With All My Soul Mini-Reading Challenge

Just signing up for another challenge, a mini-challenge, since I entered Fiktshun's Soul Screamers Reading Challenge last year and I loved it. It was a great feeling, to read almost all the books in this series back-to-back, because I fell in love with the story and the characters. It's almost too sad to say goodbye, especially because I feel Rachel Vincent has in store so much heartbreak for me, but I'm also excited to read the final chapter of Kaylee's journey.

You can sign-up here (or click the above image) - there's a sign-up giveaway for a copy of With All My Soul, the last book in the series (you can gain extra entries for the sign-up giveaway if you make a participation post such as this).

Soul Screamers Reading Challenge - Finished

 

The Soul Screamers Reading Challenge was hosted by Rachel @ Fiktshun. The idea was to read and review each book in the series (books #1-5) between January 15th to June 14th. The sign-up page was here, and for the ones writing a participation post, they could leave the link here.

The Before I Wake Mini-Reading Challenge was also hosted by Rachel @ Fiktshun. The idea was to read and review Before I Wake, the last published book in the Soul Screamers series, between June 26th and August 1st. The sign-up post was here.

Books read for this challenge:

• My Soul to Lose (prequel novella #0.5)
• My Soul to Take (book #1)
• My Soul to Save (book #2)
• My Soul to Keep (book #3)
• Reaper (novella #3.5)
• My Soul to Steal (book #4)
• Fearless (short story featured in the Kiss Me Deadly anthology)
• Niederwald (short story featured in the Enthralled anthology)
• If I Die (book #5)
• Never to Sleep (novella #5.5)
• Before I Wake (book #6)

I should totally have posted this by mid-year, when the challenge actually ended, but  time passed, and my window of opportunity too, so I thought I should just mention this challenge by the end of the year with all the other challenges. It went so well, I read all books, novellas and short stories in the series, and reviewed them all. I think I forgot to post the last review on the proper linky widget, though, silly me.

I loved to get to know Rachel Vincent's writing voice and I just like the way she writes her characters and what she puts them through. I would say this was a very successful challenge indeed and I am looking forward to With All my Soul, the last book in the series, out this following March.

Before I Wake, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Before I Wake Mini-Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

My thoughts: Just when I think there is no way these books can surprise, that there is no way to "top it up a notch", Rachel Vincent proves me wrong (thankfully!) and delivers another amazing book in the Soul Screamers series.

After what happened in If I Die's end, I wasn't so sure how things would turn out and actually make sense, but the author uses the chance to make us meditate on how Kaylee's new, er, status might affect her and her loved ones. She wrestles with the sudden increase of free time she has, and with how emotions might hinder or enhance her new "lifestyle" - and I appreciated to read about her struggle.

I loved to read how Kaylee is a bit more feisty and bold. It's like she's finally grown up to the awesome heroine we always knew she was. She is still quite selfless and protective of her loved ones, but she is also smart and cunning when facing a new challenge. I loved to see her with Tod - they make an even better couple than I thought they would. They have chemistry, they care about each other, and they are cute and funny together. I feel happy with them - especially because Tod is always cracking up a joke.

I'm not sure how on Earth I'm supposed to comment the plot, because everything is literally a spoiler. I'll just say it was a very fun and exciting ride. I liked to watch all the gang together, with new additions (I loved to meet them) and finally some cooperation between the teens and the adults. It was interesting to see old foes back, up to who knows what, and try to figure out their endgame.

I can't say much about the ending either, but I'll say I was absolutely shocked and teary-eyed. Some characters don't make it to the end, some characters are left with their fate hanging in the balance, and some are left to deal with the final events of the book. This is the first time we're actually left hanging in this series... I think I'm in denial about the fact I have to wait about 9 months to read what's coming next.

