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    <title>Shelley's bookshelf: all</title>
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      <title>Shelley's bookshelf: all</title>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Sep 2026 02:27:16 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Gideon the Ninth (The Locked Tomb, #1)]]></title>
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    <book_id>42036538</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[The Emperor needs necromancers.<br /><br />The Ninth Necromancer needs a swordswoman.<br /><br />Gideon has a sword, some dirty magazines, and no more time for undead bullshit.<br /><br />Brought up by unfriendly, ossifying nuns, ancient retainers, and countless skeletons, Gideon is ready to abandon a life of servitude and an afterlife as a reanimated corpse. She packs up her sword, her shoes, and her dirty magazines, and prepares to launch her daring escape. But her childhood nemesis won't set her free without a service.<br /><br />Harrowhark Nonagesimus, Reverend Daughter of the Ninth House and bone witch extraordinaire, has been summoned into action. The Emperor has invited the heirs to each of his loyal Houses to a deadly trial of wits and skill. If Harrowhark succeeds she will become an immortal, all-powerful servant of the Resurrection, but no necromancer can ascend without their cavalier. Without Gideon's sword, Harrow will fail, and the Ninth House will die.<br /><br />Of course, some things are better left dead.]]></book_description>
    <book id="42036538">
      <num_pages>448</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Tamsyn Muir</author_name>
    <isbn>1250313198</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
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    <user_shelves>to-read</user_shelves>
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    <average_rating>4.17</average_rating>
    <book_published>2019</book_published>
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                                      author: Tamsyn Muir<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.17<br/>
                                      book published: 2019<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/18<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Sep 2026 02:25:23 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Cinder (The Lunar Chronicles, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8955133452?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>36381037</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>The prince straightened, forcing her gaze to follow him. “You’re not quite what I was expecting.”</i><br /><br />Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl. . . .<br /><br />Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future.<br /><br />With high-stakes action and a smart, resourceful heroine, Cinder is a Cinderella retelling that is at once classic and strikingly original.]]></book_description>
    <book id="36381037">
      <num_pages>400</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Marissa Meyer</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
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    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Sep 2026 02:25:23 -0700]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_shelves>to-read</user_shelves>
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    <average_rating>4.10</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Marissa Meyer<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.10<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/18<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:08:39 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Nightbane (Lightlark,#2)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8667758925?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>227786532</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The seductive and action-packed follow-up to Alex Aster’s instant #1 <i>New York Times</i>, #1 <i>Wall Street Journal</i>, and internationally bestselling novel, <i>Lightlark</i></b><br /><br />Isla Crown has secured the love of two powerful rulers and broken the curses that plagued the six realms for centuries, but few know the true origins of her powers.<br /><br />Now, in the wake of a crushing betrayal, Isla finds herself struggling to win respect as the newly crowned leader of two separate realms. Worse, her fellow rulers haven’t ceded victory quietly, and there are others in Isla’s midst who don’t believe her ascent to power was earned.<br /><br />As certain death races toward Lightlark and secrets from the past begin to unravel, Isla must weigh her responsibility to her people against the whims of the most dangerous traitor of all: her heart.<br /><br /><i>Alex Aster’s intricate world expands after the riveting culmination of the Centennial games, delving more deeply into Isla’s memories of her past, as her future hurtles toward two possible fates.</i>]]></book_description>
    <book id="227786532">
      <num_pages>424</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Alex Aster</author_name>
    <isbn>1419784587</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:08:39 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 07 Jun 2026 16:06:37 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.26</average_rating>
    <book_published>2023</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Alex Aster<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.26<br/>
                                      book published: 2023<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/05/15<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:05:39 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Grim and Oro (Lightlark)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939496887?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>227786648</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Two brand-new romantasy novellas bound into one deluxe, novel-length volume written from the perspectives of Grim and Oro, from #1 <i>New York Times</i>-bestselling author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster<br /><br />True love knows no bounds.</b> This premium, dual-sided volume includes two complete novellas bound together to create one can’t-miss collector’s item. The first novella—told from Grim’s perspective—gives readers insight into his past: the motivations and events that cemented his fate as Isla’s eventual love interest. The second is narrated by Oro and offers a window into his complex identity: that of a king torn between desire for justice and passion for the woman he loves more than anything. <i>Grim and Oro: Dueling Crowns Edition</i> includes key moments from the rulers’ love stories with Isla, expanded upon in their own voices.<br /><br />This gorgeous dual-sided <i>Lightlark</i> companion book from #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author Alex Aster contains two full novellas bound together in one breathtaking package that boasts a suite of premium features:<br /> 
  <br />
   Dual-sided slipcase with two unique cover designs 
  <br />
   Die cuts and foil stamping in two colors on both sides of slipcase 
  <br />
   Full-color case with illustrations on both sides 
  <br />
   Full-color, stenciled edges 
  <br />
   Full-color endpapers with never-before-seen illustrations 
  <br />
 <br /><i>Grim and Oro</i> is certain to thrill readers and test allegiances, leaving new and longtime fans second-guessing who they’re rooting for in the breathtaking battle for Isla’s heart.]]></book_description>
    <book id="227786648">
      <num_pages>504</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Alex Aster</author_name>
    <isbn>1419785621</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 5 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:05:39 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:43:32 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.06</average_rating>
    <book_published>2025</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Alex Aster<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.06<br/>
                                      book published: 2025<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/07/05<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720482372?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:04:12 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Skyshade: Collector's Edition (The Lightlark Saga Book 3)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720482372?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>239923155</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The pulse-pounding third novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling series, The Lightlark Saga, by acclaimed author and #BookTok sensation Alex Aster</b><br /><br /><i>Love kills kingdoms…</i><br /><br />Back in Grim’s castle on Nightshade, Isla is reeling in the wake of a brutal battle and the devastating truths it exposed. Her future—and the fate of the world—now hinge on a heart split in two.<br /><br />Past Isla, who fell in love with the ruler of Nightshade, fights to resist feelings she considers treasonous. The Isla of the present, who has seen the ruin her powers can cause, will do anything to save Lightlark and its king.<br /><br />As the line between enemy and friend is tested, Isla is more desperate than ever to understand the oracle’s final prophecy and change her heartrending fate. But a storm is coming. And with it, a long-buried evil greater than anything the realms have faced before.<br /><br />With the clock ticking on her destiny and the survival of two warring kingdoms hinging on her own shattered heart, Isla Crown will either save the world—or destroy it.]]></book_description>
    <book id="239923155">
      <num_pages>400</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Alex Aster</author_name>
    <isbn>1419790943</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:04:12 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:44:51 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.07</average_rating>
    <book_published>2024</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239923155-skyshade?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Skyshade: Collector&#39;s Edition (The Lightlark Saga Book 3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1769574981l/239923155._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Alex Aster<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.07<br/>
                                      book published: 2024<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/06/29<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:01:18 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Lightlark (Lightlark, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8523528390?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>237964356</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>An instant #1 national bestseller—soon to be a major motion picture. #BookTok phenomenon and award-winning author Alex Aster delivers readers a masterfully written, utterly gripping YA fantasy novel</b><br /><br />Welcome to the Centennial.<br /><br />Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to host the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. The invitation is a summons—a call to embrace victory and ruin, baubles and blood.<br /><br />The Centennial offers the six rulers one final chance to break the curses that have plagued their realms for centuries. Each ruler has something to hide. Each realm’s curse is uniquely wicked. To destroy the curses, one ruler must die.<br /><br />Isla Crown is the young ruler of Wildling—a realm of temptresses cursed to kill anyone they fall in love with. They are feared and despised, and are counting on Isla to end their suffering by succeeding at the Centennial.<br /><br />To survive, Isla must lie, cheat, and betray…even as love complicates everything.<br /><br /><b>Filled with secrets, deception, romance, and twists worthy of the darkest thrillers, The Lightlark Sagais a must-read for fans of legendary fantasy writers Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, and Leigh Bardugo.</b>]]></book_description>
    <book id="237964356">
      <num_pages>560</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Alex Aster</author_name>
    <isbn>8420452785</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 20:01:18 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:12:07 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.29</average_rating>
    <book_published>2022</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Alex Aster<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.29<br/>
                                      book published: 2022<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/04/27<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:33:47 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[A War of Wyverns (A Language of Dragons, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940632828?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>250531229</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b><i>REBELLION HAPPENS IN THE SHADOWS</i><br /><br />Vivien Featherswallow has uncovered the secret language of dragons. Now can she use it to end a war?<br /><br />The extraordinary sequel to the instant #1 Sunday Times Bestseller, <i>A Language of Dragons</i>.</b><br /><br />Vivien Featherswallow has translated a secret language of dragons – sparking an all-out civil war, with dragons and humans fighting on both sides, in the process.<br /><br />And after defeating Prime Minister Wyvernmire and escaping Bletchley Park, Vivien has become the reluctant face of the rebellion – and been labelled the most wanted criminal in Britain. But what good is a rebel who must remain in hiding, powerless to help her friends?<br /><br />Unsure of her purpose, and torn with doubt about the life she thought she was meant to lead, Vivien travels to the remote Scottish Isles to find a mysterious, long-forgotten species of dragon – one which might hold the key to ending the war… forever.<br /><br />An epic, sweeping, unputdownable fantasy, <i>A War of Wyverns</i> is the unmissable sequel to the instant #1 Sunday Times Bestseller, <i>A Language of Dragons</i>.]]></book_description>
    <book id="250531229">
      <num_pages>416</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>S.F. Williamson</author_name>
    <isbn>0008803145</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
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    <user_shelves><![CDATA[books-i-own, signed-copy, special-edition]]></user_shelves>
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    <average_rating>3.20</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
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                                      author: S.F. Williamson<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.20<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/03/31<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, signed-copy, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:31:06 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Wrath</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940624880?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>232405256</book_id>
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    <book id="232405256">
      <num_pages>418</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>H M Hodgson</author_name>
    <isbn>0645559806</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
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    <user_shelves><![CDATA[books-i-own, signed-copy, special-edition]]></user_shelves>
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    <average_rating>4.00</average_rating>
    <book_published></book_published>
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                                      author: H M Hodgson<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.00<br/>
                                      book published: <br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/06/19<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, signed-copy, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:27:14 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Cruel is the Light</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940620016?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>217129406</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[They say love conquers all . . . But can love win in a war between demons and exorcists? <br />Or will it just tear them all apart . . . ?<br /><br />THE EPIC AND SIZZLING YA ROMANTASY. SOON TO BE YOUR NEXT OBSESSION . . .<br /><br />A brutal war between demons and humanity has raged across Europe for over a century. At its heart are two elite soldiers: Selene Alleva, a powerful exorcists trained at the prestigious Vatican Academy, and foot soldier, Jules Lacroix, unrivalled in battle.<br /><br />When their paths cross, despite initial distrust – then unwelcome attraction – Jules and Selene discover a terrible secret at the heart of the holy Vatican City . . .<br /><br />Soon Jules is forced to question everything he’s ever known – including himself. And Selene, unable to ignore her growing feelings for Jules, must make an impossible choice between love and duty.<br /><br />Serpent and Dove meets Empire of the Vampire, with a star-crossed, enemies-to-lovers romance at its heart. Perfect for fans of Powerless, Fourth Wing and Divine Rivals.]]></book_description>
    <book id="217129406">
      <num_pages>496</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sophie   Clark</author_name>
    <isbn>1761340514</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 7 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:27:14 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:26:47 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, signed-copy</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.50</average_rating>
    <book_published>2025</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217129406-cruel-is-the-light?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Cruel is the Light" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1722693104l/217129406._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sophie   Clark<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.50<br/>
                                      book published: 2025<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/03/07<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, signed-copy<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8658274919?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:25:34 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Beauty and the Demon (Hell Bent #5)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8658274919?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>234943341</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[New York Times bestselling author Aurora Ascher's hilarious and hot blend of spicy demon romance and cozy fantasy featuring a half-mad demon with questionable morals, a goth witch who kicks ass and takes names, and a magical library in a castle in Hell. Perfect for fans of Hannah Nicole Maehrer, Brynne Weaver, Jenna Levine, and Kimberly Lemming.<br /><br />DELUXE LIMITED EDITION featuring stenciled edges, designed chapter headers and inside covers, series spine design and bonus content! Only available for a limited time and while supplies last.<br /><br />A villain always has a plan . . . but she’s a complication he never saw coming.<br /><br />Murmur, the nefarious Necromancer, is losing his mind. His army of souls screams in his head, and his dreams are filled with bone-chilling visions of his approaching death. To save himself, he will unleash a torrent of destruction unlike anything Hell has seen before . . . But for his plot to succeed, he requires one final ingredient: the blood of a certain headstrong witch.<br /><br />This witch can rescue herself . . .<br /><br />Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven, hides her dread beneath a tough exterior. Unusual abilities she can’t explain are taking over her life, and she’s haunted by ominous dreams. Her fears are realized when she’s captured by a demon with bloodshot eyes. Murmur plans to leave her in his dungeon, but Suyin has no intention of making this easy for him. Bargaining with demons is dangerous business, but she’ll do anything to survive.<br /><br />Enemies may become lovers, but fate has other plans.<br /><br />Forced into close proximity, things begin to shift between Suyin and her captor. But as the Necromancer’s machinations reach a pinnacle, he is faced with an impossible choice: achieve his master plan, or free the woman who resurrected his dormant soul.]]></book_description>
    <book id="234943341">
      <num_pages>480</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aurora Ascher</author_name>
    <isbn>1496755898</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:25:34 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 04 Jun 2026 03:58:56 -0700]]></user_date_created>
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    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.21</average_rating>
    <book_published>2023</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/234943341-beauty-and-the-demon?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Beauty and the Demon (Hell Bent #5)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1767625495l/234943341._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aurora Ascher<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.21<br/>
                                      book published: 2023<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/05/28<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940615168?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:24:44 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Guardian Demon (Hell Bent, #4)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940615168?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>229004607</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>A demon with a forgotten past…</b><br /><br />Raum is the quiet one who rarely smiles. He’s felt numb since Heaven wiped his memory as punishment for crimes he can’t remember. His only relief comes from his penchant for theft and his unusual connection with animals. That is until he crosses paths with a beautiful angel who traps him with the worst kind of blackmail…<br /><br /><b>An angel searching for redemption…</b><br /><br />A loyal servant of Heaven, Sunshine is fighting to regain her rank and redeem her shameful past. Tasked with retrieving a grimoire from Hell, she binds Raum into her service with an unbreakable contract. He must help her navigate the underworld or lose everything he holds dear. But her ruthless plan backfires when she finds herself drawn to him like a moth to a flame…<br /><br /><b>A forbidden desire… Giving in means sacrificing everything.</b><br /><br />The rivalry between demons and angels is ancient and deep, yet it can’t extinguish their scorching attraction. But when hints of Raum’s past finally come to light, a web of deception and betrayal is revealed that changes everything…<br /><br /><br /><i>Guardian Demon is an enemies-to-forbidden-lovers, grumpy/sunshine paranormal romance, featuring a lovable anti-hero who shifts into a crow and likes shiny things, and a curvy, kick-ass heroine with a big heart. As always, it contains violence, explicit scenes (involving a demon in his demon form), and excessive profanity.</i>]]></book_description>
    <book id="229004607">
      <num_pages>464</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aurora Ascher</author_name>
    <isbn>149675588X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:24:44 -0700]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.13</average_rating>
    <book_published>2022</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/229004607-guardian-demon?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Guardian Demon (Hell Bent, #4)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1746566535l/229004607._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aurora Ascher<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.13<br/>
                                      book published: 2022<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/02/10<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940613049?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:23:45 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Demon With Benefits (Hell Bent, #3)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940613049?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>220999805</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The latest novel in the sizzling hot series about a crew of demon brothers, curses—and loving even the darkest parts of ourselves—from the instant <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author of <i>Sanctuary of the Shadow.</i><br /><br />DELUXE LIMITED EDITION featuring stenciled edges, full color inside covers, designed chapter headers, foil cover, and bonus content! Only available for a limited time and while supplies last.<br /><br />They can run from their demons…</b><br /><br />The jokester of the demon brothers, Meph wears his grin like armor and uses humor as a mask. But lately, his composure has been slipping, especially around <i>her</i>. Iris. The blue-haired witch with a vicious temperament. Something about her soothes the darkness within him…but he’s not looking for a savior.<br />There’s no such thing for someone like him.<br /><br /><b>…But they can’t hide forever.</b><br /><br />Bitter and haunted by her traumatic past, Iris Donovan isn’t keen on welcoming demons into her life—even if they’re her sister’s friends. Especially not teasing, tattooed Meph, with his red eyes and devilish smile. After a toxic relationship, she’s sworn off commitment, and she’s not looking for another Mr. Damaged.<br />Yet she can’t stop craving what she shouldn’t want.<br /><br /><b>To conquer this monster…they must tame it together.</b><br /><br />With the return of a deadly enemy, the pain they’ve been suppressing is exposed, and Meph and Iris can no longer deny their feelings. Before Meph is swallowed by his darkness, Iris must overcome her fears and embrace that terrible part of him…<br />Or lose him forever.<br /><br /><br /><i>Demon With Benefits is a scorching enemies-to-lovers paranormal romance with a Beauty and the Beast twist. Featuring a hot-headed witch and a lovable bad-boy demon with a serious dark side, this book has explicit scenes of a monstrous nature that are not for the faint of heart. If heroes with non-human attributes are not for you, ye be warned. As always, there is blood, violence, and so much profanity.</i>]]></book_description>
    <book id="220999805">
      <num_pages>400</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aurora Ascher</author_name>
    <isbn>1496755871</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 6 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:23:45 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:23:15 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.12</average_rating>
    <book_published>2022</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220999805-demon-with-benefits?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Demon With Benefits (Hell Bent, #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1743195943l/220999805._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aurora Ascher<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.12<br/>
                                      book published: 2022<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/02/06<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940608121?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:21:18 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[My Demon Hunter (Hell Bent, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940608121?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>215363487</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>LIMITED EDITION FIRST PRINTING featuring sprayed edges, designed chapter headers, full color inside covers, and front cover foil with spot gloss—while supplies last!<br /><br />For fans of Jenna Levine and K.F. Breene, the steamy, laugh-out-loud paranormal romance about learning how to love—including the darkest parts of ourselves—complete with HEA, clothes-ripping-hot love scenes, and a crew of devilish demon brothers who are supposed to be the bad guys . . .<br /><br />From the instant <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author of <i>SANCTUARY OF THE SHADOW!</i><br /><br />The hunter shall become the hunted . . . And the timid shall become the fierce.</b><br /><br />Enslaved to an evil demon queen for millennia, Mishetsumephtai has only ever served one purpose. He is the Hunter, the one who drags the guilty back to Hell. But finally tasting freedom on Earth has changed him, and for the first time, Mist questions his duty. The human female who smiles at him with no idea what a monster he is, draws him in, and he’ll do anything to possess her.<br /><br />Lily Donovan thought the most dangerous thing about running to the corner store at night would be the aisles of junk food. She didn’t bargain on encountering chaos in the form of a man with unusual tattoos and beguiling amber eyes, stalking her through the ice cream section. Since the death of her parents, Lily has tried to forget what she is. But denial is not an option when she’s confronted with everything she’s been running from.<br /><br />Neither Mist nor Lily can ignore the burning magnetism between them. But Mist’s reprieve from Hell was always temporary, and the punishment for disobedience will be worse than death. Yet he can’t relinquish the woman whose scent calls to him like nothing he’s hunted before.]]></book_description>
    <book id="215363487">
      <num_pages>352</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aurora Ascher</author_name>
    <isbn>1496755863</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 4 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:21:18 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:20:47 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.00</average_rating>
    <book_published>2022</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215363487-my-demon-hunter?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="My Demon Hunter (Hell Bent, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1764208130l/215363487._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aurora Ascher<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.00<br/>
                                      book published: 2022<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/02/04<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:20:23 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[My Funny Demon Valentine (Hell Bent, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940606136?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>211960874</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The sizzling chemistry of Brynne Weaver and laugh-out-loud humor of Kimberly Lemming meet Jenna Levine and Jeneane O'Riley's fresh spin on paranormal tropes in this wickedly funny, warm-hearted demon romance with just the right amount of spice from the bestselling author of <i>SANCTUARY OF THE SHADOW.</i><br /><br />DELUXE LIMITED FIRST EDITION featuring stenciled edges, full color inside cover printing with exclusive art, and special design features. Preorder now - available only while supplies last!</b><br /><br /><i>Asmodeus, Prince of Hell, just wants to play music. Jazz, specifically. Unfortunately, he's a demon. And he's supposed to be evil.</i><br /><br />Clearly, for Ash, a career as a musician isn't exactly an option. Plus, he's cursed. Sick of playing by the rules, Ash and his three brothers escape Hell in search of freedom on Earth. But it's harder than they thought to keep their enemies off their tail . . .<br /><br />The four rogues quickly become the Underworld's Most Wanted, and if they're caught, the consequences will be dire. Yet everything changes for Ash when he meets a beautiful violinist who can see through his curse. It must be too good to be true, but, no matter the risk, he has to have her.<br /><br /><i>Evangeline Gregory is just your average human. She works at a jazz bar, plays gigs on weekends . . . and, apparently, hallucinates demons.</i><br /><br />At least that's what Eva tells herself when, moments after she meets the man of her dreams, she sees him shift into a 7-foot-tall monster. Not believing her own eyes, Eva decides to investigate and soon finds herself caught in the middle of a supernatural clusterf**k of epic proportions. But Ash isn't the only one keeping secrets, and the search for answers reveals a shocking truth that will change the course of her life forever. Or maybe just doom it. Eva and Ash will learn the path to love can be complete Hell.]]></book_description>
    <book id="211960874">
      <num_pages>368</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aurora Ascher</author_name>
    <isbn>1496755855</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 2 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:20:23 -0700]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.80</average_rating>
    <book_published>2021</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211960874-my-funny-demon-valentine?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="My Funny Demon Valentine (Hell Bent, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1748776632l/211960874._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aurora Ascher<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.80<br/>
                                      book published: 2021<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/02/02<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:16:46 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[A Language of Dragons (A Language of Dragons #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940598988?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>222768873</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Welcome to Bletchley Park… with dragons.<br /><br />London, 1923. Dragons soar through the skies and protests erupt on the streets, but Vivien Featherswallow isn’t worried. She’s going to follow the rules, get an internship studying dragon languages, and make sure her little sister never has to risk growing up Third Class. By midnight, Viv has started a civil war.<br /><br />With her parents arrested and her sister missing, all the safety Viv has worked for is collapsing around her. So when a lifeline is offered in the form of a mysterious ‘job’, she grabs it. Arriving at Bletchley Park, Viv discovers that she has been recruited as a codebreaker helping the war effort – if she succeeds, she and her family can all go home again. If she doesn’t, they’ll all die.<br /><br />At first Viv believes that her challenge, of discovering the secrets of a hidden dragon language, is doable. But the more she learns, the more she realises that the bubble she’s grown up in isn’t as safe as she thought, and eventually Viv must decide: What war is she really fighting?<br /><br />An epic, sweeping fantasy with an incredible Dark Academia setting, a clandestine, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, and an unputdownable story, filled with twists and turns, betrayals and secret identities, <i>A Language of Dragons</i> is the unmissable debut of 2025, from an extraordinary new voice.]]></book_description>
    <book id="222768873">
      <num_pages>480</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>S.F. Williamson</author_name>
    <isbn>0008756619</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
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    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.05</average_rating>
    <book_published>2025</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222768873-a-language-of-dragons?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="A Language of Dragons (A Language of Dragons #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1754983695l/222768873._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: S.F. Williamson<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.05<br/>
                                      book published: 2025<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/01/31<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:15:18 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Shards of Desire (Dragons of Sin)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940595676?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>223048266</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>
  <i>A princess by birth right.</i>
</b><br /><br /><b>
  <i>A warrior in spirit.</i>
</b><br /><br /><b>
  <i>A bargaining chip for my kingdom that marks me for death.</i>
</b><br /><br />Everything I dared dream of for my life is scorched to ash when I’m forced to marry our enemy. A dragon king with an endless amount of rumors that all hold one thing in his brutality.<br /><br />All of this in hopes of preventing a catastrophic war between our people, and the dragons we once held an alliance with.<br /><br />They say a curse befalling the dragon shifters was the catalyst to the demise of the bonds we once held. A time when humans and dragons openly mixed to find the other half of their soul. I say the curse is just an excuse those monsters use to let the true versions of their beasts be known by all.<br /><br />At the very least, I’m thankful they can no longer hide their shifting abilities. A glimpse of their dragon being ever present on their human body marked the clear divide now between friend and foe.<br /><br />In no time at all in his dominating presence, it’s clear to me the rumors about my betrothed are true. He wants me and all those beneath his rule to fear him, but I refuse to tremble beneath the ire of his gaze and sharpness of his tongue. Somehow the way his heart syncs with mine each time I find myself pressed against him for safety in this new world, is what truly scares me.<br /><br />A dangerous dance begins between us as we navigate our burning hatred and undeniable draw for one another, while unraveling the magic that leads both of our peoples to the edge of ruin.<br /><br />In the end, will it take our damnation to be their salvation?<br /><br />**********<br /><br /><b>Author </b>Shards of Desire is the first STANDALONE book in the Dragons of Sin universe. This book is a standalone that can be read on its own, and will not have a cliffhanger. The universe is intended to be read in any order. Content intended for mature audiences. Follow the fiery Siyana and her icy dragon king as they navigate the arranged marriage neither of them wanted, but perhaps will one day realize they needed. Amidst a kingdom being torn apart by a curse, can a scorned king and his queen, who never wanted a crown, find a way to unite two halves of a world that were always meant to be whole?<br /><br /><b>Tropes and content included, but not limited to</b>: Dragons &amp; humans, royalty, arranged marriage, forced proximity, one bed, beauty and the beast inspired.<br /><br /><br />]]></book_description>
    <book id="223048266">
      <num_pages>410</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>R.L. Caulder</author_name>
    <isbn>1962070212</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:15:18 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:14:48 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.73</average_rating>
    <book_published></book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/223048266-shards-of-desire?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Shards of Desire (Dragons of Sin)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1735401904l/223048266._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: R.L. Caulder<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.73<br/>
                                      book published: <br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/01/19<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940591333?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:13:32 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Hollow (Crown of Hearts and Chaos, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940591333?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>222472678</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>
  <i>Don’t listen to the whispers of the woods.<br />Don’t trust the man cloaked in shadow.<br />Don’t earn the wrath of the scattered spirits.<br />Don’t go out after dark.</i>
</b><br /><br />The Great Hunt begins once every fifty years and only the Champions willing to face death to shatter the curse dare to enter.<br /><br />The Champions…and me.<br /><br />I’m no warrior, no swordsmith, and certainly no Fae, but the forest is my only hope. To enter those trees is to walk willingly to my demise. But I need the boon the forest will grant the winner and I’m willing to risk it all for a chance at claiming it.<br /><br />I just never expected to face him beneath those trees. The beast who strikes fear into the desperate people of all lands. The monster who commands the legion of Hollows and makes our plight a thousand times worse.<br /><br />The Hollows are empty of all things but none are so heartless as him.<br /><br />Prince Bane intends to be the death of me. But I have an oath to fulfil before I’ll let him have me. And I’ll do whatever it takes to achieve it.<br /><br />I am Ferris Creed and I’m going to unite the lost spirits who once bound the wandering trees in place, return the scattered amulets to the core of its corruption, and use the winner’s boon to change my fate. Come wretchedness or torment, through trickery and deception, I will get what I came here for. And no one will stand in my way. Not even Prince Bane.<br /><br />*** <i>Hollow</i> is a dark Romantasy from the bestselling authors of <i>Zodiac Academy</i>, Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti. It is a heady cocktail of Summoners, seduction and spirits, set to get your heart racing and feet kicking. There will be a ruinous, black hearted love interest, a rebellious, ruthless FMC, plot twists, cliff hangers, dark humour and a healthy seasoning of make-you-blush spice. It is not for the faint of heart. All those who enter the forest are bound by its terms – will you walk willingly into the dark? ***]]></book_description>
    <book id="222472678">
      <num_pages>560</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Caroline Peckham</author_name>
    <isbn>1916926584</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:13:32 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:12:47 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.87</average_rating>
    <book_published>2025</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/222472678-hollow?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Hollow (Crown of Hearts and Chaos, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1789863032l/222472678._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Caroline Peckham<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.87<br/>
