the first volume. This is the second graphic novel that I've read (Twilight was the first) and I enjoyed it. The designs/animation were wonderful they bought a really good feel to the story even without written descriptions of the characters I still managed to get a clear picture of what was going on. 

Having not read the novel itself yet, the graphic novel gave me a good incite into the world of Euginie Markham, and its left me wanting more. It's a wonderful short read, just something to pass the time whilst running a bath, or cooking dinner. 

If you're a fan of Richelle Mead, and a fan of the Dark Swan series, then I think you'll be pleasently surprised with this graphic novel. It sure as hell left me wanting to read the novel properly. I want to know more of Euginie and her otherworlds. Wonderful read.

I'd like to thank Patrick over at Sea Lion Books for allowing me to review this. It was wonderful, and I'm now a fan of graphic novels :)


Volume 2 to come very soon :)