In
2017 Reading Challenge,
5 stars
Graphic Novel Review: Disney Manga: Stitch! Best Friends Forever! by Miho Asada
![]() |
| (Source) |
Disney Manga: Stitch! Best Friends Forever! by Miho Asada
(Started: July 24, 2017; Finished: July 29, 2017)
Summary/Description:
You know and love Stitch's Hawaiian adventures... so join your favorite alien as he visits a Japanese island near Okinawa, where he befriends a young girl named Yuna, who excels at karate. This is a diary of their adventures throughout the island. (From Goodreads)
Review: 5 stars
Publication Date: July 18, 2017
Publisher: TokyoPop
Source: TokyoPop via Netgalley
Shelf: Goodreads
When you've been trying to finish a very serious book and you haven't read for quite some time now, a kawaii (cute) graphic novel is a good way to take your mind off things. Miho Asada's Disney Manga - Stitch Best Friends Forever! is such an adorable read. It's short, sweet, and entertaining. I found myself smiling and laughing with some of the conversations between Stitch and the other protagonist, Yuna, and even their misadventures.
Stitch is such a fan character that you won't be able to get enough of him. I love how he's still unaccustomed to some of the most mundane things we, humans, do. It triggers his curiosity and he will always find a way to learn or try it. If it leads to disaster, he will damn sure make up for it. What a cutie! It's also nice to see familiar faces like Jumba and Pleakley. It made me miss the movie and the series. You might be wondering where Lilo is. Unfortunately, she's not in the manga. I know it feels like it won't be complete without her but thank God Yuna is there to fill in the gap. She's gentle, she loves the sea, and she is a good friend to Stitch.
Plot wise, I was expecting one whole story but this manga actually holds short stories for the readers to enjoy. You can see how Stitch's character will progress while adjusting in a new world and culture. Plus it can be shared and enjoyed by children and kids' at heart. Overall, it's a nice addition to your growing manga collection or a good starter for first-timers.
Plot wise, I was expecting one whole story but this manga actually holds short stories for the readers to enjoy. You can see how Stitch's character will progress while adjusting in a new world and culture. Plus it can be shared and enjoyed by children and kids' at heart. Overall, it's a nice addition to your growing manga collection or a good starter for first-timers.
What have you read lately? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Reading Everyone!
Love lots, xx
Style Reader
![]() |
| (Source) |
Safe House by Meg Cabot
(Started: September 14, 2010; Finished: September 17, 2010)
Summary/Description:
JESS MASTRIANI was on vacation when Amber went missing. Most people blame Jess for Amber's brutal slaying, but how could Jess -- even with her psychic ability to find anyone, anywhere -- have stopped the cheerleader from turning up dead, without having known she was even missing? When yet another cheerleader disappears, Jess has a chance to redeem herself. If she can just find the girl before it's too late, maybe Jess will finally have a chance to be part of the in crowd. Except that it's starting to look like being in might just get you -- not to mention your loved ones -- killed. So much for popularity. (From Goodreads)
In
2016 Reading Challenge,
5 stars
Graphic Novel Review: Lumberjanes, Vol. 1 - Beware the Kitten Holy by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Shannon Watters, Brooke A. Allen

Lumberjanes, Vol. 1: Beware the Kitten Holy by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Shannon Watters, Brooke A. Allen
(Started: January 09, 2016; Finished: January 10, 2016)
Summary/Description:
FRIENDSHIP TO THE MAX!
At Miss Qiunzilla Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's camp for hard-core lady-types, things are not what they seem. Three-eyed foxes. Secret caves. Anagrams. Luckily, Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are five rad, butt-kicking best pals determined to have an awesome summer together... And they're not gonna let a magical quest or an array of supernatural critters get in their way! The mystery keeps getting bigger, and it all begins here. (From Goodreads)
In
2016 Reading Challenge,
5 stars
Book Review: Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off by Michelle Phan

Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off by Michelle Phan
(Started: January 02, 2016; Finished: January 10, 2016)
Summary/Description:
Michelle Phan has believed in makeup since the first time she was allowed to try eyeliner. When she looked in the mirror and saw a transformed version of herself looking back, she fell in love with the sense of confidence that makeup could give her. Ever since she posted her first makeup tutorial on YouTube, she has dedicated herself to inspire millions by using makeup as a tool for transformation and self expression.
Now, Michelle has compiled all of her best wisdom into Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty, Style, and Success--Online and Off. From creating a gorgeous smoky eye to understanding contouring to developing an online persona, Michelle has advice to help you transform every facet of your life. Make Up is packed with Michelle’s trademark beauty and style tutorials, stories and pictures from her own life, and advice on the topics she is asked about most, including etiquette, career, entrepreneurship, and creativity. From the everyday (such as how to get glowing skin) to the big picture (such as how to turn your passion into a profession), Make Up is a practical and empowering resource to help anyone put their best face forward. (From Goodreads)
Review: 5 stars
Publication Date: October 21, 2014
Publisher: Harmony
Source: Bought from FullyBooked
Shelf: Goodreads
I'm no stranger when it comes to Michelle Phan. I remember discovering her through my cousins. They used to mention her tutorials frequently and it obviously got me curious. At that time, I only knew how to put a blush, apply on powder, and wear a lipstick. But the rest were unexplored territories. I never thought I would get hooked on a beauty blog, let alone a vlog because I'm not really a Youtube user but somehow, Michelle Phan was able to speak to me. I wouldn't say I'm a fan but I do admire her success, her passion for her craft, and her genuine personality. It really transcends to her videos and of course, in this book.
On to the review, I'm giving it 5 stars because of the following reasons:
1. It's very personal. Unlike the other celebrity or influencer books I've read, I believe this is as real as it gets. You can clearly hear Phan's voice narrating all throughout, which makes it more relatable. You know that she's not saying all these things just so you would buy her book. You can feel that every word is from the heart. That's what others usually lacks and Phan already mastered that art naturally. I also like how she went all out and shared her life's story.
2. It's motivating and moving. Every tutorial, advice, or guide makes you want to do it, be a pro, and create your own empire as well. It's really amazing how she's good at her niche and it makes you want to find your passion as well. I do agree with most of the reviews that the main demographic of this book are young adults, but I do believe that anyone can still get a lesson or two from her especially those who are feeling lost, just starting their journey, and those who doesn't have the drive to move forward.
3. The different topics she tackled. I really appreciate how she not just focused on makeup and skincare, but she also talked about manners, jobs & resumes, and the digital self. I think these are crucial for kids nowadays and I believe she was able to use her influence and voice right by writing about it. We are all aware of how millennials are being viewed in this day and age. No matter how we disagree, it's still an honest reality that we have to face. It might not apply to all and I'm definitely not generalizing, but we still have to responsible be with our actions by having the proper manners & etiquette, if we have enough sensitivity to see how we act and how these lead to various results, good or bad, and how we portray ourselves online. Remember that everything we do or say is a reflection of ourselves. It's really helpful and kudos to her for reserving chapters for it.
4. I always look forward to her beauty tips and tutorials. Phan absolutely knows what she's doing and talking about. It's well-researched and that's what makes me trust her advice. I know most of us would feel that "we already know these things. Why is she talking about?" Again, remember the demographic she's talking to. But compare to the rest, it still has comprehensive details and enough to feed your beauty knowledge. Like some, I did have reservations of my own--like how some tutorials are a bit confusing or unachievable, some facts felt that it need to be elaborated more, etc. However, we also have to consider that the medium she is using, which is a written version of most of her videos, is not exactly the best channel to discuss these things. So I think when you read the book, you might also want to check our her videos to know more and to see. Come to think of it, is a good marketing strategy because it goes side by side.
Overall, there will always be a room for improvement and for more stories, like always. But I strongly believe it was a great start for her and I do look forward to watching or reading more of her work.
Love lots, xx
Style Reader
![]() |
| (Source) |
I Am Pusheen the Cat by Claire Belton
(Started & Finished: November 21, 2015)
Summary/Description:
Who is Pusheen? This collection of oh-so-cute kitty comics—featuring the chubby, tubby tabby who has taken the Internet by storm—will fill you in on all the basics.
Things you should know about Pusheen.
Birthday: February 18
Sex: Female
Where she lives:
In the house, on the couch, underfoot
Her favorite pastime: Blogging, sleeping
Her best feature: Her toe beans
Her favorite food: All of them
Pusheen is a pleasantly plump cat who has warmed hearts and tickled funny bones of millions worldwide with her signature GIF animated bops, bounces, and tail wiggles. Now, Pusheen is ready to make the leap from digital to print in her first comic collection! Learn what makes her purr and find out why millions of people have already fallen in love with this naughty, adorable kitty. Featuring some of the most popular stories from Pusheen’s Tumblr and Facebook pages (plus a healthy serving of never-before-seen material), I Am Pusheen the Cat is a treat for cat lovers and comics fans alike.
Review: 5 stars
Publication Date: October 29, 2013
Publisher: Touchstone
Source: Borrowed from my cousin
When you are in the airport and you badly need a pass time during the waiting game, reading is one of your best options. Too bad all of my freshly-bought books were inside my locked bag and I was badly itching to read. Good thing my cousin, Mimi, had a few selection on hand. Seeing this cute print of Pusheen on the cover, I cannot pass up on the chance. Aside from being the famous cute cat taking over social media and our favorite sticker on Facebook, Pusheen also has her backstory.
In this book, you will know more about her and you can even relate to some of the things she loves to do. The humor is also adorable and entertaining enough for me. If you are a sucker for anything kawaii (かわいい), then I Am Pusheen the Cat is a good, short read for you. It's also a light book to read in between heavy novels. Treat it as a break from all your 300+ page usuals.
I love this book and I even want to grab my own copy!
Happy Reading everyone!
Love lots, xx
Style Reader

