Cheeky Review of Passenger by Alexandra Bracken

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Passenger by Alexandra Bracken

I've been intrigued by this book & Truthwitch for awhile since they were both really hyped. Unfortunately, I had to kind of rush through this book because of the library's due date so I might have missed stuff but...

I found this book lacking. While I like Alexandra Bracken's writing, there were a lot of lengthy descriptions and just drawn out scenes that I found myself just skimming over. Too many unnecessary details. And while I like each individual character and the development, I feel like Bracken tried to force romance into this book which wasn't needed. The romance between Etta & Nicholas was classic insta-love and the fast progression of their relationship felt unnatural and unlikely. I just didn't see the chemistry and wish it wasn't such a big part of the book.

If I was to eliminate all of the extraneous details and romance, the plot is pretty good. I like the logic of time travel given as well. However, it has been done before, which leaves me wondering if I will read the sequel to this...

xx Jennifer

P.S. I stayed up until 4:30 AM to finish this!

Cheeky Review of Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare

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Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare

What a long, long book. My thoughts coming into this book were that this Shadowhunter franchise has been so longwinded and I felt really apprehensive about this. However, the reviews stated that this book was the best of the whole Shadowhunter world and had to be read. So, I did just that. Let me just say that this is primarily a romance novel. It's not what I consider fantasy, so I feel like it needed more focus on fantasy because 668 pages of romance is kind of a lot. The downfall of this book in my opinion is its length- it's so descriptive without having to be- this book could be condensed in maybe 400 pages. The story was nice and interesting but not ENGAGING. Any loose ends are wrapped up nicely though. And I do really love how each character is fleshed out completely. The romance is pretty darn good. It's another "forbidden romance" and anything forbidden is automatically more enticing. Although, there are lengthy descriptions of "his collarbone" or other minute details since they are oh so in love... So if you are looking for a romance with a touch of fantasy, this might be the book for you. xx Jennifer

Salt to the Sea Review

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Salt to the Sea

I was so worried that this book would disappoint me because I absolutely loved Between Shades of Grey, but it far exceeded my expectations. I freaking LOVED this book; it's definitely in my collection of favorites. The story itself is so unique in the fact that it's founded on a real, hidden tragedy of World War II- I'm in awe of the time and research she put into this book. Such a tale with truths woven in. The four personalities are so distinct; she really captured their voices so well. I think I speak for everyone in that Alfred's chapters were difficult to read. I enjoyed how the characters' fates started to weave together; I think I enjoyed Emilia's the much. The foreshadowing in this book is so real, man, it's so surreal to look back and see all the hints Ruta dropped. Despite the tragedies in this book, I managed to get through without crying mainly because of the beauty of the characters and the heart and soul of this book. I absolutely loved this & recommend to everyone. What a book. (Also I finished this in one day- a really quick read!) xx Jennifer

#100HappyDays Challenge & TASSP Academic Excellence Team

A quick update: I'm doing the #100HappyDays Challenge on Instagram where you post something that makes you happy that day for 100 days. I find it really fun as it motivates you to do fun things and allows you to really appreciate the blessings of each and every day.

Posting everyday allows you to be photographically creative as well as you try to get the right exposition or the perfect layout. And, you have the challenge of making boring stuff look appealing!

Shameless promo: Follow me on Insta at @popsterjen. I'm only on Day 4 as of today! & I encourage you guys to do this challenge and comment your insta name (if there are any of you out there). You can totally create a separate Instagram account like I did! ^_^


And today, I got to go to Austin to join the TASSP Academic Excellence Team! It felt so good to be recognized and earn something and I definitely conquered a few fears as I had to make a mini speech and my face was projected on a GIANT screen! I am so grateful to my high school principal who nominated me and glad I got to see familiar faces. Definitely a day I will not forget. (I feel like a princess with my flowy skirt!)

xx Jennifer

P.S. I have reviews of Me Before You (film), Orange (film), & Phantom (kdrama) coming up!

RIP Christina Grimmie

I've never made this kind of post before but I just needed to put this out there and GRIEVE.

I am writing this while tears stream down my face, 14 hours after I heard the news of her death. It doesn't seem real. I can imagine her bright and cheery, singing her heart out.

