Losing Lila by Sarah Alderson

Release Date: Out now!

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Pages: 320pgs

The Story

Alex and Lila are on the run, desperately trying to stay one step ahead of the Unit, which somehow is managing to track their every move. Whilst Alex is determined to keep Lila safe and her ability secret at any cost, Lila's only thought is of finding a way back to California so that she can rescue her brother and mother from the military base where they're being held.

Struggling to control both her growing power and her deepening feelings for Alex, Lila decides the time has finally come to stop running and start fighting. Together with Alex, Demos, and the people she's come to think of as family, Lila plans not just to save her brother and mother, but to completely destroy the Unit and everything it stands for.

But the plan requires Lila to return alone to California, make friends with the enemy, and to risk losing everything - Alex, her family, and even her life.

The Review

A big thanks to Simon & Schuster Australia for sending me a review copy of this book!

Exciting, page-turning, romantic and a non-stop, action-packed adventure, it's fair to say that the author, Sarah Alderson, has done it yet again with her much anticipated sequel of her debut book series!

After the shocking and unsettling events found in Hunting Lila, we are back again with Alex and Lila who are still on the run from the Unit, along with some familiar faces, who are trying so desperately to keep each other safe as long as possible. But it's not long before the Unit are hot on their trails once more, which causes this new couple and their most unlikely crew to be forced right back into the explosive action and dangers that comes along with it. Despite how much Alex wants to protect her, Lila can't help but think it's becoming increasingly too difficult to evade the Unit as long as they have and she needs to do everything within her new, developing powers to put a stop to them once and for all . . . and rescue her brother and mother that she left behind. But the question is: Is she capable of destroying the military base with hundreds of soldiers armed at the ready? Is she capable of doing what others deem as impossible or must she be willing to putting everything - including her love for Alex - on the line to save many, many lives in the process?

Once again, I utterly adored Lila as a main heroine. Sure, she made some pretty silly assumptions in her mind and allowed her thoughts get ahead of her at times, but she remained strong throughout the book and she was so courgeous than what we've previously seen from her in Hunting Lila. She has grown a lot since then, and there was this constant part of her that showed us that she doesn't allow people to push her over the edge (not this time) and she was willing to take action and protect those she loves no matter the cost - even sacrificing her own life to do it, which I guess is why I love her so much. And along with that, along with her power and her special bond between her family and friends, with such a strong support system behind her you couldn't doubt Lila even for a second, because everyone around her didn't allow her herself to doubt her own actions . . . it makes me kind of jealous in some way, because I think we all wished for that kind of support in our own lives, right? Yes, I believe so.

Now onto Alex. Honestly when it comes to Alex's character I'm lost for words. Absolutely speechless. While I wanted some more sizzle and some bang scenes from him (sounded so wrong there but hey a girl can only dream), but trust me here when I say that we still get plenty enough of Alex in this sequel and my oh my . . . he's still the hottie devil that I remember for! For this series alone we have to admit there's no Lila without some Alex in it - after all he's her rock from the beginning til the end of this book - and even while they share their ups and downs, and have some silly, silly misunderstandings, Alex is never willing to back down without a fight when it comes to Lila and she's seriously one lucky girl to have Alex by her side, let me tell you. Life. Is. So. Unfair. But not only do we see that kickass and serious side of Alex, but we also see an intense, insecure and a sensitive side to Alex which only melted my heart in complete goo. I love you, Alex. I love YOU!

Now while I love me some Lila and Alex scenes, whether it'll be kissing or doing something Die-Hard-wise, but what stood out the most in this sequel was the supporting characters and I'm glad they played a much more significant role than the main heroines did. It surprised me to say the least. Take for example Suki and Nate, one of the most honourable mentions here for the supporting characters. Both of them added this perfect combination of one-liners and some hilarious comic relief to the book and I was all welcomed to it, and hell even Key, Lila's brother and father offered some great comedy as well, so I'm really, really happy that we got to see those other sides to them! They were so FUNNY!