                                      book published: 2025<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/01/15<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939252150?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:03:30 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Shadow Reaper (Shadow Reaper, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939252150?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>254175557</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Never bargain with a reaper.</b><br /><br />The city of Aravell is in peril, plagued by a deadly blackmist that kills all it touches and reapers who roam the streets, stealing magic from innocent children in their thirst for power. Seventeen-year-old Viridia Solace has trained for years to hunt these reapers, but their ranks keep growing, led by the man who murdered her parents: the notorious Reaper Priest.<br /><br />When the Priest's most loyal follower, Reeve Ashton, is captured, he offers Viri a chance to avenge her parents . . . for a price. She knows better than to bargain with a reaper, let alone <i>this</i> reaper, but his offer is too good to resist.<br /><br />Soon she's breaking him out of prison, colluding with his crew of magic thieves, and following him deep into the blackmist forest in search of an ancient legend, all so they can stop the Reaper Priest’s plot to doom the city. Viri is staking her life on Reeve's plan, but how can she trust a silver-tongued criminal to keep his word? And how can she trust her own heart when a buried secret could shatter everything?<br /><br />Full of relentless twists, enemies-to-lovers romance, found family, and high stakes action, <i>Shadow Reaper</i> is the start of a breathtaking new duology from international bestselling author Lynette Noni.]]></book_description>
    <book id="254175557">
      <num_pages>485</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Lynette Noni</author_name>
    <isbn>0241824540</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:03:30 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:11:36 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[to-read, books-i-own, special-edition]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.98</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/254175557-shadow-reaper?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Shadow Reaper (Shadow Reaper, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1781744554l/254175557._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Lynette Noni<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.98<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read, books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939252806?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 15:03:12 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The River She Became</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939252806?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>254866266</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>A high stakes, action-packed romantasy from bestselling author Emily Varga where a relic-hunter searches for an ancient fae object to restore the magic to her world, but must learn to trust her own powers—and her heart.<br /><br />This limited luxe edition features gorgeous foil design on the cover and case, a dazzling edge and interior page design and an exclusive map—available while supplies last!</b><br /><br /><i>I’m going across the River. And I’m going to save us all.</i><br /><br />Yaseema is a brilliant scholar and loyal servant of the Empire—or so they think. By day, she catalogs the fae relics of her conquered kingdom. But by night, she reclaims the artefacts in secret to restore magic to her dying land.<br /><br />Until she finds the long lost key to cross the River into the fae world and save her people. But a ruthless realm awaits her there, ruled by monsters wearing beautiful skin—especially the cold-eyed captain who sees through her lies. But even he isn’t what he seems—under the guise of upholding a cruel regime, he works to overthrow it from the inside. To succeed, he needs the same lost relic Yaseema the crown of an ancient Fae Queen.<br /><br />With magic that is a mystery even to her, Yaseema can help him find the crown and save his family from a fate worse than death. Unless she steals it first to help her own.<br /><br />To survive, they must work together to outwit ancient curses, battle creatures born of nightmares, and find a power that could resurrect their worlds. But as secrets unravel and loyalties blur, they face the greatest danger of losing their heart to each other.<br /><br />Perfect for fans of<i> The Cruel Prince </i>and <i>The Mummy,</i> this thrilling start to a new fantasy duology bursts with dangerous romance, heart-stopping twists, and a heroine who dares to steal back her future.]]></book_description>
    <book id="254866266">
      <num_pages>406</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Emily  Varga</author_name>
    <isbn>1035068788</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
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    <user_shelves><![CDATA[to-read, books-i-own, special-edition]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.62</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/254866266-the-river-she-became?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The River She Became" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1785073733l/254866266._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Emily  Varga<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.62<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read, books-i-own, special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940552548?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:54:46 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Arabesque (Wings #5)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8940552548?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>34660460</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[More than ten years after the events of DESTINED, Laurel and Tamani get a visit from their niece, Rowen—an orphaned Summer faerie with a passion for ballet. <br /> <br />To succeed at the Scazio Dance Academy in California, Rowen must learn to get along with the humans she despises. But an ancient mystery sends Tamani scrambling for answers and threatens to upend Rowen's best-laid plans! <br /> <br />Book Five of the Wings series.]]></book_description>
    <book id="34660460">
      <num_pages>412</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aprilynne Pike</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 14:54:46 -0700]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_shelves>to-read</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.89</average_rating>
    <book_published>2016</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34660460-arabesque?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Arabesque (Wings #5)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1490167772l/34660460._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aprilynne Pike<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.89<br/>
                                      book published: 2016<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939236888?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:49:10 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Storm Breaker (Storm Breaker, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939236888?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>252711315</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<p>
  <b>From the publisher who brought you <i>Fourth Wing</i> comes your next romantasy obsession...</b>
</p><br /><p>For nineteen-year-old Poet Graves, New Manhattan has always promised safety―if she obeys. Raised within the ruling Houses and betrothed to a powerful heir, she enters Amery Academy knowing her future has already been decided.</p><br /><p>But Amery is nothing like she imagined. Its trials are brutal, its loyalties conditional, and its rules designed to expose weakness. As Poet struggles to survive, she must hide the truth that could get her executed: the storms don’t fear her―they answer back.</p><br /><p>When a dangerous outsider from beyond the city walls enters the academy, Poet is drawn to him despite everything she’s been taught to believe. He threatens the life she’s been promised. And choosing him could cost her not just her future, but her freedom.</p><br /><p>
  <b>A gripping dystopian romance filled with forbidden power, ruthless challenges, and a heroine who refuses to burn quietly―perfect for fans of <i>Divergent</i> and <i>The Hunger Games</i>.</b>
</p>]]></book_description>
    <book id="252711315">
      <num_pages>402</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Nisha J. Tuli</author_name>
    <isbn>191175341X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
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    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:49:10 -0700]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.95</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Nisha J. Tuli<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.95<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, currently-reading<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939271311?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:47:00 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Perfect Hostess</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939271311?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>1938940</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[First published in 1931 and illustrated with delightful period drawings, The Perfect Hostess covers every problem of running a home from simple rules for simple servants to the qualities that make a marriage a success. Interesting thoughts for the truly perfect hostess include rules for bridge, perfect present giving, ideas for children's parties, welcome and unwelcome guests and a list of necessities for every room in the house. Rose Henniker-Heaton's thoughts for cooks may not be as useful now as they were in 1931, but it is always useful to know what to serve at your country cottage when the Prime Minister comes to dine. There are delicious menu suggestions for every social occasion whether it be Your Rich Relative comes to Luncheon or The Family Gathering takes place at your House. Over 70 years later, this is still the perfect gift for any hostess, faithfully reprinted from the original.]]></book_description>
    <book id="1938940">
      <num_pages>159</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Rose Henniker Heaton</author_name>
    <isbn>1840914505</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:47:00 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:26:25 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, own-to-not-read</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.18</average_rating>
    <book_published>1931</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1938940.The_Perfect_Hostess?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Perfect Hostess" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1408937223l/1938940._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Rose Henniker Heaton<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.18<br/>
                                      book published: 1931<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, own-to-not-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939264151?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:47:00 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Frankenstein</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939264151?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>216149520</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>An alternative cover edition for this ISBN can be found <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18490" rel="nofollow noopener">here</a></i><br /><br /><b>One of the BBC's '100 Novels That Shaped Our World'</b><br /><br />Mary Shelley's chilling Gothic tale was conceived when she was only eighteen, living with her lover Percy Shelley on Lake Geneva. The story of Victor Frankenstein who, obsessed with creating life itself, plunders graveyards for the material to fashion a new being, but whose botched creature sets out to destroy his maker, would become the world's most famous work of horror fiction, and remains a devastating exploration of the limits of human creativity. Based on the third edition of 1831, this volume contains all Mary Shelley's revisions to her story, and also includes 'A Fragment' by Lord Byron and Dr John Polidori's 'The Vampyre: A Tale'.<br /><br />Edited with an Introduction and notes by MAURICE HINDLE]]></book_description>
    <book id="216149520">
      <num_pages>352</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley</author_name>
    <isbn>0141439475</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 06:47:00 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:21:03 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, own-to-not-read</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.16</average_rating>
    <book_published>1818</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216149520-frankenstein?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Frankenstein" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1720268452l/216149520._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.16<br/>
                                      book published: 1818<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, own-to-not-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939268038?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:24:42 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939268038?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>43708884</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Enter the world of Charlie's four unlikely friends, discover their story and their most important life lessons. The boy, the mole, the fox and the horse have been shared millions of times online - perhaps you've seen them? They've also been recreated by children in schools and hung on hospital walls. They sometimes even appear on lamp posts and on cafe and bookshop windows. Perhaps you saw the boy and mole on the Comic Relief T-shirt, Love Wins?<br /><br />Here, you will find them together in this book of Charlie's most-loved drawings, adventuring into the Wild and exploring the thoughts and feelings that unite us all.]]></book_description>
    <book id="43708884">
      <num_pages>128</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Charlie Mackesy</author_name>
    <isbn>1529105102</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:24:42 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:24:06 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[books-i-own, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.55</average_rating>
    <book_published>2019</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43708884-the-boy-the-mole-the-fox-and-the-horse?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1579017235l/43708884._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Charlie Mackesy<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.55<br/>
                                      book published: 2019<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939266763?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:23:09 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Untitled</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939266763?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>60842874</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[rupi kaur constantly embraces growth, and in home body , she walks readers through a reflective and intimate journey visiting the past, the present, and the potential of the self. home body is a collection of raw, honest conversations with oneself – reminding readers to fill up on love, acceptance, community, family, and embrace change. illustrated by the author, themes of nature and nurture, light and dark, rest here. i dive into the well of my bodyand end up in another worldeverything i needalready exists in methere’s no needto look anywhere else– home]]></book_description>
    <book id="60842874">
      <num_pages>208</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Rupi Kaur</author_name>
    <isbn>176110411X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:23:09 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:23:08 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own, poetry, to-read</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
    <book_published>2020</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60842874-untitled?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Untitled" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1650355443l/60842874._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Rupi Kaur<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.91<br/>
                                      book published: 2020<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, poetry, to-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1850433506?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:21:41 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Lullabies</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1850433506?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>22151696</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1404192714l/22151696._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1404192714l/22151696.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[A sequel to the hugely popular, best-selling <i>Love &amp; Misadventure</i>, <i>Lullabies</i> continues to explore the intricacies of love and loss.<br /><br />Set to a musical theme, love's poetic journey in this new, original collection begins with a Duet and travels through Interlude and Finale with an Encore popular piece from the best-selling <i>Love &amp; Misadventure</i>. Lang Leav's evocative poetry speaks to the soul of anyone who is on this journey.<br /><br /> Leav has an unnerving ability to see inside the hearts and minds of her readers. Her talent for translating complex emotions with astonishing simplicity has won her a cult following of devoted fans from all over the world.<br /><br /> Lang Leav is a poet and internationally exhibiting artist.]]></book_description>
    <book id="22151696">
      <num_pages>248</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Lang Leav</author_name>
    <isbn>1449461077</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 26 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:21:41 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 25 Dec 2016 21:06:28 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, poetry, reviewed, books-i-own]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I don't read poetry. Not for fun, anyway. all the fun I could have had while reading poetry had been sucked away by English teachers as I was forced to study them. <br /><br />So, safe to say, I don't own any poetry books, and I had no intention of owning one, either.<br /><br />At least, until I picked this up in a bookshop.<br /><br />I don't know why I bought it. The poem serving as a blurb seemed to resonate with me, so I shrugged and bought it on a whim. <br /><br />I didn't expect to fall in love with poetry. I didn't expect words in verse form to echo feelings I didn't know I had, filling me with absolute joy and then sorrow. I didn't expect to go back to Leav's poems - to want to learn from them and write about them. <br /><br />Poetry was never my thing... or at least, it wasn't. Props to Lang Leav for making me love the words of a poet - something I thought I had lost the ability to do.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.98</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22151696-lullabies?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Lullabies" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1404192714l/22151696._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Lang Leav<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.98<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/12/26<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, poetry, reviewed, books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I don't read poetry. Not for fun, anyway. all the fun I could have had while reading poetry had been sucked away by English teachers as I was forced to study them. <br /><br />So, safe to say, I don't own any poetry books, and I had no intention of owning one, either.<br /><br />At least, until I picked this up in a bookshop.<br /><br />I don't know why I bought it. The poem serving as a blurb seemed to resonate with me, so I shrugged and bought it on a whim. <br /><br />I didn't expect to fall in love with poetry. I didn't expect words in verse form to echo feelings I didn't know I had, filling me with absolute joy and then sorrow. I didn't expect to go back to Leav's poems - to want to learn from them and write about them. <br /><br />Poetry was never my thing... or at least, it wasn't. Props to Lang Leav for making me love the words of a poet - something I thought I had lost the ability to do.<br/>
                                      ]]>
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  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/598452991?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:20:25 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Some Quiet Place (The Other Plane, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/598452991?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>15710557</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1353174493l/15710557._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>I can’t feel sadness, anger, or fear. I can’t feel anything. I've grown talented at pretending.</b><br /><br />Elizabeth Caldwell doesn't experience emotions—she sees them. Anxiety walks the halls of her school. Longing hovers around the boy who watches her with adoring eyes. Resentment lurks at her abusive home. But none of them can touch her. None of them understand why, and all of them have given up.<br /><br />All, that is, except Fear.<br /><br />Beautiful, unsettling Fear refuses to let Elizabeth go. Sometimes a tormentor, sometimes her only protector, he’s obsessed with unraveling the truth. What happened to make her this way?<br /><br />When dreamlike visions begin to surface, and her paintings fill with death and sorrow, Elizabeth begins to suspect her lack of emotion isn’t natural. Then a shadowy force begins to stalk her every step. Suddenly Elizabeth’s survival depends on confronting what she was never meant to know.<br /><br />And learning whether she can feel anything at all before it’s too late.<br /><br /><b>For readers who crave a touch of romance, a hint of horror, and a beautifully strange world, Some Quiet Place is where emotion takes form, and secrets don’t stay buried.</b>]]></book_description>
    <book id="15710557">
      <num_pages>331</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kelsey Sutton</author_name>
    <isbn>0738736430</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 26 Sep 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:20:25 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 23 Apr 2013 20:01:55 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, favorites, cried-or-almost-cried, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed, books-i-own]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[Basically, I love this book. No doubt about it. I love the writing, I love the characters and I love the concept. The plot? It was a little confusing, to be honest. But it would also be weird if it made sense from the beginning, since Elizabeth was trying to figure everything up and her thoughts were probably jumbled. The other thing I really wanted explained better was Nightmare. I really wanted to know his backstory and what drove him to do the things he did. I didn't like the reason - 'madness' - that was given. Okay. Serious time. The quotes don't spoil anything of the story and I apologise that the review is longer than usual in advanced, and if you read through it all, you're awesome ;)<br /><br /><b>The writing. </b><br />The writing was freaking amazing. I managed to connect to a girl that couldn't feel emotions. I even managed to almost cry <i>because</i> of what she was <i>supposed</i> to be feeling. The writing was the best highlight for me, with descriptions that I absolutely adored such as:<br /><br /><i>"Maggie faces me, forcing herself to smile again. It looks unnatural, as if that smile wants to shrivel and crawl away to a dark corner to weep."<br /><br />"She’s so tiny, a fragile bird that will forever be in the nest and never know what it’s like to spread its wings and feel the wind and the radiance."<br /><br />"Even the shadows feel abandoned and empty." </i> <br /><br />Seriously, how amazing are they? I think it's also really good that the descriptions don't take up a lot in the book - they're just little bits and pieces that aren't overused so they end up adding something to a scene.<br /><br /><b>The concept. </b><br />Wow. Just wow. It seems it would be something really simple and easy to think of, but it really wasn't. Sure, I sometimes think what Fear would look like, but it's usually just a shape and a colour. I never thought that it would <i>feel</i> something that wasn't fear, like shock. These Emotions and Elements <i>feel</i> - they love, they get scared, they get lonely. They are, in a sense, human. <br /><br /><i>"I can’t help comparing [Courage], over and over, to his brother. Fear has a bright façade and dark insides; his horror and windy recklessness that carries millions over the plains with no hopes of ever stopping. And Courage… he’s dark on the outside but carries a light within; he’s calm and encouraging and his very breath is a soothing dash of water on a hot, hot day." </i><br /><br />(Just another awesome description that I adored and showed off the characters)<br /><br /><b>The plot.</b><br />Hmm. It would have been nice to make sense of it earlier on rather than completely understanding it about sixty pages away from the end. It was irritating at times, that I didn't understand, but that brought me closer to Elizabeth, since it was infuriating to her. The whole thing reminded me of <i>
  <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13450339.Poison_Princess__The_Arcana_Chronicles___1_" title="Poison Princess (The Arcana Chronicles, #1) by Kresley Cole" rel="nofollow noopener">Poison Princess</a>
</i> slightly, which I still loved, anyway.<br /><br />Like I said, I would have really liked to know more about Nightmare and the other Elements, rather than just a brief mention of them. More often than not, there was a really basic description of what an Emotion or Element looked like - as in, the hair and eye colour and possible the figure - and I would have loved more. <br /><br />And that plot twist... WHAT THE HELL?<br /><br /><b>The characters.</b><br />I can't get into all the characters, so I'll make this brief. <br /><br />The people at Elizabeth's school are a royal pain in the bottom and I hated Tim and even Charles sometimes, but I didn't mind Sarah that much towards the end, when she decided to <i>"pick up a pen"</i> (you'll know the quote when you get to it - it spoils too much for me to include). <br /><br /><i>"Humans are cruel. Sometimes worse than the Emotions and the Elements."</i><br /><br />Denial was okay and Courage... it was strange, since he was cryptic and not at the same time and really cared (not to say the other emotions didn't - their voice was just not there).<br /><br />And now for the love interests. Fear. I was Team Fear from the beginning with his blazing blue eyes and his platinum-blonde hair. No, but seriously, he was just... a really cool bad-ass that wanted to help. Without spoiling anything, let's just say that he was, by far, my favourite character. <br /><br />Joshua, on the other hand, was just awkward. And I get that it was part of his character development, but I really just couldn't connect with him... or like him, for that matter. Needless to say, I wasn't cheering for him and screamed at Elizabeth more than once or twice. <br /><br /><b>The wrap-up.</b><br />I really, really liked this book. No joke. There were very few things I would change. I would give it a <b>4.7</b>/5.<br /><br />Thanks for reading,<br />Shelley.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.84</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15710557-some-quiet-place?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Some Quiet Place (The Other Plane, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1353174493l/15710557._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kelsey Sutton<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.84<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/09/26<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, favorites, cried-or-almost-cried, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed, books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/>Basically, I love this book. No doubt about it. I love the writing, I love the characters and I love the concept. The plot? It was a little confusing, to be honest. But it would also be weird if it made sense from the beginning, since Elizabeth was trying to figure everything up and her thoughts were probably jumbled. The other thing I really wanted explained better was Nightmare. I really wanted to know his backstory and what drove him to do the things he did. I didn't like the reason - 'madness' - that was given. Okay. Serious time. The quotes don't spoil anything of the story and I apologise that the review is longer than usual in advanced, and if you read through it all, you're awesome ;)<br /><br /><b>The writing. </b><br />The writing was freaking amazing. I managed to connect to a girl that couldn't feel emotions. I even managed to almost cry <i>because</i> of what she was <i>supposed</i> to be feeling. The writing was the best highlight for me, with descriptions that I absolutely adored such as:<br /><br /><i>"Maggie faces me, forcing herself to smile again. It looks unnatural, as if that smile wants to shrivel and crawl away to a dark corner to weep."<br /><br />"She’s so tiny, a fragile bird that will forever be in the nest and never know what it’s like to spread its wings and feel the wind and the radiance."<br /><br />"Even the shadows feel abandoned and empty." </i> <br /><br />Seriously, how amazing are they? I think it's also really good that the descriptions don't take up a lot in the book - they're just little bits and pieces that aren't overused so they end up adding something to a scene.<br /><br /><b>The concept. </b><br />Wow. Just wow. It seems it would be something really simple and easy to think of, but it really wasn't. Sure, I sometimes think what Fear would look like, but it's usually just a shape and a colour. I never thought that it would <i>feel</i> something that wasn't fear, like shock. These Emotions and Elements <i>feel</i> - they love, they get scared, they get lonely. They are, in a sense, human. <br /><br /><i>"I can’t help comparing [Courage], over and over, to his brother. Fear has a bright façade and dark insides; his horror and windy recklessness that carries millions over the plains with no hopes of ever stopping. And Courage… he’s dark on the outside but carries a light within; he’s calm and encouraging and his very breath is a soothing dash of water on a hot, hot day." </i><br /><br />(Just another awesome description that I adored and showed off the characters)<br /><br /><b>The plot.</b><br />Hmm. It would have been nice to make sense of it earlier on rather than completely understanding it about sixty pages away from the end. It was irritating at times, that I didn't understand, but that brought me closer to Elizabeth, since it was infuriating to her. The whole thing reminded me of <i>
  <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13450339.Poison_Princess__The_Arcana_Chronicles___1_" title="Poison Princess (The Arcana Chronicles, #1) by Kresley Cole" rel="nofollow noopener">Poison Princess</a>
</i> slightly, which I still loved, anyway.<br /><br />Like I said, I would have really liked to know more about Nightmare and the other Elements, rather than just a brief mention of them. More often than not, there was a really basic description of what an Emotion or Element looked like - as in, the hair and eye colour and possible the figure - and I would have loved more. <br /><br />And that plot twist... WHAT THE HELL?<br /><br /><b>The characters.</b><br />I can't get into all the characters, so I'll make this brief. <br /><br />The people at Elizabeth's school are a royal pain in the bottom and I hated Tim and even Charles sometimes, but I didn't mind Sarah that much towards the end, when she decided to <i>"pick up a pen"</i> (you'll know the quote when you get to it - it spoils too much for me to include). <br /><br /><i>"Humans are cruel. Sometimes worse than the Emotions and the Elements."</i><br /><br />Denial was okay and Courage... it was strange, since he was cryptic and not at the same time and really cared (not to say the other emotions didn't - their voice was just not there).<br /><br />And now for the love interests. Fear. I was Team Fear from the beginning with his blazing blue eyes and his platinum-blonde hair. No, but seriously, he was just... a really cool bad-ass that wanted to help. Without spoiling anything, let's just say that he was, by far, my favourite character. <br /><br />Joshua, on the other hand, was just awkward. And I get that it was part of his character development, but I really just couldn't connect with him... or like him, for that matter. Needless to say, I wasn't cheering for him and screamed at Elizabeth more than once or twice. <br /><br /><b>The wrap-up.</b><br />I really, really liked this book. No joke. There were very few things I would change. I would give it a <b>4.7</b>/5.<br /><br />Thanks for reading,<br />Shelley.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939261601?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:19:13 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Where Silence Gathers (The Other Plane, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939261601?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>17281362</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1381466302l/17281362._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1381466302l/17281362.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>In this companion novel to the critically acclaimed Some Quiet Place, Alex must choose between Revenge and Forgiveness.</b><br /><br />For as long as she can remember, Alexandra Tate has been able to see personified Emotions, and she's found a best friend in Revenge. He's her constant companion as she waits outside Nate Foster's house, clutching a gun. Every night since Nate's release from prison, Alex has tried to work up the courage to exact her own justice on him for the drunk driving accident that killed her family.<br /><br />But there's one problem: Forgiveness. When he appears, Alex is faced with a choice—moving on or getting even. It's impossible to decide with Forgiveness whispering in one ear . . . and Revenge whispering in the other.]]></book_description>
    <book id="17281362">
      <num_pages>360</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kelsey Sutton</author_name>
    <isbn>0738739472</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:19:13 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:19:01 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>to-read, books-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.68</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17281362-where-silence-gathers?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Where Silence Gathers (The Other Plane, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1381466302l/17281362._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kelsey Sutton<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.68<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read, books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939259029?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:17:44 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Dictionary of Lost Words</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939259029?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>49354511</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576570225l/49354511._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576570225l/49354511._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576570225l/49354511.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[In 1901, the word ‘Bondmaid’ was discovered missing from the <em>Oxford English Dictionary</em>. This is the story of the girl who stole it.<br /><br />Esme is born into a world of words. Motherless and irrepressibly curious, she spends her childhood in the ‘Scriptorium’, a garden shed in Oxford where her father and a team of dedicated lexicographers are collecting words for the very first <em>Oxford English Dictionary</em>. Esme’s place is beneath the sorting table, unseen and unheard. One day a slip of paper containing the word ‘bondmaid’ flutters to the floor. Esme rescues the slip and stashes it in an old wooden case that belongs to her friend, Lizzie, a young servant in the big house. Esme begins to collect other words from the Scriptorium that are misplaced, discarded or have been neglected by the dictionary men. They help her make sense of the world.<br /><br />Over time, Esme realises that some words are considered more important than others, and that words and meanings relating to women’s experiences often go unrecorded. While she dedicates her life to the <em>Oxford English Dictionary</em>, secretly, she begins to collect words for another dictionary: The Dictionary of Lost Words.<br /><br />Set when the women’s suffrage movement was at its height and the Great War loomed, <em>The Dictionary of Lost Words</em> reveals a lost narrative, hidden between the lines of a history written by men. It’s a delightful, lyrical and deeply thought-provoking celebration of words, and the power of language to shape the world and our experience of it.]]></book_description>
    <book id="49354511">
      <num_pages>384</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Pip Williams</author_name>
    <isbn>1925972593</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:17:44 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:16:54 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>to-read, books-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.96</average_rating>
    <book_published>2020</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/49354511-the-dictionary-of-lost-words?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Dictionary of Lost Words" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576570225l/49354511._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Pip Williams<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.96<br/>
                                      book published: 2020<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: to-read, books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939258328?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:16:35 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Observations on the Human Condition]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939258328?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>234559969</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>What does it mean to truly witness a life? The untold stories that define us and the hidden truths that shape our existence.</b><br /><br />After centuries of watching over humanity, a weary guardian angel finds the task to be an immense source of suffering and pleads with God for release. Human lives are short, and each one the angel watches over ultimately faces death. Understanding the guardian angel’s grief, God agrees to grant the request on one final the angel must watch over twelve more people. These are the stories of those lives.<br /><br />In this minimalist illustrated comic book, poetic language and philosophical reflections merge to explore the nuances of human nature. Each conversation offers insight into the complexities that shape our perspectives and realities.<br /><br />Combining elements of poetry, philosophy, and art, this short story collection inspires impactful self-reflection and profound conversation. Perfect for readers drawn to life’s deeper questions, this book offers a meaningful exploration of introspective storytelling.]]></book_description>
    <book id="234559969">
      <num_pages>148</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Paige Parker</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 1 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:16:35 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:16:18 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>5.00</average_rating>
    <book_published></book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/234559969-observations-on-the-human-condition?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Observations on the Human Condition" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1747761895l/234559969._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Paige Parker<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 5.00<br/>
                                      book published: <br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/08/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939256857?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:15:42 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>We Come Here to Starve</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939256857?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>243074128</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>In the Midnight Café, everyone is starving for something.</b><br /><br />The animals who find this place have nowhere else to go. They cannot find their place in society, in their relationships, or even before God. This decrepit café has become a refuge. A place to hide from a world that has no place for them.<br /><br />The Fly, the café’s quiet owner, serves every animal that wanders into his café. He listens as they each search for belonging, only to arrive at the same painful survival and true belonging cannot coexist.<br /><br /><b>Come, sit. The Fly has been waiting for you.</b><br /><br /><i>We Come Here to Starve</i> is a hand-illustrated philosophical graphic novel about the tension between survival and belonging. A beautiful yet haunting allegory about the collapse of sanctuary, the moral compromises survival demands, and the dangerous hunger to be loved without having to change.<br /><br /><b>PLEASE </b><br />This book explores themes of <b>self-destruction, trauma, and faith</b>. It includes discussions of <b>suicide, abuse, and strong language</b>. If those subjects may be triggering or upsetting for you, please reconsider whether this book is the right fit.<br /><br />If you’d like to read Paige Parker’s work but prefer gentler themes, consider her hand-illustrated book <i>Observations on the Human Condition</i>. A poetic, thought-provoking read that many find beautiful without being intense.]]></book_description>
    <book id="243074128">
      <num_pages>270</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Paige Parker</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 1 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:15:42 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:15:13 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.56</average_rating>
    <book_published></book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243074128-we-come-here-to-starve?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="We Come Here to Starve" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1761177247l/243074128._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Paige Parker<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.56<br/>
                                      book published: <br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/07/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939255972?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:14:45 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939255972?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>56897474</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>
  <i>NEW YORK TIMES</i>