It's hard to deal with this and I'm surprised by how torn and heartbroken I am. I've never lost a family member or close relative (let's pray it stays that way) and I have had a distant acquaintance pass away but I've never felt any grief close to how I feel today. I am learning for the first time how to deal with grief.

I managed to go out and meet friends and have a general good time. But in the back of my mind, I can only think of Christina and her senseless death. She did absolutely nothing to deserve it; she is so talented, pure-hearted, sincere, sweet, passionate, & hardworking. These qualities make it harder for me to process and handle her death. I deeply regret not attending any nearby concerts if she had them nearby; I am grateful I followed her music and her different endeavors like the Voice.

I feel regret that I didn't pay more attention to her stuff over the recent years. I imagine everyone feels this when mourning a loved one: missed time.

What makes this hard is that her YouTube channel is always there, full of videos of her distinct, bright voice and her energetic personality- the videos make her seem full of life.

Although I'm not religious, I know she was & I do hope that she is flourishing in heaven with her God. I know she is one of the few who are strong enough.

Much, much love to one of my all-time idols,
xx Jennifer

P.S. I recommend listening to Sam Tsui's rendition to Just a Dream, his tribute to Christina. It accurately describes how we all feel.

Review of a Classic: Poisonwood Bible

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Poisonwood Bible

WHAT A BOOK! I finished this awhile ago so my memory is blurry but I do remember the whirlwind of emotions this book left me.

The five different point of views in this book are so distinct and detailed; I'm in awe Kingsolver managed to weave a story without muddling the different perspectives. The character development is unreal, each character grows significantly and the experiences they went through visibly change them.

The story revolves around American colonization of the Congo. I find this a really true representation of that; the plot was definitely slow-paced but gradually built. A truly amazing storyline with meaningful biblical allusions. And the mystery of which daughter died really kept the book flowing and the reader on their toes. The book provided so many lifelong lessons as well.

Only considerable drawback besides the initial slowness was that the last fourth of the book was hard to read since the characters were in different locations and there were confusing time jumps; those made me disconnected from the characters.

Overall, I do think this is one of my favorite books of all time that I highly recommend to everyone. Although a long read, it is so vivid and life-changing. 

xx Jennifer

Movie Reviews: Fargo, Silence of the Lambs, Deadpool, The Martian & Gone Girl

I have not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, not 6 but FIVE MOVIE REVIEWS FOR YOU! I'll make these as short and informative as I can. AND SPOILER FREE!

Deadpool

Summary: Wade Wilson hunts the man who gave him an accelerated healing factor but also a scarred physical appearance.

There's nothing I exactly dislike about this movie except for its lack of originality. The plot of the film followed a basic superhero movie plot and I had difficulty connecting with any of the characters. I didn't mind the crass comedy or sex; it was expected of Deadpool. I like how he broke the fourth wall- this was pretty unique. I also enjoy that the movie didn't take itself too seriously. The action scenes were good! 

Overall, it really didn't live up to its hype so I am disappointed. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Gone Girl

Summary: Set in Northeast Missouri, the story begins as a mystery that follows the events surrounding Nick Dunne, who becomes the primary suspect in the sudden disappearance of his wife, Amy.

I went into this movie knowing absolutely nothing except this film is popular. Naturally when the plot twist happened, I was absolutely shocked so I think they delivered that well. Rosamund Pike delivered on the acting and I genuinely thought everyone was psychotic in the movie... so good job?

And what an unsatisfying ending! 

I rated it a little low just because the ending (which I hate doing but it really hit me) and Affleck's acting to me left a bit to be desired. And there were a lot of cliches in this story besides the obvious plot twist.

Totally understand why this is popular!

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

The Martian

Summary: Damon stars as Mark, an astronaut who is mistakenly presumed dead and left behind on Mars. The film depicts his struggle to survive and others' efforts to rescue him.

A really great film in my books! I love the attention to detail and the chronicle of Mark's journey to survive on Mars. On the flip side, it did drag sometimes due to the excessive attention to detail- it is a 2 hour movie! Acting was good and I love how Houston was represented! Another thing that kept it from a 5 is how exaggerated everything was- how could a botanist make such engineering feats? And the final rescue seemed so lucky and coincidental. So many potential messups didn't happen- a little too good to be true.

Idealistic film that does ultimately leave you feeling satisfied! 