Before I Wake Mini-Reading Challenge

I signed up for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge last January, hoping that I would get to read the whole series, and completed it quite sucessfully, reading five full books, three novellas and two short stories. So I couldn't resist joining the Before I Wake mini-reading challenge, since I am dying to read this book. If I Die was a great book with a killer ending and Before I Wake is due to become another awesome book in this series.

The Before I Wake mini-reading challenge is hosted by the fantastically enthusiastic Rachel @ Fiktshun. The sign-up post is here, and the challenge runs from June 26th to August 1st.

Never to Sleep, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

My thoughts: This novella's events occur at the same time as the last half of If I Die. Sophie, Kaylee's cousin, finally finds out what has been hidden from her for her whole life. And she actually reacts in a good way. It was nice to get to see things from Sophie's perspective, and this walk on the dark side may do some good to the way she usually behaves. She overcomes the difficulties thrown at her with some measure of braveness and smartness, and I was impressed at her.

Of course, she had to go and ruin the good impression I was making of her at the end with some nasty comments about Kaylee. Seriously, I wanted to strangle her for being so unnecessarily mean. But I'll settle with getting to see her reaction to learning that the Netherworld isn't her special little secret, and that she was the last one in the family to know about it. (Even Kaylee beat her to it. Ha! She's going to be so mad.)

I enjoyed how this novella was tied with If I Die, and I am quite curious to learn how it ties with Before I Wake. Luckily, I won't have to wait long.

If I Die, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

My thoughts: I finished this book 3 days ago, and I am still quite speechless as to what the hell am I supposed to write about it. The story itself is so intense I couldn't quite breathe through the whole thing, I always say I'm having a hard time to avoid spoilers when giving my thoughts on a book, but that is particularly true with this book - since this is a game changer, everything (literally) is a spoiler!

Kaylee was an amazing character in this book. Early on (and thus I don't consider it a spoiler, besides, it's mentioned in every description of the book available), she discovers she will die, and she only has a few days left. She does not whine or despair; she tries her hardest to face it calmly and bravely and she tries to keep everyone she loves safe and taken care of, after she dies. She was so adamant about getting rid of Mr. Beck and making sure he couldn't hurt anyone at Eastlake High, which was a bit laced with denial and avoidance of her own situation, but at the same time she always kept in mind she wouldn't be there soon to help her friends.

I wish she and Nash had gone their separate ways sooner, because at the end of MStKeep I was already ready for them to split up, and then MStSteal happened, and I was even more ready for that, so I was surprised to see them still together in the beginning. I try to be compassionate towards him, but he's note my favourite person right now. His temper shows its ugly head on some occasions, and I dislike him when he gives in to addiction.

Tod, on the other hand, seems even more interesting by the minute, and the things he does for Kaylee are, in a way, chivalrous (taking into account he is, in fact, a reaper). Besides, the things he says to Kaylee are positively swoon-worthy and lovely (that chapter 16 is wonderful in that account). I was a little dizzy at the quick way they fell on each other's arms, but they really were on a tight schedule... They seem perfect for each other, in a way, so I am wondering how this is gonna turn out. (I'm wary, though, since Nash seemed perfect in the beginning as well.)

The plot was quick-paced, so exciting and full of action but also balanced with some quiet, heart-breaking moments. I never thought the villain could be so scary, and that he had something to do with the main story surprised me. Even knowing what was coming since the first few pages, Rachek Vincent managed to catch me off guard and write an explosive ending that left me teary-eyed. I was left wondering how she came up with that *thing* that happens at the very end, and how things are going to evolve from there. Her writing, as always, is so engrossing and beautiful, and I think she quite inspired when writing If I Die.

Pages: 352

Publisher: Mira Ink

Niederwald, Rachel Vincent

This short story (included in the Enthralled anthology) is a part of the Soul Screamers series and is part of the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

My thoughts: Once again, Rachel Vincent manages to create a good short story, captivating us with her writing. It is a nice interlude to the Soul Screamers books, as I enjoyed to read about Emma and Sabine's road trip. They stop in a small town called Niederwald, a place where the veil between this world and Netherworld is thinner, and a new supernatural species is introduced.