</b><b> BESTSELLER</b><br /> <br /><b>“It’s undeniably thrilling to find words for our strangest feelings…Koenig casts light into lonely corners of human experience…An enchanting book. “ <i>—The Washington Post</i></b><br /> <br /><b>A truly original book in every sense of the word, <i>The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows </i>poetically defines emotions that we all feel but don’t have the words to express—until now. </b><br /><br />Have you ever wondered about the lives of each person you pass on the street, realizing that everyone is the main character in their own story, each living a life as vivid and complex as your own? That feeling has a name: “sonder.” Or maybe you’ve watched a thunderstorm roll in and felt a primal hunger for disaster, hoping it would shake up your life. That’s called “lachesism.” Or you were looking through old photos and felt a pang of nostalgia for a time you’ve never actually experienced. That’s “anemoia.”<br /> <br />If you’ve never heard of these terms before, that’s because they didn’t exist until John Koenig set out to fill the gaps in our language of emotion. <i>The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows </i>“creates beautiful new words that we need but do not yet have,” says John Green, bestselling author of <i>The Fault in Our Stars. </i>By turns poignant, relatable, and mind-bending, the definitions include whimsical etymologies drawn from languages around the world, interspersed with otherworldly collages and lyrical essays that explore forgotten corners of the human condition—from “astrophe,” the longing to explore beyond the planet Earth, to “zenosyne,” the sense that time keeps getting faster. <br /> <br /><i>The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows</i> is for anyone who enjoys a shift in perspective, pondering the ineffable feelings that make up our lives. With a gorgeous package and beautiful illustrations throughout, this is the perfect gift for creatives, word nerds, and human beings everywhere.]]></book_description>
    <book id="56897474">
      <num_pages>272</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>John Koenig</author_name>
    <isbn>1501153641</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:14:45 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 04:14:35 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[books-i-own, cried-or-almost-cried]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.45</average_rating>
    <book_published>2018</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56897474-the-dictionary-of-obscure-sorrows?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1634748607l/56897474._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: John Koenig<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.45<br/>
                                      book published: 2018<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own, cried-or-almost-cried<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939230509?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 03:54:52 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[This Woven Kingdom (This Woven Kingdom, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8939230509?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>58851732</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1644029981l/58851732._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Clashing empires, forbidden romance, and a long-forgotten queen destined to save her people—Tahereh Mafi’s first in an epic, romantic trilogy inspired by Persian mythology.</b><br /><br />To all the world, Alizeh is a disposable servant, not the long-lost heir to an ancient Jinn kingdom forced to hide in plain sight.<br /><br />The crown prince, Kamran, has heard the prophecies foretelling the death of his king. But he could never have imagined that the servant girl with the strange eyes, the girl he can’t put out of his mind, would one day soon uproot his kingdom—and the world.<br /><br />Perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo, Tomi Adeyemi, and Sabaa Tahir, this is the explosive first book in a new fantasy trilogy from the <i>New York Times</i> bestselling and National Book Award-nominated author Tahereh Mafi.]]></book_description>
    <book id="58851732">
      <num_pages>498</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Tahereh Mafi</author_name>
    <isbn>0755500091</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 03:54:52 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2026 03:54:17 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>books-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.89</average_rating>
    <book_published>2022</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58851732-this-woven-kingdom?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="This Woven Kingdom (This Woven Kingdom, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1644029981l/58851732._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Tahereh Mafi<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.89<br/>
                                      book published: 2022<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2025/12/12<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: books-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8924945311?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:34:08 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Wicked Sea (The Wicked Sea, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8924945311?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>250842708</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1775744315l/250842708._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>In this dark and sultry romantasy a mermaid battles hatred—and lust—for the wretched warlock who saved her life.</b><br /><br /> Mermaid Zephyra of the Syl dreams of freedom. On the run from a dangerous captor and years of abuse, she’s shed her tail, grown legs, and hidden herself on land in the merrow-loathing kingdom of Mortia, left to steal and barter on the dirty streets. But her freedom is short-lived when she’s caught and sentenced to death by the brutal warlock, Arion Stone.<br /><br /> Arion is as beautiful as he is cold and deadly, only interested in punishing the merrow he views as evil. He has grown as strong as any warlock might, but at great personal cost…which can only be remedied by the heart of the God of Death, lost to a fabled kingdom beneath the ocean’s treacherous depths.<br /><br /> So Arion offers Zephyra a deal she can’t refuse; help him find the mystical heart, and he’ll spare her life. With no other options, Zephyra agrees, entangling their souls and forbidden desires in a magical bargain until death do they part. But Zephyra's past is catching up to her, and the enemy she fled seeks vengeance. If Zephyra and Arion can't learn to fight together--and trust each other--there are worse things awaiting them than just death.<br /><br /> Of course, in the wicked sea, everyone has secrets, and no one should be trusted. <br /><b>For Fans </b> Enemies-to-lovers<br /> Magic Sensual Bonds<br /> Winged Romantic Lead<br /> Forced Proximity]]></book_description>
    <book id="250842708">
      <num_pages>446</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jordan Stephanie Gray</author_name>
    <isbn>1399756834</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 11 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 11 Sep 2026 16:34:08 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:54:23 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I'm a sucker for broken heroines.<br /><br />An unbelievably cohesive plot that gave you enough crumbs that the "surprise" at the end doesn't feel like it came out of nowhere but still surprising enough. April 2027 can't come soon enough. What the hell was that ending. <br /><br />(My only real criticism is that 11 inches is far too big)]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.44</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/250842708-the-wicked-sea?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Wicked Sea (The Wicked Sea, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1775744315l/250842708._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jordan Stephanie Gray<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.44<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/09/11<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/11<br/>
                                      shelves: special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I'm a sucker for broken heroines.<br /><br />An unbelievably cohesive plot that gave you enough crumbs that the "surprise" at the end doesn't feel like it came out of nowhere but still surprising enough. April 2027 can't come soon enough. What the hell was that ending. <br /><br />(My only real criticism is that 11 inches is far too big)<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8852164541?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:58:30 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Thorn Season (Thorn Season, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8852164541?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>243172948</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1761374314l/243172948._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<strong><em>Shadow and Bone</em> meets <em>The Selection </em>in this first book in Kiera Azar's sharp, sexy, and twisty debut YA romantasy trilogy! </strong><br /><br />In the Kingdom of Daradon, a persecuted few are Wielders, in possession of a magical Spectre–a shimmering thread that can extend beyond their visible body to give a loving caress, pick a lock . . . even kill. Feared for this ability, Wielders have always been Hunted.<br /><br />Alissa Paine, heiress and daughter of a Hunter family . . . is also a Wielder. At eighteen, Alissa knows she’s escaped execution thus far only due to painful self-control and the efforts of her beloved father.<br /><br />Summoned to the harsh and glittering royal court for the debutante season, Alissa finds herself caught in a web of intrigue and betrayal—and caught between two equally dangerous one a brutal ruler with the handsome face of a fairy-tale prince, who would destroy her if he knew the truth—and the other a beguiling foreign ambassador with secret agendas of his own.<br /><br />With the threat of discovery lurking around every corner—and romance becoming an increasingly dangerous temptation—Alissa will find that she has more to lose than her secrets. It’s Rose Season at the palace, but to survive she’ll need to become the most vicious of thorns. . . .]]></book_description>
    <book id="243172948">
      <num_pages>409</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kiera Azar</author_name>
    <isbn>0008783985</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 7 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:58:30 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:37:36 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.78</average_rating>
    <book_published>2025</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243172948-thorn-season?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Thorn Season (Thorn Season, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1761374314l/243172948._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kiera Azar<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.78<br/>
                                      book published: 2025<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/08/07<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/06<br/>
                                      shelves: special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720486888?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:56:36 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Gravewood (The Gravewood, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720486888?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>251744455</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1777736610l/251744455._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>IS IT LOVE . . . OR IS IT BLOODLUST?</b><br /><br />Shea Parker has lived her entire life in the shadow of the Gravewood – a deadly forest that’s cut her town off from the world. With resources dwindling, she’s forced to ration her hearing aid batteries. When her stash runs out, she’ll be left in silence.<br /><br />Her only hope is Oliver Lysander, the volatile leader of the vampires who rule the Gravewood. Their deal is simple: she gives him her blood, he brings her batteries. No lines crossed. Nothing personal.<br /><br />Until Shea’s best friend is lured into the Gravewood, and her brother Asher Thorley returns from the frontlines, willing to expose Shea’s darkest secrets to get his sister back.<br /><br />Ever the opportunist, Lysander offers a new bargain: if Asher kills his vampire rival, he’ll help find the missing girl. And if Shea agrees to Turn, he’ll cure her ailing mother.<br /><br />But every deal pulls her closer to Lysander – and to becoming a monster herself.]]></book_description>
    <book id="251744455">
      <num_pages>381</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kelly Andrew</author_name>
    <isbn>191175162X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 7 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:56:36 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:47:13 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>special-edition</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.56</average_rating>
    <book_published>2026</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/251744455-the-gravewood?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Gravewood (The Gravewood, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1777736610l/251744455._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kelly Andrew<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.56<br/>
                                      book published: 2026<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2026/07/07<br/>
                                      date added: 2026/09/06<br/>
                                      shelves: special-edition<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720484441?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:46:03 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Wrath: An Enemies-To-Lovers Paranormal Romance: Witch Wars]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8720484441?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>223996384</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[★★★★★ "New favourite trope - UNLOCKED - enemies with benefits. I adored absolutely everything about this book. From the characters to the magical system, the global travel and the banter... I laughed, I cried, I screamed for more!" - Goodreads Review<br /><br />★★★★★ "I was hooked from page one and now I'm emotionally invested in two people who would probs hex each other if they weren't busy falling in love."<br /><br /><b>Perfect for lovers of the National Treasure movies and high spice, witchy romance books.</b><i>Who said enemies can't come with benefits?</i>Vella Knight, arcane artifact expert, never expected to be caught practicing banned magic—especially by Matthias Medea, the Witches’ Council most ruthless spellcaster. Instead of turning her in, Matthias offers a chilling spy on her coven or face the Council’s wrath.<br /><br />The catch? Vella needs a lost relic that only Matthias can find—if that means blackmailing him right back, so be it. Forced into an uneasy alliance, their hunt drags them to the United Kingdom, plunging them into the shadowy world of arcane witchcraft hidden within historical landmarks and forgotten works of art, where every step brings them closer to betrayal—and each other.<br /><br />Their covens were enemies in a brutal conflict two decades ago, and old grudges run deep. Yet with every stolen glance and razor-sharp quip, the tension between them ignites into something deeper—something far more dangerous.<br /><br />But some temptations are too strong to resist. As danger closes in and the hunt turns deadly, Vella and Matthias are drawn to a forbidden passion that could doom them both. With time running out and enemies on all sides, they must decide what matters the relic, their survival, or a desire that could destroy them both.<br /><br />Because while the history books say the conflict of the covens ended twenty years earlier, the truth is a different matter entirely - and magic has a will and a way that no battle line can contain.<br /><br /><i>
  <b>Order your copy now and to join the adventure.</b>
</i><br /><br />Key to loversHigh spicePolitical intrigueSeries with a minor cliffhanger<br /><i>Author's </i><br />For the wellbeing of my readers, I'd like to advise of the following elements contained in the multiple explicit spicy scenes, violent and deadly scenes including parental death off and on page, acid attack (off page), facial scarring, poisoning, minor gore, kidnapping, voyeurism and public explicit displays.]]></book_description>
    <book id="223996384">
      <num_pages>420</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>H.M. Hodgson</author_name>
    <isbn>064545169X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:46:03 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Jun 2026 06:45:58 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.11</average_rating>
    <book_published></book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/223996384-wrath?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Wrath: An Enemies-To-Lovers Paranormal Romance: Witch Wars" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1737872444l/223996384._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: H.M. Hodgson<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.11<br/>
                                      book published: <br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/06/27<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8548704053?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:26 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The White King's Favorite (The Dragon Empire Saga, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8548704053?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>205650961</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[She was destined to Love.<br />He was born to Hate.<br />Princess Cessilia was born in the Dragon Empire, Prince Ashen in the Eastern Kingdom. With their nations separated by countless wars and endless hate for centuries, those two should have never met.<br />However, destiny had other plans for them, and instead of another war, a new Era comes, with unexpected twists and new dangers. With only her skills and a legendary War dragon by her side, Cessilia is sent as a prospective wife to the ruthless Ashen, the new ruler of the Eastern Kingdom, and now known as the White King.<br />What will happen now that she is confined in his castle, at his mercy...?<br />**<br />The sequel of The War God's Favorite]]></book_description>
    <book id="205650961">
      <num_pages>670</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jenny Fox</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:26 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:21 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.50</average_rating>
    <book_published>2024</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205650961-the-white-king-s-favorite?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The White King&#39;s Favorite (The Dragon Empire Saga, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1705696197l/205650961._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jenny Fox<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.50<br/>
                                      book published: 2024<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/04/24<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8548703318?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:06 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The War God's Favorite (The Dragon Empire Saga, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/8548703318?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>53423605</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[She was destined to Die.<br />He was born to Kill.<br /><br />Cassandra has known nothing but suffering and slavery for her whole life. Unjustly condemned to death, she was ready to leave this Hell and expire her last breath in the arena. <br /><br />But destiny had other plans for her, and instead of being killed, she was offered as a tribute to the merciless Kairen, the Dragon Prince, also known as the Empire's God of War. What will happen now that she is trapped in his den, at his mercy...?]]></book_description>
    <book id="53423605">
      <num_pages>650</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jenny Fox</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:06 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:53:00 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.20</average_rating>
    <book_published>2021</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53423605-the-war-god-s-favorite?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The War God&#39;s Favorite (The Dragon Empire Saga, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1589650632l/53423605._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jenny Fox<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.20<br/>
                                      book published: 2021<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2026/04/24<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/544469158?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 05 Mar 2025 02:36:39 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/544469158?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>11357769</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>This whole grim reaper thing should have come with a manual.<br />Or a diagram of some kind.<br />A flow chart would have been nice.</i><p>Charley Davidson is a part-time private investigator and full-time grim reaper. Meaning, she sees dead people. Really. And it's her job to convince them to "go into the light." But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (like murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she's been having about an entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely. But what does he want with Charley? And why can't she seem to resist him? And what does she have to lose by giving in?</p><p>With scorching-hot tension and high-octane humor, <i>First Grave on the Right</i> is your signpost to paranormal suspense of the highest order.</p>]]></book_description>
    <book id="11357769">
      <num_pages>310</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Darynda Jones</author_name>
    <isbn>0749956046</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Wed, 05 Mar 2025 02:36:39 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 23 Feb 2013 15:37:58 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>gorgeous-cover, reviewed</user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[So... This was weird. A good weird, but weird nonetheless. And here's why:<br /><br />I liked Charley. More or less. She was witty and sharp, but her humour didn't leave me in stitches like I had hoped. I think I only cracked a smile here or there a few times, but I didn't even chuckle. But, other than that, she was pretty cool, I guess. And there wasn't a love triangle, which is always a plus. <br /><br />The plot though... Well, it was up and down. I haven't read many crime fictions, so maybe that was the reason I fond it hard to keep up with what was happening or the evidence sometimes. But the plot in relation to Charley's power kind of seemed... "Surprise!" It was almost like the plot wasn't thought out sometimes and the author just added it in when it was needed. That was kind of annoying for a while, especially when I look back on it. <br /><br />The biggest surprise, though, was [spoilers removed] But, I guess the whole thing added another dimension to the story - however unexpected it might have been - and the second I learned what Reyes was, it kind of added another star even though it came at me out of nowhere.<br /><br />Reyes. Can we talk about him for a second? I get that he's uber-cool and uber-mysterious and uber-hot... But the fact that the man says about ten coherent sentences in the entire novel made it hard for me to judge his personality - or give him a personality. That's what it felt like, at least. I could be wrong and just read it too quickly.<br /><br />Yes, I did read this book in one sitting. It was fun, however surprising and weird and, at times, confusing. It was sort of a kill-time read, but I am really interested to read the next one. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.97</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11357769-first-grave-on-the-right?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1305284431l/11357769._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Darynda Jones<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.97<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/12/30<br/>
                                      date added: 2025/03/05<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/>So... This was weird. A good weird, but weird nonetheless. And here's why:<br /><br />I liked Charley. More or less. She was witty and sharp, but her humour didn't leave me in stitches like I had hoped. I think I only cracked a smile here or there a few times, but I didn't even chuckle. But, other than that, she was pretty cool, I guess. And there wasn't a love triangle, which is always a plus. <br /><br />The plot though... Well, it was up and down. I haven't read many crime fictions, so maybe that was the reason I fond it hard to keep up with what was happening or the evidence sometimes. But the plot in relation to Charley's power kind of seemed... "Surprise!" It was almost like the plot wasn't thought out sometimes and the author just added it in when it was needed. That was kind of annoying for a while, especially when I look back on it. <br /><br />The biggest surprise, though, was [spoilers removed] But, I guess the whole thing added another dimension to the story - however unexpected it might have been - and the second I learned what Reyes was, it kind of added another star even though it came at me out of nowhere.<br /><br />Reyes. Can we talk about him for a second? I get that he's uber-cool and uber-mysterious and uber-hot... But the fact that the man says about ten coherent sentences in the entire novel made it hard for me to judge his personality - or give him a personality. That's what it felt like, at least. I could be wrong and just read it too quickly.<br /><br />Yes, I did read this book in one sitting. It was fun, however surprising and weird and, at times, confusing. It was sort of a kill-time read, but I am really interested to read the next one. <br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/321371244?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 27 Sep 2024 20:28:59 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Eighth Grade Bites (The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/321371244?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>6663842</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1328337421l/6663842._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Vlad has to keep his vampire urges under control while dealing with the pressures of middle school. Thirteen-year-old Vladimir Tod really hates junior high. Bullies harass him, the principal is dogging him, and the girl he likes prefers his best friend. Oh, and Vlad has a His mother was human, but his father was a vampire. With no idea of the extent of his powers, Vlad struggles daily with his blood cravings and his enlarged fangs. When a substitute teacher begins to question him a little too closely, Vlad worries that his cover is about to be blown. But then he faces a much bigger He’s being hunted by a vampire killer.<b>Watch a QuickTime trailer for this book.</b>]]></book_description>
    <book id="6663842">
      <num_pages>202</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Heather Brewer</author_name>
    <isbn>1101042753</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 27 Sep 2024 20:28:59 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 30 Apr 2012 01:10:26 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>ebooks-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.00</average_rating>
    <book_published>2007</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6663842-eighth-grade-bites?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Eighth Grade Bites (The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1328337421l/6663842._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Heather Brewer<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.00<br/>
                                      book published: 2007<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/06/10<br/>
                                      date added: 2024/09/27<br/>
                                      shelves: ebooks-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/552583251?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 22 Jul 2024 21:03:58 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Diary of a Teenage Superhero (Teen Superheroes, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/552583251?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>17185951</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[A teenager wakes up in a seedy hotel room. He has no memory of his name or his past. A man lies dying on the floor next to him. Someone starts pounding at the door. <br />He runs. He is chased.<br /><br />While staying one step ahead of his pursuers, he begins to assemble the pieces of his life. His name is Axel. He is the victim of an amazing experiment – he has been given the power to control air – and he is not alone. <br /><br />An organisation known only as The Agency has also modified other teenagers. Brodie is a master of the martial arts. Ebony can transmute one substance into another. Dan controls metals with his mind. Chad creates fire and ice from nothing. <br />They have been handed incredible powers to help the human race in times of crisis – and one of those times is now. <br /><br />A terrorist organisation known as Typhoid has acquired Pegasus – a highly advanced missile, invisible to radar and conventional defence systems. They intend to fire it at an American city. Only this bunch of untried, untested teenage superheroes stands any chance of stopping the missile before it strikes its target. <br /><br /><i>Diary of a Teenage Superhero</i> is a high octane thriller showing what happens when conventional teenagers with everyday problems are given powers beyond this world. <br /><br />They have to learn to work together, but as Axel draws closer to his newfound friends, he remembers the words of the dying man in the hotel room. <br /><br />Trust no-one. <br /><br />He knows he can’t trust The Agency. <br /><br />Can he even trust his newfound friends?]]></book_description>
    <book id="17185951">
      <num_pages>182</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Darrell Pitt</author_name>
    <isbn>1923360175</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 22 Jul 2024 21:03:58 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 05 Mar 2013 01:12:39 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>ebooks-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.98</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17185951-diary-of-a-teenage-superhero?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Diary of a Teenage Superhero (Teen Superheroes, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1356671862l/17185951._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Darrell Pitt<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.98<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/04/18<br/>
                                      date added: 2024/07/22<br/>
                                      shelves: ebooks-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3703179178?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2020 22:55:35 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things that Sustain You When the World Goes Dark]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3703179178?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>52280906</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER ‘This book is beautiful … Julia Baird has been to the tough edges and gives us light. She writes like a dream.’ MATT HAIG ’Utterly captivating and magical.’ JULIA BRADBURY ‘Luminous and deeply comforting’ KATHERINE MAY Julia Baird’s intimate study of phosphorescence is full of wisdom and joy; a roadmap for rediscovering our inner light after the darkest of times. We now know just how much we should treasure the times when we feel happy, content and at peace. When we feel this way we seek out life’s experiences with a sense of optimism and hope. But how do we move forward with life now that everything has changed? Now that we appreciate just how fragile and fleeting these feelings can be? Is it possible to access a light – our own source of phosphorescence – that can sustain us in this brave new world? In this wise and inspiring book, bestselling author Julia Baird reflects on her encounters with phosphorescence, a luminescent phenomenon found in the nature, and how she was able to cultivate her own ‘inner light’ in the face of a life-threatening illness. When we spend time in nature, humble ourselves to the mystery of the world, and recognise the ‘soothing power of the ordinary’, we are able to discover hidden sources of strength and resilience. It is these experiences that sustain us, help us place one foot in front of the other and cultivate our own essential light which will light our path in good times and bad.]]></book_description>
    <book id="52280906">
      <num_pages>320</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Julia Baird</author_name>
    <isbn>1460757157</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2020 22:55:35 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2020 22:30:18 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[reviewed, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I hate non-fiction. This is largely to do with the face that when I was a kid, I thought 'non-fiction' meant 'not true,' and would get really disappointed that the librarian would point me to the place that wasn't filled with books about magic and heroes. So, how did I come across this work of art? I stopped reading for a couple of years, and then a person bought this for me, and I didn't want to waste their money by not reading it. <br /><br />And let me say, I've never felt such a strong, emotional response while reading a text that constantly references research and theorists. <br /><br />When reading a book, I am (was?) used to blasting through the pages, absorbing as much as the story as I can in a few short hours. For Young Adult, it works really well. By reading it fast, you'd miss plot holes, grammatical errors, and everything else seen on poorly written fiction (and there is a lot of poorly written Young Adult). However, when I started Phosphorescence, I quickly realised that reading it quickly would be an incredible disservice. <br /><br />The first reason for this is because I am consistently awe-struck by the descriptions. When I described it to my partner, I told him it was poetry written in prose. The line "the dawn is an arsonist who pours petrol along the horizon, throws a match on it and watches it burn" almost brought tears to my eyes. I'm not really sure why. In a book about awe and finding awe, I found awe in the book and writing itself. <br /><br />The second reason is, of course, that here are a lot of complex ideas that would be forgotten immediately if I speed-read the book. A lot of self-reflection would also be given up if I didn't give myself time to absorb what I just read. It is strange to say, but I feel like I understand myself a bit better by relating myself to Baird's work and the theorists she references. She talks to storm chasers, the concept of Japanese forest bathing, the ocean, and so much more. This book almost felt like a conversation, especially during the storm chasing chapter. My goodness, do yourself a favor and read at least the storm chaser chapter. <br /><br />Often, I feel guilty not finishing a book within the span of a few days. I feel as though the author is watching me, and that I'm not enjoying the hard work of the author enough. With Phosphorescence, it is the opposite. This is truly the book to get me back into reading, and not only that, reading something worthwhile. It's a book that makes me fall in love with the English language all over again. It is that feeling of love that is something I thought I had lost, never to be found again. I had craved it and mourned for it, trying different things and looking in different places to get it back. As it turns out, I was looking in the wrong places. <br /><br />I realise that this is more about my experience with the book rather than the book itself, but I think that's the highest praise I can give it, right? I'm not going to say 'life-changing' because I don't think it really has changed my life. It more reminded me of the life I had. <br /><br /><s>Next time I have to review a non-fiction book, just put me down instead...</s>]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.84</average_rating>
    <book_published>2020</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52280906-phosphorescence?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Phosphorescence: On Awe, Wonder and Things that Sustain You When the World Goes Dark" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1578565696l/52280906._SX50_SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Julia Baird<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.84<br/>
                                      book published: 2020<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2020/12/18<br/>
                                      shelves: reviewed, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I hate non-fiction. This is largely to do with the face that when I was a kid, I thought 'non-fiction' meant 'not true,' and would get really disappointed that the librarian would point me to the place that wasn't filled with books about magic and heroes. So, how did I come across this work of art? I stopped reading for a couple of years, and then a person bought this for me, and I didn't want to waste their money by not reading it. <br /><br />And let me say, I've never felt such a strong, emotional response while reading a text that constantly references research and theorists. <br /><br />When reading a book, I am (was?) used to blasting through the pages, absorbing as much as the story as I can in a few short hours. For Young Adult, it works really well. By reading it fast, you'd miss plot holes, grammatical errors, and everything else seen on poorly written fiction (and there is a lot of poorly written Young Adult). However, when I started Phosphorescence, I quickly realised that reading it quickly would be an incredible disservice. <br /><br />The first reason for this is because I am consistently awe-struck by the descriptions. When I described it to my partner, I told him it was poetry written in prose. The line "the dawn is an arsonist who pours petrol along the horizon, throws a match on it and watches it burn" almost brought tears to my eyes. I'm not really sure why. In a book about awe and finding awe, I found awe in the book and writing itself. <br /><br />The second reason is, of course, that here are a lot of complex ideas that would be forgotten immediately if I speed-read the book. A lot of self-reflection would also be given up if I didn't give myself time to absorb what I just read. It is strange to say, but I feel like I understand myself a bit better by relating myself to Baird's work and the theorists she references. She talks to storm chasers, the concept of Japanese forest bathing, the ocean, and so much more. This book almost felt like a conversation, especially during the storm chasing chapter. My goodness, do yourself a favor and read at least the storm chaser chapter. <br /><br />Often, I feel guilty not finishing a book within the span of a few days. I feel as though the author is watching me, and that I'm not enjoying the hard work of the author enough. With Phosphorescence, it is the opposite. This is truly the book to get me back into reading, and not only that, reading something worthwhile. It's a book that makes me fall in love with the English language all over again. It is that feeling of love that is something I thought I had lost, never to be found again. I had craved it and mourned for it, trying different things and looking in different places to get it back. As it turns out, I was looking in the wrong places. <br /><br />I realise that this is more about my experience with the book rather than the book itself, but I think that's the highest praise I can give it, right? I'm not going to say 'life-changing' because I don't think it really has changed my life. It more reminded me of the life I had. <br /><br /><s>Next time I have to review a non-fiction book, just put me down instead...</s><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/591899962?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 02 Aug 2020 11:48:52 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love, Vol. 1</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/591899962?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>13533763</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344187154l/13533763._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[In school, Yukina is a cold and distant girl; Shigure is the most perfect, good-looking guy. But the two of them have a secret, and their extraordinary "love affair" is about to start! Yukina, under the pen name 'Yupina', is actually a popular cell phone novelist. When she discovers Shigure's devious womanizing ways, she blackmails him to complete daring 'missions of love' for her to write about. Will these missions give them an opportunity to fall in love with each other?]]></book_description>
    <book id="13533763">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622747</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 02 Aug 2020 11:48:52 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:08:39 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.77</average_rating>
    <book_published>2009</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13533763-missions-of-love-vol-1?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love, Vol. 1" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344187154l/13533763._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.77<br/>
                                      book published: 2009<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/04/16<br/>
                                      date added: 2020/08/02<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2263259903?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 18 Jan 2018 13:45:24 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Tower of Dawn (Throne of Glass, #6)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2263259903?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>33306347</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1497987643l/33306347._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Chaol Westfall has always defined himself by his unwavering loyalty, his strength, and his position as the Captain of the Guard. But all of that has changed since the glass castle shattered, since his men were slaughtered, since the King of Adarlan spared him from a killing blow, but left his body broken.<br /><br />His only shot at recovery lies with the legendary healers of the Torre Cesme in Antica-the stronghold of the southern continent's mighty empire. And with war looming over Dorian and Aelin back home, their survival might lie with Chaol and Nesryn convincing its rulers to ally with them.<br /><br />But what they discover in Antica will change them both-and be more vital to saving Erilea than they could have imagined.]]></book_description>