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

The Silence of the Lambs

Summary: In the film, Clarice Starling, a young U.S. FBI trainee, seeks the advice of the imprisoned Dr. Lecter to apprehend another serial killer, known only as "Buffalo Bill".

 This film deserves to be the classic that it is. Really original movie that is not afraid to break out of its boundaries. Superb acting by all, especially Dr. Lecter and Buffalo Bill. There were so many intense scenes, specifically in the latter half of the movie, that kept me on the edge of my seat despite living in the 21st century. For being made in the '70s, I think this film is excellent and a must watch for everyone!
                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Fargo

Summary: It stars Frances McDormand as a pregnant Minnesota police chief investigating roadside homicides that ensue after a struggling car salesman hires two criminals to kidnap his wife in order to extort a hefty ransom from his wealthy father-in-law.

I had to watch this for an English project since this is in one of the top 100 films of all time. Perhaps it is because I am too young but a lot of the comedy went over my head and the excessive deaths didn't make me laugh or feel remorse- the onslaught of deaths did nothing for me. I really wanted to laugh since the premise of this movie was stupid (in a good way) but I didn't really laugh. This movie was pretty boring for me and the accents just irritated me.

If you enjoy "unique" films and "dark comedy," this might be for you but I can't recommend this.
                                                                                                                                                                                                         

I hope you enjoyed these reviews. I have been waiting for the time to review all of these. This is just as much for the people reading this as for me to chronicle the movies I have watched since my memory is atrocious!

Next movies will probably be the Imitation Game and Me Before You.

xx Jennifer

P.S. Summaries taken from Wikipedia.

Cheeky Review of Wolf Children

Summary: Hana marries a wolf man and raises their two children alone after he dies. They move to the countryside and the children have adventures in the woods and at school.

Wolf Children

It has been months since I watched this so my memory isn't the most vivid but this movie was pretty good, but definitely didn't meet my high expectations. It's a very slow story- you really are just watching the children grow up so if you enjoy slow pacing, this might be for you. For me, it was too slow and didn't have an exact conflict or resolution.

I also thought the art wasn't very good, I wanted more dimension and detail. The way the people were drawn made it a little hard to connect, if that makes any sense.

Poignant to some, not for me though. I do recommend giving it a try if you do enjoy coming-of-age stories.

xx Jennifer

Guess what?

I JUST GRADUATED FROM HIGH SCHOOL TODAY! Definitely one of many milestones to come...

Just so happy and excited for opportunities and adventures to come & reminiscent of all of the memories and lessons I formed and learned during high school.

Grateful for my friends and ready to make new ones at Rice!

With my graduation & a blank summer again, I look forward to blogging more about books, films, shows, and dramas as well as personal life events like prom, vacations, perhaps relationships?! ;)

Whoever is reading, thank you!

xx Jennifer

Cheeky Review of Howl's Moving Castle

Before I begin this review, I want to say that I went to the annual TeenBookCon in Houston yesterday and met some incredible authors including Ruta Sepetys and Jennifer Donnelly! They are so intelligent and riveting; I couldn't help but be inspired by their skill in the craft of writing, especially of historical fiction. Sepetys did the Keynote speech which was incredibly moving; she has such a passion of voicing stories previously silenced. Seriously recommend the novels of both of these authors!

Also in love with Halsey's album Badlands. Now onto the review you've been waiting for.

Howl's Moving Castle

Summary: A young girl is forced to toil in her parents' hat shop and her only joy is in her occasional meetings with a handsome stranger, Howl the wizard. When the Witch of the Waste sees her happiness, she curses her to become old in a jealous rage. Ashamed and afraid, she flees to Howl's magic moving castle. Will Howl see her for who she really is?

This is such a cute film! The animation is very characteristic of Japan; they don't hold back the eccentricities. The art is so engaging and the story in its core is beautiful as the main character, Sophie, becomes more youthful as she becomes more self-confident. The love story is sweet and romantic. It's a great 2 hr film to watch when you need a pick-me-up!

My only complaint (if it is one) is that I felt that a lot more things needed explaining like the war or what exactly Howl did in the war... but then again, I feel like the writers really left it open to interpretation so if you're into that, it's really a pro for you.

Definitely a film classic!

xx Jennifer

(P.S. Should have a review of Poisonwood Bible up soon.)

