Red Rising | Review

I was really hoping Id like this book. I heard alot of good things. I would basically describe it as a more intense (but not as emotional) Hunger Games. It started of very strong, really drew me in with these characters and emotional appeal. There were some unfortunate slags around the middle of the book, however.

I like the idea that his hard upbring and "slave labor" prepared him for his tests. But then its hard to not think about how they changed him so much that it doesnt sound like theres anything left of who he used to be. Is most of the physical things we do mental? Because I feel like alot of things would change physically when you mess with your body that much. I just try not to think about it, but it still tickles me.

Honestly half way through the book when a bunch of higher ups were talking to each other like actual Greek Gods it made me think of Percy Jackson and how those gods acted. It made me doubt if the author could pull off the rest of the story and steer it toward a compelling and interesting second half.

THANKFULLY! Brown did just that. I have no idea what it was taking me so long to read it. But once I hit the last quarter i was flying through it hooked on every page. Im glad the hype for this book wasnt a complete let down and will eventually pick up the second one.

I recommend to anyone whos a fan of The Hunger Games, Spartacus, (maybe even an adult version of percy jackson-esque).

Star Wars: Lost Stars | Book Review

"See through my eyes."

This book was surprisingly great. I was surprised that it was more a love story told over the events of Stars 4, 5 and 6. But this story was done SO well, mostly thanks to the two main protagonist.

That back story about Ciena's twin is quite beautiful.
Its definitely got interesting perspectives from both main characters.
Thane is from a rich but abusive family who's goal is to become a pilot so he can run and escape from his planet.
Ciena, his opposite in class hierarchy, wants to live extra in remembrance of her twin who died in childbirth, her dream to become a pilot so she can go and explore the galaxy.

I like how later in the story when their perspectives start to diverge, you can really see why.
Thane who grew up under a cruel hypocritical and overbearing father and he wouldn't trade that for his life in the Empire.
And Ciena who would always follow her oaths and honor cant leave the empire. (Not to mention the way she sees it is quite a compelling reason to stay. Without the back story of the Jedis, and Luke/ the rebels that we have, Ciena cant see how horrible the Empire is.)

"The Empire takes us from each other forever."

Its also interesting how Ciena's point of view is always seen in the empire or on a ship. Unlike Thane she didnt travel to see the horror of the Empire.

Its sad as we see the slow degradation of Jelucan, their home planet. Its a perfect way to show the horror of the Empire.

Finally the ending had me on the edge of my seat!!

I definitely recommend the book to stars wars fans just looking for some good characters to fall in love with and a perspective of the original trilogy you havent seen.

Some Spoiler talk for the end:

I didnt like how we didnt get a definitive feel good moment between Thane and Ciena. Its nice that it leaves it open to assuming she will get out and they will be together, I just wish if they did it this way it would have ENDED this way.

I didnt like how it ended with Nash and this cliffhanger considering i doubt we will ever get a sequel for this. Couldnt it have just ended with Thane and Ciena in each others arms on a beautiful beach somewhere, because they damn well deserved it.