Maddie's Bookshelf

This book first caught my interest primarily because of the ominous cover. I saw that it was a horror story and just had to try it out. This book was super creepy, addictive, and certainly had me gripped. Throughout the story you are given clues as to what is going on but the author has you constantly asking questions as you try to work out the madness of what is happening.

Without spoiling anything, I will just say that this story is about David Arlen who is Ellie’s father and together they are trying to escape the madness that involves a fatal, incurable disease that affects the brain and is quite terrifying to say the least. There is something biologically special about Ellie that you will find out as you read.

The Night Parade isn’t just a “scary” story. It explores the bond between parent and child in such trying situations and illustrates the lengths that a parent will go to in order to keep their child safe. I’d highly recommend The Night Parade to anyone who is looking for an adventurous and emotional read.

Since this is the first book of Ronald Malfi’s that I have read, you can imagine I was very excited to see that he has written many other novels that I am looking forward to getting stuck into. If The Night Parade is anything to go by, I have no doubts that I will be in for another sleepless night staying up following the journey of the characters that are so well developed.

*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the ARC of The Night Parade in exchange for an honest review*

- Maddie

Extinction Of All Children by L.J. Epps is a dystopian, young adult novel set in a place called Craigluy in the year 2080. The reader follows the journey of Emma Whisperer, an 18 year old who was the last child to be born in her territory. Yes babies were still born after Emma, however they are taken away from their parents. As a reader, we want to find out what happens to these children. 

I liked that there was always something happening in this novel; I never got bored. Certain parts of this book are pretty grim to read but that's what makes it so interesting "I could have you all sterilised - but that would take away my fun in watching you suffer." 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book because the underlying idea of the novel really interested me - the extinction of children. When I got to the ending I didn't realise that there was going to be a second book so initially I was super disappointed because there is a lot that is left uncovered so thank goodness there will be a second one that continues the adventure - I can't wait to read it! 

I'd definitely recommend this book to fans of dystopian novels and anyone looking for a fairly quick read. 

I received Extinction Of All Children via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

- Maddie

I have no idea where to begin. I finished this book about 20 minutes ago and I just want to get straight into writing this review to distract myself from my current state of emotional instability. 

This book taught me to be grateful and to never take life for granted. This novel is realistic and is not your typical cheesy romance (man I despise those sorts of books). In fact, I wouldn't call this book a romance at all. Can I also just put out there that the fact that having New Zealand (my home country) mentioned in the story was pretty cool. Us Kiwi's tend to get pretty excited when we're mentioned in films, novels etc. 

Me Before You presents an ethical dilemma that is currently heavily debated around the world, and I think that by reading a piece of fiction about the idea is a great way to present the topic to a diverse group of people. Yes the topic may leave some readers feeling distressed, but nonetheless it is a topic that I believe should be discussed.  

Everyone needs to read this book. There are so many elements to it that I think pretty much anyone could take something away from Me Before You. I can't wait to check out Jojo Moyes' other books including After You, to see what happens next in character's lives.

That's all I can think of to say right now. I'd better put my laptop away before it breaks due to water damage.

- Maddie 

Wow. What a mistake this was picking this incredible book up during exam leave. I couldn't put it down! 

This is the first book I have read from this author and it certainly won't be the last. You'll think you have everything worked out; but realise you really don't. This book is a puzzle where you think you've fitted the right piece in the right place but then find you weren't quite right. 

Samantha Hayes' ability to capture my attention and keep me guessing from the very first page right until the exciting end was astonishing - she's a very talented author. 

I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a mystery and wants to test their detective skills. 

- Maddie