Double Review: Daredevil Season 2 & 10 Cloverfield Lane

10 Cloverfield Lane

I came into this movie with no knowledge other than seeing online that it was a "scifi" while my friend said it was a thriller. Definitely trust what my friend says, this movie really is no way a scifi, it's just a suspenseful thriller. I felt like nothing really important happened in this movie, just a boring moment after the next. Of course, there were a few creepy scenes as one would suspect from a thriller, but... nothing happened! For a thriller, it does keep you on your toes, but ultimately I finished this movie unsatisfied. The scifi element was tame at best and still unexplained at all; it left a lot of questions without any answers!! (Like Megan, the "attack" on Earth, etc.) Overall, definitely overhyped!

Daredevil Season 2

I've been waiting for this for a long time and I binged this in 2 days! This season was definitely amazing, while not quite like the first season. This season lacked a definite villain (for better or for worse, you decide) & I ended up missing Wilson Fisk. The two characters introduced, the Punisher and Elektra, are equally engaging though and add a lot of darkness into this story and complicate Daredevil's path. There's much more violence and action this season which was a little tedious for me & I kind of missed Daredevil since it focused so much other characters. The plot is rapid and intense and does answer questions as well as pose questions not only about the story but about American society itself, especially the debate with the 2nd Amendment through the Punisher storyline. I didn't really like the dual romantic interests with Karen & Elektra; it did feel a little excessive. Like many say, the romance with Karen was a little forced.
Overall though, BRILLIANT acting, thought-provoking storyline and plot, and perfectly executed action scenes. I'm already waiting for a season 3... !

Hope you enjoyed these two reviews,
xx Jennifer

P.S. I should have a Heart of Betrayal review up soon!

Cheeky Review of Cruel City - Korean Drama

Cruel City

Summary: When her sister suffers a brutal fate while undercover in the crime underworld, Han Soo Min is driven to pick up where her sister left off. But in the shadows, there are no rules and no reason: Soo Min falls for the organization’s king pin, who also happens to be the prime suspect of her sister’s murder. (from MyDramaList)

This story is so lush. It's everything you would want from a crime/action drama. It reminds me a lot of James Bond. The fast pace of the storyline, intense action, moving acting- it was perfect. I became invested in everything including the relationships and bonds that developed. The romance was so very subtle which was nice. I love how the ending fit the theme of this drama.

Faults (spoiler): There were only like 4 major characters in the crime underworld; I'd like to see more. Nothing ever came out of the relationship between the Reporter and Ji Hyung Min. Also during action scenes, why was Soo Min wearing 4 inch heels and why didn't people just bring guns to the fight instead of metal beams haha.

Just finished the drama and I feel pretty empty inside... now to watch Daredevil Season 2.

xx Jennifer

Cheeky Review of Ouroboros - Japanese Drama

Ouroboros

Summary from Wiki: This series is about two men, one a detective and another a member of the yakuza, who seek to find the truth about a murder that happened twenty years ago which was clamped down by the police.

This was actually my very first jdrama and it was pretty good! I find the way it's filmed a little subpar compared to the kdramas I watched and there were some comedic aspects that I remember used in anime as well that was a little over-exaggerated (like Ikuo & his smell). 

The story/case is engaging but after watching Signal, this case definitely dragged on and on. There were so many freaking flashbacks when I just wanted it to concentrate on the story and end it swiftly. I appreciate the acting and I really think the ending fits the story. I only dislike the way Tacchan ends... (you'll see what I mean) It didn't fit his character. 

Overall pretty good but not amazing. It didn't really tug at my heartstrings which is a sign...

xx Jennifer

P.S. Will get a book review to you guys soon! 

Signal - Korean Drama Review

Signal

Summary: A current day detective, Park Hae Young, finds a walkie-talkie and suddenly can talk with a detective from the past. The two work together to solve cold cases and find that they are connected beyond the walkie-talkie. (Just made that up, haha)

Just finished the last episode of this drama and I immediately had to make a blog post. This drama is ineffable. It is the pinnacle of everything I expect from a drama, and it blew my expectations to tell you the truth. The genres coalesce in this drama, and I went through a literal catharsis watching episode 15 in particular. Now, I'm going to dissect this drama...