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
(Started: November 10, 2012 - November 21, 2012)
Summary/Description:
A mysterious island. An abandoned orphanage. A strange collection of very curious photographs.
It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience. As our story opens, a horrific family tragedy sets sixteen-year-old Jacob journeying to a remote island off the coast of Wales, where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores its abandoned bedrooms and hallways, it becomes clear that the children were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a deserted island for good reason. And somehow—impossible though it seems—they may still be alive.
A spine-tingling fantasy illustrated with haunting vintage photography, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children will delight adults, teens, and anyone who relishes an adventure in the shadows. (From Goodreads)
Review: 5 stars, Favorite
Release Date: June 7, 2011
Available on: Amazon
I wrote my review two years ago and I thought it's the perfect time to share it since Ransom Riggs is currently in the country. Starting off with its cover, the photo actually adds a very creepy and mysterious feel to the book. You would want to pick it up and at the same time, you are scared on what will unfold before you.
The plot was very engaging. I love how you can easily relate to Jacob's narration, whether its his reactions, emotions, or just about the events that were happening around him. The psychological aspect actually twisted things a little bit--it played mind games to the reader, which actually made me crazy for a little while. For some, reality and fantasy cannot go together in harmony. Usually adults tend to think it is preposterous when unconventional ideas or stories emerge from a young one's mouth. But sometimes, the key is just to be open-minded and to not just listen, but to understand. At times, things might sound or even look shallow but as the old saying goes, "there's more to it than it than meets the eye." That's why I commend Jacob for taking a stand despite people contradicting him and thinking that he has a deranged mind. Once you read the book, you will witness his character's development which I really admire.
Hats off also to the collection of photographs that Ransom included in his book. It made the whole novel unique and strange, like the characters. Aside from appreciating the story, the reader can also admire art through the vintage photographs. It made the book have a creepier aura which is one of the reasons why I fell in love with it. To be honest, I don't find the book frightening but as you read it and see the photos in the process, it teased my imagination with a terrorizing pleasure, allowing myself to give in to the freaky ambiance in my sister's bedroom, and made me imagine things in the dark. The images were stuck in my mind, which made me afraid of what horror I will be facing on the next page. Come to think of it, it is actually the paranoia kicking in but the thrill and excitement that came from each disturbing image made every single turn of the page definitely worthwhile.
What really struck me and left me mind blown was the fact that the story were based on the images. Imagine putting different puzzle pieces together in order to create and complete the whole picture. My jaw literally dropped when I read this revelation on the last few pages of the book. Ransom Riggs was able to create his debut novel, a work of art, out of these peculiar photographs. I salute you! Now, I want to be peculiar, too!
For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Happy Reading Everyone!