Overall, LOSING LILA lived up to my expectations and was the perfect follow up to one of my favourite books from last year's list. Even though I loved Hunting Lila a little bit more than this sequel, but with sequences flowing like a movie up on the silver screen, I can definitely say without a doubt that Sarah Alderson always surprises me in her ability to write some awesome fast-paced work, and I'm very eager to read the third and final book of the series . . . need more of Alex and Lila, okay?!?! MORE!

The Rating

4 1/2 / 5 stars

Sarah Alderson's Fated Blog Tour - Fated Top Trumps & Fated Cast Battle Off

Hi everyone! Welcome to the fourth stop of the Fated blog tour, the amazing second novel written by an amazing author named Sarah Alderson, which will be out in Australia February 1st! If you haven't already, be sure to check out my two book reviews of Alderson's debut novel Hunting Lila (here) and Fated (here).

For this fourth pitstop, I've been asked to hold a Fated Cast Battle Off between a few of my favourite characters from the Fated book. But before we get our heroines, heroes, and villains all equipped with their weapons, super abilities and getting their heads into the game, here are all of the ten Fated character contenders: Evie, Lucas, Caleb, Grace, Neena, Joshua, Risper, Shula, Tristan, and Victor. Unfortunately I cannot force all of these fine characters of ours to battle to the death or make each and every character fight another after another because 1) we would be here forever, 2) the cast of characters are very deadly in their own way and 3) I don't want too much blood left on my blog by the time this blog battle has ended. So instead, I have four very special battles for your eyes only.

Here's the deal - I name the two characters, I place the selected characters into a very deadly and dangerous situation, and then YOU as a reader get to decide who wins based on the character stats by commenting below. I will also voice my own opinions that may help sway you in choosing the winner and loser. Sound good? Okay then let's go . . . PREPARE THE TROOPS!

BATTLE #1

EVIE vs CALEB

The situation: Imagine Caleb attacking another human being (for fun) and in defence, while thinking it's another human beating another, Evie fends Caleb off and ends up chasing after him. However, in a form of a battle tactic, Caleb decides to lure Evie into an abandoned warehouse nearby and wants to lead her into a trap. By the time Evie arrives inside the warehouse, a dark one mind you, she is locked in and forced to fight with Caleb with hand-to-hand combat. Only she doesn't quite know he's a demon and she doesn't know how to fight as she has little skills. But with Caleb now advancing on her, running forward and out of nowhere knocks her to the ground with his tail, do you believe Evie has a chance of beating this dude? Even a blind one?

My opinion on the battle: Judging by the stats, Caleb has an advantage here. He has more fighting experience than Evie does - with badassness, special powers of a fast-whipping tail, fighting skills, and is far more mature in age. As you can see Evie has a very little chance. In this particular situation, Caleb lured our Evie into a pitch-black warehouse and considering he's blind, Evie is blind too which takes her into Caleb's personal territory. Another advantage as he's used to using his hearing and being blind etc. However, Evie still has a chance. She's younger, quicker, and has the upper hand in verbal assassination. Who says a smart-mouth can't help win you a battle? My money is on Evie. The underdog can always surprise you.

So who do you think would win? Evie or Caleb?
BATTLE #2




LUCAS vs VICTOR

The situation: Let's just say, in a hunter rage, Victor targets a lone Lucas and wants to kill him. Despite an age difference, both guys are very close in their battle stats and would put up a good fight. As Victor lunges for Lucas with a blade in hand, Lucas disappears into the shadows which leaves his opponent alone in an alleyway and completely vulnerable. Furious by this, Victor closes his eyes and carefully listens by using his 'hunter senses'. When Lucas reappears with his own blade and sneaks up behind him, Victor strikes back and cuts Lucas but Lucas himself remains strong. How do you see this turning out? Can Lucas beat Victor?