Genres: Crime & Mystery & Time Travel (& a little family, romance, and 80's)

Crime: The 3-4 cases this series is based on are REAL COLD CASES. These kidnappers, murderers, and rapists are on the loose to this day. It sickens me but I really like how they did those cases justice. There is so much commentary on current society about police and corruption. Our society, despite its progress, is still muddled with corruption and Lee Jae Han was definitely a shining beacon in this drama, demonstrating how our justice system should really be. Anyway, the writing for these cases was spot on.

Mystery: I find the cases well paced; they were timed with enough suspense but weren't stretched out. I initially thought this series would only focus on one case but I really appreciated that it was a mix of cases that in reality were all connected. This series was really unpredictable in how the cases would be solved & who would survive or die (as the past can change and those who died could still live and vice versa). I was on my toes dying to know what would happen til the very last minute of this drama.

Time-Travel: THIS WAS EXECUTED SO WELL. I love the complexity of the time-travel and how a subtle change in the past can amplify in the future; it was realistic for an unrealistic concept. The writers handled the shifts in the past and present so well & I couldn't even follow at points (which I think is a very good quality, if a drama can outsmart me haha). Definitely made this drama stand out! One thing I'd say is that if I was Hae Young on the walkie-talkie, I'd cram so much info in that minute they talked haha. The time-travel (if you can really call it that) was also perfect because you got a balance of present day and 80's dramas (which people desire like in Reply 1984. Reply 1988, etc.). You get very two very different vibes in the same drama which really caters to different interests. 

Romance: This is so subtle. Don't go into this drama expecting a romance because you really won't get anything. It's just a little heartwarming seeing scenes where the main female lead pines over Jae Han. You get to see the care they have for each other. This definitely made the drama a little lighter from its heavy subject matter but I still respect how the romance was put on the side. This drama really need to focus on the cases and the justice needed to be served.

Characters/Acting: I honestly have nothing but praise for the actors. Cha Soo Hyun in particular. This character was stunning; the complexity of the character arc and the contrast of her past self and present self were acted perfectly by Kim Hye Soo. Her acting as a victim was great as well. The main lead, Park Hae Young, I also really enjoyed. He's relatable and real, and he can act! I really appreciate how this drama wasn't about having a flower boy lead; I could really focus on the character! And Lee Jae Han stole my heart really. He's such a strong spirit with bright morals; he definitely shone in the drama and had really great, passionate monologues. Awesome acting from the main leads! And Kim Bum Joo... what a despicable character. Well done, I guess. And there's another character, Ahn Chi Soo, who has a really complex character arc throughout the series... I just appreciate the depth each character has... amazing job writers!

Plot/Writing: As I've alluded to before, this series is well paced. I find everything unpredictable and nothing dragged. Nothing was too confusing and the series had an appropriate amount of flashbacks. This drama didn't have any typical kdrama plot devices and the writers definitely aren't scared to wring your heartstrings a little... I cried 6 times in an episode! Everything in the story is so intricately woven, I can't help but wonder if they planned all of this since episode 1. No episode was sublime compared to the rest; each episode got better and better which is truly rare. I just can't get enough.

OST: Very subtle OST that fits the theme of this drama. It's very heartwarming and like one of a "family" drama I guess. It sounds like home to me.

Overall, I am so in love with this drama. The ending definitely was open-ended so I am desperate for a season 2. My only fear is that it might not live up to season 1. Give this drama a go, I promise it won't disappoint!

xx Jennifer

P.S. Don't waste your time on the drama Descendant of the Sun... not worth. More book reviews to come & a review about Ouroboros, a Japanese drama.

Review of The Boy Most Likely To by Huntley Fitzpatrick

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The Boy Most Likely To by Huntley Fitzpatrick

What I love about Huntley Fitzpatrick's books is that they are REAL. In The Boy Most Likely To, Fitzpatrick is unafraid to delve into the nitty gritty, which is to be expected coming from Tim, a recovering alcoholic/junkie. I'm not sure anyone would expect anything sweet and fluffy like the first book. The subject of this book is a little mature and the twists throughout this book are definitely unexpected. I really enjoyed the relationships between everyone and the interactions of the Garrett family. The writing is smooth (although I disliked how Alice's POV was bolded... like really?) and the storyline engaging. Now I'll just point out the little tidbits that could have made my experience better if adjusted. I found myself skimming this book quite a lot so maybe if some extraneous details were cut out, I would have been fully immersed. I also found the romance really quick (in terms of the first "I love you" and their first intercourse) but of course, the romance was sweet and I love how they found themselves in each other. Also, although Tim's really boy-ish POV was authentic, I was squirming a little at some of the stuff he said. I guess it makes this book more real, but as a "pussy" (as he so mentions many times), I couldn't take that much language. Overall, it's very different from the first but still just as amazing. This book definitely deserves higher ratings! xx Jennifer

Cheeky Review of Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

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Carry On by Rainbow Rowell

That rating! I know you guys, it hurts me too.

