The God of Small Things

REVIEW

The God of Small Things

Arundhati Roy

I have read The God of Small Things several times now, for it is part of my English Literature AS course; it is a fantastic novel and stunningly composed, too. 

Arundhati Roy is evidently a master storyteller - in this book, she demonstrates her skill in creating a vivid, multi-dimensional and poignant tale. Furthermore, she never fails to encapsulate difficult ideas, or illustrate various aspects of life and allows for everything to become more apparent to the reader. Everything about this novel is thought-provoking and there are many ideas within it which strike a resonance to the modern audience, concerning society, family, individuality and freedom. 

The plot is so intricately constructed with immense attention to detail, that the story echoes an epic rather than a novel. I am truly glad that I was able to read and enjoy this book through my studies, for it is one of the most beautifully written novels I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

Divergent

REVIEW

Divergent

Veronica Roth

Beatrice Prior is sixteen and Abnegation-born. But now, it is time she chose for herself the life she wants to lead; she must choose between remaining with her family or pursuing who she really is elsewhere. However, Beatrice finds herself in a more dangerous position than she had ever anticipated. Amidst brewing trouble and life-threatening trials, she must find and learn to accept herself - Divergent. 

This book was an adventure from beginning to end. 

I have heard a lot about the Divergent trilogy and was so excited to finally read it. I must say, it definitely lived up to the hype. Veronica Roth creates a wonderful and terrifying dystopia, one that distinguishes itself from the abundance of dystopian novels out there. The concept is quite unique and completely compelling. 

The characters were brilliant, in my opinion. They were believable and so human in the way they were, with weaknesses and strengths. I loved that no one, not even our protagonist, Tris, is innocent or completely 'good' because it makes her more raw and more real. Her voice is refreshing and one really gains an insight in to her mind. I also loved how Roth seemed to have no qualms with killing off characters, as heartbreaking some of them might be, for it reflected the brutality of the world in which they lived. 

Divergent was an exhilarating roller coaster ride; fast-paced, action-packed and, overall, fantastic. However, it is a shame that I have been somewhat spoiled by the hype around the book and did not get to appreciate the little mysteries within the story (for example, Four's true identity). Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and will swiftly be moving on to Insurgent.

Clockwork Angel

REVIEW

Clockwork Angel

Cassandra Clare

I have wanted to read this trilogy for a very long time and this book certainly did not disappoint. 

Clockwork Angel is the first instalment to the Infernal Devices and it was fantastic. 

I fell in love with the characters within the span of a few pages and I believe Tessa is a great protagonist. She is intelligent, well-read and brave even at sixteen. I found it much easier to relate to Tessa in comparison to Clary from The Mortal Instruments, which made the experience of reading more enjoyable for me. I understood why she made the decisions she did and I admired her self-respect above everything, especially considering the time-frame this novel was set in. Similarly, I liked Charlotte for her strength through everything and striving despite the constant criticisms thrown at her by the Enclave. Through these two women, Cassandra Clare tackles the sexist society of Britain in the 1800s. 

Of course, I loved Will and Jem's relationship, as well as seeing the links between The Mortal Instruments and Henry's inventions. I enjoyed all of the characters' humour and there was a great mix of mystery, action and romance.

In a way, I'm glad I read this after the whole trilogy had been published, because that ending ... I would not have survived having to wait for Clockwork Prince. I have to say though, there were a few times when I had to giggle at the repetition of certain phrases (eg. the constant mention of Will's blue eyes only sentences apart), but overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a trilogy I will undoubtedly be fangirl-ing over for a very long time. 

The Fault in Our Stars

REVIEW

The Fault in Our Stars

John Green

I delayed reading this book for a long time because I thought it was going to be a heavily depressing and painful read, knowing that both main characters are suffering or have suffered with cancer. After finding it for a mere 50p at a second-hand book sale, however, I decided it was finally time I satiate my curiosity and see for myself what all the rave was about; I was not disappointed.

The Fault in Our Stars is told in the perspective of sixteen year-old Hazel Grace Lancaster, who is pushed by her parents in to attending a Cancer Support Group at their local church. There, in what Hazel dubs as the 'Literal Heart of Jesus', she witnesses the children come and go. One day, Augustus Waters attends support group and Hazel finds in him a friend and companion who helps her to grow and change and live.