When Lightning Strikes by Meg Cabot
(Started: September 11, 2010; Finished: September 12, 2010)
Summary/Description:
Jess Mastriani has never been what you'd call a typical Midwestern teenager—her extracurricular activities, instead of cheerleading or 4-H, include fist-fights with the football team and month-long stints in detention. A part of Jess would like to be the prom queen her mother has always envisioned her being, but another part is secretly counting the days until she's saved up enough money to buy her own Harley.
Review: 5 stars, FavoriteThen something happens that guarantees Jess will be one of the in-crowd...at least until her newfound talent ends up getting her dead. (From Goodreads)
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
For me, this book was awesome. It really made me use my imagination with all the lightning and the star-shaped scars you get from it. It was a very unique concept for a book series. This also gave me the excitement a reader needs especially with all the escaping and police chase. I also like the protagonist’s character. Jess was not the typical teenage girl we usually read about from young adult books. She was very brave, feisty and definitely one tough girl. She can absolutely beat up those guys and she is a quick thinker, too, that she was able to come up with ideas to help her escape. I admire all the guts she had to getaway from the hands of the military and the cops. What she did was really cool. I also think that her role has an element of empowerment for women especially for teenage girls. This is one book that young adults shouldn’t miss.*
*PS. This is an old review way back from the year 2010. I apologize for the juvenile writing but I did edit a few lines to improve it. Expect to see more of my old reviews to make up for the lack of post these days. I'm just quite busy with work but I will definitely mix it up with my recent adventures.
For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Happy Reading Everyone!

Skulk by Rosie Best
(Started: September 10, 2013; Finished: September 19, 2013)
Summary/Description:
When Meg witnesses the dying moments of a shapeshifting fox and is given a beautiful and powerful stone, her life changes forever. She is plunged into the dark world of the Skulk, a group of shapeshifting foxes.
Review: 5 starsAs she learns about the other groups of shapeshifters that lurk around London – the Rabble, the Horde, the Cluster and the Conspiracy – she becomes aware of a deadly threat against all the shapeshifters. They must put aside all their enmity and hostility and fight together to defeat it. (From Goodreads)
Publication Date: October 01, 2013
Source: Strange Chemistry
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
Available on: Amazon
Strange Chemistry has been really good to me. Thank God for them. They've released some of the great YA books this year (in my opinion), including Skulk. It is one of the most interesting and engaging story I've read this year so far. Skulk is not your paranormal shapeshifting novel. The idea of using animals that are not often used for shapeshifting is refreshing. It was also impeccably written that it didn't take long to draw me in to the story. The events in the book was so vivid that again, I felt like I was watching a film in my head or reliving a memory in my own pensieve. I cringed and closed the book when there was blood and violence. I was teary-eyed and sad when there was death. I blushed when something sweet occurred. The writing was so transparent and so humane. The author was not selfish to hold back some emotions or events that I was completely satisfied from start to finish. It was so raw and so intense most of the time like it was always in the climactic part that I thought it wouldn't end. With this said, I like how this book made me feel human, how I was in touch with my emotions and I thank Rosie Best for that. I can't even stop myself from telling my sister and some friends how good it was and narrated some of its most unforgettable parts to them.
With the plot, Skulk discussed some socio-political issues that were undercurrent but present in the story, and basically revolve on the idea of hope and cooperation. It's not about the usual YA stories that focuses on teen angst and rebellion or even instant love (or insta-love, as they call it nowadays). I think it was inspiring because it tells the readers that we can always compromise and work together if we set aside our pride and our differences. I also like to point out the keys to achieve this, which are listening and understanding that the characters were able to realize towards the end of the story.
Moving on to the characters, their description was so distinct that made them so remarkable and alive in my imagination. I also like the fact that the characters were so diverse that the author included people from all walks of life, ethnicity and religion. This made it even more relatable and realistic because we interact with various kinds of people everyday. The character development was also so evident that you can see their changes and progress. Putting the spotlight on the protagonist (which she deserves by the way), Meg is such a likeable character. She's not stubborn or impulsive as some of the other female leads in other novels. She's persistent, brave and never gives up easily no matter how tough the situation gets. She's inspiring and empowering to those who have the same familial issues. I think I never read that she whined about something throughout the book. She would just cry but after that she'll face her problems with new found courage and determination. She would take charge whenever necessary. In short, Meg's no damsel-in-distress or no show-off warrior either.
Overall, Skulk is a great balance of action, scary and violent situations, unity and a hint of love. I'm definitely looking forward to the sequel. This is a highly recommended young adult read with great twists, depth, and interesting world and characters that not only teens would enjoy but also adults.
For the quotes I got this from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Happy Reading Everyone!