 Sadly, my premonitions were true. This book was so incredibly slow and boring. The first 60-70 pages just set up the story and I honestly gave up. Reading this book as a fanfic of Harry Potter made me uncomfortable and I just wanted the real deal. The characters didn't even seem interesting. 

I think it's for the best I quit early. I'll be avoiding Rainbow Rowell's fantasy for sure. Another PASS on a hyped YA novel. :(

xx Jennifer

P.S. Last post of the day, expect a review of The Boy Most Likely To shortly!

Cheeky Classic Review: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

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Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

(Still on page 301, might go back on currently reading) Love this book (based on what I've read thus far). Engaging storyline and very strong, capable leads. Everything makes SENSE as well! Jane makes me swoon. This romance stands the test of time. xx Jennifer

Classic Review: Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy

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Jude the Obscure by Thomas Hardy

This book isn't bad. I came into this with very low expectations after hearing it was sad, sadder, and sadder. Jude the Obscure definitely tumbled down that path. 

As I read this for English IV AP, I didn't finish the last chapter (just because we didn't have to & I spark-noted the rest) but my review still encompasses this novel as a whole.

I definitely dislike the portrayal of women in this book- they come off as manipulators and fickle which plays in more to the female stereotype. Jude was an enjoyable, gentle soul- I had no problems with him.

What I did have problems with were his relationships with Arabella and Sue. They went in endless cycles that bored me out of my mind. I do appreciate his message about marriage and the social criticism he subtly conveys about societal pressures on unmarried couples and children born out of wedlock...

Ok, the last chapter back at Christminster was f*cking insane. Honestly, I couldn't believe what happened. Everything spiraled downhill so quickly and overall, the ending made this book ever the more memorable and Thomas Hardy's message is engrained in my soul forever.

And for a classic, this novel was surprisingly easy to read! Might read Tess in the future...

xx Jennifer

Review of Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon

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Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon

Wow, I thought I already this reviewed this book!

The rating is pretty generous... this book does not in any regard live up to its hype. The focal point of this novel was the romance and the romance was very insta-love and too fast-paced to be realistic for me. In fact, the premise of this whole book was very unrealistic (especially their trip given her little knowledge of the outside...) The plot twist redeemed this novel just because I sort of didn't see it coming. 

Her sickness (the second focal point) wasn't described vividly and I had difficulty relating to the character. I couldn't bother to pity her circumstances. 

This book left me feeling very "meh" and "those 2 hours were a waste." Once again, I encourage you guys to SKIP THIS BOOK. Very disappointed in the hyped up books in YA that are really not worth the hype at all.

xx Jennifer

War & Peace Review

This 2016 period drama was INCREDIBLE. I had no idea what I was expecting but this definitely exceeded any and all of my expectations. I have not read the book (although it's on my bucket list to read Tolstoy's novels) but I have heard that this drama was faithful. Now, I will begin to list everything I enjoyed (which was a lot):

1. The cinematography: The scenery was freaking gorgeous and breathtaking. They filmed the scenes so beautifully and artistically that really highlighted the backdrop they filmed at. I couldn't help but get emotional during certain parts due to the aesthetic. I feel like I haven't seen anything more gorgeous, truly. (HONESTLY, JUST WATCH THIS DRAMA FOR THE AESTHETIC, YOU WON'T REGRET IT!) I even enjoyed the transitions which were intentionally subtlely abrupt (you can figure out that oxymoron).

2. The music: The music is subtle and complementary; it doesn't take away from the storyline at all and it's a nice little touch. No lyrics, all instrumental & classical music that's appropriate for the scenes playing.

3. The stories intertwined: They paced this drama so well! Despite the incredibly long novel, I think the roughly 6 hours of the drama portrayed everything essential and even took the time to slow down parts that showed their true life. It was nice to see how their stories overlapped. Nothing was confusing; they explained each part well. I also feel like there was a good balance between tragedy and happiness.