Action-packed, this tale introduces the harpies, which can be an intersting supernatural species to deal with. Emma and Sabine certainly had a bit of trouble with them. It was nice to meet again Emma, as she is so funny, but I was a bit mad at Sabine for putting her in danger for a whim. Worse, she gets what she wanted, so she will be impossible to put up with in If I Die. Though it will be interesting to watch how things are going to turn out. Niederwald is a nice appetizer for If I Die, though it may not be as intersting for readers who haven't read the series.

Fearless, Rachel Vincent

This short story (included in the Kiss Me Deadly anthology) is a part of the Soul Screamers series and is part of the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

My thoughts: I confess, having read now Reaper and My Soul to Steal, I kept trying to pinpoint exactly when this story happens. I guess that, knowing the heartbreak that expects these characters, I was eager to figure out where were they, emotionally. The events in Reaper haven't happened yet, so Nash and Sabine are madly entangled with each other, doing everything to stay together.

Sabine has just reached Holser House, her last chance given her track record of foster families and getting into to trouble. But there's something strange about the place, and Sabine realizes she's not the only supernatural being present...

I found it interesting to get to know more about Sabine. I didn't hate her in My Soul to Steal (I actually found her an interesting enough character), but seeing more closely what she has been through makes me look at her in a different light.

The mystery is compelling, although easy to guess, but it was good to get another peek at the Netherworld and its supernatural species. The ending had some food fot thought concerning Sabine and abilities, and I'm curious to see whether this is further explored in the following books or stories.

My Soul to Steal, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Review: And here I thought My Soul to Keep was the emotional peak of this series... Wrong! This book had me feeling so much turmoil right along with the characters, I thought I might explode from all the sadness and hurt and betrayal and plain meanness everyone is throwing at each other.

At the beginning of the novel Nash is trying to overcome his addiction, and Kaylee is trying to find it in her to forgive him for all that's passed. Honestly, I have no idea why is Kaylee willing to get back with Nash. I wouldn't be able to forgive him, if I were her, and her indecision throughout the book only shows they can't be together right now. Kaylee wasn't able to be there for Nash when he needed her, and she is struggling with her own issues of trust and self confidence to let herself just be with him.

Besides, there are too many people trying to butt in on their relationship. Her father is not very keen on having them together. Tod gives Kaylee a little advice on her, and Nash and Sabine somewhere in the middle of the story, but I'm suspicious of his motives, especially with some hints being thrown around.

And Sabine... well she is the biggest hinder to Kaylee and Nash, which is ironic, since if she hadn't shown up, they might have reached the conclusion that they can't be together... instead, her appearance just throws Kaylee and Nash more into each other without being able to figure it out. I loved to hate Sabine, and I might even like her, but I detest her methods. I realize she's had a tough life, and sympathize with her, but she really needs to get a grip.

It seems all I've talked about is the characters' love life, but it did dominate the book... even Kaylee and Sabine's jealous rivalry (even though I think they could be friends, if they weren't fighting over Nash) is a part of the villains' masterplan. Which, by the way, I got a kick out of. The way everyone was acting on the high school was madly hilarious for some reason. It almost makes me wonder what would happen if everyone in a social circle lost their inhibitions and just let all their frustrations out. (Please don't tell Avari this. He might actually come up with a plan to achieve it.)

*sigh* The ending was so bittersweet... I am half agony, half hope (yes, I just quoted Captain Wentworth from Persuasion) that things will get better for everyone, but given If I Die's description, I don't think it will happen... at least, I hope it will be exciting. I'm certainly eager to read it.

Pages: 384

Publisher: Mira Ink

Reaper, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Review: Dear Rachel Vincent, are you trying to make me hate Nash Hudson? Because he wasn't exactly my favorite person after reading My Soul to Keep, and after reading this novella, I was even less impressed with his character.