Perfect Princess by Meg Cabot
(Started: September 10, 2010; Finished: September 11, 2010)
Summary/Description:
Sleeping Beauty,Victoria,Cleopatra,Snow White,Elizabeth,Pocahontas,Mia Thermopolis:all princessesDo YOU have what it takesto be a princess?Princess Mia will help you find out.
Review: 5 stars, My favoriteBest-selling Princess Diaries author Meg Cabot and acclaimed fashion artist Chesley McLaren team up again to display this clever royal roster of princesses of the world. Big or small, old or new, fact or fiction, our favorite princess Amelia Mignonette Grimaldi Thermopolis Renaldo (aka Mia) will point out why these princesses rule, and how any girl can too! (From Goodreads)
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
I wrote this review years ago and I kept it short and can be considered a Twitter review for its length, which is done by some book bloggers nowadays. I know someday I would edit this out when I read the book again. Here it is:
Like what Meg Cabot said in her introduction, this is a book “For princesses everywhere, past, present, and pretend.” Still funny but in a sort of informative way.
I will write a Bookgasm post for this to make up with this short post. I hope to create a princess inspired one.
For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Happy Reading Everyone!

Control (Shift #2) by Kim Curran
(Started: July 27, 2013; Finished: August 02, 2013)
Summary/Description:
Scott Tyler is not like other teenagers. With a single thought he can alter reality around him. And he can stop anyone else from doing the same.
That's why he's so important to ARES, the secret government agency that regulates other kids like him: Shifters.
They've sent him on a mission. To track down the enigmatic Frank Anderson. An ex-Shifter who runs a project for unusual kids - as if the ability to change your every decision wasn't unusual enough. But Anderson and the kids have a dark secret. One that Scott is determined to discover.
Review: 5 starsAs his obsession with discovering the truth takes him further away from anyone he cares about, his grip on reality starts to weaken. Scott realizes if he can't control his choices, they'll control him. (From Goodreads)
Publication Date: August 06, 2013 (US & ebooks)
Source: Strange Chemistry through Netgalley
Shelf: Goodreads, Shelfari
Available on: Amazon
As you can see, I just finished the book and so giddy to say what I have to say about Control but there is a need to appreciate its cover first. Like Shift, I knew that the cover would be part of the events that would be found in the book, perhaps at the start, in the middle or towards the end. Again, I love how it looks so high definition that it can pass as a movie poster.
Moving on to the story, it was such a compelling read that was even more strengthened by its complexity. Usually plots that involve time warps and alternate realities in constant flux would usually be so confusing that even the writer herself would be out of touch which will result to so many loopholes that will eventually be pinpointed by the readers. This will make the whole thing a flop. However, Kim Curran was able to manipulate and wield her creation to her own will with precision and clarity, enough for the readers to enjoy its intricate details. I really appreciate how you can easily feel and live in a Shifter's world by just reading the book. It was so well-defined that you will not be lost or missed out on anything. But then again, you can Shift back if you do (see what I did there *wink wink*). Well seriously, I think that’s also why it was so effective. I feel like I felt what the Shifter has been through, particularly Scott, because of how vivid it was described and of course, how mind-boggling it was to be in a position or a world that is constantly changing. Oh I tell you, it was so riveting that I felt every emotion the characters showed. Like in Shift, I was smiling, blushing, angry or frustrated then crying the next. It was so intense and it was a good thrill that every reader needs. Perhaps, others would say it was violent, but that’s what makes it more