4. The period aspect: I just watched Downton Abbey over winter break and I was obsessed. With it being over, I didn't know what could fill that missing part of me that craved period dramas- this satisfied it. It's definitely darker than Downton Abbey but it has the same visual aesthetics (I will keep mentioning that because l o v e). It has all of the gowns and courting and footmen and manners and gossip that I love to love from the 1800's. It followed the history books quite well in regards to the retreat and the Russians who burned all of their stuff to prevent the French from surviving the winter there. The little French and Russian accents were great tributes to the Russian novel despite this being an English drama. I found the costumes so enrapturing; they also made me wonder if Russians wear their outerwear always draped on one shoulder? I think the filmmakers took time to explore the historical accuracies of the events, language, manners, clothing, etc which I'm so impressed with.

5. The acting: Ahh, I've never seen Paul Dano act before this and I'm impressed! His scene as a prisoner retreating to France was amazing. It must have taken a lot to get that low. (Reminds me of Leo from The Revenant.) Lily James fits so well into that bubbly period drama character so she did well. I only found Napoleon a bit lacking. ALSO, Tuppence Middleton who plays Helene was really good because it took me forever to realize she plays Riley from sense8 and her character is the total opposite! She plays such a great seducer ;)

If you are a fan of Downton, I emphatically recommend this drama for you! Absolutely stunning and breathtaking!

xx Jennifer

P.S. Currently watching Signal which is the bomb-diggity- go watch it, it's a kdrama.

Cheeky Review of Kindred Spirits by Rainbow Rowell

*Click on the book above to be redirected to the Goodreads page!*

Kindred Spirits by Rainbow Rowell

I fortunately got the opportunity to read this ebook before its release & give an honest review, which is as follows:

"This is a really short and sweet read from Rainbow Rowell. It has the components of a cheesy chick lit with two angsty teens who meet fortuitously. Unfortunately, I felt a little disconnected with Elena because of her childish nature and the implausibility of the situation. Many times, the teen jargon seemed forced and contrived like the Instagram posts and likes in order to relate to the audience. Also, I found it hard to believe that any mother would let her daughter sleep on the streets with two men (even though Rowell did try to address that)... Or that a girl would camp outside without any girlfriends. Despite these drawbacks, the inner nerd in me still jumped in excitement with all of the Star Wars references and the sparks of romance between Gabe and Elena were a good tease for something more. This was a good read for me as I wait for Rowell's next contemporary which is bound to amaze."

I have read Eleanor & Park and Fangirl (& am trying to get through Carry On which is a struggle), So this book definitely did not live up to these standards whatsoever which was such a disappointment.

Overall, I'd recommend you guys pass on this book. :(

About to post TV show reviews and kdrama reviews! Expect lots more!

xx Jennifer

Mr. Robot Season 1 Review !!

Mr. Robot Review

After watching the Golden Globes the other night & seeing Mr. Robot rack up so many awards, I knew I had to watch.

The premise, if you don't know, is about Elliot, a cybersecurity firm employee by daytime and a hacker by nighttime. He gets an offer from Mr. Robot to hack the biggest conglomerate in the world, Evil Corp, and get rid of their databases so people can have their debts erased and get a fresh start. Essentially, this show is for the 99%-ers.

I'll be honest- the first few episodes did nothing for me. I got a little more than I expected, with Elliot being a drug addict and slightly insane. The plot was alright although slightly confusing. The supposed villain, Tyrell, intrigued me definitely though.

Episode 7/8 is when it really started to hook me. There is such a cobweb of plot twists that make sense and also blow your freaking mind. The connections the characters have as well as the mental sanity/insanity of certain characters (ahem Elliot cough Tyrell). It's the acting in the last few episodes that makes me appreciate Rami's and Martin's acting intensely- they are GODS!

Also, can we appreciate how the main lead is Egyptian?! Talk about cool diversity!

Plus, this drama does amazing social commentary on the current state of society in terms of our growing class-ism and the divide social media creates. It also promotes cyber safety awareness and uses real hacker language- you can really see the tech & jargon of programming, which as a computer science nerd, I adore.

Overall, I am impressed with how, despite my early doubts, Mr. Robot managed to keep me hooked and now I rave about it to every person I see.

xx Jennifer