This story happens a couple of years before the main books, but I guess it could be read either before or after the main books. Though it does have greater impact when read just after My Soul to Keep... the characters Nash and Tod change dramatically before one's eyes with this novella.

Nash comes off as a complete brat; well, at least he was one before this story's events... it seems he may have gained some sense after them. His relationship with Sabine seems like complete teenage drama, so I'm curious to learn more about her and how they were together.

It's Tod that shines through this, though. We get to know him, and how and what he thinks, a bit more, and it was really interesting to see Nash and Tod's sibling dynamics. So much happened between these two, and I wonder what will happen when Nash finds out about what Tod did.

Pages: 71 (pdf edition)

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

My Soul to Keep, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Review: My heart reall broke with this one. So much happens to these beloved characters that I was left with a bitter, sad feeling when I read the last page and closed the book. At first thought, it is easy to lay blame where it's due, but then I start to have some pity and compassion for the characters as well.

First things first, this book starts with a party, Kaylee and Nash are attending, and they soon are onto a vice that's spreading among their classmates: Demon's Breath, a substance from the Netherworld that is highly addictive and can cause madness and death (literally).

One thing I want to complain about these kids is that they don't seem to be able to tell when they're over their heads and just ask for help to their parents, who are supposedly more experienced in Netherworld business. But then we wouldn't have a story, would we? Besides, this time around, not telling their parents is actually a important part of the twist at the end, so I'll try to ignore it.

The story takes some unexpected (and painful) turns... I'll just say I'm very disappointed at Nash Hudson. How screwed up things must be in his mind to accept the situation he was in, and all that happened and shouldn't. I feel bad for him, but I find it hard to forgive and trust him again.

Again, I loved to learn more about the Netherworld and its inhabbitants. Avari was creepy as ever, it was interesting to learn about the lampades, I'm really curious about Alec (the previous books in their UK edition had Alec's Guide to Netherworld), and it was nice and awful to learn more about what Addison has to endure in the Netherworld. I wonder if Kaylee will be able to help her in the future.

Kaylee really shines in this one, given all the things she has to endure. Her talk with Nash was quite emotional. As for Emma, I'm really sorry Kaylee can't keep her out of Netherworld business, but right now I feel the best way to protect Emma is to tell her more about the Netherworld. Meanwhile, Tod is starting to look more interesting (I hope I'm not reading too much into his actions), but I feel Kaylee really needs to be on her own for a while.

I skimmed over the My Soul to Steal excerpt at the end of this book, and boy am I curious. Who is Sabine, and what is she up to?

Pages: 384

Publisher: Mira Ink (Harlequin)

My Soul to Save, Rachel Vincent

This book is for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Review: I must say, this sequel does not disappoint. I loved every moment of it, and I'm not sure I'll remember to say everything I wanted to say about it.

In this book, Kaylee is learning new things about her bean sidhe powers, learning how to deal with her now-present father, and dating Nash. One thing I really liked about My Soul to Save is the sense of normalcy between the supernatural nonsense Kaylee has to face. Kaylee is trying to adjust to her role as daughter, now that her father returned, and faces her first punishments; and there are a few steamy moments between Kaylee and Nash, and Kaylee faces her own doubts about letting things go further.

Meanwhile, Kaylee finds out that some teenage stars are selling their souls for fortune and fame, and given what happened in My Soul to Take, she feels responsible. I found so funny the notion of a well known media company, "Dekker Media", ever present in films, series and music, selling their teen stars' souls. Thanks for setting the record straight on that, Rachel!

The plot's pace advances nicely, exploding in an ending I wasn't quite expecting. That is another thing I liked about this book (and the other books by Rachel Vincent I've read as well) - in Kaylee's world, everything has a price, and moral grayness, death and sacrifice may be a big, and very present, part of it.

