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.