    <book id="33306347">
      <num_pages>660</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408887975</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 24 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 18 Jan 2018 13:45:24 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 18 Jan 2018 13:43:39 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.25</average_rating>
    <book_published>2017</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33306347-tower-of-dawn?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Tower of Dawn (Throne of Glass, #6)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1497987643l/33306347._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.25<br/>
                                      book published: 2017<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/11/24<br/>
                                      date added: 2018/01/18<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100926270?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:29:01 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100926270?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>16096824</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546406962l/16096824._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a terrifying creature arrives to demand retribution. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she knows about only from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not truly a beast, but one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled her world.<br /><br />At least, he’s not a beast all the time.<br /><br />As she adapts to her new home, her feelings for the faerie, Tamlin, transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie she’s been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But something is not right in the faerie lands. An ancient, wicked shadow is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it, or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.<br /><br />From bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking book that blends romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read.]]></book_description>
    <book id="16096824">
      <num_pages>419</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1619634449</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 23 Feb 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:29:01 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:24:46 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, signed-copy, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.16</average_rating>
    <book_published>2015</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16096824-a-court-of-thorns-and-roses?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546406962l/16096824._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.16<br/>
                                      book published: 2015<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/02/23<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/08/22<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, signed-copy, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100927016?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:28:28 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100927016?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>26073150</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1487592053l/26073150._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The seductive #1 global bestselling sequel to Sarah J. Maas's spellbinding A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR).</b><br /><br />Feyre has undergone more trials than one human woman can carry in her heart. Though she's now been granted the powers and lifespan of the High Fae, she is haunted by her time Under the Mountain and the terrible deeds she performed to save the lives of Tamlin and his people.<br /><br />As her marriage to Tamlin approaches, Feyre's hollowness and nightmares consume her. She finds herself split into two different people: one who upholds her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court, and one who lives out her life in the Spring Court with Tamlin. While Feyre navigates a dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms. She might just be the key to stopping it, but only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future-and the future of a world in turmoil.<br /><br /><i>Bestselling author Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her dazzling, sexy, action-packed series to new heights.</i>]]></book_description>
    <book id="26073150">
      <num_pages>624</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1619634465</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 23 Apr 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:28:28 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:25:47 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.58</average_rating>
    <book_published>2016</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26073150-a-court-of-mist-and-fury?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="A Court of Mist and Fury (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1487592053l/26073150._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.58<br/>
                                      book published: 2016<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/04/23<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/08/22<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100927768?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:27:06 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2100927768?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>23766634</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1555221560l/23766634._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[FEYRE WILL BRING VENGEANCE.<br /><br />She has left the Night Court - and her High Lord - and is playing a deadly game of deceit. In the Spring Court, Tamlin is making deals with the invading king threatening to bring Prythian to its knees, and Feyre is determined to uncover his plans. But to do so she must weave a web of lies, and one slip may spell doom not only for Feyre, but for her world as well.<br /><br />As mighty armies grapple for power, Feyre must decide who to trust amongst the dazzling and lethal High Lords - and hunt for allies in unexpected places. <br /><br />BUT WHILE WAR RAGES, IT IS HER HEART THAT WILL FACE THE GREATEST BATTLE.<br /><br />THE THRILLING THIRD BOOK IN #1 <i>NEW YORK TIMES</i> BESTSELLING FANTASY SERIES FROM SARAH J. MAAS.]]></book_description>
    <book id="23766634">
      <num_pages>705</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408857901</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:27:06 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Aug 2017 16:26:44 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[love-a-guy-in-this-book, gorgeous-cover, cried-or-almost-cried]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.41</average_rating>
    <book_published>2017</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23766634-a-court-of-wings-and-ruin?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="A Court of Wings and Ruin (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1555221560l/23766634._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.41<br/>
                                      book published: 2017<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2017/08/22<br/>
                                      shelves: love-a-guy-in-this-book, gorgeous-cover, cried-or-almost-cried<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/351241950?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Aug 2017 22:38:44 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Iron King (The Iron Fey, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/351241950?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>6644117</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1327877670l/6644117._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.</b> Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home. When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change. But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil, no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.]]></book_description>
    <book id="6644117">
      <num_pages>363</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Julie Kagawa</author_name>
    <isbn>0373210086</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 2 Aug 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 06 Aug 2017 22:38:44 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 18 Jun 2012 23:01:47 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>reviewed, gorgeous-cover</user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<u>Overview</u><br /><br />I’ve always wanted to read <i>The Iron King</i>. Truly, I did. And now, I’m wondering why I didn’t read it sooner… When I could tolerate badly-written books. <br /><br />Was the plot of it bad? Nope. Actually, it was a really interesting take on faeries. Were the characters two dimensional? Fuck yeah.<br /><br />Look, I’m just gonna say it now: the plot is the only thing that made me keep reading. The plot is actually really creative, and true to Kagawa’s outside-the-box thinking. Without spoiling too much, Meghan’s brother is kidnapped and replaced by a changeling, and she and Robbie/Puck go on a quest to find him. Along the way, they’ll meet members of the Seelie and Unseelie Court, and a whole new Court nobody knew about. It sounds generic, but it does have some good depth to it. But the writing….<br /><br /><u>The Writing</u><br /><br />Oh, sweet baby donuts, the writing. Ugly, forced, cringey teenage-voice. Honestly, I wanted to go through the entire book with a red pen because someone didn’t seem to do a good job editing it. Let me just say, it’s really fucking clear when an author tries too hard to appeal to teenage audiences. Stay away from the clichés of having the nerdy protagonist like the jock just because, because that was all kinds of irritating, and the book wouldn’t have lost anything if it was scrapped. The voice of Meghan was also cringey, with me having to put the book down and going, “That’s not how we talk. Jeez.” Not to mention, the writing was also incredibly lazy. There was one part when it describes something as “out of a steampunk anime.” And that was pretty much it. Now, I haven’t watched any steampunk anime, so I couldn’t really see what was happening or where they were or anything else really. And it wasn’t the first time, either. Often, you have throw-away descriptions of characters, making them hard to imagine, especially if they’re magical, inhuman creatures of the fae world. More than once, I struggled because there wasn’t enough description of the world around them, and the characters themselves. There was also inconsistencies of characters themselves, like Meghan throwing around the word ‘otaku.’ It hadn’t been hinted that she watches anime, let alone the fact that she was one. The least that could have been done was to put “Naruto Opening 1” on the iPod before it got ruined, so you knew she had some sort of connection to the genre. <br /><br /><u>The Characters</u><br /><br />Meghan is your every day, normal-ish sixteen-year-old who lives a normal-esqu life. The thing is, I don’t think I saw any character development in her. She cared for her brother enough to save him and she likes everyone (except not because she’s a moody teenager) and feels bad that anyone has to sacrifice themselves to her cause. There. That’s it. No development. Not to mention the fact that her reasons for liking and forgiving someone are way too moody, too. [spoilers removed] Don’t get me wrong, these cases are different, but Meghan’s ability to forgive and forget, or to hate and remember depending on who it just makes me annoyed. <br /><br />Which brings me to Robbie/Puck, the far less interesting of the trio. He cares for Meghan and is probably in love with her, which makes him far too protective of her. Honestly, I didn’t care too much about him. I get that a reader was supposed to care because Meghan cared for him, but I didn’t. Going on about how he’s so funny <b>does not</b> make a character funny. Sure, he’s a prankster, but I think Kagawa was relying too much on a reader to have read Shakespeare’s <i>A Midsummer Night’s Dream</i> and didn’t really develop his character as much as she should have, which is just lazy writing. <br /><br />Ash… Well, I should have liked him. For all intents and purposes, he was the Bad Boy and basically the equivalate of the forbidden fruit. With no personality. He’s the love interest, which is annoying because there’s nothing interesting about the broody Prince of the Unseelie. He follows orders, likes hunting, and has some weird vow to kill because of a tragic backstory (which is clear it’s an accident, by the way). His developments felt awkward and staged, and there wasn’t enough time spent with the character to make him seem… real. The kiss felt random, holding hands felt strange, and while Meghan cares for literally everyone except the King and Queen of the Seelie Court, the only thing she seems focussed on is the fact he’s so damn gorgeous. There wasn’t any witty banter between the two (or in the whole book, really) that brought a smile to my face and made me wish these two fictional characters ended up together. There was no chemistry between them from the get-go, except maybe when he asked her to dance. And then suddenly he’s falling for her. And then suddenly she falls for him. I didn’t buy it. <br /><br /><u>End Comments</u><br /><br />I’m surprised this got published. Truly, I am. But, like I said, the plot was going really well for it, so that’s something at least. And I think I do want to continue the series, despite what I say, if only to find out what happens next <s>and if the characters, god-forbid, get some more personality</s>. All I’m saying is, if my university course didn’t ruin me for enjoying a badly-written book, I might have really enjoyed it. Loved it, even. But, alas…<br /><br />3/5 – your plot saved you.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.88</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6644117-the-iron-king?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Iron King (The Iron Fey, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1327877670l/6644117._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Julie Kagawa<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.88<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/08/02<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/08/06<br/>
                                      shelves: reviewed, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><u>Overview</u><br /><br />I’ve always wanted to read <i>The Iron King</i>. Truly, I did. And now, I’m wondering why I didn’t read it sooner… When I could tolerate badly-written books. <br /><br />Was the plot of it bad? Nope. Actually, it was a really interesting take on faeries. Were the characters two dimensional? Fuck yeah.<br /><br />Look, I’m just gonna say it now: the plot is the only thing that made me keep reading. The plot is actually really creative, and true to Kagawa’s outside-the-box thinking. Without spoiling too much, Meghan’s brother is kidnapped and replaced by a changeling, and she and Robbie/Puck go on a quest to find him. Along the way, they’ll meet members of the Seelie and Unseelie Court, and a whole new Court nobody knew about. It sounds generic, but it does have some good depth to it. But the writing….<br /><br /><u>The Writing</u><br /><br />Oh, sweet baby donuts, the writing. Ugly, forced, cringey teenage-voice. Honestly, I wanted to go through the entire book with a red pen because someone didn’t seem to do a good job editing it. Let me just say, it’s really fucking clear when an author tries too hard to appeal to teenage audiences. Stay away from the clichés of having the nerdy protagonist like the jock just because, because that was all kinds of irritating, and the book wouldn’t have lost anything if it was scrapped. The voice of Meghan was also cringey, with me having to put the book down and going, “That’s not how we talk. Jeez.” Not to mention, the writing was also incredibly lazy. There was one part when it describes something as “out of a steampunk anime.” And that was pretty much it. Now, I haven’t watched any steampunk anime, so I couldn’t really see what was happening or where they were or anything else really. And it wasn’t the first time, either. Often, you have throw-away descriptions of characters, making them hard to imagine, especially if they’re magical, inhuman creatures of the fae world. More than once, I struggled because there wasn’t enough description of the world around them, and the characters themselves. There was also inconsistencies of characters themselves, like Meghan throwing around the word ‘otaku.’ It hadn’t been hinted that she watches anime, let alone the fact that she was one. The least that could have been done was to put “Naruto Opening 1” on the iPod before it got ruined, so you knew she had some sort of connection to the genre. <br /><br /><u>The Characters</u><br /><br />Meghan is your every day, normal-ish sixteen-year-old who lives a normal-esqu life. The thing is, I don’t think I saw any character development in her. She cared for her brother enough to save him and she likes everyone (except not because she’s a moody teenager) and feels bad that anyone has to sacrifice themselves to her cause. There. That’s it. No development. Not to mention the fact that her reasons for liking and forgiving someone are way too moody, too. [spoilers removed] Don’t get me wrong, these cases are different, but Meghan’s ability to forgive and forget, or to hate and remember depending on who it just makes me annoyed. <br /><br />Which brings me to Robbie/Puck, the far less interesting of the trio. He cares for Meghan and is probably in love with her, which makes him far too protective of her. Honestly, I didn’t care too much about him. I get that a reader was supposed to care because Meghan cared for him, but I didn’t. Going on about how he’s so funny <b>does not</b> make a character funny. Sure, he’s a prankster, but I think Kagawa was relying too much on a reader to have read Shakespeare’s <i>A Midsummer Night’s Dream</i> and didn’t really develop his character as much as she should have, which is just lazy writing. <br /><br />Ash… Well, I should have liked him. For all intents and purposes, he was the Bad Boy and basically the equivalate of the forbidden fruit. With no personality. He’s the love interest, which is annoying because there’s nothing interesting about the broody Prince of the Unseelie. He follows orders, likes hunting, and has some weird vow to kill because of a tragic backstory (which is clear it’s an accident, by the way). His developments felt awkward and staged, and there wasn’t enough time spent with the character to make him seem… real. The kiss felt random, holding hands felt strange, and while Meghan cares for literally everyone except the King and Queen of the Seelie Court, the only thing she seems focussed on is the fact he’s so damn gorgeous. There wasn’t any witty banter between the two (or in the whole book, really) that brought a smile to my face and made me wish these two fictional characters ended up together. There was no chemistry between them from the get-go, except maybe when he asked her to dance. And then suddenly he’s falling for her. And then suddenly she falls for him. I didn’t buy it. <br /><br /><u>End Comments</u><br /><br />I’m surprised this got published. Truly, I am. But, like I said, the plot was going really well for it, so that’s something at least. And I think I do want to continue the series, despite what I say, if only to find out what happens next <s>and if the characters, god-forbid, get some more personality</s>. All I’m saying is, if my university course didn’t ruin me for enjoying a badly-written book, I might have really enjoyed it. Loved it, even. But, alas…<br /><br />3/5 – your plot saved you.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2080937433?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 03 Aug 2017 03:11:56 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2080937433?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>29559052</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1463176678l/29559052._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Довгий шлях до трону для Аеліни Ґалатінії лише починається, а на обрії вже збираються хмари війни. Вірність вивірена та куплена, друзі втрачені й знайдені, а озброєні магією дедалі ворожіші до тих, хто її не має. Заклявшись серцем принцові-командиру, що стоїть поруч, і присягнувши народові, який прагне врятувати, Аеліна бере зглибока свою силу, щоб захистити тих, кого любить. Та коли чудовиська виринають із жахіть минулого, темні сили готуються привласнити її світ. Аеліна рятується у відчайдушному пошуку, що може забрати більше, ніж принцеса здатна віддати. Попереду вибір, чим і ким вона ладна пожертвувати заради миру.]]></book_description>
    <book id="29559052">
      <num_pages>689</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408872897</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 27 Jul 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 03 Aug 2017 03:11:56 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 03 Aug 2017 03:10:11 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.54</average_rating>
    <book_published>2016</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29559052-empire-of-storms?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1463176678l/29559052._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.54<br/>
                                      book published: 2016<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/07/27<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/08/03<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1884389373?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 15:33:49 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass, #4)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1884389373?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>23848145</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1426000177l/23848145._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[NO MASTERS.<br />NO LIMITS.<br />NO REGRETS.<br /><br />Celaena Sardothien is cloaked in her assassin's hood once more. She is back in Rifthold, but this time she is no one's slave. She must delve into her most painful memories and fight for her survival, while resisting a smouldering passion that might very well consume her heart. And she will face her former master, the King of Assassins, again - to wreak revenge for a decade of pain...]]></book_description>
    <book id="23848145">
      <num_pages>648</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408858614</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 13 Jan 2017 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 15:33:49 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:37:11 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, gorgeous-cover, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<i>Okay, so this might be a combined review of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20613470.Heir_of_Fire__Throne_of_Glass___3_" title="Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Heir of Fire</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18006496.Queen_of_Shadows__Throne_of_Glass___4_" title="Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass, #4) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Queen of Shadows</a>, only because I read them so damn close together that everything is a blur.</i><br /><br />I and loving the fuck out of this series. <br /><br />I think one of my best decisions ever was to buy the first book in the series, only because I felt like I wanted to read a good fantasy novel with a strong female lead, and that's exactly what you got.<br /><br />Celaena's transformation into Aelin was done masterfully to the point where I almost didn't notice, but in saying that, I think Calaena is still very much alive. The way Aelin plots and schemes and fights (obviously) is very much Calaena, but Aelin, if anything, is just more pragmatic, able to make hard decisions whereas Calaena would have just run away. I also adore Aelin's relationship with Rowan, and the fact that she's moved on from that love triangle between Chaol and Dorian just proves how much she's matured. <br /><br />Chaol and Dorian, I feel... Well, I used to like Chaol. And yeah, I get that his whole life fell apart and he had no choice but to flee, but I feel like the initial hatred towards Aelin is a bit much. And Dorian... whoo boy, do I feel sorry for that kid. He wanted to die, but I'm glad he didn't, and I eagerly await his return in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28260587.Empire_of_Storms__Throne_of_Glass___5_" title="Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Empire of Storms</a>.<br /><br />Mannon is a character I did not expect to care for. When she was introduced in HOF, I was like <i>"What the hell is this random witch plot for?"</i> and I actually couldn't give two shits and groaned whenever her chapter came up. But, somewhere along the way, when it was revealed that she did have a heart and did have a soul (however much she tried to deny it) and when the Crochan told her how much she pitied the witches because they were <i>made</i> into monsters (causing an emotional rollercoaster in Mannon) I began to like her as a character. She wasn't as two-dimensional as I originally thought, especially after claiming Abraxos and helping him kill Titan, or risking the game to save her rival. In QOS, I found myself even wanting to read her story, finding it more interesting than Aelin's half the time. Because, you know. In Mannon's story, they were fucking wyverns. <br /><br />All in all, I found myself caring for characters I didn't think I would, like Mannon, Elide, Lyssandra and even Arobynn (he had me fooled), which I didn't expect. The series evolved from a single girl's story and into one of the best fantasy series yet. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.55</average_rating>
    <book_published>2015</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23848145-queen-of-shadows?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass, #4)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1426000177l/23848145._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.55<br/>
                                      book published: 2015<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2017/01/13<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/01/18<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, gorgeous-cover, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><i>Okay, so this might be a combined review of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20613470.Heir_of_Fire__Throne_of_Glass___3_" title="Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Heir of Fire</a> and <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18006496.Queen_of_Shadows__Throne_of_Glass___4_" title="Queen of Shadows (Throne of Glass, #4) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Queen of Shadows</a>, only because I read them so damn close together that everything is a blur.</i><br /><br />I and loving the fuck out of this series. <br /><br />I think one of my best decisions ever was to buy the first book in the series, only because I felt like I wanted to read a good fantasy novel with a strong female lead, and that's exactly what you got.<br /><br />Celaena's transformation into Aelin was done masterfully to the point where I almost didn't notice, but in saying that, I think Calaena is still very much alive. The way Aelin plots and schemes and fights (obviously) is very much Calaena, but Aelin, if anything, is just more pragmatic, able to make hard decisions whereas Calaena would have just run away. I also adore Aelin's relationship with Rowan, and the fact that she's moved on from that love triangle between Chaol and Dorian just proves how much she's matured. <br /><br />Chaol and Dorian, I feel... Well, I used to like Chaol. And yeah, I get that his whole life fell apart and he had no choice but to flee, but I feel like the initial hatred towards Aelin is a bit much. And Dorian... whoo boy, do I feel sorry for that kid. He wanted to die, but I'm glad he didn't, and I eagerly await his return in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28260587.Empire_of_Storms__Throne_of_Glass___5_" title="Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5) by Sarah J. Maas" rel="nofollow noopener">Empire of Storms</a>.<br /><br />Mannon is a character I did not expect to care for. When she was introduced in HOF, I was like <i>"What the hell is this random witch plot for?"</i> and I actually couldn't give two shits and groaned whenever her chapter came up. But, somewhere along the way, when it was revealed that she did have a heart and did have a soul (however much she tried to deny it) and when the Crochan told her how much she pitied the witches because they were <i>made</i> into monsters (causing an emotional rollercoaster in Mannon) I began to like her as a character. She wasn't as two-dimensional as I originally thought, especially after claiming Abraxos and helping him kill Titan, or risking the game to save her rival. In QOS, I found myself even wanting to read her story, finding it more interesting than Aelin's half the time. Because, you know. In Mannon's story, they were fucking wyverns. <br /><br />All in all, I found myself caring for characters I didn't think I would, like Mannon, Elide, Lyssandra and even Arobynn (he had me fooled), which I didn't expect. The series evolved from a single girl's story and into one of the best fantasy series yet. <br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1884388724?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:37:00 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1884388724?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>20617636</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398369003l/20617636._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
    <book_small_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398369003l/20617636._SY75_.jpg]]></book_small_image_url>
    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398369003l/20617636._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398369003l/20617636.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Consumed by guilt and rage, Celaena can't bring herself to spill blood for the King of Adarlan. She must fight back...<br /><br />The Immortal Queen will help her destroy the king - for a price. But as Celaena battles with her darkest memories and her heart breaks for a love that could never last, can she fulfil the bargain and head the almighty court of Terrasen? And who will stand with her?]]></book_description>
    <book id="20617636">
      <num_pages>562</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408839121</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 21 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:37:00 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:36:30 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.41</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20617636-heir-of-fire?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Heir of Fire (Throne of Glass, #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398369003l/20617636._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.41<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/12/21<br/>
                                      date added: 2017/01/18<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/449727564?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 24 Dec 2016 14:39:00 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/449727564?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>17670709</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365589649l/17670709._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
    <book_small_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365589649l/17670709._SY75_.jpg]]></book_small_image_url>
    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365589649l/17670709._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365589649l/17670709.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Crowned by Evil.<br />Bound by Duty.<br />Divided by Love.</b><br /> <br />Celaena Sardothien, royal assassin, is the King of Adarlan's deadliest weapon. She must win her freedom through his enemies' blood - but she cannot bear to kill for the crown. And every death Celaena fakes, every lie she tells, put those she loves at risk.<br /><br />Torn between her two protectors - a captain and a prince - and battling a dark force far greater than the king, Celaena must decide what she will fight for: her liberty, her heart or the fate of a kingdom...]]></book_description>
    <book id="17670709">
      <num_pages>418</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn>1408834944</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 20 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 24 Dec 2016 14:39:00 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 05 Nov 2012 22:21:34 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.33</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17670709-crown-of-midnight?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Crown of Midnight (Throne of Glass, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365589649l/17670709._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.33<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/12/20<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/12/24<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/365727940?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 21:21:17 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/365727940?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>13519397</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1337978469l/13519397._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
    <book_small_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1337978469l/13519397._SY75_.jpg]]></book_small_image_url>
    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1337978469l/13519397._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1337978469l/13519397.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[<i><u>Librarian note:</u> Older cover of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40512568-throne-of-glass" rel="nofollow noopener">9781408832332</a>.</i><br /><br /><b>Meet Celaena Sardothien.<br />Beautiful. Deadly.<br />Destined for greatness.</b><br /><br />In the dark, filthy salt mines of Endovier, an eighteen-year-old girl is serving a life sentence. She is a trained assassin, the best of her kind, but she made a fatal mistake. She got caught.<br /><br />Young Captain Westfall offers her a deal: her freedom in return for one huge sacrifice. Celaena must represent the prince in a to-the-death tournament—fighting the most gifted thieves and assassins in the land. Live or die, Celaena will be free. Win or lose, she is about to discover her true destiny. But will her assassin’s heart be melted?]]></book_description>
    <book id="13519397">
      <num_pages>404</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sarah J. Maas</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 13 Dec 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 21:21:17 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 10 Jul 2012 20:41:38 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, love-a-guy-in-this-book, gorgeous-cover]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.08</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13519397-throne-of-glass?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1337978469l/13519397._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sarah J. Maas<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.08<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/12/13<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/12/12<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, love-a-guy-in-this-book, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/368887313?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 19:15:53 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Opposition (Lux, #5)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/368887313?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>13644055</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398694101l/13644055._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
    <book_small_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398694101l/13644055._SX50_.jpg]]></book_small_image_url>
    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398694101l/13644055._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398694101l/13644055.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>Katy knows the world changed the night the Luxen came.</i><br /><br />She can't believe Daemon welcomed his race or stood by as his kind threatened to obliterate every last human and hybrid on Earth. But the lines between good and bad have blurred, and love has become an emotion that could destroy her—could destroy them all.<br /><br /><i>Daemon will do anything to save those he loves, even if it means betrayal.</i><br /><br />They must team with an unlikely enemy if there is any chance of surviving the invasion. But when it quickly becomes impossible to tell friend from foe, and the world is crumbling around them, they may lose everything— even what they cherish most—to ensure the survival of their friends…and mankind.<br /><br /><i>War has come to Earth. And no matter the outcome, the future will never be the same for those left standing.</i><br /><br />This edition includes <b>SHADOWS</b>, a Lux Prequel Novella]]></book_description>
    <book id="13644055">
      <num_pages>533</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1622662644</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 13 Sep 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 19:15:53 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 15 Jul 2012 02:39:03 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[reviewed, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b><u><i>HUNTER, HUNTER, HUNTER!!!</i></u> <br /><br />IS THE BLURB TALKING ABOUT HUNTER? OH MY GOD, I THINK I'M GOING TO DIE IF HUNTER IS IN THIS BOOK...<br /><br />BLARGH!! YAY FOR HUNTER!!</b><br /><br />I mean, not that I love Damon any less and I'd prefer him over Hunter, but...<br /><br /><i>Hunter.</i><br /><br />^.^]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.31</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644055-opposition?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Opposition (Lux, #5)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1398694101l/13644055._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.31<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/09/13<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/12/12<br/>
                                      shelves: reviewed, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b><u><i>HUNTER, HUNTER, HUNTER!!!</i></u> <br /><br />IS THE BLURB TALKING ABOUT HUNTER? OH MY GOD, I THINK I'M GOING TO DIE IF HUNTER IS IN THIS BOOK...<br /><br />BLARGH!! YAY FOR HUNTER!!</b><br /><br />I mean, not that I love Damon any less and I'd prefer him over Hunter, but...<br /><br /><i>Hunter.</i><br /><br />^.^<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/363024662?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 18:46:38 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Personal Demons (Personal Demons, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/363024662?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>7823600</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438053827l/7823600._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
    <book_small_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438053827l/7823600._SY75_.jpg]]></book_small_image_url>
    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438053827l/7823600._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438053827l/7823600._SY475_.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[If you had to choose between Heaven and Hell, which would it be?<br /><br />Are you sure about that...?<br /><br />Frannie Cavanaugh is a good Catholic girl with a wicked streak. She's spent years keeping everyone at a distance--even her closest friends--and it seems her senior year will be more of the same...until Luc Cain enrolls in her class. No one knows where he came from, but Frannie can't seem to stay away from him. What she doesn't know is that Luc works in Acquisitions--for Hell--and she possesses a unique skill set that has the king of Hell tingling with anticipation. All Luc has to do is get her to sin, and he's as tempting as they come. Frannie doesn't stand a chance.<br /><br />Unfortunately for Luc, Heaven has other plans, and the angel, Gabe, is going to do whatever it takes to make sure that Luc doesn't get what he came for. And it isn't long before they find themselves fighting for more than just her soul.<br /><br />But if Luc fails, there will be Hell to pay...for all of them.]]></book_description>
    <book id="7823600">
      <num_pages>365</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Lisa Desrochers</author_name>
    <isbn>0765328089</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 23 Nov 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Dec 2016 18:46:38 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 07 Jul 2012 07:27:55 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.68</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7823600-personal-demons?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Personal Demons (Personal Demons, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438053827l/7823600._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Lisa Desrochers<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.68<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/11/23<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/12/12<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/876280491?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 06 Aug 2016 15:04:46 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Wallbanger (Cocktail, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/876280491?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>21851665</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>A bestselling hot, hilarious eBook by <i>USA TODAY</i> indie author Alice Clayton, the freshest voice to hit publishing in years. “An instant classic…highly recommended!” (<i>New York Times</i> and <i>USA TODAY</i> bestselling author Jennifer Probst).</b><br /><br />Caroline Reynolds has a fantastic new apartment in San Francisco, a Kitchen Aid mixer to die for, and no O (and we’re not talking Oprah here, folks). She has a flourishing design career, an office overlooking the bay, a killer zucchini bread recipe, and no O. She has Clive (the best cat ever), great friends, a great rack, and no O. Adding insult to O-less, she also has an oversexed neighbor with the loudest late-night wallbanging she’s ever heard. Every moan, spank, and—was that a meow?—punctuates the fact that not only is she losing sleep, she still has—yep, you guessed it—no O. Enter Simon Parker. When the wallbanging threatens to literally bounce her out of bed, Caroline, clad in sexual frustration and a pink baby-doll nightie, confronts her heard-but-never-seen neighbor. Their late-night hallway encounter has…well…mixed results. Because with walls this thin, the tension’s gonna be thick. A delicious mix of silly and steamy, this is an irresistible tale of exasperation at first sight.]]></book_description>
    <book id="21851665">
      <num_pages>320</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Alice Clayton</author_name>