My opinion on the battle: This is a tough battle here! First off, Victor has experience on top of Lucas's and he has killed a Shadow Warrior like Lucas before, so he would know what it takes to kill another of his kind. And Victor has great instincts. But Lucas is strong-willed and holds a grudge on Victor and others like him for killing his family so . . . revenge of madness could possibly help Lucas in this case. My money would be on Lucas since his hotness and youth could beat out old Victor, even though he's still young at heart.

So who do you think would win? Lucas or Victor?
BATTLE #3


SHULA vs GRACE

The situation: Both of these girls get into a heated argument after a long battle, and Shula has had just about enough with Grace's excuses of not protecting her (by using her psych powers). Circling Grace in order to downsize her as the hunter meets prey, Shula lunges forward in hopes of touching Grace with her bare hands and using her power of her literal acid-coated hot body (it can wound people obviously). However, before even Shula can land a single finger on her, Grace in a fluid motion moves out of her way and continues predicting every single move Shula makes. But the question is, what with Grace's graceful and avoiding moves, is it enough to help her win this battle? Or will Shula's rage and vicious nature be just her luck?

My opinion on the battle: Shula is a tough opponent to beat but her mood get's in the way of a clear fighting mind. You need a clear mind for a fight - just saying. Anyway, my money is definitely on Grace's character. She's a psychic after all. She can predict every move Shula makes - everyone's for that matter - and despite Grace not liking to fight, you can never beat a psychic. They will always win no matter what you do.

So who do you think would win? Shula or Grace?

BATTLE #4

TRISTAN vs NEENA

The situation: Tristan and Neena are in a training room. As the trainer, Tristan quickly grabs his shadow blade off from the table and blends into the nearby shadows. Neena, unsure of what to do, prepares herself for his next move by checking her surroundings. As her eyes circle the room, Tristan reappears and makes an upward strike with his blade in hopes of a surprise attack. Neena, however, clenches her hand into a fist, and tries to punch him in the stomach (to her advantage). But Tristan is experienced and avoids her punch by reaching out and twisting her arm around her back, with his blade now in line with her throat. But his arm is weak from an old battle injury. Neena has two choices, she can either use what strength she has left by weakening her opponent's injured arm or use her special ability by changing her form. Human or animal form. But the question is: Does Neena have a chance of winning or will Tristan beat her without too much effort involved?

My opinion on the battle: Tristan may have experience on his side (after all he's badass and clearly his battle techniques and stats are much more favourable than Neena's) however considering Neena is small and can transform into animals and/or people, she could easily win too. She can use her small-size body to duck under Tristan's arm swings (even do further harm to his injured battle arm which earns her a point) or she could even transform into her preferred sparrow form and fly the hell outta there if something worse happened to her. My money is definitely on Neena. The small people can and will surprise you. No matter the age differences and no matter the size/weight of a person.

So who do you think would win? Tristan or Neena?

While we leave our winners and losers to rest (you know who you are), I would like to thank all of the participants of these epic battles. Even the two other opponents, Risper the human hunter and Joshua the Thirster, whom were left out for today's battle and I'm sure they're not too happy with me right now because they were so eager to fight today. But hey, it's the best of the best. Anyway readers, be sure to comment below about who you think would win in each of the four battles. Would love to hear your thoughts on this!

Here's the rest of the blog tour ~

24th January: Words on Paper - First chapter hosting

25th January: Novels on the Run - If you could control your Fate themed interview

26th January: Shiirley's Bookshelf - Video review

27th January: Tales of the Inner Book Fanatic - Fated Top Trumps & Fated Cast Battle Off

28th January: She Known as Jess - Grazia-esque magazine interview with the Fated cast

29th January: Read Me, Bookmark Me, Love Me - Giveaway - 5 copies of Lila and Fated with posters!

