A Witch is a Witch, Or is She?

Ok, so my favorite writer for the past two years has been Melissa de la Cruz of the Blue Bloods and the Ashleys series. I have loved almost every book that she has written; there was one that I got less than a chapter into and pitched it. But this book was great!

The Witches of East End is the first in her new series about a pair of sisters and their mother who try to live quiet lives without magic in a simple cottage in the Hamptons. Now, I feel that I must add that this is not a "pretty, rich, white girls with problems they created" type book. In fact not all the problems that come their way are not their fault. The troubles tend to come to them because they are a little generous. You see, they have been banned from using their powers but then one of them does to help a friend who's been trying unsuccessfully to get pregnant. Then they all start helping people. THEN they get accused of being witches. So much for laying low. The story is interesting an since it will be a series, I'm anxiously waiting for the next installment.

Speaking of series: if you have read the Blue Bloods series of the same author (which you should in order to be able to laugh at certain jokes) you will recognize character that have cameos. I'm not saying that you should read all of those to be able to understand this book, but I am saying that you should read this between Blue Blood books 7 and 8. Mimi talks about this book, therefore it's crucial for BB fans to read this.

Ok, that's all. I have to keep this short today.

-me

Zhànshén Mars

So, I have to tell you this right off the bat: I do not like all manga nor do I consider myself to be a fangirl.

Alright, now that I've got that out of the way: I LOVE "Mars". I have read and reread this series and I have watched the Taiwanese (in Chinese) mini series that gave the book even more life.

Mars is an incredibe 15 part series by Fuyumi Soryo. The characters that she has created are so dynamic. Kira is a shy girl who has endured abuse from teachers and her stepfather. Rei is an outspoken motorcycle racer whose childhood has left him with big gapping holes in his soul as well.

I like this story for a lot of reasons one being that Soryo talks about things that make people uncomfortable especially when the subjects are teenagers. She illustrates teen suicide, mental illness, the struggle to become sexually free after sexual abuse, girl on girl violence and the idea that broken families exist despite the socioeconomic status. The subject matter allows for the characters to experience some pretty dark moments, but through Soryo's writting and illustration there is always that feeling of hope, that things will get better. Really, I can't ask for anymore than that. This series is absolutely amazing and I share it with everyone.

Now, in case you were wondering if the 21 episode miniseries does the manga justice the answer is yes. Absolutely yes. If you can find it online watch it, if you can't message me and I'll send you the link. Only downside is the music though... thought I should warn you.

Read. Watch. Enjoy!

-me