    <isbn>1623420032</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 8 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 06 Aug 2016 15:04:46 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 08 Mar 2014 21:14:21 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[Okay, so I chose the edition that doesn't have a cover so I don't feel like a perv. Although the name 'Wallbanger' implies otherwise... *sigh* Let's just get on with the review.<br /><br />Wallbanger was amazing. That is all. <br /><br />Kidding. A friend introduced me to it and told me all about the first half of the book, which, despite the title, nothing happens between the two main characters. In fact, nothing does until the last couple of chapters. Anyway, it's mostly witty banter between them and anger and frustration for a good while. <br /><br />And the second hand embarrassment? Wow. There is a lot. There were more than a few times that I wanted to crawl under the sheets and die from Caroline's embarrassment, and more than a few times where I just had to stop reading for a few minutes because of it. I adore all of it and really respect an author if it happens to that extent. <br /><br />Simon, the 'Wallbanger', is hilarious, but that eases up towards the second half of the book, which is why I only gave it four stars. Caroline, the 'Pink Nightie Girl', has amusing commentary of situations, but can be a bit annoying at times, too. The other characters were pretty minor in comparison, but they all filled their roles perfectly. <br /><br />All in all, a good book - easy and quick to read with lots of laughs, embarrassment and good characters. I'll definitely be reading the sequel.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.30</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21851665-wallbanger?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Wallbanger (Cocktail, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1442228329l/21851665._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Alice Clayton<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.30<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/03/08<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/08/06<br/>
                                      shelves: love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/>Okay, so I chose the edition that doesn't have a cover so I don't feel like a perv. Although the name 'Wallbanger' implies otherwise... *sigh* Let's just get on with the review.<br /><br />Wallbanger was amazing. That is all. <br /><br />Kidding. A friend introduced me to it and told me all about the first half of the book, which, despite the title, nothing happens between the two main characters. In fact, nothing does until the last couple of chapters. Anyway, it's mostly witty banter between them and anger and frustration for a good while. <br /><br />And the second hand embarrassment? Wow. There is a lot. There were more than a few times that I wanted to crawl under the sheets and die from Caroline's embarrassment, and more than a few times where I just had to stop reading for a few minutes because of it. I adore all of it and really respect an author if it happens to that extent. <br /><br />Simon, the 'Wallbanger', is hilarious, but that eases up towards the second half of the book, which is why I only gave it four stars. Caroline, the 'Pink Nightie Girl', has amusing commentary of situations, but can be a bit annoying at times, too. The other characters were pretty minor in comparison, but they all filled their roles perfectly. <br /><br />All in all, a good book - easy and quick to read with lots of laughs, embarrassment and good characters. I'll definitely be reading the sequel.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1685323109?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 01 Jul 2016 19:59:11 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The DUFF</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1685323109?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>25076514</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1425555102l/25076514._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn’t think she’s the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She’s also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her “Duffy,” she throws her Coke in his face.<br /><br />But things aren’t so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.<br /><br />Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn’t such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she’s falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.]]></book_description>
    <book id="25076514">
      <num_pages>300</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kody Keplinger</author_name>
    <isbn>1444927981</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 1 Jul 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 01 Jul 2016 19:59:11 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 01 Jul 2016 19:10:45 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[reviewed, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I got the movie tie-in cover. Why? Because Robbie Amell. Sue me. <br /><br />Anywhoo, review time!<br /><br />I freaking <i>love</i> the movie. It's my go-to chick flick movie. So, when I found out it was based on a book, I was ecstatic. When I started reading it... I was less so. Here me out. I know it's a crime to put the book against the movie, especially when it seems like the only thing they 'based on the book' were the names of the characters, but I have my reason for rating it a 3.75/5 at best. <br /><br />Just super-duper quickly, the main differences from the movie are, Maddison doesn't exist in the book. Yup. There is no queen bitch with a minion following her around, documenting her every move. Bianca lives with her father, not her mother, [spoilers removed] Jes and Casey are very different, and... sex. Like, <i>a lot</i> of sex and other mature content. Colour me surprised, too. Although, if it helps, it's mainly glossed over or written in a YA kind of way rather than extremely explicit.<br /><br />Bianca has issues in her life and being called the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by the amazingly hot <s>Robbie Amell</s> Wesely Rush, high school man-whore, begins the story of every teen's struggle with self-esteem. Bianca, as a character, annoyed me at times, but I did get where she was coming from. When she didn't realise she was running away from her problems, neither did I, until she faced them, which I think is a sign of excellent writing. She did develop, as all good characters do, but... I think her voice bugged me, sometimes. I enjoyed her being cynical and snarky, but she sometimes relapsed in a forced 'teenage' way of speaking which seemed out-of-character, and a failed attempt at connecting with the reader (I just cringed and pretended like it never happened). Also, her addiction to Wesley after everything in her life pretty much goes to shit, as much as I realise it being an extremely unhealthy relationship, was... kind of cute. The slow change from wanting to stab his eye with a spork to loving him happened at a well-written and easy to follow pace. The only thing that really, <i>really</i> bothered me about Bianca was her borderline pathological lies. To everyone. About everything. Denial is one thing, but sometimes, it felt like she was lying for the sake of lying, and when the things she was lying about were important and potentially life-destroying, I kind of wanted to strangle her.<br /><br />Wesley Rush.... Whoo boy. Okay. Yeah, he's hot, smirks, is snarky, an absolute dick, and... It's hard not to love him, really, other than the times he's <i>really</i> a dick and calls Bianca 'Duffy' on a regular basis. His change was as believable as Bianca's. Even though Bianca couldn't see it, little things he said and did made it easy to follow. In the beginning, the only thing he really cared for was having sex with any female of the human species, and really, sex was something Wes and Bianca used just to forget about their own problems for a while. [spoilers removed] Through post and pre-sex conversations with Bianca, they sort of became friends (with benefits, of course). They eventually cared about one another and just wanted to make the other person happy. Sex and even kisses for them even transformed from lust-driven to slow and passionate. <br /><br />Aside from Bianca's random bursts of 'teenage slang,' there were a few other things which annoyed me, wich were the reasons this book lost a few points. Mainly, Toby Tucker. Honestly, that boy was way too perfect it was cringey. No human being would act like that, ever. I don't care how 'gentlemanly' they are. Towards the end, I actually thought he was gay and was trying to suppress it. And his Wuthering Hights references and the overall reference to The Scarlett Letter kind of just felt like cheap attempts at trying to be intertextual, especially when it was shoved down my throat by comparing characters to others by name and quoting things in the book. Also, Bianca's father's transformation didn't feel realistic. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Overall, it was a good story, exploring real issues of self-esteem, drinking, denial and addiction. Albeit, it was sometimes rushed, and some of the problems were too clean-cut for me and solved way too quickly, it was still a good book. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.76</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25076514-the-duff?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The DUFF" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1425555102l/25076514._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kody Keplinger<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.76<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/07/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/07/01<br/>
                                      shelves: reviewed, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I got the movie tie-in cover. Why? Because Robbie Amell. Sue me. <br /><br />Anywhoo, review time!<br /><br />I freaking <i>love</i> the movie. It's my go-to chick flick movie. So, when I found out it was based on a book, I was ecstatic. When I started reading it... I was less so. Here me out. I know it's a crime to put the book against the movie, especially when it seems like the only thing they 'based on the book' were the names of the characters, but I have my reason for rating it a 3.75/5 at best. <br /><br />Just super-duper quickly, the main differences from the movie are, Maddison doesn't exist in the book. Yup. There is no queen bitch with a minion following her around, documenting her every move. Bianca lives with her father, not her mother, [spoilers removed] Jes and Casey are very different, and... sex. Like, <i>a lot</i> of sex and other mature content. Colour me surprised, too. Although, if it helps, it's mainly glossed over or written in a YA kind of way rather than extremely explicit.<br /><br />Bianca has issues in her life and being called the DUFF (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) by the amazingly hot <s>Robbie Amell</s> Wesely Rush, high school man-whore, begins the story of every teen's struggle with self-esteem. Bianca, as a character, annoyed me at times, but I did get where she was coming from. When she didn't realise she was running away from her problems, neither did I, until she faced them, which I think is a sign of excellent writing. She did develop, as all good characters do, but... I think her voice bugged me, sometimes. I enjoyed her being cynical and snarky, but she sometimes relapsed in a forced 'teenage' way of speaking which seemed out-of-character, and a failed attempt at connecting with the reader (I just cringed and pretended like it never happened). Also, her addiction to Wesley after everything in her life pretty much goes to shit, as much as I realise it being an extremely unhealthy relationship, was... kind of cute. The slow change from wanting to stab his eye with a spork to loving him happened at a well-written and easy to follow pace. The only thing that really, <i>really</i> bothered me about Bianca was her borderline pathological lies. To everyone. About everything. Denial is one thing, but sometimes, it felt like she was lying for the sake of lying, and when the things she was lying about were important and potentially life-destroying, I kind of wanted to strangle her.<br /><br />Wesley Rush.... Whoo boy. Okay. Yeah, he's hot, smirks, is snarky, an absolute dick, and... It's hard not to love him, really, other than the times he's <i>really</i> a dick and calls Bianca 'Duffy' on a regular basis. His change was as believable as Bianca's. Even though Bianca couldn't see it, little things he said and did made it easy to follow. In the beginning, the only thing he really cared for was having sex with any female of the human species, and really, sex was something Wes and Bianca used just to forget about their own problems for a while. [spoilers removed] Through post and pre-sex conversations with Bianca, they sort of became friends (with benefits, of course). They eventually cared about one another and just wanted to make the other person happy. Sex and even kisses for them even transformed from lust-driven to slow and passionate. <br /><br />Aside from Bianca's random bursts of 'teenage slang,' there were a few other things which annoyed me, wich were the reasons this book lost a few points. Mainly, Toby Tucker. Honestly, that boy was way too perfect it was cringey. No human being would act like that, ever. I don't care how 'gentlemanly' they are. Towards the end, I actually thought he was gay and was trying to suppress it. And his Wuthering Hights references and the overall reference to The Scarlett Letter kind of just felt like cheap attempts at trying to be intertextual, especially when it was shoved down my throat by comparing characters to others by name and quoting things in the book. Also, Bianca's father's transformation didn't feel realistic. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Overall, it was a good story, exploring real issues of self-esteem, drinking, denial and addiction. Albeit, it was sometimes rushed, and some of the problems were too clean-cut for me and solved way too quickly, it was still a good book. <br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341243543?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 01 Jul 2016 19:08:45 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Power (Titan, #2)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341243543?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>25857200</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1436151016l/25857200._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1436151016l/25857200._SY475_.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Minden ​nagy változás küzdelemmel jár.<br /><br />A Szövetségi Egyetem harctérré változott: összecsapnak a tisztavérűek és a félvérek, akik követelik a saját végzetük feletti uralom jogát. A sors azonban más terveket tartogat. Tetőfokára hág az erőszak, és elkerülhetetlennek tűnik a fajok közti háború – éppen a legrosszabbkor. Hüperiónt ugyan legyőzték, de Josie és Seth is tudja, hogy csak haladékot nyertek. Sethnek fel kell készítenie Josie-t a harcra, akinek uralnia kell új képességeit, és meg kell találniuk a többi félistent is, mielőtt a titánok rájuk bukkannának.<br /><br />Az istenek azonban még náluk is nagyobb fenyegetéstől tartanak.<br /><br />Egy csordányi kiéhezett titánnál csak egy fékevesztett apollüón veszélyesebb. A Josie-ban rejlő aether erősen vonzza Sethet. Mikor a vágy és a szerelem utat ad a hatalomnak, tudja, hogy Josie közelsége nemcsak a lányra, hanem mindenkire nézve veszélyes, de Josie elengedéséhez olyan önzetlenségre van szükség, ami nem Seth stílusa. A múlt ösvénye a jövő útjává válik. A titánveszély pusztító következményekkel jár, és a hatalom sötét csábítása ismét befonja Sethet. Josie ezúttal talán nem tudja őt visszatartani.<br /><br />Hatalom és szerelem harca. Éld át az izgalmait!]]></book_description>
    <book id="25857200">
      <num_pages>339</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1633920569</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 1 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 01 Jul 2016 19:08:45 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 07:52:35 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>WARNING:</b> This book contains spoilers from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18809475.The_Return__Titan___1_" title="The Return (Titan, #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">The Return</a>, because this is its sequel and I'm going to assume you've read the first one. <br /><br />It's been a while since I've read this book/been on Goodreads in general, but here it goes:<br /><br /><b>Why isn't Seth real?</b><br /><br />First things first, Seth's an idiot, but that's okay. Honestly, JLA captured his voice beautifully. His emotions and thoughts were so heartbreakingly real, and he stayed true to his character in this sequel. Seth deserves to be so happy it's freaking ridiculous, and the fact he thinks otherwise is like a stab in the bloody chest. His relationship devolves with Josie a tad because of this, reverting back to his old ways by keeping her at 50 arms' length, but I'm just glad that Josie was the kind of person who called Seth out on his bullshit from the get-go. Still... Yeah, he was a beautifully painful character to read. He never came across as mopey, even though he had more than a right to. There were a few things about his childhood that were revealed which made me want to shank her with a spork. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Speaking of Josie, holy shit, a lot of shit happened. [spoilers removed] And Josie is a freaking trooper through all of it. I don't think there were any points where she annoyed me--not as much as Seth, anyway, but he gets a free pass because even when he did, he had reasons for it, and I was too busy trying not to cry. Anyway, Josie had very real reactions to everything going on around her and nothing was forced, which I found was a nice change from all the other books. Sure, being on the outside, I sometimes questioned why she reacted the way she did. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />[spoilers removed]<br /><br />Plot-wise, JLA is brilliant. It was a mix between slow and fast-paced, which always keeps things interesting. The action feels like it's happening real time, and the plot slows down just enough to let you feel what the characters are feeling or to let you take a small break from everything. It never gets boring. Also, it's incredible how JLA keeps managing to weave Greek mythology into the story without any of them feeling like they were a forced fit. The world (and threats) around her already fleshed-out characters feels completely natural and very real. <br /><br />Love the characters. Love the plot. Love Seth. You rock, JLA!]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.33</average_rating>
    <book_published>2016</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25857200-the-power?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Power (Titan, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1436151016l/25857200._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.33<br/>
                                      book published: 2016<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/03/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/07/01<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>WARNING:</b> This book contains spoilers from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18809475.The_Return__Titan___1_" title="The Return (Titan, #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">The Return</a>, because this is its sequel and I'm going to assume you've read the first one. <br /><br />It's been a while since I've read this book/been on Goodreads in general, but here it goes:<br /><br /><b>Why isn't Seth real?</b><br /><br />First things first, Seth's an idiot, but that's okay. Honestly, JLA captured his voice beautifully. His emotions and thoughts were so heartbreakingly real, and he stayed true to his character in this sequel. Seth deserves to be so happy it's freaking ridiculous, and the fact he thinks otherwise is like a stab in the bloody chest. His relationship devolves with Josie a tad because of this, reverting back to his old ways by keeping her at 50 arms' length, but I'm just glad that Josie was the kind of person who called Seth out on his bullshit from the get-go. Still... Yeah, he was a beautifully painful character to read. He never came across as mopey, even though he had more than a right to. There were a few things about his childhood that were revealed which made me want to shank her with a spork. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Speaking of Josie, holy shit, a lot of shit happened. [spoilers removed] And Josie is a freaking trooper through all of it. I don't think there were any points where she annoyed me--not as much as Seth, anyway, but he gets a free pass because even when he did, he had reasons for it, and I was too busy trying not to cry. Anyway, Josie had very real reactions to everything going on around her and nothing was forced, which I found was a nice change from all the other books. Sure, being on the outside, I sometimes questioned why she reacted the way she did. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />[spoilers removed]<br /><br />Plot-wise, JLA is brilliant. It was a mix between slow and fast-paced, which always keeps things interesting. The action feels like it's happening real time, and the plot slows down just enough to let you feel what the characters are feeling or to let you take a small break from everything. It never gets boring. Also, it's incredible how JLA keeps managing to weave Greek mythology into the story without any of them feeling like they were a forced fit. The world (and threats) around her already fleshed-out characters feels completely natural and very real. <br /><br />Love the characters. Love the plot. Love Seth. You rock, JLA!<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1488232364?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 25 Feb 2016 17:13:59 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Marked (The Soulseer Chronicles, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1488232364?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>24934734</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[With no family and very few friends, Lucky’s psychic ability has always made her an outcast. The only person she can rely on is Kayla, the ghost girl who has been with her since she was born.<br /><br />But Kayla is not all that she appears.<br /><br />And when Lucky is visited by a demonic assassin with a message for her friend, she finds herself dragged into the Underlands – and the political fight for the daemon king’s throne.<br /><br />Lucky, trapped in the daemon world, is determined to find her way home… until she finds herself caught between the charms of the Guardian Jamie, the charismatic Daemon of Death Jinx – and the lure of finding out who she really is.]]></book_description>
    <book id="24934734">
      <num_pages>346</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Sue Tingey</author_name>
    <isbn>1848668945</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 25 Feb 2016 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 25 Feb 2016 17:13:59 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 31 Dec 2015 23:16:01 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[So, I'm not gonna lie, I went on a reading-dry spell during this book, but that had nothing to do with the actual book itself.<br /><br />The book itself was incredibly exciting, and I regret all of my initial reactions while reading the book. My copy had an incredibly vague blurb that basically said, "Lucky can see ghosts. Kayla isn't what she seems, and neither is Kayla." So, I really had no idea what to expect. <br /><br />Lucky seeing ghosts was cool on it's own, but never once did I expect there to be a whole 'nother world aside from her own. Stupidly, I kept thinking that once dragons - excuse me, drakons - and daemons that could hardly be called human were going to make this story incredibly shit. I kept telling my friends about the weird inclusions, and they, too, questioned why it would go from something about being psychic to dragons and winged horses.<br /><br />But, man, was I wrong. Like Lucky, I kind of got used to them and I stopped judging them based on their appearance, and eventually, I kind of just learned to roll with it rather than rolling my eyes every few pages. It got to a point where I stopping thinking of them as weird and strange characters that changed the entire plot of a book I was enjoying at the start. I saw them as as her companions, and now, I can't imagine Lucky without her five guards: [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Okay, let's talk actual characters. Lucky de Salle was a hero in her own right. Aside from Kayla, she didn't really have many other friends, which is what made her companions so important to her, I guess. She was a real and well-rounded character, with a hot tempter to match - although, to be fair, in her situation, it was understandable. The romance between her, Jamie and Jinx was slow-paced, but I felt that it needed to be - there were way too many things going on, and adding that to the mix would just make everything a mess. <br /><br />Jamie... He's a sweetheart - an angel, and everything related to that word. Feared and respected, he's well-known in the daemon world as one of the strongest - if not <i>the</i> strongest - Guardian. He keeps Lucky's best interests at heart, not wanting to hurt her to the point where he keeps secrets from her because he doesn't want to hurt her. <br /><br />Jinx is the other side to Jamie's coin and a mirror image, at least physically. He likes that Lucky is independent, and has no trouble telling her what needs to be told and the truth, even if Lucky would find it terrifying. And damnit, where Jamie is sweet, Jinx is hella sexy in the way he acts - he is the 'baddest' boy and a man after my own heart. <br /><br />The rest of the major characters - in fact, all of the characters who are not Lucky - have a mysterious past, but they are all well-rounded and lovable, including the dragon. Even if they aren't lovable, they all add something to the story, and the whole thing just works wonderfully together. The side-stories and side-plots are equally as interesting, and I found myself really wanting to know more about the stories of other characters - especially Kayla. Really, above all else, it's a story of friendship and belonging, and how far you'd go for someone you love (not necessarily romantically) and that's something I absolutely loved about this book - and I can't wait for the sequal!<br /><br />]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.56</average_rating>
    <book_published>2015</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24934734-marked?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Marked (The Soulseer Chronicles, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1423939562l/24934734._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Sue Tingey<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.56<br/>
                                      book published: 2015<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2016/02/25<br/>
                                      date added: 2016/02/25<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/>So, I'm not gonna lie, I went on a reading-dry spell during this book, but that had nothing to do with the actual book itself.<br /><br />The book itself was incredibly exciting, and I regret all of my initial reactions while reading the book. My copy had an incredibly vague blurb that basically said, "Lucky can see ghosts. Kayla isn't what she seems, and neither is Kayla." So, I really had no idea what to expect. <br /><br />Lucky seeing ghosts was cool on it's own, but never once did I expect there to be a whole 'nother world aside from her own. Stupidly, I kept thinking that once dragons - excuse me, drakons - and daemons that could hardly be called human were going to make this story incredibly shit. I kept telling my friends about the weird inclusions, and they, too, questioned why it would go from something about being psychic to dragons and winged horses.<br /><br />But, man, was I wrong. Like Lucky, I kind of got used to them and I stopped judging them based on their appearance, and eventually, I kind of just learned to roll with it rather than rolling my eyes every few pages. It got to a point where I stopping thinking of them as weird and strange characters that changed the entire plot of a book I was enjoying at the start. I saw them as as her companions, and now, I can't imagine Lucky without her five guards: [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Okay, let's talk actual characters. Lucky de Salle was a hero in her own right. Aside from Kayla, she didn't really have many other friends, which is what made her companions so important to her, I guess. She was a real and well-rounded character, with a hot tempter to match - although, to be fair, in her situation, it was understandable. The romance between her, Jamie and Jinx was slow-paced, but I felt that it needed to be - there were way too many things going on, and adding that to the mix would just make everything a mess. <br /><br />Jamie... He's a sweetheart - an angel, and everything related to that word. Feared and respected, he's well-known in the daemon world as one of the strongest - if not <i>the</i> strongest - Guardian. He keeps Lucky's best interests at heart, not wanting to hurt her to the point where he keeps secrets from her because he doesn't want to hurt her. <br /><br />Jinx is the other side to Jamie's coin and a mirror image, at least physically. He likes that Lucky is independent, and has no trouble telling her what needs to be told and the truth, even if Lucky would find it terrifying. And damnit, where Jamie is sweet, Jinx is hella sexy in the way he acts - he is the 'baddest' boy and a man after my own heart. <br /><br />The rest of the major characters - in fact, all of the characters who are not Lucky - have a mysterious past, but they are all well-rounded and lovable, including the dragon. Even if they aren't lovable, they all add something to the story, and the whole thing just works wonderfully together. The side-stories and side-plots are equally as interesting, and I found myself really wanting to know more about the stories of other characters - especially Kayla. Really, above all else, it's a story of friendship and belonging, and how far you'd go for someone you love (not necessarily romantically) and that's something I absolutely loved about this book - and I can't wait for the sequal!<br /><br /><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1472180452?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Dec 2015 07:43:30 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>When My Heart Was Wicked</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1472180452?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>22749511</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA["I used to be one of those girls. The kind who loved to deliver bad news. When I colored my hair, I imagined it seeping into my scalp, black dye pooling into my veins.<br /><br />But that was the old Lacy. Now, when I cast spells, they are always for good."<br /><br />16-year-old Lacy believes that magic and science can work side by side. She's a botanist who knows how to harness the healing power of plants. So when her father dies, Lacy tries to stay with her step-mother in Chico, where her magic is good and healing. She fears the darkness that her real mother, Cheyenne, brings out, stripping away everything that is light and kind.<br /><br />Yet Cheyenne never stays away for long. Beautiful, bewitching, unstable Cheyenne who will stop at nothing, not even black magic, to keep control of her daughter's heart. She forces Lacy to accompany her to Sacramento, and before long, the "old" Lacy starts to resurface.<br /><br />But when Lacy survives a traumatic encounter, she finds herself faced with a choice. Will she use her powers to exact revenge and spiral into the darkness forever? Or will she find the strength to embrace the light?]]></book_description>
    <book id="22749511">
      <num_pages>192</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Tricia Stirling</author_name>
    <isbn>0545695732</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Dec 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 22 Dec 2015 07:43:30 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 22:29:18 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, reviewed, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>I... I don't know what to think.</b><br /><br />I know I hated this book at first. I'm not one for amazingly descriptive plots or annoying characters, and by all logic, I should hate this book. <br /><br /><i>So, why is it sitting on my 'favourites' shelf above my bed?</i><br /><br />Again, I don't know. <br /><br />Lacy... I don't know what to think of her. I never liked Catcher in the Rye (or studying it), either, and this book reminds me so much of it. It even made direct references in the book. Lacy even called herself an 'unreliable narrator'. She has some sort o identity crisis which is completely relatable, I suppose, and she undergoes transformation after transformation.<br /><br />I think one of the charms of this book is that you see and feel the world through Lacy's eyes. Don't get me wrong, I'm not emotionally attached to her or anything - I didn't cry when she cried or smiled when she did, but I did begin to think like her. I did end up forgetting why she hated Cheyenne so much in the beginning, and her 'craziness' seemed totally normal, and if it wasn't, it was pretty soon forgotten shortly after. <br /><br />Almost all of the characters were one dimensional - Anne, 'the friends', 'the bitches'... And the ones that weren't still weren't overly fleshed out to the point where I actually gave a damn about them. <br /><br />I suppose the language was beautiful - full of quotes and techniques that made even me stop and really consider it... But that only took me away from the story, especially at the beginning. I have no idea if I just got used to it, but there was <i>so</i> much exposition in the beginning about really pointless crap and sentences and paragraphs that could have been way shorter if the author just changed the sentence structures. I remember absolutely hating it.<br /><br />So, why is it on my 'favourites' shelf again?<br /><br />It comes back to this: I simply don't know. I was just compelled to put it there. Maybe I'm growing as a reader and learning to appreciate books I wouldn't have before. Maybe I should read The Catcher in the Rye again and see if my perception changes. Maybe it's because there are so many different interpretations of the book - like any art. I personally believed in the magic, but she could have just as easily been in an asylum the entire time, imagining everything while Anne and Cheyenne came to visit. I really, really don't know.<br /><br />And no book has ever made me feel this way. Maybe that's why it's on my 'favourites' shelf. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.28</average_rating>
    <book_published>2015</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22749511-when-my-heart-was-wicked?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="When My Heart Was Wicked" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1421363496l/22749511._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Tricia Stirling<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.28<br/>
                                      book published: 2015<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/12/22<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/22<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, reviewed, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>I... I don't know what to think.</b><br /><br />I know I hated this book at first. I'm not one for amazingly descriptive plots or annoying characters, and by all logic, I should hate this book. <br /><br /><i>So, why is it sitting on my 'favourites' shelf above my bed?</i><br /><br />Again, I don't know. <br /><br />Lacy... I don't know what to think of her. I never liked Catcher in the Rye (or studying it), either, and this book reminds me so much of it. It even made direct references in the book. Lacy even called herself an 'unreliable narrator'. She has some sort o identity crisis which is completely relatable, I suppose, and she undergoes transformation after transformation.<br /><br />I think one of the charms of this book is that you see and feel the world through Lacy's eyes. Don't get me wrong, I'm not emotionally attached to her or anything - I didn't cry when she cried or smiled when she did, but I did begin to think like her. I did end up forgetting why she hated Cheyenne so much in the beginning, and her 'craziness' seemed totally normal, and if it wasn't, it was pretty soon forgotten shortly after. <br /><br />Almost all of the characters were one dimensional - Anne, 'the friends', 'the bitches'... And the ones that weren't still weren't overly fleshed out to the point where I actually gave a damn about them. <br /><br />I suppose the language was beautiful - full of quotes and techniques that made even me stop and really consider it... But that only took me away from the story, especially at the beginning. I have no idea if I just got used to it, but there was <i>so</i> much exposition in the beginning about really pointless crap and sentences and paragraphs that could have been way shorter if the author just changed the sentence structures. I remember absolutely hating it.<br /><br />So, why is it on my 'favourites' shelf again?<br /><br />It comes back to this: I simply don't know. I was just compelled to put it there. Maybe I'm growing as a reader and learning to appreciate books I wouldn't have before. Maybe I should read The Catcher in the Rye again and see if my perception changes. Maybe it's because there are so many different interpretations of the book - like any art. I personally believed in the magic, but she could have just as easily been in an asylum the entire time, imagining everything while Anne and Cheyenne came to visit. I really, really don't know.<br /><br />And no book has ever made me feel this way. Maybe that's why it's on my 'favourites' shelf. <br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309174580?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2015 17:49:53 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Wicked (A Wicked Trilogy, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309174580?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>23356038</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1413064601l/23356038._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Things are about to get Wicked in New Orleans. <br /> <br />Twenty-two year old Ivy Morgan isn’t your average college student. She, and others like her, know humans aren’t the only thing trolling the French Quarter for fun… and for food. Her duty to the Order is her life. After all, four years ago, she lost everything at the hands of the creatures she’d sworn to hunt, tearing her world and her heart apart. <br /> <br />Ren Owens is the last person Ivy expected to enter her rigidly controlled life. He’s six feet and three inches of temptation and swoon-inducing charm. With forest-green eyes and a smile that’s surely left a stream of broken hearts in its wake, he has an uncanny, almost unnatural ability to make her yearn for everything he has to offer. But letting him in is as dangerous as hunting the cold-blooded killers stalking the streets. Losing the boy she loved once before had nearly destroyed her, but the sparking tension that grows between them becomes impossible for Ivy to deny. Deep down, she wants… she needs more than what her duty demands of her, what her past has shaped for her. <br /> <br />But as Ivy grows closer to Ren, she realizes she’s not the only one carrying secrets that could shatter the frail bond between them. There’s something he’s not telling her, and one thing is for certain. She’s no longer sure what is more dangerous to her—the ancient beings threatening to take over the town or the man demanding to lay claim to her heart and her soul.]]></book_description>
    <book id="23356038">
      <num_pages>398</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>0988982951</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 29 Sep 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2015 17:49:53 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:31:05 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[signed-copy, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>
  <i>Holy shit on a meatball stick...</i>
</b><br /><br />Renald "Ren" Owens... I have once again fallen in absolute love with a JLA main male protagonist. He's exactly the perfect mix of sexy, sweet, adorable, badass... He owns a bike, has a smexy tattoo, has glittering green eyes and one hell of a mouth (but that's to be expected since <i>Wicked</i> is definitely not for younger readers). He's practically a walking sex god. Words cannot describe how much I love the guy. <br /><br />As for Ivy - the main character - she's so freaking badass that badass can't even describe her. Like, holy shit, but it's her insecurities and deepest desires are that make her real and make her someone you can relate to, even if she's slicing and dicing faes in her downtime. She's a well-rounded and well-developed character, and I really love her, too. <br /><br />The... er... connection between the two of them? I loved. Besides the fact that I thought it could be a little more dragged out - although I understand completely why it couldn't be - I thought it was amazingly well done. <br /><br />Major characters like Tink made me smile - and groan and roll my eyes (in a good way) - more than I'd like to admit, and I genuinely ended up really liking the little punk. Val? I really liked her, too, and even Ivy's school friend whose name escapes me at the moment added a nice touch of normalcy. Every major and minor character had a role to play.<br /><br />And the plot...? Well, there was one thing that was a little predictable at the very end, but most of the surprises were completely unexpected and had me going nuts most of the time. It was fun, fast, and downright awesome. <br /><br />In fact, the whole thing was!]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.94</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23356038-wicked?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Wicked (A Wicked Trilogy, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1413064601l/23356038._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.94<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/09/29<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/18<br/>
                                      shelves: signed-copy, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>
  <i>Holy shit on a meatball stick...</i>