intriguing. The happily ever after perception is so cliché that the author used it BUT made sure we will be on the edge of our seats. I just have to acknowledge the few funny antics the author inserted unexpectedly. I admit that it made me look crazy—because of the shift in reactions—laughing and smiling at myself while reading. I resisted sharing them while I was live tweeting because I want the others to savor it, too. It made me relax and have a break from such a heavy mental state I had. Control kept my mind so active that I, again, never want to put it down. It took me days to finish it because of some errands but there was this feeling that I look forward to read it as soon as possible. It was action packed and full of never ending twists that will definitely satisfy a reader.
I've already shared my favorite characters on my review about Shift before (see here) and I would like to tell you their developments. Scott, Scott, Scott. Where do I begin with you? He started as this boy who feels useless and lack of self-confidence was just an understatement. In Shift, he showed that he was more powerful than he will ever imagine. But still he didn't believe on his capabilities, on himself. As a reader, I wanted to push him to his limits and at the same time, I saw myself in him. There were times that I feel so small and I fear to commit so many mistakes. I will always second-guess my abilities even if I knew I could be more than that. Scott was also the same. Like I said, there was so much room for improvement and I believed it was filled in this book. I am so proud to say that he will find himself as you read the book and I think that’s one of the lessons the author is telling us. Sometimes we feel that our goals are so far and out of reach but achieving it will always depend on us. Our decisions make or break us. And, I think Scott was able to realize that. Now with Aubrey, there was a time I nearly got frustrated with her because I felt she was stubborn but I gave myself a slap and told myself that she was a teenager. It happens! As if I didn't went through that phase. What struck me about her was that she was able to show her vulnerable side and it was refreshing. I knew that it will be shown sooner or later, and Aubrey did not disappoint me. Since the story has heavy points, I finally appreciated the bittersweet moments between her and Scott. It was an emotional roller coaster but it was a sweet treat for the readers. With CP and Jake, I love that they stepped up their “game” in this sequel but I want to see more of them. They both are spitfires and just waiting to show more of their capabilities, and I am excited to witness that in the third installment of this series. In addition, these two deserved to be noticed for their strong impact on the whole tale. Benjo was defined so well that I always cringe whenever he was there in a specific scene. His dark aura was too strong that I feel his evil intentions and barbaric ways. It was not an enticing visualization whenever he is mentioned but I guess it added spice (did I just say that?) to the whole dish. Of course, Frankie was so influential and despite being described as charismatic and angelic, her vibes was, no doubt, way off. Both are convincing and powerful villains that gave the protagonist a challenge.
With this said, Control has no dull moment that will both enamor a reader’s heart and mind. It was under the science fiction genre but it found its way to be relatable and realistic through its characters and on how they emulated how it is to be human—how life can be at times difficult and that we should just face it, and conquer our fears. It just tells its readers that running from your choices (through Shifting) will not change anything. It will always be there but with different and maybe worse consequences. We just have to accept life’s ups and downs and go through it, and be in Control.
For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Strange Chemistry and Kim Curran also has an ongoing giveaway where 5 signed copies of both books are up for grabs! Read the mechanics here.
Happy Reading Everyone!