I truly enjoyed Hazel's story and witnessing her character develop, along with others in the novel. John Green writes her in a refreshing way that makes her an endearing and charming protagonist. Augustus was also a great character and I can definitely see why so many have fallen in love with him - including myself. Every character is so raw and real and human that the whole novel becomes, as a result, more impactful and moving. 

As my first John Green book, I was pleasantly surprised. I follow him on youtube and know of his wit, but he seems to possess a real talent in compelling his readers (if this novel is anything to go by); one second I was laughing and the next I was crying. 

I loved this emotional roller coaster and am encouraged to read more of John Green's works - even purchasing a brand new copy of TFiOS to further support him. 

Days of Blood and Starlight

REVIEW

Days of Blood and Starlight

Laini Taylor

After reading and falling in deep love with Daughter of Smoke and Bone I thought it impossible for Laini Taylor to exceed the excellence of the first book. I was wrong. Days of Blood and Starlight is possibly one of the best sequels I have ever read - which says a lot considering how much I adored it's predecessor. 

In this book, Laini Taylor tackles bigger issues, greater philosophies and develops the characters I loved in to characters I admire also. Akiva is a brilliant demonstration of wonderful character development; although much loved by me, he seemed a hazy, impulsive and love-struck young boy in 'Daughter of Smoke and Bone'. In this novel, however, we witness his moral evolution and courage, his broken heart seemingly opening his eyes to the truths of their lives. Karou, on the other hand, appears to have lost the hope that Akiva has gained, and is seeking revenge and determinedly tortures herself for it. 

We learn more of the world and lives of the Seraphim and ascertain the conflicts between their kind and the Chimera. Our understanding of Brimstone and his work is further deepened and a new world of pain and morbidity is unveiled to the readers. There is a much darker tone to 'Days of Blood and Starlight' which only contrasts and emphasises the glimpses of light and hope within the story. 

This novel was a breathtaking roller-coaster ride and Laini Taylor maintains her beautiful prose throughout the entire book. The plot was always suspenseful and thrilling and unpredictable. Days of Blood and Starlight has further established this trilogy to be one that is unique and simply brilliant. I truly cannot wait to read Dreams of Gods and Monsters!

Daughter of Smoke and Bone

REVIEW

Daughter of Smoke and Bone

Laini Taylor

Karou is an art student with blue hair and tattoos, living in Prague. She wears unusual beaded jewellery and her sketchbook is filled with drawings of intriguing creatures. But Karou's hair is not dyed, her beads grant wishes, and the creatures in her sketchbook are real. Running errands across the globe for a monster Wishmonger, Brimstone, who is the closest thing to family, Karou lives a life that is a mystery even to herself. But not for long. After an errand goes awry when she encounters the one responsible for burning handprints on to Brimstone's portals, Karou's world is shaken. And she might just find the answers to questions that have always plagued her Elsewhere.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone has got to be one of the most beautifully written books I have read in a long time. I am enamoured by Laini Taylor's style of writing - a style I have always strived for myself, but failed. Throughout the novel, everything is consistently elaborate in criminally pulchritudinous and encapsulating descriptions. Yet, nothing is unnecessary or dragging. Take all that is good and lovely in the YA and Fantasy genres, multiply it by tenfold, turn it on it's head and you'll have Daughter of Smoke and Bone. Which is why I cannot help but gush about how much I loved this book and Laini Taylor. She is as magical as her stories. 

However, this is not just a beautifully told story, but a wonderful story in itself. The plot, the mystery, the characters, the world-building. Everything is just breathtaking. Not to mention the fact that the pace of the story is also perfect, in my opinion, and the way everything comes together in the end. Never, whilst reading, did I ever lose interest. The story and the story-telling is so compelling and gripping, from beginning to end, and clichés are minimum to none. 

Karou is a fiery character who is rational, brave and intellectually sound - far from a Mary Sue - and she makes for an amazing protagonist. All the supporting characters also make a great mix of personalities and really just bring life to the story. 

I don't think I can criticise this book, for the moment at least. It was just such an enjoyable and epic read and I am overjoyed that I can look forward to two more books. Needless to say, I highly recommend Daughter of Smoke and Bone, especially for those who are partial to High Fantasy.