</b><br /><br />Renald "Ren" Owens... I have once again fallen in absolute love with a JLA main male protagonist. He's exactly the perfect mix of sexy, sweet, adorable, badass... He owns a bike, has a smexy tattoo, has glittering green eyes and one hell of a mouth (but that's to be expected since <i>Wicked</i> is definitely not for younger readers). He's practically a walking sex god. Words cannot describe how much I love the guy. <br /><br />As for Ivy - the main character - she's so freaking badass that badass can't even describe her. Like, holy shit, but it's her insecurities and deepest desires are that make her real and make her someone you can relate to, even if she's slicing and dicing faes in her downtime. She's a well-rounded and well-developed character, and I really love her, too. <br /><br />The... er... connection between the two of them? I loved. Besides the fact that I thought it could be a little more dragged out - although I understand completely why it couldn't be - I thought it was amazingly well done. <br /><br />Major characters like Tink made me smile - and groan and roll my eyes (in a good way) - more than I'd like to admit, and I genuinely ended up really liking the little punk. Val? I really liked her, too, and even Ivy's school friend whose name escapes me at the moment added a nice touch of normalcy. Every major and minor character had a role to play.<br /><br />And the plot...? Well, there was one thing that was a little predictable at the very end, but most of the surprises were completely unexpected and had me going nuts most of the time. It was fun, fast, and downright awesome. <br /><br />In fact, the whole thing was!<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/342487600?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2015 17:47:35 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Unchained (Nephilim Rising, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/342487600?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>22819516</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1409318143l/22819516._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>Being a Nephilim isn't everything it's cracked up to be...</b><br /><br />Between the pissed-off creatures who want demon-hunter and Nephilim Lily Marks dead and the fallen angel who just...<i>wants</i> her, Lily is about ready to trade in forever for a comfy job in a cubicle farm.<br /><br />Mortal enemies, the fact that Lily and Julian are civil to one another is enough to have her thrown out of the Sanctuary. Even Lily can build a laundry list of why getting close to Julian is career suicide, but she can't shake her not-so angelic stalker, or ignore how he brings her dangerously close to ecstasy.<br /><br />As if Lily doesn't have enough problems, the hits just keep coming. Blindsided when a traitor is discovered working from within the Sanctuary, Lily is shocked to find he's determined to get her kicked out. Her relationship with Julian provides the perfect fuel for suspicion, and she quickly finds herself being hunted by, well, everyone. Her only hope is to discover the real traitor before she loses everything - and she'll need Julian's help. That is, if Julian is really there to help her...or destroy her.]]></book_description>
    <book id="22819516">
      <num_pages>416</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>J. Lynn</author_name>
    <isbn>1444799339</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 18 Dec 2015 17:47:35 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 04 Jun 2012 16:33:48 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>Before I start, literally any information on the sequel would be absolutely amazing...</b><br /><br /><i>
  <b>Oh, boy, oh, boy, oh, boy...</b>
</i><br /><br />Man, it's been ages since I've read a book. I kind of just hit a dry spell where gaming and binge watching TV shows were enough, but when I felt the need to read, I picked this baby up and I <i>devoured</i> it. <br /><br />JLA or J. Lynn (whatever you want to call her) had a different style for this book, which was <i>mind-blowing</i> because I did <i>not</i> expect her of all authors to be writing in third-person, but it is the second book she ever wrote, so there's that. Anyway, usually, I generally dislike third-person novels. There's something about them that makes me feel like there's a connection lacking - that it's not personal enough for me. But, with this book, I just felt the same as I did with any other first-person novel, and the fact that there was more than one or two perspectives just made everything easier to follow, and things didn't just appear because 'why the fuck not?'. The Fallen Baal seemed even more frightening than he otherwise would have - I'm still getting the creeps just thinking about him! - and while I found the Michael parts a little boring, they really did help.<br /><br />Okay, let's actually get into the review.<br /><br />Lily was our main, kick-ass protagonist that likes killing baddies. That alone should make her awesome. She's one of the few female Nephilim, which doesn't make her as special as I thought she'd be (well, for now, anyway) but makes her no less badass. She rarely annoyed me, having her head in the game despite... distractions and was genuinely a well-rounded character. Lily was sassy and I just loved her. <br /><br />Now, I actually <i>can't stand</i> insta-love. I'm a big fan of insta-hate turning to love... but this was neither. Julian - my, oh, my, Julian - was a hunk of sexy bathed in sexy sauce. Like, <i>dayum</i> the boy was absolutely amazing. I'm pretty sure that in the beginning - to Lily, at least - it was a mad case of insta-lust (and really, who could blame her?), but as their relationship progressed, it became so much more. Okay, yes, I did find the whole stalking thing a little bit creepy, but he had a day job, too (... I hope), and he just <i>cared</i> about Lily in a way that nobody else did. I won't give too much away. Just know that it was beautiful.<br /><br />Oh, Michael. You're a fast learner and a really big plot twist. Other than that, I really have no opinion of you.<br /><br />Luke? <i>WHY?</i> [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Nathaniel? He was pretty cool, even when he wasn't.<br /><br />Adrian? Dick. <br /><br />Okay, plot-wise, <u>Unchained</u> was hard to understand at first. The only terms I grasped immediately were the Fallen and Nephilim. Deadheads and minions were just confusing, but I got the handle on everything really quickly, and it helped that I was learning through Michael, since Lily new everything. <br /><br />Otherwise... <br /><br />Holy angels on steroids. That shit was intense. Baal and the head of the demons were terrifying, it had lots of plot twists. I actually joked to myself about the final end reveal and was flabbergasted when that was the truth. Honestly, it was a wild ride from start to finish. I think that I got into the plot so much that at one point, I was like, "Okay. They had sex. Great. Let's get on with it!" And it wasn't that the smut was badly written - it was actually kind of classy, to be honest - but I just wanted to power-read through it to get to the even better parts. Looking back, there may have been a few slow-paced sections, but I thought that it went pretty well. <br /><br />Books being about the whole 'grey' area of right and wrong will never cease to bore me, and neither will books that will show just how far one is willing to go to get what they want, even if it means destroying themselves. I don't know. Even though I love this book, it's not my favourite, but something just tells me that I'll be thinking about the series for a while, and that alone makes it worthy of five stars.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.16</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22819516-unchained?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Unchained (Nephilim Rising, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1409318143l/22819516._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: J. Lynn<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.16<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/12/18<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/18<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>Before I start, literally any information on the sequel would be absolutely amazing...</b><br /><br /><i>
  <b>Oh, boy, oh, boy, oh, boy...</b>
</i><br /><br />Man, it's been ages since I've read a book. I kind of just hit a dry spell where gaming and binge watching TV shows were enough, but when I felt the need to read, I picked this baby up and I <i>devoured</i> it. <br /><br />JLA or J. Lynn (whatever you want to call her) had a different style for this book, which was <i>mind-blowing</i> because I did <i>not</i> expect her of all authors to be writing in third-person, but it is the second book she ever wrote, so there's that. Anyway, usually, I generally dislike third-person novels. There's something about them that makes me feel like there's a connection lacking - that it's not personal enough for me. But, with this book, I just felt the same as I did with any other first-person novel, and the fact that there was more than one or two perspectives just made everything easier to follow, and things didn't just appear because 'why the fuck not?'. The Fallen Baal seemed even more frightening than he otherwise would have - I'm still getting the creeps just thinking about him! - and while I found the Michael parts a little boring, they really did help.<br /><br />Okay, let's actually get into the review.<br /><br />Lily was our main, kick-ass protagonist that likes killing baddies. That alone should make her awesome. She's one of the few female Nephilim, which doesn't make her as special as I thought she'd be (well, for now, anyway) but makes her no less badass. She rarely annoyed me, having her head in the game despite... distractions and was genuinely a well-rounded character. Lily was sassy and I just loved her. <br /><br />Now, I actually <i>can't stand</i> insta-love. I'm a big fan of insta-hate turning to love... but this was neither. Julian - my, oh, my, Julian - was a hunk of sexy bathed in sexy sauce. Like, <i>dayum</i> the boy was absolutely amazing. I'm pretty sure that in the beginning - to Lily, at least - it was a mad case of insta-lust (and really, who could blame her?), but as their relationship progressed, it became so much more. Okay, yes, I did find the whole stalking thing a little bit creepy, but he had a day job, too (... I hope), and he just <i>cared</i> about Lily in a way that nobody else did. I won't give too much away. Just know that it was beautiful.<br /><br />Oh, Michael. You're a fast learner and a really big plot twist. Other than that, I really have no opinion of you.<br /><br />Luke? <i>WHY?</i> [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Nathaniel? He was pretty cool, even when he wasn't.<br /><br />Adrian? Dick. <br /><br />Okay, plot-wise, <u>Unchained</u> was hard to understand at first. The only terms I grasped immediately were the Fallen and Nephilim. Deadheads and minions were just confusing, but I got the handle on everything really quickly, and it helped that I was learning through Michael, since Lily new everything. <br /><br />Otherwise... <br /><br />Holy angels on steroids. That shit was intense. Baal and the head of the demons were terrifying, it had lots of plot twists. I actually joked to myself about the final end reveal and was flabbergasted when that was the truth. Honestly, it was a wild ride from start to finish. I think that I got into the plot so much that at one point, I was like, "Okay. They had sex. Great. Let's get on with it!" And it wasn't that the smut was badly written - it was actually kind of classy, to be honest - but I just wanted to power-read through it to get to the even better parts. Looking back, there may have been a few slow-paced sections, but I thought that it went pretty well. <br /><br />Books being about the whole 'grey' area of right and wrong will never cease to bore me, and neither will books that will show just how far one is willing to go to get what they want, even if it means destroying themselves. I don't know. Even though I love this book, it's not my favourite, but something just tells me that I'll be thinking about the series for a while, and that alone makes it worthy of five stars.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/342111971?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 05:28:13 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Book Thief</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/342111971?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>26068759</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1439136339l/26068759._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[It is 1939. Nazi Germany. <br />The country is holding its breath. <br /><br />Death has never been busier, and will become busier still when, by her brother's graveside, she picks up an object, partially hidden in the snow. It is the Gravedigger's Handbook, left there by accident, and it is her first act of book thievery. So begins a live affair with books and words, as Liesel, with the help of her foster father, learns to read. Soon she is stealing books from Nazi book-burnings, the mayors's wife's library, wherever there are books to be found. But these are dangerous times. When Liesel's foster family hides a Jew in their basement, Liesel's world is both opened up, and closed down. <br /><br />Narrated by Death, The Book Thief is a story about the power of words and the ability of books to feed the soul. Award-winning author MARKUS ZUSAK has given us one of the most enduring stories of our time.]]></book_description>
    <book id="26068759">
      <num_pages>584</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Markus Zusak</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 17 Mar 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 05:28:13 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:59:06 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[cried-or-almost-cried, signed-copy]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.72</average_rating>
    <book_published>2005</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26068759-the-book-thief?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Book Thief" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1439136339l/26068759._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Markus Zusak<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.72<br/>
                                      book published: 2005<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/03/17<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/17<br/>
                                      shelves: cried-or-almost-cried, signed-copy<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1471243536?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 05:15:01 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Unchained (Nephilim Rising, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1471243536?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>12081652</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1364349984l/12081652._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1364349984l/12081652.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Between the pissed off creatures that want demon-hunter Lily Marks dead and the fallen angel who just...wants her, Lily is about ready to trade in forever for a comfy job in a cubicle farm.<br /><br />The fact that she and Julian are civil to one another is enough to have her thrown out of the Sanctuary, but she can't shake her not-so-angelic stalker or how he brings her dangerously close to ecstasy.<br /><br />Her forbidden relationship with Julian provides the perfect fuel for suspicion when a traitor is discovered to be working within the Sanctuary. Lily quickly finds herself hunted by well, everyone.<br /><br />Her only hope is to discover the real traitor before she loses everything--and she'll need Julian's help. That is, if Julian is really there to help her...and not destroy her.<br /><br />Yeah, being a Nephilim isn't everything it's cracked up to be.]]></book_description>
    <book id="12081652">
      <num_pages>400</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>J. Lynn</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 05:15:01 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 17 Dec 2015 05:15:01 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>reviewed</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.87</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12081652-unchained?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Unchained (Nephilim Rising, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1364349984l/12081652._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: J. Lynn<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.87<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/17<br/>
                                      shelves: reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469168390?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:20:13 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Alice in Murderland, Vol. 2</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469168390?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>25162640</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1444651808l/25162640._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1444651808l/25162640.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[At the "Mad Tea Party" celebrating the nineteenth birthday of her beloved eldest brother, Zeno, Stella, the fourth daughter of the illustrious Kuonji house, finds herself in the middle of a fight to the death with her siblings. At the height of a one-on-one battle with her second-eldest brother, Shido, "Bloody Alice," another personality within Stella's body, awakens. Before long, Stella sinks into deep despair as her nearest and dearest sister, Claire, swoops in to attack her! Torn between protecting herself and sparing her precious sister, Stella falls prey to the devious murmurings of "Bloody Alice," who whispers in her ear, "This is our fate." But what do the cards hold for poor Stella in this brutal survival game?!]]></book_description>
    <book id="25162640">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kaori Yuki</author_name>
    <isbn>0316348945</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:20:13 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:16:57 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25162640-alice-in-murderland-vol-2?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Alice in Murderland, Vol. 2" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1444651808l/25162640._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kaori Yuki<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.91<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469168366?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:19:51 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Alice in Murderland, Vol. 1</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469168366?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>23546779</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434642944l/23546779._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_medium_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434642944l/23546779._SX98_.jpg]]></book_medium_image_url>
    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434642944l/23546779._SY475_.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Now! Let the "Mad Tea Party" begin!<br /><br /><br /><br />The Kuonji clan, owner of one of the world's top conglomerates, has a tradition: Once a month, family members attend a "Mad Tea Party." But at the latest gathering, the nine Kuonji siblings in attendance are shocked to hear a pronouncement issue from the lips of their mother, Olga-<br /><br />"I'd like you children to now fight one another to the death!"<br /><br />As chaos erupts, Stella, the fourth daughter, loses all reason, and suddenly a whole new Stella, complete with blonde hair and blue dress, comes out to play-!!]]></book_description>
    <book id="23546779">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kaori Yuki</author_name>
    <isbn>0316342122</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:19:51 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:16:52 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.69</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23546779-alice-in-murderland-vol-1?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Alice in Murderland, Vol. 1" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434642944l/23546779._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kaori Yuki<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.69<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469167121?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:17:55 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love 11</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1469167121?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>22856228</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1445792031l/22856228._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1445792031l/22856228.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Cell phone novelist Yukina Himuro has decided that, in order to satisfy her fans' demand for love stories, she must experience romance firsthand. But with her icy reputation, how can she find someone willing to play the part of boyfriend? By blackmailing the most popular boy in school, of course!]]></book_description>
    <book id="22856228">
      <num_pages>160</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>161262989X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:17:55 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 14 Dec 2015 22:14:18 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[love-a-guy-in-this-book, manga]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.00</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22856228-missions-of-love-11?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love 11" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1445792031l/22856228._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.00<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/12/14<br/>
                                      shelves: love-a-guy-in-this-book, manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/417739110?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Oct 2015 22:18:25 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Don&apos;t Look Back</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/417739110?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>20658346</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1391122790l/20658346._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>What if you had the chance to start again... but only if you promised never to look back?</i> <br /><br />Samantha is popular, rich, and seemed to have it all... until the night she and her best 'frenemy' Cassie disappeared and only Sammy resurfaced, with no recollection of who she is or what happened. Sammy's a stranger in her own life - a life she no longer wants any part of. Losing her memory is a chance to start again. <br /><br />Then Sammy begins receiving mysterious notes warning her about that night, urging her to not look back. But she can't let it go. As she starts poking around in her past she begins to remember... and something sinister begins to surface.]]></book_description>
    <book id="20658346">
      <num_pages>384</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1444752170</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 21 Oct 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Oct 2015 22:18:25 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Wed, 19 Sep 2012 05:18:32 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, reviewed, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<i>Don't look back</i>? I will look back on this for the rest of my <i>life</i>. <br /><br /><b>This book was damn well near perfect.</b><br /><br />But first? Samantha Franco. Cassie Winchester. Sammy. Winchester. <i>Sammy Winchester. <b>SAM WINCHESTER</b></i>. And don't you tell me that was an accident, because I <i>know</i> that JLA watches and adores Supernatural. Seeing that <s>made me cry and scream</s> added a nice and fun touch to an otherwise serious book.<br /><br />Okay. On to the actual review. <br /><br />Crap on a crapstick, I felt for Samantha. Waking up with no memories of her life before the incident, including her parents and brother, was difficult, and honestly, beautifully written. Just like Samantha, I felt an absence. Like her, I felt like I should be happy that she was reunited with her family after a horrific event, but there was nothing, and I loved how I came to know everything with her - there was no assumed. knowledge that I had to figure out. Everything had to be discovered by both character and reader at the same time, and that was something that I absolutely adored about this book. <br /><br />The plot.... Holy shit. I was <i>not</i> expecting that. At first, it seemed kind of like a shock value technique, but looking back (hehehe!), there were perfectly placed clues and hints, and just enough tension and conflict to, at one point or another, assume that every single person committed the crime. There was more than a few, "Oh, my God!" moments, and I found myself saying it at lest once every paragraph at the end. Occasionally, "Holy shit!" was thrown in there, too. <br /><br />Which leads me to the minor characters and the bitches and dicks that had once been Sammy's friends. As weird as it is, I loved the tension between not just them and Samantha, but also between them and each other. And yeah, they were pretty one dimensional with either no or very little redeeming qualities, they had a big part to play, and they remained true to their characters.<br /><br />Del? What. A. Wanker. That's all I can say because that's all that he is. <br /><br />Scott? I heart Scott. Scott is amazeballs, and I think he's the one that handled everything the best, despite Samantha apparently being a total bitch of a sister before the incident.<br /><br /><b>So, if this book was all that, why is it <i>almost</i> perfect?</b><br /><br />[spoilers removed]<br /><br />All in all, though, I think Samantha and her journey more than made up for it. I adore this book, the way it's written, it's structure and most of the characters for just being them. <br /><br />So. Five deserved stars.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.08</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20658346-don-t-look-back?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Don&#39;t Look Back" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1391122790l/20658346._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.08<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/10/21<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/10/19<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, reviewed, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/><i>Don't look back</i>? I will look back on this for the rest of my <i>life</i>. <br /><br /><b>This book was damn well near perfect.</b><br /><br />But first? Samantha Franco. Cassie Winchester. Sammy. Winchester. <i>Sammy Winchester. <b>SAM WINCHESTER</b></i>. And don't you tell me that was an accident, because I <i>know</i> that JLA watches and adores Supernatural. Seeing that <s>made me cry and scream</s> added a nice and fun touch to an otherwise serious book.<br /><br />Okay. On to the actual review. <br /><br />Crap on a crapstick, I felt for Samantha. Waking up with no memories of her life before the incident, including her parents and brother, was difficult, and honestly, beautifully written. Just like Samantha, I felt an absence. Like her, I felt like I should be happy that she was reunited with her family after a horrific event, but there was nothing, and I loved how I came to know everything with her - there was no assumed. knowledge that I had to figure out. Everything had to be discovered by both character and reader at the same time, and that was something that I absolutely adored about this book. <br /><br />The plot.... Holy shit. I was <i>not</i> expecting that. At first, it seemed kind of like a shock value technique, but looking back (hehehe!), there were perfectly placed clues and hints, and just enough tension and conflict to, at one point or another, assume that every single person committed the crime. There was more than a few, "Oh, my God!" moments, and I found myself saying it at lest once every paragraph at the end. Occasionally, "Holy shit!" was thrown in there, too. <br /><br />Which leads me to the minor characters and the bitches and dicks that had once been Sammy's friends. As weird as it is, I loved the tension between not just them and Samantha, but also between them and each other. And yeah, they were pretty one dimensional with either no or very little redeeming qualities, they had a big part to play, and they remained true to their characters.<br /><br />Del? What. A. Wanker. That's all I can say because that's all that he is. <br /><br />Scott? I heart Scott. Scott is amazeballs, and I think he's the one that handled everything the best, despite Samantha apparently being a total bitch of a sister before the incident.<br /><br /><b>So, if this book was all that, why is it <i>almost</i> perfect?</b><br /><br />[spoilers removed]<br /><br />All in all, though, I think Samantha and her journey more than made up for it. I adore this book, the way it's written, it's structure and most of the characters for just being them. <br /><br />So. Five deserved stars.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/303903918?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2015 00:58:41 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Significance (Significance, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/303903918?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>11731861</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434591857l/11731861._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Maggie is a seventeen year old girl who's had a bad year. She was smart and on track, but her mom left, her dad is depressed, she's graduating, barely, and her boyfriend of almost three years dumped her for a college football scholarship. Lately she thinks life is all about hanging on by a thread and is gripping tight with everything she has. <br /> <br />Then she meets Caleb. <br /> <br />She saves his life and instantly knows there's something about him that's intriguing, but she's supposed to be on her way to a date with his cousin. Things change when they touch, sparks ignite. Literally. <br /> <br />They imprint with each other and she sees their future life together flash before her eyes. She learns that not only is she his soul mate, and can feel his heartbeat in her chest, but there is a whole other world of people with gifts and abilities that she never knew existed. She herself is experiencing supernatural changes unlike anything she's ever felt before and she needs the touch of his skin to survive. Now, not only has her dad come out of his depression to be a father again, and a pain as well, but Caleb's enemies know he's imprinted and are after Maggie to stop them both from gaining their abilities and take her from him. <br /> <br />Can Caleb save her or will they be forced to live without each other after just finding one another?]]></book_description>
    <book id="11731861">
      <num_pages>396</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Shelly Crane</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>2</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 12 Sep 2015 00:58:41 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 30 Mar 2012 22:14:34 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>ebooks-i-own</user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>Insta-love haters beware!</b><br /><br />Characters? Caleb was nice, sure, but he was so annoyingly perfect that it was hard to like the guy. I think his only 'flaw' was wanting to break free from the family, but that was never really explored, so he just became... One dimensional? Yeah. That's it. Maggie? I couldn't really care less about her. In fact, she just managed to piss me off <i>constantly</i>. There were so many times that she annoyed me that I can't even remember a distinct part.<br /><br />The major and minor characters seemed more well-rounded than the main two. Grans was pretty cool, and the only person I actually liked was Rachel and Kyle. The 'evil' characters were just that - evil. There was little grey area between doing what was right and wrong, which just made the characters in the other clan a little less interesting, and the reason as to why they were fighting didn't really feel well-thought out. <br /><br />The romance? Dear chocolate chip cookies, the romance! Insta-love at its very finest. The whole 'soul mate' thing just went <i>completely</i> overboard. Personally, I hate insta-love, so I just pretended that they knew each other for months, but nope. The fact that they've known each other for days is practically thrown in your face every bloody chapter! <br /><br />*sigh* This is what happens when you pick up a book based on recognising and loving the cover model. <br /><br />Overall, 2.5 stars because I actually couldn't care less about Maggie and Caleb and I felt bad for not finishing.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.12</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11731861-significance?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Significance (Significance, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1434591857l/11731861._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Shelly Crane<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.12<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 2<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/09/12<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/09/12<br/>
                                      shelves: ebooks-i-own<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>Insta-love haters beware!</b><br /><br />Characters? Caleb was nice, sure, but he was so annoyingly perfect that it was hard to like the guy. I think his only 'flaw' was wanting to break free from the family, but that was never really explored, so he just became... One dimensional? Yeah. That's it. Maggie? I couldn't really care less about her. In fact, she just managed to piss me off <i>constantly</i>. There were so many times that she annoyed me that I can't even remember a distinct part.<br /><br />The major and minor characters seemed more well-rounded than the main two. Grans was pretty cool, and the only person I actually liked was Rachel and Kyle. The 'evil' characters were just that - evil. There was little grey area between doing what was right and wrong, which just made the characters in the other clan a little less interesting, and the reason as to why they were fighting didn't really feel well-thought out. <br /><br />The romance? Dear chocolate chip cookies, the romance! Insta-love at its very finest. The whole 'soul mate' thing just went <i>completely</i> overboard. Personally, I hate insta-love, so I just pretended that they knew each other for months, but nope. The fact that they've known each other for days is practically thrown in your face every bloody chapter! <br /><br />*sigh* This is what happens when you pick up a book based on recognising and loving the cover model. <br /><br />Overall, 2.5 stars because I actually couldn't care less about Maggie and Caleb and I felt bad for not finishing.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/775810553?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Fri, 31 Jul 2015 19:05:56 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Return (Titan, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/775810553?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>18809475</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1412877995l/18809475._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[The Fates are cackling their bony asses off...<br /><br />It's been a year since Seth made the deal with the gods that pledged his life to them. And so far, the jobs they've given him have been violent and bloody--which is kind of all right with him. But now Apollo has something else in mind for Seth. He's got to play protector while keeping his hands and fingers off, and for someone who really has a problem with restraint, this new assignment might be the most challenging yet. <br /><br />Josie has no idea what this crazy hot guy's deal might be, but it's a good bet that his arrival means the new life she started after leaving home is about to be thrown into an Olympian-sized blender turned up to puree. Either Josie is going insane or a nightmare straight out of ancient myth is gunning for her.<br /><br />But it might be the unlikely attraction simmering between her and the golden-eyed, secret-keeping Seth that may prove to be the most dangerous thing of all.<br /><br />Because history has once again been flipped to repeat.]]></book_description>
    <book id="18809475">
      <num_pages>335</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1939392624</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 1 Aug 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Fri, 31 Jul 2015 19:05:56 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 28 Nov 2013 03:34:32 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[love-a-guy-in-this-book, signed-copy, favorites, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I love this book. Honestly, there isn't even a need to review this because I love every JLA book and this is no exception...<br /><br />Oh yeah, this book is <i>definitely</i> New Adult. Younger readers beware. It even comes with an amazing warning at the front of the book that had me in hysterics because it was so true. <br /><br />The only thing that I was slightly worried about was how long ago I read the Covenant series. Like, I barely remember anything but the <i>Supernatural</i> references and a few bits of pieces here and there. Thankfully, I had converted my cousin into JLAism and she'd just finished the series, so she refreshed my memory. The thing was, I don't really think that I even needed it. Sure, it makes everything a lot more painful when you know about Seth's past, but I'm pretty sure you can read it as a stand-alone, and that's one of the reasons why this book is so great.<br /><br />The other totally obvious thing that makes this book great is Seth. Obviously. I <i>shrieked</i> when the announcement was made that JLA was giving Seth a book - a series, even - and <b>
  <i>
    <u>JLA did not disappoint</u>
  </i>
</b> Seth was his usual self - a smartass, caring asshole, but dropping f-bombs every two-three sentences (which was hilarious). The biggest change, however, is how broken he is, and there were a few lines in there that just made my heart break for him and made me demand that Josie kiss him better since I couldn't do it myself. <br /><br />Speaking of, Josie... Well, she really held it together well. I really admired her, and while she reminded Seth of Alex (which is a little weird, I thought), she's still her own character, and I'm really happy with their chemistry. It just flowed really well, despite almost nothing happening between the two of them until a good two thirds in the book [spoilers removed].<br /><br />Minor characters? Apollo was freaking Apollo. Nothing else to say. He still hasn't learned the art of knocking or good timing, but was still a friggin badass. Seeing him actually care about Josie was really nice to see, though. Deacon and Luke were adorable and I loved them to bits. Even Hades made a guest-star appearance, which was awesome. I'm kind of bummed about Alex and Aiden not being there, but I knew they weren't going to be from the start. It's just not their storey anymore, and if Alex showed up, who knows what Seth would do? <br /><br />Plot-wise, it was well-paced. There weren't many - if any - times that I thought the story was moving too fast or two slow. I nearly had a heart attack towards the end because I thought that it was going to leave on a cliff-hanger and that it would be something like <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13362536.Opal__Lux___3_" title="Opal (Lux, #3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Opal</a> all over again and I'd almost toss the book at the wall and scream, but no, thankfully. It ended really well. Perfectly, actually.<br /><br />And Seth and Josie are imperfectly perfect. I love them. I love this book. And I'm just go and sit in the corner until <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25056628.The_Power__Titan___2_" title="The Power (Titan, #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">The Power</a> comes out <i>next year</i>.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.22</average_rating>
    <book_published>2017</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18809475-the-return?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Return (Titan, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1412877995l/18809475._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.22<br/>
                                      book published: 2017<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/08/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/31<br/>
                                      shelves: love-a-guy-in-this-book, signed-copy, favorites, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I love this book. Honestly, there isn't even a need to review this because I love every JLA book and this is no exception...<br /><br />Oh yeah, this book is <i>definitely</i> New Adult. Younger readers beware. It even comes with an amazing warning at the front of the book that had me in hysterics because it was so true. <br /><br />The only thing that I was slightly worried about was how long ago I read the Covenant series. Like, I barely remember anything but the <i>Supernatural</i> references and a few bits of pieces here and there. Thankfully, I had converted my cousin into JLAism and she'd just finished the series, so she refreshed my memory. The thing was, I don't really think that I even needed it. Sure, it makes everything a lot more painful when you know about Seth's past, but I'm pretty sure you can read it as a stand-alone, and that's one of the reasons why this book is so great.<br /><br />The other totally obvious thing that makes this book great is Seth. Obviously. I <i>shrieked</i> when the announcement was made that JLA was giving Seth a book - a series, even - and <b>
  <i>
    <u>JLA did not disappoint</u>
  </i>
</b> Seth was his usual self - a smartass, caring asshole, but dropping f-bombs every two-three sentences (which was hilarious). The biggest change, however, is how broken he is, and there were a few lines in there that just made my heart break for him and made me demand that Josie kiss him better since I couldn't do it myself. <br /><br />Speaking of, Josie... Well, she really held it together well. I really admired her, and while she reminded Seth of Alex (which is a little weird, I thought), she's still her own character, and I'm really happy with their chemistry. It just flowed really well, despite almost nothing happening between the two of them until a good two thirds in the book [spoilers removed].<br /><br />Minor characters? Apollo was freaking Apollo. Nothing else to say. He still hasn't learned the art of knocking or good timing, but was still a friggin badass. Seeing him actually care about Josie was really nice to see, though. Deacon and Luke were adorable and I loved them to bits. Even Hades made a guest-star appearance, which was awesome. I'm kind of bummed about Alex and Aiden not being there, but I knew they weren't going to be from the start. It's just not their storey anymore, and if Alex showed up, who knows what Seth would do? <br /><br />Plot-wise, it was well-paced. There weren't many - if any - times that I thought the story was moving too fast or two slow. I nearly had a heart attack towards the end because I thought that it was going to leave on a cliff-hanger and that it would be something like <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13362536.Opal__Lux___3_" title="Opal (Lux, #3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Opal</a> all over again and I'd almost toss the book at the wall and scream, but no, thankfully. It ended really well. Perfectly, actually.<br /><br />And Seth and Josie are imperfectly perfect. I love them. I love this book. And I'm just go and sit in the corner until <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25056628.The_Power__Titan___2_" title="The Power (Titan, #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">The Power</a> comes out <i>next year</i>.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341349649?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:06:15 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>The Red Tree</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341349649?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>300946</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344739159l/300946._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[When a child awakens with dark leaves drifting into her bedroom, she feels that 'sometimes the day begins with nothing to look forward to, and things go from bad to worse.'<br /><br />Feelings too complex for words are rendered into an imaginary landscape where the child wanders, oblivious to the glimmer of promise in the shape of a tiny red leaf. <br /><br />Everything seems hopeless until the child returns to her room and sees the red tree. At that perfect moment of beauty and purity, the child smiles and her world stirs anew.<br /><br />With sensitivity and wonder, Shaun Tan's evocative images in <i>The Red Tree</i> open a window to our inexplicable emotions and tell a story about the power of hope, renewal and inspiration.]]></book_description>