There were some interesting character developments. Nash continues to be the lovely, adorable, gorgeous boyfriend, and though he doesn't pressure Kaylee, I can see how that may be a problem in the future between them, given Kaylee's doubts. Tod gains some depth in character, and I'm curious to see what happens next with him.

Pages: 384

Publisher: Mira Ink

My Soul to Take, Rachel Vincent

This is a re-read for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Thoughts on the re-read: I found it as awesome as the first time around. I really like what Rachel Vincent did here, picking up an obscure mythological creature and creating a whole world around it. I loved to read about bean sidhes and reapers and the Netherworld, although I'm expecting to learn more about this last one in the next books in the series.

The cast of characters is pretty great. I can't pick a favorite one, they all seem layered and not cookie-cutter to me. I adored Emma, finally a decent best friend that cares about out heroine.

I really liked Kaylee's family, but they drove me nuts for different reasons. Sophie is just annoying with her cluelessness. Her aunt and uncle - well, I get why she ended up at the psych ward, they were worried with her, but they shouldn't have let her think she was crazy and just told her the truth. Her father lost the right to tell her when he ran away. I realize he couldn't face what had happened, but still. And I was disappointed at her aunt. I'm really curious to know more about the bean sidhe side of the family and their past.

I haven't read the following books yet, but I've heard whispers, so this time around I paid attention to both Nash and Tod. It's interesting to watch their sibling dynamics complicated by something out of their control. I still liked Nash and it was adorable seeing with Kaylee, but I was a bit suspicious at his motives and afraid to like him too much and be disappointed at a later stage. Tod really stood out this time, between the his reaper creepy persona and his nicer side who may have a soft spot for Kaylee.

The story, even though I knew the ending, still surprised me with it, because the guilty party is just so unexpected (at least to me, though I realized there were signs this time around). The plot has a nice pacing, between the mistery of those girls dying and the big revelations to Kaylee. Although I almost can't believe this only happened in like 3 days.

I'm really curious as to what happens next, especially amongst Kaylee's family, and I'm really excited to keep reading this series, I almost can't wait to read the next one.

Pages:368

Publisher: Mira Ink

My Soul to Lose, Rachel Vincent

This is a re-read for the Soul Screamers Reading Challenge, hosted by Fiktshun.

Description

Thoughts on the re-read: Well, considering that I've read the first book in the series, I think this is a great way to introduce the series. Kaylee is a girl that has these strange panic attacks, when she sees shadows around someone that she just knows is going to die, and she feels the urge to scream. She has been able to avoid that until now.

Poor Kaylee. She doesn't know what is going on when she ends up on the psych ward over her latest "panic attack". I felt bad for her because her uncle and aunt know what is going on and she still ended up there. I guess they were scared with the way she reacted, but still, no one told her about what she could do, and her father didn't even came home to tell her.

I was intrigued with a few things that happened in the psych ward, specially with Lydia and that guy Tyler. (I wonder if we'll ever know more about them.) I was also sad for Kaylee, because of what took her to the psych ward in the first place. I'm excited to re-read My Soul to Take soon.

Pages: 70

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Soul Screamers Reading Challenge

 

*sigh* I wasn't planning on entering any more challenges this year, but this came up, and I was already planning to read Rachel Vincent's Soul Screamers series this year, so it would seem the universe is trying to tell me something.

The Soul Screamers Reading Challenge is hosted by Rachel @ Fiktshun, and I'm sure it will be so much fun, since Rachel must be the biggest and most enthusiastic fan of these books. Seriously, if I hadn't read My Soul to Take last January, I might have started reading this series just because of her awesome posts about it.

The idea is to read and review each book in the series between January 15th to June 14th. The sign-up page is here, and if you are writing a participation post like I am, go here to leave the link.

I'm looking forward to this challenge. I read My Soul to Take (and the prequel novella, My Soul to Lose) last year, and I loved it, but for some bizarre, unknown reason I didn't get to read the rest of the books, so this is a welcome incentive to read the whole series in a row.