30th January: Book Probe Reviews - Host video message to Aussie fans from Sarah

31st January: Sarah Alderson live facebook chat on Read Me, Bookmark Me, Love Me

1st February: Eleusinian Mysteries - Evie and Lucas Q&A

2nd February: The Rest is Still Unwritten - Wise words interview from Sarah

Fated by Sarah Alderson

Release Date: 5th January, 2012

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Childrens Books

Pages: 320pgs

The Story

What happens when you discover you aren't who you thought you were? And that the person you love is the person who wil betray you? If your fate is already determined, can you fight it?

When Evie Tremain discovers that she's the last in a long line of Demon slayers and that she's being hunted by an elite band of assassins - Shapeshifters, Vampires and Mixen demons amongst them - she knows she can't run. They're find her wherefver she goes. Instead she must learn to stand and fight.

But when the half-human, half-Shadow Warrior Lucas Gray is sent to spy on Evie and then ordered to kill her before she can fulfil a dangerous prophecy, their fates become inextricably linked. The war that has raged for one thousands years between humans and demons is about to reach a devastating and inevitable conclusion. Either one or both of them will die before this war ends.

If your life becomes bound to another's, what will it take to sever it?

The Review

A big thanks to Caroline from Simon & Schuster Australia for sending me a review copy of this book!

It may not have beaten my profound love of Hunting Lila, but there was a 99.9% chance that Sarah Alderson was going to write yet another brilliant action-packed adventure and the sweetest of romances in young adult books. And, gladly-without-a-doubt, she did just that in her second novel FATED - only this time round, the author deals with demons and slayers and all the trouble it comes with being one of the two.

FATED was a whirlwind of greatness and it's told in third-perspective, following the complicated lives of Evie Tremain and Lucas Grey. Evie is a young waitress working in a small town and she wants nothing more than to get outta this nowhere town and move to the big city of New York. It's all she's ever wanted. But one night she is attacked and thrown into a very dangerous situation, soon learning that she is a demon slayer and the last of her family bloodline of slayers. Not only that, but she's the number one target of the organisation called the Brotherhood.

Lucas Grey on the other hand is apart of the Brotherhood which is filled with an assortment of brutal demons - with Grey being only half of a demon. Determined to get his sweet revenge on his parent's killers, Lucas wants to destroy the slayers - every single one of them - but when Evie becomes his primary target, he does something of the unthinkable . . . he falls in love with her. But with all failed missions comes the repercussions and Lucas will have to do everything in his power to protect Evie - even if it means death and betraying the Brotherhood itself.

On a whole, I absolutely loved the characters - the good and the damn right evil kind - especially the protagionist Evie. She's very strong-willed, determined to the bone, independent in her own right, and she's driven to succeed at everything she does, even when - at times - she's unsure of herself and of her abilities of being a demon slayer. But despite her self-doubts . . . she was an awesome main character and I loved every bit of snark she had. And then, of course, there's Lucas. Now I absolutely adored his character and seeing his side of things! Why must Alderson write such delicious boy characters in her novels? It's her talent, I guess. Lucas's world is very different to Evie's and that's one of the things I loved about the novel.

Another aspect I enjoyed was not only the storyline and the history side of things (including the demons and the slayers histories), but it was also the subtle-and-the-sometimes-fierce chemistry between the main characters, Evie and Lucas. Trust me here you guys, there was plenty of intensity being thrown back-and-forth between these main characters and I just wanted to yell, "KISS ALREADY!". The romance wasn't insta-love and for once in a young adult book, the relationship was being slowly built-up until each person's motives were out in the open. And for that, I was a very happy reader even though it was obvious these two characters wanted each other so badly. Anyway, everything was very well-written!

After finishing this novel I really hope the author decides to write a sequel to this book. I heard it's a standalone (insert gasps and tears) and while I can still see it being one, but the ending is left in a way where a sequel can be written and continued. So there's a big HOPE there because I need more of this story! I need more of the characters! So readers demand a sequel through tweets and facebook and goodreads . . . hopefully the publisher will notice this need of a sequel!