    <book id="300946">
      <num_pages>32</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Shaun Tan</author_name>
    <isbn>0968876838</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:06:15 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:06:14 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>picture-books</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.51</average_rating>
    <book_published>2001</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/300946.The_Red_Tree?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Red Tree" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1344739159l/300946._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Shaun Tan<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.51<br/>
                                      book published: 2001<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/21<br/>
                                      shelves: picture-books<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341343832?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:05:03 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Go the Fuck to Sleep</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1341343832?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>11192642</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1342861907l/11192642._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<div><b>A laugh-out-loud, adults-only bedtime story for parents familiar with the age-old struggle of putting their kids to bed</b><br /><br /><i>“Hell no, you can’t go to the bathroom. You know where you can go? The f**k to sleep.”</i><br /><br /><i>Go the Fuck to Sleep</i> is a book for parents who live in the real world, where a few snoozing kitties and cutesy rhymes don’t always send a toddler sailing blissfully off to dreamland. Profane, affectionate, and radically honest, it captures the familiar—and unspoken—tribulations of putting your little angel down for the night.<br /><br /> Read by a host of celebrities, from Samuel L. Jackson to Jennifer Garner, this subversively funny bestselling storybook will not actually put your kids to sleep, but it will leave you laughing so hard you won’t care.</div>]]></book_description>
    <book id="11192642">
      <num_pages>64</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Adam Mansbach</author_name>
    <isbn>1617750255</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 10:05:03 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 21 Jul 2015 09:59:16 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>favorites, picture-books</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.27</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11192642-go-the-fuck-to-sleep?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Go the Fuck to Sleep" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1342861907l/11192642._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Adam Mansbach<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.27<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/21<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, picture-books<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309169805?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 15 Jul 2015 18:41:11 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Opposition (Lux, #0.5, #5)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309169805?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>22561350</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Don't miss <i>Opposition</i>, the fifth and final book in Jennifer L. Armentrout's bestselling Lux series. Also included only in the print edition is <i>Shadows</i>, the prequel novella never before seen in print! "A thrilling ride from start to finish," says <i>RT Book Reviews</i>.<br /><i></i><br /><i>Opposition</i><br /><i></i><br />Katy knows the world changed the night the Luxen came. She can't believe Daemon stood by as his kind threatened to obliterate every last human and hybrid on Earth. But the lines between good and bad have blurred.<br /><br />Daemon will do anything to save those he loves, even if it means betrayal. But when it quickly becomes impossible to tell friend from foe, and the world is crumbling around them, they may lose everything to ensure the survival of their friends…and mankind.<br /><i></i><br /><i>Shadows</i><br /><i></i><br />The last thing Dawson Black expected was Bethany Williams. To him, human girls are…well, fun. But since the Luxen have to keep their true identities a secret, falling for one would be insane. Dangerous.<br /><br />Bethany can't deny the immediate connection between her and Dawson. And even though boys aren't a complication she wants, whenever they lock eyes, she's drawn in. Captivated.<br /><br />Dawson can't stop risking everything for one human girl. Or stop a fate that is as unavoidable as love itself.<br /><br />Want to read the LUX series on your ereader? Each book is sold individually in e-format: <br />#1: <i>Obsidian</i> <br />#2: <i>Onyx</i> <br />#3: <i>Opal</i> <br />#4: <i>Origin</i> <br />#5: <i>Opposition</i> <br />Prequel novella: <i>Shadows</i>]]></book_description>
    <book id="22561350">
      <num_pages>533</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1622667336</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 16 Jul 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Wed, 15 Jul 2015 18:41:11 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:23:52 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[love-a-guy-in-this-book, cried-or-almost-cried, reviewed, favorites]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[Okay. So, I finished reading Opposition only, but since this is an omnibus and I'm too busy with writing to read Shadows at the moment, I'm just going to review Opposition and do shadows later because this shit needs to be reviewed and I'm an idiot for leaving it this long.<br /><br /><b>OPPOSITION</b><br /><br /><i>HOLY ALIEN BABIES EVERYWHERE...</i><br /><br />I love Armentorut. So, so, so much. Like her Covenant series, the ending to the Lux series was so, so satisfying, but also left a little something in case she ever decides to make a spin off. <i>But can I just say...? <b>THAT NOTE THAT APPEARED IN ONYX.</b></i> To this day, I still don't know what it is, even though it was mentioned in the very last line of the series. While the ending was perfect, I still screamed... And then laughed because damn it, that is one thing that nobody is probably ever going to know. <br /><br />Speaking of screaming, the relationships were pretty scream-worthy. Not in a bad way, of course. I mean, yes, in a bad way when all of those dick Luxen decided to run the show and Daemon was forced to be a dick. Not even a 'you're adorable' dick but an actual 'I want to stab you in the face' dick that he was in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12578077.Obsidian__Lux___1_" title="Obsidian (Lux, #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Obsidian</a>. <br /><br /><i>Anywhoo...</i> Screaming? Right. Some people may have not read <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14060046.Obsession" title="Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Obsession</a> since it's New Adult, and I get that, but a word of advice? <i>As soon as you feel comfortable with that kind of genre, you should read it like your life depends on it, because it totally does.</i> Hunter... Oh, man, I knew he was going to show up in Opposition, and when he did, I fangirl'ed so hard that my mother heard me from down stairs and came bolting up to see what was wrong, to which I couldn't even formulate a response because <i>Hunter</i> and Daemon were actually interacting without wanting to kill each other (for the most part) and I could see a potential BFF relationship Kat and Serena forming before my very eyes. Also, the DeexArcher thing was really cute, and I'm just glad that Dee can finally move on after Adam. Oh, and Dawson and Beth weren't really overly important, but they were so damn cute that it hurt.<br /><br />Plot? Yes. Plot. Holy shit. The plot was crazy, and in the best way. I was disturbed, angry, sick to my stomach and then elated. Basically, it was a roller-coaster. I have absolutely no complaints about it. Ethan was the evil mastermind behind it all, and really, it was just over some petty selfish thing. I wasn't as mad as I thought I'd be when the reason as to why everything was revealed. I guess it was because that his reasoning was just so incredibly <i>human</i> that it was kind of sad - I think the book actually said that, at one stage - and his death was so quick that <s>I kind of felt sorry for him for not dying in some sort of epic way</s> I was sad he didn't suffer. Plot wise, it was epic. I really liked how the whole thing wasn't one big battle, and that you saw disaster from both from their point of view and even a small thing like on a news channel on the TV playing on the background.<br /><br />Basically, JLA has done it again. She's amazing. Read everything she writes. Buy everything writes. And that's a wrap for Opposition.<br /><br /><b>SHADOWS</b><br /><br />This probably the cutest story ever. To be honest, I really hate the "love at first sight thing" but for Dawson and Bethany, it just worked.<br /><br />How their relationship started was pretty much the opposite to Daemon and Katy's. Dawson was amazingly loving and caring and just the sweetest guy on the earth and it was just really good to see him interact with his family like that (pre-torture days). Although, like his brother, he had a temper on him. That was actually frightening to read. <br /><br />I'm not gonna lie, I was always planning to read Shadows sooner, but now I'm glad that didn't and I'm 100% happy about how Shadows was in the final book. Every damn thing that Daemon says about love and humans is ironic (Ha! Just you wait, Daemon!) but knowing what was going to happen to Beth and Dawson just made everything heartbreaking. The whole time, their abduction into the DoD and whatnot always played in the back of my mind, and while I knew what was going to happen, I still hoped that it wouldn't. I still hoped that Mathew and Will wouldn't be a dick <br /><br />At least everybody's happy now, though, right? Like, they've been through hell and back, but they're <i>happy... <b>right</b></i>?!?!<br /><br />Ahem. Shadows was adorable and amazing. :)]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.33</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22561350-opposition?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Opposition (Lux, #0.5, #5)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1403558903l/22561350._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.33<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/07/16<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/15<br/>
                                      shelves: love-a-guy-in-this-book, cried-or-almost-cried, reviewed, favorites<br/>
                                      review: <br/>Okay. So, I finished reading Opposition only, but since this is an omnibus and I'm too busy with writing to read Shadows at the moment, I'm just going to review Opposition and do shadows later because this shit needs to be reviewed and I'm an idiot for leaving it this long.<br /><br /><b>OPPOSITION</b><br /><br /><i>HOLY ALIEN BABIES EVERYWHERE...</i><br /><br />I love Armentorut. So, so, so much. Like her Covenant series, the ending to the Lux series was so, so satisfying, but also left a little something in case she ever decides to make a spin off. <i>But can I just say...? <b>THAT NOTE THAT APPEARED IN ONYX.</b></i> To this day, I still don't know what it is, even though it was mentioned in the very last line of the series. While the ending was perfect, I still screamed... And then laughed because damn it, that is one thing that nobody is probably ever going to know. <br /><br />Speaking of screaming, the relationships were pretty scream-worthy. Not in a bad way, of course. I mean, yes, in a bad way when all of those dick Luxen decided to run the show and Daemon was forced to be a dick. Not even a 'you're adorable' dick but an actual 'I want to stab you in the face' dick that he was in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12578077.Obsidian__Lux___1_" title="Obsidian (Lux, #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Obsidian</a>. <br /><br /><i>Anywhoo...</i> Screaming? Right. Some people may have not read <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14060046.Obsession" title="Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Obsession</a> since it's New Adult, and I get that, but a word of advice? <i>As soon as you feel comfortable with that kind of genre, you should read it like your life depends on it, because it totally does.</i> Hunter... Oh, man, I knew he was going to show up in Opposition, and when he did, I fangirl'ed so hard that my mother heard me from down stairs and came bolting up to see what was wrong, to which I couldn't even formulate a response because <i>Hunter</i> and Daemon were actually interacting without wanting to kill each other (for the most part) and I could see a potential BFF relationship Kat and Serena forming before my very eyes. Also, the DeexArcher thing was really cute, and I'm just glad that Dee can finally move on after Adam. Oh, and Dawson and Beth weren't really overly important, but they were so damn cute that it hurt.<br /><br />Plot? Yes. Plot. Holy shit. The plot was crazy, and in the best way. I was disturbed, angry, sick to my stomach and then elated. Basically, it was a roller-coaster. I have absolutely no complaints about it. Ethan was the evil mastermind behind it all, and really, it was just over some petty selfish thing. I wasn't as mad as I thought I'd be when the reason as to why everything was revealed. I guess it was because that his reasoning was just so incredibly <i>human</i> that it was kind of sad - I think the book actually said that, at one stage - and his death was so quick that <s>I kind of felt sorry for him for not dying in some sort of epic way</s> I was sad he didn't suffer. Plot wise, it was epic. I really liked how the whole thing wasn't one big battle, and that you saw disaster from both from their point of view and even a small thing like on a news channel on the TV playing on the background.<br /><br />Basically, JLA has done it again. She's amazing. Read everything she writes. Buy everything writes. And that's a wrap for Opposition.<br /><br /><b>SHADOWS</b><br /><br />This probably the cutest story ever. To be honest, I really hate the "love at first sight thing" but for Dawson and Bethany, it just worked.<br /><br />How their relationship started was pretty much the opposite to Daemon and Katy's. Dawson was amazingly loving and caring and just the sweetest guy on the earth and it was just really good to see him interact with his family like that (pre-torture days). Although, like his brother, he had a temper on him. That was actually frightening to read. <br /><br />I'm not gonna lie, I was always planning to read Shadows sooner, but now I'm glad that didn't and I'm 100% happy about how Shadows was in the final book. Every damn thing that Daemon says about love and humans is ironic (Ha! Just you wait, Daemon!) but knowing what was going to happen to Beth and Dawson just made everything heartbreaking. The whole time, their abduction into the DoD and whatnot always played in the back of my mind, and while I knew what was going to happen, I still hoped that it wouldn't. I still hoped that Mathew and Will wouldn't be a dick <br /><br />At least everybody's happy now, though, right? Like, they've been through hell and back, but they're <i>happy... <b>right</b></i>?!?!<br /><br />Ahem. Shadows was adorable and amazing. :)<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/299659729?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Thu, 09 Jul 2015 20:52:42 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Evernight (Evernight, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/299659729?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>2722413</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1306376600l/2722413._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>
  <i>Bianca wants to escape.</i>
</b><br /><br />She's been uprooted from her small hometown and enrolled at Evernight Academy, an eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek, and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in. <br /><br />Then she meets Lucas. He's not the "Evernight type" either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs, and warns Bianca to be careful—even when it comes to caring about him. <br /><br /><i>"I couldn't stand it if they took it out on you,"</i> he tells Bianca, <i>"and eventually they would." </i><br /><br />But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart . . . and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.]]></book_description>
    <book id="2722413">
      <num_pages>327</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Claudia Gray</author_name>
    <isbn>0061284394</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Fri, 7 Sep 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Thu, 09 Jul 2015 20:52:42 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:40:25 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.66</average_rating>
    <book_published>2008</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2722413-evernight?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Evernight (Evernight, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1306376600l/2722413._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Claudia Gray<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.66<br/>
                                      book published: 2008<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/09/07<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/09<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/826043994?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Wed, 08 Jul 2015 23:43:20 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Night Witches</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/826043994?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>16068797</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[A supernatural thriller-romance set in an all-girl teenage bomber-pilot regiment, combining witchcraft and legend.<br /><br />TWO NATIONS AT WAR. ONE GIRL CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE.<br />Rain Aranoza is a teenage bomber-pilot from Rodina, a nation of science and fact ruled by the all knowing Aura, where the belief in witches or any type of superstition is outlawed. Rain's regiment is made up of only teenage girls and their role is vital to the war effort against the Crux, a nation of faith and belief, where nature and God are celebrated and worshipped.<br /><br />But Rain is struggling with another battle. She's always had a sense that her nature is different from everyone else's, and that a dormant power threatens to burst out of her.<br /><br />When she encounters a young Scrutiner she falls in love with him, but is torn between what she has been taught is right, and what feels right. As her understanding of her latent power grows, the enemy threatens both her friends and her love. She can no longer ignore the power but she must choose how she uses it ...<br />But what will she lose in the process?]]></book_description>
    <book id="16068797">
      <num_pages>336</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>L.J. Adlington</author_name>
    <isbn>1444904310</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>3</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 17 Feb 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Wed, 08 Jul 2015 23:43:20 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 16 Jan 2014 23:26:24 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.78</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16068797-night-witches?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Night Witches" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1370858331l/16068797._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: L.J. Adlington<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.78<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 3<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/02/17<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/07/08<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309175263?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:42:00 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Obsession</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1309175263?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>25452151</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Hunter is a ruthless killer. And the Department of Defense has him firmly in their grasp, which usually doesn’t chafe too badly because he gets to kill bad guys. Most of the time he enjoys his job. That is, until he’s saddled with something he’s never had to do before: protect a human from his mortal enemy.<br /><br />Serena Cross didn’t believe her best friend when she claimed to have seen the son of a powerful senator turn into something... unnatural. Who would? But then she witnesses her friend’s murder at the hands of what can only be an alien, thrusting her into a world that will kill to protect their secret.<br /><br />Hunter stirs Serena’s temper and her lust despite their differences. Soon he’s doing the unthinkable—breaking the rules he’s lived by, going against the government to keep Serena safe. But are the aliens and the government the biggest threats to Serena’s life… or is it Hunter?<br /><br />He’s arrogant, domineering, and... To. Die. For.]]></book_description>
    <book id="25452151">
      <num_pages>384</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1473615925</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:42:00 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:31:58 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>gorgeous-cover</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25452151-obsession?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Obsession" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1430334885l/25452151._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.91<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2015/06/15<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1107583678?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:28:55 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Consequences: Opal & Origin (Lux, #3-4)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1107583678?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>19081402</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1396245989l/19081402._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_large_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1396245989l/19081402.jpg]]></book_large_image_url>
    <book_description><![CDATA[Now available together for the first time, don't miss Opal and Origin, the third and fourth books in Jennifer L. Armentrout's bestselling Lux series. Also includes bonus content exclusive to the print edition! "A thrilling ride from start to finish," says RT Book Reviews.<br /><br />Opal<br />After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different…and I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable of. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.<br /><br />Origin<br />Daemon will do anything to get Katy back. After the successful but disastrous raid on Mount Weather, he’s facing the impossible. Katy is gone. Taken. Everything becomes about finding her. But the most dangerous foe has been there all along, and when the truths are exposed and the lies come crumbling down, which side will Daemon and Katy be standing on? And will they even be together?]]></book_description>
    <book id="19081402">
      <num_pages>807</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1622664493</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 16 Jun 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:28:55 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 16 Nov 2014 04:17:04 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[Obsidian will always be my favourite book, and JLA is a kick-ass writer I'd give my firstborn to meet. "Consequences" was the next installment of the omnibus editions (BECAUSE THEY CHANGED THE FRIGGIN COVER but I promised myself I won't go into that). I've read the books before, but there were a few things that still shocked me, and a few "Ayyyyeee" moments when Luc refers to Hunter from Obsession. <br /><br />Daemon still had the whole "lovable douche bag" going on, and I could have sworn that Katy ANNOYED me first time I read these two books, but her reactions to the events around her seemed genuinely genuine. There weren't that many annoying characters. Evil and wanting them to die a painful, horrible death, sure, but nobody really annoying. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Plot wise? Origin takes a good half the book to really pick up, but that's my only complaint. I love the plot, the characters and pretty much anything that JLA writes, and the bonus contents at the end was a really nice touch. <br /><br />The reason the book lost a star was because it just wasn't as funny and humorous as I remember it being. I mean, yes, I cracked a smile when Daemon was being his cocky, beautiful self or when there were amazing one-liners that only JLA could write, but.... I guess I'm just holding it to the same standard as Obsidian, which is unfair, but still.<br /><br />Yup. That pretty much sums it up.]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.61</average_rating>
    <book_published>2014</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19081402-consequences?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Consequences: Opal &amp; Origin (Lux, #3-4)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1396245989l/19081402._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.61<br/>
                                      book published: 2014<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/06/16<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/06/15<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/>Obsidian will always be my favourite book, and JLA is a kick-ass writer I'd give my firstborn to meet. "Consequences" was the next installment of the omnibus editions (BECAUSE THEY CHANGED THE FRIGGIN COVER but I promised myself I won't go into that). I've read the books before, but there were a few things that still shocked me, and a few "Ayyyyeee" moments when Luc refers to Hunter from Obsession. <br /><br />Daemon still had the whole "lovable douche bag" going on, and I could have sworn that Katy ANNOYED me first time I read these two books, but her reactions to the events around her seemed genuinely genuine. There weren't that many annoying characters. Evil and wanting them to die a painful, horrible death, sure, but nobody really annoying. [spoilers removed]<br /><br />Plot wise? Origin takes a good half the book to really pick up, but that's my only complaint. I love the plot, the characters and pretty much anything that JLA writes, and the bonus contents at the end was a really nice touch. <br /><br />The reason the book lost a star was because it just wasn't as funny and humorous as I remember it being. I mean, yes, I cracked a smile when Daemon was being his cocky, beautiful self or when there were amazing one-liners that only JLA could write, but.... I guess I'm just holding it to the same standard as Obsidian, which is unfair, but still.<br /><br />Yup. That pretty much sums it up.<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292844070?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:27:43 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Apollyon (Covenant, #4)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292844070?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>9897164</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1350101819l/9897164._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Alex has always feared two things: losing herself in the Awakening and being placed on the Elixir. But love has always been stronger than Fate, and Aiden St. Delphi is willing to make war on the gods—and Alex herself—to bring her back.<br /><br />The gods have killed thousands and could destroy entire cities in their quest to stop Seth from taking Alex’s power and becoming the all-powerful God Killer. But breaking Alex’s connection to Seth isn’t the only problem. There are a few pesky little loopholes in the whole “an Apollyon can’t be killed” theory, and the only person who might know how to stop the destruction has been dead for centuries.<br /><br />Finding their way past the barriers that guard the Underworld, searching for one soul among countless millions, and then somehow returning will be hard enough. Alex might be able to keep Seth from becoming the God Killer… or she might become the God Killer herself.]]></book_description>
    <book id="9897164">
      <num_pages>343</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>1937053164</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 27 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:27:43 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 11 Mar 2012 21:53:35 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<i>
  <b>HOLY DAIMON BABIES EVERYWHERE!!</b>
</i><br /><br />Oh. My. God. That was almost perfect. And yeah, I did say that I didn't like Aiden that much, but that has changed. I like him better than Evil-Psychopath-Seth, now. <br /><br />And Post-Evil-Seth-That's-Still-In-There-Somewhere... Oh, geez. I want to hug him and shake him at the same time and in all honesty, his situation just breaks my heart. Argh! Why do you do this, Miss Armentrout?!?!?<br /><br />There is also a little matter of the Gods. I want to kill a lot of them for many, many different reasons. Especially Ares. He can go die. Preferably very painfully. As Alex said, none of this would happen of Zeus could keep it on his damn pants. Or robe. Whatever. <br /><br />Also, I just adored the Supernatural references and even the reference to her Lux novels! I giggled like a little schoolgirl. <br /><br />So... I don't particularly want to spoil anything and I don't feel like tagging spoilers, so I'll just say that I was amazed and that I can't wait to start reading Sentinel!]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.28</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9897164-apollyon?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Apollyon (Covenant, #4)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1350101819l/9897164._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.28<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/11/27<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/06/15<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, cried-or-almost-cried, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/><i>
  <b>HOLY DAIMON BABIES EVERYWHERE!!</b>
</i><br /><br />Oh. My. God. That was almost perfect. And yeah, I did say that I didn't like Aiden that much, but that has changed. I like him better than Evil-Psychopath-Seth, now. <br /><br />And Post-Evil-Seth-That's-Still-In-There-Somewhere... Oh, geez. I want to hug him and shake him at the same time and in all honesty, his situation just breaks my heart. Argh! Why do you do this, Miss Armentrout?!?!?<br /><br />There is also a little matter of the Gods. I want to kill a lot of them for many, many different reasons. Especially Ares. He can go die. Preferably very painfully. As Alex said, none of this would happen of Zeus could keep it on his damn pants. Or robe. Whatever. <br /><br />Also, I just adored the Supernatural references and even the reference to her Lux novels! I giggled like a little schoolgirl. <br /><br />So... I don't particularly want to spoil anything and I don't feel like tagging spoilers, so I'll just say that I was amazed and that I can't wait to start reading Sentinel!<br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/581635465?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:27:03 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[The Collector (Dante Walker, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/581635465?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>13449677</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1363269053l/13449677._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i> He makes good girls...bad. </i><br /><br />Dante Walker is flippin’ awesome, and he knows it. His good looks, killer charm, and stellar confidence have made him one of hell’s best—a soul collector. His job is simple: weed through humanity and label those round rears with a big red good or bad stamp. Old Saint Nick gets the good guys, and he gets the fun ones. Bag-and-tag.<br /> <br />Sealing souls is nothing personal. Dante’s an equal-opportunity collector and doesn't want it any other way. But he’ll have to adjust, because Boss Man has given him a new assignment:<br /> <br />Collect Charlie Cooper’s soul within ten days.<br /> <br />Dante doesn't know why Boss Man wants Charlie, nor does he care. This assignment means only one thing to him, and that’s a permanent ticket out of hell. But after Dante meets the quirky Nerd Alert chick he’s come to collect, he realizes this assignment will test his abilities as a collector…and uncover emotions deeply buried.]]></book_description>
    <book id="13449677">
      <num_pages>352</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Victoria Scott</author_name>
    <isbn>1620612429</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 27 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Mon, 15 Jun 2015 21:27:03 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:12:49 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[Dante Walker is a really fun guy. I <i>really</i> enjoyed the read. But I think what made me only give four stars instead of the full five was because of my expectations. I was fangirling over him from day one <i>(I am madly in love with demons, and like hell am I going to pass over Dante Walker!)</i><br><br><img src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1380416368i/822205._SY540_.jpg" class="gr-hostedUserImg"><br><br>And here's my reason why I couldn't bring myself to give the full stars:<br><br>I have been to his website and drooled, squealed and cried. I've read previous reviews and jumped and ran all over the house, so you could see my expectation for Mr. Walker was <i>extremely</i> high. <br><br><img src="https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1380416368ra/822206.gif" class="gr-hostedUserImg"><br><br>So when I did read it at the end...<br><br><i>
  <b>If only he was more...</b>
</i> I don't know. He was pretty self obsessed and arrogant (which I like, but I would never date a guy like that in real life), but I would have loved it if he showed it and teased Charlie more.<br><br>So there. Those are my reasons. But I betcha I would have given five if I didn't know Dante before hand. <br><br>Oh, and<br><br><b>P.S. Would it be too much of an an inconvenience if I asked you, Victoria Scott, for a chapter (or two) in Charlie's POV? That would be Awesome Sauce!</b><br><br><img src="https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1380379956ra/736502.gif" class="gr-hostedUserImg">]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.55</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13449677-the-collector?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="The Collector (Dante Walker, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1363269053l/13449677._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Victoria Scott<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.55<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/04/27<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/06/15<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/>Dante Walker is a really fun guy. I <i>really</i> enjoyed the read. But I think what made me only give four stars instead of the full five was because of my expectations. I was fangirling over him from day one <i>(I am madly in love with demons, and like hell am I going to pass over Dante Walker!)</i><br><br><img src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1380416368i/822205._SY540_.jpg" class="gr-hostedUserImg"><br><br>And here's my reason why I couldn't bring myself to give the full stars:<br><br>I have been to his website and drooled, squealed and cried. I've read previous reviews and jumped and ran all over the house, so you could see my expectation for Mr. Walker was <i>extremely</i> high. <br><br><img src="https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1380416368ra/822206.gif" class="gr-hostedUserImg"><br><br>So when I did read it at the end...<br><br><i>
  <b>If only he was more...</b>
</i> I don't know. He was pretty self obsessed and arrogant (which I like, but I would never date a guy like that in real life), but I would have loved it if he showed it and teased Charlie more.<br><br>So there. Those are my reasons. But I betcha I would have given five if I didn't know Dante before hand. <br><br>Oh, and<br><br><b>P.S. Would it be too much of an an inconvenience if I asked you, Victoria Scott, for a chapter (or two) in Charlie's POV? That would be Awesome Sauce!</b><br><br><img src="https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1380379956ra/736502.gif" class="gr-hostedUserImg"><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/299242558?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 25 Apr 2015 09:49:01 -0700]]></pubDate>
    <title>Fire Study (Study, #3)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/299242558?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>7170750</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1258701304l/7170750._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>The apprenticeship is over—now the real test has begun.</b><br /><br />When word that Yelena is a Soulfinder—able to capture and release souls—spreads like wildfire, she faces mistrust and fear in Sitia. What’s more, she keeps discovering new, unusual sides of her abilities. As the Council debates Yelena’s fate, she receives a disturbing message: a plot is rising against her homeland, led by a murderous sorcerer she has defeated before…<br /><br />The road to Ixia is fraught with peril and sets Yelena on a path that will test the limits of her skills. But the hope of reuniting with her beloved spurs her onward. Along the way, she’ll encounter allies, enemies, lovers and would-be assassins, each of questionable loyalty, and be forced to confront an impossible choice as whispers of war emerge.<br /><br />Yelena will have but one chance to prove herself—and save the lands she holds dear.]]></book_description>
    <book id="7170750">
      <num_pages>441</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Maria V. Snyder</author_name>
    <isbn>1741168333</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 25 Apr 2015 09:49:01 -0700]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Fri, 23 Mar 2012 03:29:35 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>favorites, gorgeous-cover</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.84</average_rating>
    <book_published>2008</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7170750-fire-study?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Fire Study (Study, #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1258701304l/7170750._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Maria V. Snyder<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.84<br/>
                                      book published: 2008<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2015/04/25<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/654883374?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:03:57 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love, Vol. 3</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/654883374?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>15797415</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1351213471l/15797415._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[In class, she's a sort of zoned-out girl, and he's the year one class' most perfect, good-looking guy. But the two of them have a secret, and their extraordinary "love experience" will start now!<br /><br />Himuro Yukina, known as the "Absolute Zero Snow-woman" is a cold and observant girl. In addition, she is actually a popular cell phone novelist who goes by the name of Yupina. Sadly, with no other human contact than her cousin, Yukina is unable to express more romance in her novels. Kitami Shigure, your so-called "typical bishounen", who is really a womanizer, has fallen into Yukina's trap when she blackmails him, and they end up "love-acting" for the sake of their secrets.]]></book_description>
    <book id="15797415">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622852</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 30 Jun 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:03:57 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 30 Jun 2013 02:58:38 -0700]]></user_date_created>
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    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.08</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15797415-missions-of-love-vol-3?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love, Vol. 3" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1351213471l/15797415._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.08<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/06/30<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:01:13 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love, Vol. 7</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187206004?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>18240278</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Mami avoue son amour à Shigure. Ce dernier n’ayant jamais envisagé leur relation sous cet angle se sent très mal à l'aise et ne sait plus comment réagir avec elle... S'il décide de sortir avec Mami, Yukina comprend qu’elle ne pourra plus compter sur lui pour ses missions. Elle prend les choses en main et se pose officiellement en rivale amoureuse de Mami. La lutte entre les deux jeunes filles s'engage... Quel rôle jouera Akira dans ce quatuor de l’amour ?]]></book_description>
    <book id="18240278">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622895</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 1 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:01:13 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:59:25 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.21</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18240278-missions-of-love-vol-7?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love, Vol. 7" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1394406182l/18240278._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.21<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205971?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:55 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love 6</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205971?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>17834887</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[When Akira helps Yukina recover from a bad cold, she realizes that the two of them share a much deeper connection than she will ever have with Shigure. She tries to further understand that connection so as to win more readers for her novel, but Shigure is not amused.]]></book_description>