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
(Started: February 23, 2013; Finished: April 10, 2013)
Summary/Description:
Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power, and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.
Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.
In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything. (From Goodreads)
Review: 5 stars
As you can see, it took me almost two months to read this book but not for the reason that it was difficult to grasp or it was boring. It was because I was reading a few books at the same time. Anyhow, I actually love this book not because of the hype but the good story it brings to readers. It was very well-written that I have to commend Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl for catching my attention from the first moment I laid eyes on the first few pages of the book. The story was so alive that my imagination worked altogether and created the world inside the book in my mind without trying too hard. It is one of the stories and/or books that you will never forget and will etch a mark on the minds of each and every reader. That's why I think it really deserved to be adapted as a movie to begin with.
Anyhow, plot-wise the authors made a wonderful world about magic, witches and other creatures intertwined with both love, the past and the future, and enveloped by the dark and light. Another point I have to say that I like was the fact that the genre they chose was so familiar and common to us but Stohl and Garcia was able to make it anew by changing some of the terms and innovated old fictional characters and creatures. It was a breath of fresh air. The verbiage was so clear that it can be easily understood and really well-narrated that you feel like you're in a trance because you will indulge yourself in it. The ending was such a great emotional blow that I did not expect it. I was torn to be happy and sad at the same time but the latter dominated. I was crying while reading the last two chapters. It was so heart-breaking but then again it brought hope as well which are themes I gladly appreciate. Speaking of which, I would also acknowledge other themes like bullying--or treating others as an outcast--which was addressed in the story. It showed how it can be used by the victims to feel stronger and love themselves more instead of losing the reason to live during the struggle. Love was also a great element that added thrill to the whole sequence of events. It did not focus solely on it but it was there which what also drew me to read it.
Moving on to the characters, they were all perfectly described by the authors which is helpful in visualizing them in our own imagination. It was easy to distinguish each and every character because they were all so unique and special that you will not forget them. They are Beautiful Creatures indeed. Here are some of them who really stand out from the beginning until the end and whom I love most. Though I used the movie posters for visual satisfaction, I haven't seen it yet. Maybe, soon.

Ethan Wate was this dorky, nerdy guy wrapped up in the body of a jock which makes him a deluxe boyfriend material. Aside from his sporty-side,--which means muscles here and there, and a total weakness of mine (LOL)--I love how he loves reading. It is a passion of mine and he has it, too, making him even more rare. I also love his map which is a terrific idea and it is a coincidence that I wrote a short story a year ago with a character that has the same map. Wow! These authors are brilliant! Great minds think alike then! LOL! Back to Ethan. When I learned that he loves book, too...BAM! That was it! He got me there. ♥

Next is Link. Don't judge. It's not because I love boys but he was really special. He can conform to the society or what his town dictates on who he should be but draws a line when those he love was already hurt. I love how he values friendship and respects Ethan in all his decisions, and supports him all the way when he needed it. He was there for him and you know he got his back. Oh, he was such a great friend. His humor was the cherry on top. He'll be definitely one of my favorite side-kicks!
![]() |
| NOTE: Here is the reason why I used the photo of Amma as Marian Ashcroft, "Marian Ashcroft's character has been cut from the film and has, instead, been combined with Amma's character in order to create one "elegant" character as confirmed by the director of the film." (Source) |
Another character I love and whom I admire and hope to be like her someday, was Dr. Marian Ashcroft. Her love for books was extraordinary that I aspire to be like her. I would love to recite quotations like a song I knew by heart whenever needed and have one in each life situations.

In terms of fashion and style, Ridley would be the scene-stealer in Gatlin. She was so comfortable in all she was wearing and she embodies a woman who loves herself despite those who hates her for who she is. She accepted it and lived with it which was something I also admire. She could be a potential Caster fashion blogger for me, if there's such a thing. I love her choices and she excites me whenever she enters the scene because I knew she was trouble.
![]() |
| (Source) |
Also on the list is Boo Radley whom I adore because he reminds me so much of Sirius Black as an animagi and well, he's omnipresent.

Last but not the least is Macon Ravenwood. Oh he will be one of my favorites to date. Aside from the name, the impeccable style, manners, and also the love for reading, I love how he had a strong facade and fatherly figure to Lena. How can you not love him for his wits and spooky/mysterious characters. He was such a great character that I know I will never forget him. He also has a great heart and unconditional love that you will not expect on such a cold-looking character. Oh, I'm beginning to be speechless and let you get to know him more on your own. Overall, it was a great story and I'm dying to read the next book.
Here is the book trailer which I have seen just now! Enjoy!
Watch out for my Bookgasm post(s) for Beautiful Creatures. I have loads in store for you! Until the next post!
For the quotes I got from the book, please visit my Tumblr:
Happy Reading Everyone!















.jpg)