Overall readers of Sarah Alderson's debut novel Hunting Lila or simple lovers of the paranormal kind will absolutely - unquestionably - love this book! With romance, suspense, betrayal, a kickass heroine and an admirable love interest, FATED will slowly work its way into your heart and I'm sure many of you will be dying for a sequel like I am right now! Read it! You won't be disappointed!

The Rating

4 1/2 / 5 stars

Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

Release Date: 4th August, 2011

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Pages: 320pgs

The Story

17-year-old Lila has two secrets she's prepared to take to the grave. The first is that she can move things just by looking at them. The second is that she's been in love with her brother's best friend, Alex, since forever. Or thereabouts.

After a mugging on the streets of South London goes horribly wrong and exposes her ability, Lila decides to run to the only person she can trust - her brother and Alex. They live in Southern California where they work for a secret organisation called The Unit, and Lila discovers that the two of them are hunting down the men who murdered her mother five years before. And that they've found them.

Trying to uncover the truth of why her mother was killed, and the real remit of The Unit, Lila becomes a pawn of a dangerous game. Struggling to keep her secrets in a world where nothing and no one is quite as they seem, Lila quickly realises that she is not alone - there are others out there just like her - people with special powers - and her mother's killer is one of them . . .

The Review

Is it wrong to love a book so much? With HUNTING LILA, Sarah Alderson delivers on an electrifying debut novel that takes you on an epic journey from the first to the very end page, with some non-stop action, suspence, and some serious hot romance that will take your breath away. Literally. I couldn't get enough of this novel and I can guarantee that all you readers will love this utterly amazing novel! Gripping pages . . . a fiesty heroine . . . hot boys . . . and my GOD it was just one hell of an adventure!

Our main heroine, Lila, has two secrets. 1) she has an ability to move objects with her mind and 2) she's in love with her brother's best friend since like . . . forever! Throughout the book Lila's courage will be tested when these two secrets collide into a series of events that will change her life forever. When a mugging attack went wrong, Lila's so-called 'ability' was exposed and in a panic she runaways to California where her brother, Jack, and his best friend, Alex, live. The only two people she can trust. Or so it would seem. Jack and Alex have been working for a secret organisation called The Unit and while it seems to be a military organisation, however there is more that lies beneath this unit. Something unexpected to Lila. With lies and many secrets revealed, one that has a lot to do with Lila's mother's death five years ago, Lila is bound to have her world crashing down.

I admit, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect with this book. All I knew was it was a book crossed between X-men (which I LOVE) and something of the likes of '24', which all up I knew was going to be an epic read for me. And GOD it was everything I hoped for - if not more than I realized. From the first chapter that hooked me . . . what really did it for me was Lila's love for her brother's best friend, Alex. Alex . . . ALEX! GOD! I will not stop gushing over that guy. He was just - gah! The first time you meet Alex, you can easily tell why Lila fell for him so hard since she was a child and it didn't matter whether he was older than she was . . . I mean, isn't that the attraction of him being older, wiser, and hot? *nods* Damn straight. Alex was so dreamy, caring and considerate, and did I mention hot? I think I did. Anyway if you want a hot romance entwined with an epic adventure then be sure to pick up this book and dive into the non-stop action sequences that will leave you wanting more!

HUNTING LILA is a wonderful accomplished novel with major sex appeal. Yup, I'm just laying it down onto the table. Sarah Alderson has such an amazing talent in engaging the reader and is definitely someone you ought to be watching out for to be the next big thing! While I saw this novel as it if was a movie, I'm super excited to know that the movie rights are being discussed for this book and all I can say is, 'move over Twilight and let HUNTING LILA break down your fangal battle fort'. A sequel for HUNTING LILA is currently in the works and be on the lookout for Alderson's second book Fated which will be released in January 2012. *forces hands away from the keyboard to avoid extra gushing*

The Rating

5/5 stars