    <book id="17834887">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622887</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 1 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:55 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:59:23 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.18</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17834887-missions-of-love-6?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love 6" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1382919341l/17834887._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.18<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205864?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:26 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love, Vol. 5</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205864?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>17288765</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Les missions continuent entre Shigure et Yukina mais les sentiments qu’ils ressentent l’un pour l’autre perturbent leur bon déroulement. D’autant plus que Mami prend conscience de la valeur des sentiments de Shigure pour Yukina, ce qui a pour effet d’accroitre sa jalousie. Elle invite tout le monde au parc d'attractions et dirige les événements avec brio afin que Yukina croie que Shigure est en couple avec elle et qu’Akira se rapproche de sa cousine. Ses manigances seront-elles démasquées et ces jeux de l’amour pourront-ils tenir la distance  ?]]></book_description>
    <book id="17288765">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622879</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 1 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 08:00:26 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:59:16 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.09</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17288765-missions-of-love-vol-5?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love, Vol. 5" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1361254864l/17288765._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.09<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205287?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:59:52 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Missions of Love, Vol. 4</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1187205287?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>16099212</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[FRAIL FLOWER<br /> <br />Now that she's back after a long sick leave, Mami Mizuno, the girl every boy in school has a crush on, never leaves Shigure's side. Never, that is, except for when she's pestering Yukina. She claims to want to help Yukina win Shigure's heart, but what is she really after?]]></book_description>
    <book id="16099212">
      <num_pages>176</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Ema Tōyama</author_name>
    <isbn>1612622860</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 1 Feb 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:59:52 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 01 Feb 2015 07:58:40 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.14</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16099212-missions-of-love-vol-4?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Missions of Love, Vol. 4" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1365463153l/16099212._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Ema Tōyama<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.14<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/02/01<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
  </item>
  <item>
    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/429099441?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 18 Jan 2015 10:11:25 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Obsession</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/429099441?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>14060046</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1368003139l/14060046._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Őrülten ​​nagyképű… de meg kell veszni érte. <br />Hunter könyörtelen bérgyilkos. A Védelmi Minisztérium szoros megfigyelés alatt tartja, de ez nem zavarja, hiszen az a feladata, hogy végezzen a rosszfiúkkal. Ideje nagy részében imádja a munkáját. Egészen addig, míg nem mindennapi feladatot kap: meg kell védenie egy embert az arumok egyik halhatatlan ellenségétől.<br /><br />Serena Cross egy szavát sem hiszi a legjobb barátnőjének, aki azt állítja, hogy a saját szemével látta, ahogy egy befolyásos szenátor fia átváltozott valami… természetfelettivé. Ugyan ki hinne el ekkora sületlenséget? Serena azonban hamarosan szemtanúja lesz annak, hogy a barátnőjét meggyilkolja egy idegen, és ezáltal egy olyan világba csöppen, ahol egyesek ölni is képesek azért, hogy a titok titok maradjon. <br /><br />Annak ellenére, hogy másfélék, Hunterben szenvedélyes vágy ébred Serena iránt, ezért az arum a maga számára is meglepő dolgot tesz: megszegi az eddigi életét irányító szabályokat, és szembeszegül a munkaadóival Serena biztonsága érdekében. A kérdés csak az, hogy vajon az idegenek és a kormányzat jelenti Serena számára a legnagyobb fenyegetést… vagy maga Hunter?]]></book_description>
    <book id="14060046">
      <num_pages>249</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn></isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Jan 2015 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 18 Jan 2015 10:11:25 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sat, 06 Oct 2012 19:45:24 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[ebooks-i-own, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[<b>After reading it again...</b><br /><br />So looking back at my first review (which was full of errors and weird things I said frequently all those years ago) and seeing how differently I felt after reading it again two years later was weird.<br /><br />Mainly because I loved Hunter from the get-go. I don't know if it was because I knew he was going to have that kind of 'don't-give'a-shit' attitude or because I'm just a tad older. Probably both. Either way, the second he arrived on scene, I was smiling like an idiot. I preferred his POV much more than Serena's, simply because I was smiling and quietly trying to suppress my laughter a lot more. I freaking <i>love</i> that alien.<br /><br />Serena wasn't a bad character. She had her moments and was a strong female lead that I think completely completed Hunter and challenged him in all the right ways. Their... relationship (somehow, I don't think I can call it a romance) didn't feel that forced and was believable-ish. You know, beside's the fact that Hunter is an alien. <br /><br />The minor characters all added an extra something. Luxen, in this book, were complete assholes. Not the 'sexy-asshole-that-I-love-but-would-punch-in-real-life' kind, but the 'I-actually-wish-to-maim-him-or-her-and-I-will-enjoy-it' kind. There were very little glowworms that I could tolerate. Somehow, I thought that Raz and co. were just thrown in to create conflict that really didn't have to do much with anything - I'm not saying that a weird, messed-up part of me liked Hunter practically wiping the floor with their entrails. Luc? I love Luc. That is all. I get the feeling that Dex, Sin and, of course, Lore will be important - maybe in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644055.Opposition__Lux___5_" title="Opposition (Lux, #5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Opposition</a> if they're there? I want to finish the series as soon as possible. <br /><br />Also, reading this book after reading <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644052.Origin__Lux___4_" title="Origin (Lux, #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Origin</a>, a lot more things start to make sense, and Armentrout is brilliant is you look at the two books together. <br /><br />In all aspects, I love Hunter, Obsession and, of course, Jennifer L. Armentrout!<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /><i>Obsession</i> shed a totally new light on Armentrout's world. <br /><br />I honestly had no idea what to expect. I mean, it was going to be told by an <i>Arum</i>. You know, the opposite of the Luxen? I thought he would just go on and rave about how much he wanted to suck out the Source and rule the world. But... it was so different to that. I mean, I knew Hunter was going to be hot. It isn't like Armentrout to not include a hotttie. <br /><br />I <i>really</i> didn't like Hunter at the beginning. He was arrogant, selfish and used to getting his own way. The only redeeming thing was his sense of humour and his...yeah. It was funny when he was showing his attitude to other people. Even though I hated that, I found it hilarious. Contradictory, but my mind never made sense in the first place. I didn't like him until near the end of the book, actually. That was when I fell for him. <br /><br />Oh, and Daemon get's a special scene in this book, too! I knew he would. Although, they never mention his name, but you can tell it's him. This is set a little after the third book, so my heart broke for him all over again. A few more familiar faces show up, but you'll have to read it yourself to find out. I wonder if Hunter will drop by in the Lux series? God, I hope so! That would be the best thing ever! (Please excuse me while I fangirl for a few moments.) Ahem. I mean, it would be a nice thing to see. Arum and Luxen kicking ass together! (Yeah, seems a bit far fetched, actually. Still...)<br /><br />Basically, this is a must-read for any fans of the Lux series - well, for more mature readers, anyway. I couldn't count how much my face flushed when reading. So yeah... That's a wrap. You get a totally new view on the wold of Arum, Humans and Luxen. You also get a nice dose of hotness and humour. <br /><br />This book is simply awesome. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.11</average_rating>
    <book_published>2013</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14060046-obsession?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Obsession" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1368003139l/14060046._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.11<br/>
                                      book published: 2013<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2015/01/19<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/01/18<br/>
                                      shelves: ebooks-i-own, favorites, love-a-guy-in-this-book, reviewed<br/>
                                      review: <br/><b>After reading it again...</b><br /><br />So looking back at my first review (which was full of errors and weird things I said frequently all those years ago) and seeing how differently I felt after reading it again two years later was weird.<br /><br />Mainly because I loved Hunter from the get-go. I don't know if it was because I knew he was going to have that kind of 'don't-give'a-shit' attitude or because I'm just a tad older. Probably both. Either way, the second he arrived on scene, I was smiling like an idiot. I preferred his POV much more than Serena's, simply because I was smiling and quietly trying to suppress my laughter a lot more. I freaking <i>love</i> that alien.<br /><br />Serena wasn't a bad character. She had her moments and was a strong female lead that I think completely completed Hunter and challenged him in all the right ways. Their... relationship (somehow, I don't think I can call it a romance) didn't feel that forced and was believable-ish. You know, beside's the fact that Hunter is an alien. <br /><br />The minor characters all added an extra something. Luxen, in this book, were complete assholes. Not the 'sexy-asshole-that-I-love-but-would-punch-in-real-life' kind, but the 'I-actually-wish-to-maim-him-or-her-and-I-will-enjoy-it' kind. There were very little glowworms that I could tolerate. Somehow, I thought that Raz and co. were just thrown in to create conflict that really didn't have to do much with anything - I'm not saying that a weird, messed-up part of me liked Hunter practically wiping the floor with their entrails. Luc? I love Luc. That is all. I get the feeling that Dex, Sin and, of course, Lore will be important - maybe in <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644055.Opposition__Lux___5_" title="Opposition (Lux, #5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Opposition</a> if they're there? I want to finish the series as soon as possible. <br /><br />Also, reading this book after reading <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13644052.Origin__Lux___4_" title="Origin (Lux, #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout" rel="nofollow noopener">Origin</a>, a lot more things start to make sense, and Armentrout is brilliant is you look at the two books together. <br /><br />In all aspects, I love Hunter, Obsession and, of course, Jennifer L. Armentrout!<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /><i>Obsession</i> shed a totally new light on Armentrout's world. <br /><br />I honestly had no idea what to expect. I mean, it was going to be told by an <i>Arum</i>. You know, the opposite of the Luxen? I thought he would just go on and rave about how much he wanted to suck out the Source and rule the world. But... it was so different to that. I mean, I knew Hunter was going to be hot. It isn't like Armentrout to not include a hotttie. <br /><br />I <i>really</i> didn't like Hunter at the beginning. He was arrogant, selfish and used to getting his own way. The only redeeming thing was his sense of humour and his...yeah. It was funny when he was showing his attitude to other people. Even though I hated that, I found it hilarious. Contradictory, but my mind never made sense in the first place. I didn't like him until near the end of the book, actually. That was when I fell for him. <br /><br />Oh, and Daemon get's a special scene in this book, too! I knew he would. Although, they never mention his name, but you can tell it's him. This is set a little after the third book, so my heart broke for him all over again. A few more familiar faces show up, but you'll have to read it yourself to find out. I wonder if Hunter will drop by in the Lux series? God, I hope so! That would be the best thing ever! (Please excuse me while I fangirl for a few moments.) Ahem. I mean, it would be a nice thing to see. Arum and Luxen kicking ass together! (Yeah, seems a bit far fetched, actually. Still...)<br /><br />Basically, this is a must-read for any fans of the Lux series - well, for more mature readers, anyway. I couldn't count how much my face flushed when reading. So yeah... That's a wrap. You get a totally new view on the wold of Arum, Humans and Luxen. You also get a nice dose of hotness and humour. <br /><br />This book is simply awesome. <br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1102825083?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sat, 03 Jan 2015 23:27:47 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Kiss of the Rose Princess, Vol. 1]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1102825083?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>23502257</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<p>Anise Yamamoto has been told that if she ever removes the rose choker given to her by her father, a terrible punishment will befall her. Unfortunately she loses that choker when a bat-like being named Ninufa falls from the sky and hits her. Ninufa gives Anise four cards representing four knights whom she can summon with a kiss. But now that she has these gorgeous men at her beck and call, what exactly is her quest?!</p>]]></book_description>
    <book id="23502257">
      <num_pages>180</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Aya Shouoto</author_name>
    <isbn>1421581019</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Mon, 10 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sat, 03 Jan 2015 23:27:47 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 10 Nov 2014 13:07:56 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>favorites, manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.84</average_rating>
    <book_published>2009</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23502257-kiss-of-the-rose-princess-vol-1?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Kiss of the Rose Princess, Vol. 1" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1438247115l/23502257._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Aya Shouoto<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.84<br/>
                                      book published: 2009<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/11/10<br/>
                                      date added: 2015/01/03<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292835775?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:56:39 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Wicked Lovely (Wicked Lovely, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292835775?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>305234</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Rule #3: <i>Don't stare at invisible faeries.</i><br />Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in the mortal world. Aislinn fears their cruelty - especially if they learn of her Sight - and wishes she were as blind to their presence as other teens.<br /><br />Rule #2: <i>Don't speak to invisible faeries.</i><br />Now faeries are stalking her. One of them, Keenan, who is equal parts terrifying and alluring, is trying to talk to her, asking questions Aislinn is afraid to answer.<br /><br />Rule #1: <i>Don't ever attract their attention.</i><br />But it's too late. Keenan is the Summer King, who has sought his queen for nine centuries. Without her, summer itself will perish. He is determined that Aislinn will become the Summer Queen at any cost — regardless of her plans or desires.<br /><br />Suddenly none of the rules that have kept Aislinn safe are working anymore, and everything is on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.<br /><br />Faery intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning twenty-first-century faery tale.]]></book_description>
    <book id="305234">
      <num_pages>328</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Melissa Marr</author_name>
    <isbn>0061214655</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:56:39 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 11 Mar 2012 21:32:32 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, need-to-re-read]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.70</average_rating>
    <book_published>2007</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/305234.Wicked_Lovely?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Wicked Lovely (Wicked Lovely, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1327814035l/305234._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Melissa Marr<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.70<br/>
                                      book published: 2007<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/30<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, need-to-re-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292857982?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:56:32 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Ink Exchange (Wicked Lovely, #2)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292857982?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>2321296</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Unbeknownst to mortals, a power struggle is unfolding in a world of shadows and danger. After centuries of stability, the balance among the Faery Courts has altered, and Irial, ruler of the Dark Court, is battling to hold his rebellious and newly vulnerable fey together. If he fails, bloodshed and brutality will follow.<br /><br />Seventeen-year-old Leslie knows nothing of faeries or their intrigues. When she is attracted to an eerily beautiful tattoo of eyes and wings, all she knows is that she has to have it, convinced it is a tangible symbol of changes she desperately craves for her own life.<br /><br />The tattoo does bring changes, but not the kind Leslie has dreamed of, but sinister, compelling changes that are more than symbolic. Those changes will bind Leslie and Irial together, drawing Leslie deeper and deeper into the faery world, unable to resist its allures, and helpless to withstand its perils. . .]]></book_description>
    <book id="2321296">
      <num_pages>325</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Melissa Marr</author_name>
    <isbn>006121468X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:56:32 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 11 Mar 2012 22:24:40 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, need-to-re-read]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.70</average_rating>
    <book_published>2008</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2321296.Ink_Exchange?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Ink Exchange (Wicked Lovely, #2)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1275693727l/2321296._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Melissa Marr<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.70<br/>
                                      book published: 2008<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/30<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book, need-to-re-read<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292843955?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:55:21 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Half-Blood (Covenant, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/292843955?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>9680718</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1311865840l/9680718._SX50_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi—pure-bloods—have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals—well, not so much.<br /><br />Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures.<br /><br />Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1: <br /><br />Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden.<br /><br />Unfortunately, she’s crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn’t her biggest problem—staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden.<br /><br />And that would kind of suck.]]></book_description>
    <book id="9680718">
      <num_pages>281</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Jennifer L. Armentrout</author_name>
    <isbn>0983157200</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 12 Nov 2013 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Tue, 30 Dec 2014 05:55:21 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 11 Mar 2012 21:53:19 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.07</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/9680718-half-blood?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Half-Blood (Covenant, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1311865840l/9680718._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Jennifer L. Armentrout<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.07<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2013/11/12<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/30<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover, love-a-guy-in-this-book<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/293448975?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 03:00:43 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Wildefire (Wildefire, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/293448975?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>12999823</book_id>
    <book_image_url><![CDATA[https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1480105414l/12999823._SY75_.jpg]]></book_image_url>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[EVERY FLAME BEGINS WITH A SPARK.<br /><br />Blackwood Academy was supposed to be a fresh start for Ashline Wilde. A secluded boarding school deep in the heart of California's redwood forests, three thousand miles from her old life - it sounded like the new beginning she needed after an act of unspeakable violence left a girl in her hometown dead.<br /><br />But Blackwood is far from the peaceful haven Ashline was searching for.<br /><br />Because terrifying, supernatural beasts roam the forests around campus.<br /><br />Because the murderer from Ashline's hometown - her own sister - has followed her across the country.<br /><br />Because a group of reincarnated gods and goddesses has been mysteriously summoned to Blackwood...<br /><br />...and Ashline's one of them.]]></book_description>
    <book id="12999823">
      <num_pages>393</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Karsten Knight</author_name>
    <isbn>1442421185</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>2</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 03:00:43 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 12 Mar 2012 22:28:08 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves><![CDATA[gorgeous-cover, did-not-finish]]></user_shelves>
    <user_review><![CDATA[I tried. I really, really tried. I don't know why I couldn't finish this book. I have no idea why I couldn't connect with the characters, but a few things did annoy me. <br /><br />But, let's start about the positives. There are very little. I've read about half-way, so I really wanted to finish it, but I couldn't. Okay, well, the cover is amaze-balls. And... the plot was intriguing, no doubt, but that's pretty much it.<br /><br />Cons? I think the biggest issue was 50-60 page chapters. I'm the type of person who hates leaving a book in the middle of the chapter, but I had to, and that made me annoyed with myself. Also, the plot felt dragged on unnecessarily and the characters felt a bit 2D. <br /><br />I'm sorry. Like I said, I tried. This is the first book in years that I couldn't finish, and I really, really am sorry. I think there's about two other books that I couldn't finish in my life, and that, well, sucks, since I feel like I've betrayed the author somehow.<br /><br />This book had the potential to be something great, and works for other people, but sadly, not for me. ]]></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.44</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12999823-wildefire?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Wildefire (Wildefire, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1480105414l/12999823._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Karsten Knight<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.44<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 2<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: gorgeous-cover, did-not-finish<br/>
                                      review: <br/>I tried. I really, really tried. I don't know why I couldn't finish this book. I have no idea why I couldn't connect with the characters, but a few things did annoy me. <br /><br />But, let's start about the positives. There are very little. I've read about half-way, so I really wanted to finish it, but I couldn't. Okay, well, the cover is amaze-balls. And... the plot was intriguing, no doubt, but that's pretty much it.<br /><br />Cons? I think the biggest issue was 50-60 page chapters. I'm the type of person who hates leaving a book in the middle of the chapter, but I had to, and that made me annoyed with myself. Also, the plot felt dragged on unnecessarily and the characters felt a bit 2D. <br /><br />I'm sorry. Like I said, I tried. This is the first book in years that I couldn't finish, and I really, really am sorry. I think there's about two other books that I couldn't finish in my life, and that, well, sucks, since I feel like I've betrayed the author somehow.<br /><br />This book had the potential to be something great, and works for other people, but sadly, not for me. <br/>
                                      ]]>
    </description>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1137284867?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:29:56 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports (Maximum Ride, #3)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1137284867?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>828623</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[In MAXIMUM RIDE: SAVING THE WORLD AND OTHER EXTREME SPORTS, the time has arrived for Max and her winged "Flock" to face their ultimate enemy and discover their original purpose: to defeat the takeover of "Re-evolution", a sinister experiment to re-engineer a select population into a scientifically superior master race...and to terminate the rest. Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gasman, and Angel have always worked together to defeat the forces working against them--but can they save the world when they are torn apart, living in hiding and captivity, halfway across the globe from one another?]]></book_description>
    <book id="828623">
      <num_pages>403</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>James  Patterson</author_name>
    <isbn>0755322002</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>0</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:29:56 -0800]]></user_date_added>
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    <average_rating>4.08</average_rating>
    <book_published>2007</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/828623.Saving_the_World_and_Other_Extreme_Sports?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports (Maximum Ride, #3)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1448696385l/828623._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: James  Patterson<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.08<br/>
                                      book published: 2007<br/>
                                      rating: 0<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:27:52 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Divergent (Divergent, #1)</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/294648333?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>13335037</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[In Beatrice Prior’s dystopian Chicago world, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue: Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is, she can’t have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.<br /><br />During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris, and struggles alongside her fellow initiates to live out the choice they have made. Together, they must undergo extreme physical tests of endurance and intense psychological simulations, some with devastating consequences. As initiation transforms them all, Tris must determine who her friends really are, and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes-fascinating, sometimes-exasperating boy fits into the life she’s chosen.<br /><br />But Tris also has a secret: one she’s kept hidden from everyone, because she’s been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers unrest and growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly-perfect society, she also learns that her secret might be what helps her save those she loves...or it might be what destroys her.<br />.]]></book_description>
    <book id="13335037">
      <num_pages>487</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Veronica Roth</author_name>
    <isbn>0062024035</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Tue, 3 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:27:52 -0800]]></user_date_added>
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    <user_shelves>favorites, gorgeous-cover</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.12</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
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                                      author: Veronica Roth<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.12<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/04/03<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/297511287?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:26:48 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/297511287?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>7171637</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[When Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother in Victorian England, she has no idea something terrifying is waiting for her in London’s Downworld, where vampires, warlocks, and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.<br /><br />Kidnapped by a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform into another person. What’s more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa’s power for his own.<br /><br />Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm’s length…everyone, that is, but Tessa.<br /><br />As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world…and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.]]></book_description>
    <book id="7171637">
      <num_pages>479</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Cassandra Clare</author_name>
    <isbn>1416975861</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:26:48 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Mar 2012 23:02:49 -0700]]></user_date_created>
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    <average_rating>4.31</average_rating>
    <book_published>2010</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7171637-clockwork-angel?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1693490271l/7171637._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Cassandra Clare<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.31<br/>
                                      book published: 2010<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: <br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/412602664?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:25:19 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[Hannah (Daughters of the Sea, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/412602664?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>8687948</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Bestselling author Kathryn Lasky plunges into the world of teen romance with a magical series about the newest supernatural phenomenon--mermaids! Hannah is not like other girls in the turn-of-the-century Boston orphanage where she grew up. Instead of seasickness, she gets land sickness. She leaves a ring of salt in the tub when she bathes, and sometimes she sees a faint tracing of scales on her feet. It's freakish, horrifying . . . and deeply thrilling.Hannah feels a change coming. But she is not the only one who senses it. A young painter recognizes something in Hannah--a connection with the sea that recalls a secret from his own past. A choice lies ahead, and Hannah must discover if she is a creature of the land--or of the sea.]]></book_description>
    <book id="8687948">
      <num_pages>310</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kathryn Lasky</author_name>
    <isbn>054523803X</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>2</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:25:19 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Tue, 11 Sep 2012 20:42:48 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves></user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.49</average_rating>
    <book_published>2009</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8687948-hannah?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Hannah (Daughters of the Sea, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1328838093l/8687948._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kathryn Lasky<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.49<br/>
                                      book published: 2009<br/>
                                      rating: 2<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/10/10<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: <br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/297515114?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:25:04 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[What's Left of Me (The Hybrid Chronicles, #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/297515114?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>15852507</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<i>I should not exist. But I do.</i><br /><br />Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren’t they settling? Why isn’t one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbors shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn’t . . .<br /><br />For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she’s still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable-hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet . . . for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything.]]></book_description>
    <book id="15852507">
      <num_pages>342</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Kat Zhang</author_name>
    <isbn>0732294703</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>5</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sat, 6 Oct 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:25:04 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Mon, 19 Mar 2012 23:18:16 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>favorites, gorgeous-cover</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.90</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15852507-what-s-left-of-me?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="What&#39;s Left of Me (The Hybrid Chronicles, #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1346088116l/15852507._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Kat Zhang<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.90<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 5<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/10/06<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: favorites, gorgeous-cover<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1137282231?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:23:44 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Judge, Vol. 4</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1137282231?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>18656038</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONES PLAYING THIS GAME.</b><br /><br />Do clues discovered in a new room herald nothing more than a new despair? Soon the brutal sentencing of the third Judgment is visited upon the participants. Who here is the victim, and who the perpetrator?Until all is revealed, time is on no one's side...]]></book_description>
    <book id="18656038">
      <num_pages>210</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Yoshiki Tonogai</author_name>
    <isbn>0316240346</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:23:44 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:22:28 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.85</average_rating>
    <book_published>2011</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18656038-judge-vol-4?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Judge, Vol. 4" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1400834498l/18656038._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Yoshiki Tonogai<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.85<br/>
                                      book published: 2011<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:23:35 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title>Judge, Vol. 5</title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1137281876?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>20706281</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[<b>IT'S TIME TO CLEAR THE DOCKET.</b><br /><br />Who could possibly be responsible for this game? That question swirls among the participants, who grow weary as they are forced to make one horrific choice after another. The game is to conclude when the requisite four survivors have been determined. For these four fortunates, court will be adjourned... But what awaits them on the other side of the courthouse doors?]]></book_description>
    <book id="20706281">
      <num_pages>226</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Yoshiki Tonogai</author_name>
    <isbn>0316240354</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:23:35 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:21:32 -0800]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>3.84</average_rating>
    <book_published>2012</book_published>
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      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20706281-judge-vol-5?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="Judge, Vol. 5" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1408926530l/20706281._SX50_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Yoshiki Tonogai<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 3.84<br/>
                                      book published: 2012<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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    <guid><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/367248678?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></guid>
    <pubDate><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:19:57 -0800]]></pubDate>
    <title><![CDATA[PhD: Phantasy Degree, Vol. 1 (PhD: Phantasy Degree #1)]]></title>
    <link><![CDATA[https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/367248678?utm_medium=api&utm_source=rss]]></link>
    <book_id>688610</book_id>
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    <book_description><![CDATA[Sneaking into the Demon School Hades, Sang finds a way to become a monster and begins a fantastic adventure in a devilish domain.]]></book_description>
    <book id="688610">
      <num_pages>162</num_pages>
    </book>
    <author_name>Son Hee-Joon</author_name>
    <isbn>1417697954</isbn>
    <user_name>Shelley</user_name>
    <user_rating>4</user_rating>
    <user_read_at><![CDATA[Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 +0000]]></user_read_at>
    <user_date_added><![CDATA[Sun, 21 Dec 2014 02:19:57 -0800]]></user_date_added>
    <user_date_created><![CDATA[Thu, 12 Jul 2012 19:15:17 -0700]]></user_date_created>
    <user_shelves>manga</user_shelves>
    <user_review></user_review>
    <average_rating>4.00</average_rating>
    <book_published>2005</book_published>
    <description>
      <![CDATA[
      <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/688610.PhD?utm_medium=api&amp;utm_source=rss"><img alt="PhD: Phantasy Degree, Vol. 1 (PhD: Phantasy Degree #1)" src="https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1266617440l/688610._SY75_.jpg" /></a><br/>
                                      author: Son Hee-Joon<br/>
                                      name: Shelley<br/>
                                      average rating: 4.00<br/>
                                      book published: 2005<br/>
                                      rating: 4<br/>
                                      read at: 2012/07/12<br/>
                                      date added: 2014/12/21<br/>
                                      shelves: manga<br/>
                                      review: <br/><br/>
                                      ]]>
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