Be mindful that this review contains spoilers for Uglies, the first book in the series.

What happens when perfection isn’t good enough?

In the first book we learned that when someone becomes Pretty their brain is damaged on purpose so that they’ll never be truly unhappy. There are no revolutions, no wars, no anything. An experimental cure has been devised to heal the brain and Tally volunteered to become Pretty and have that cure tested on her at a later time.

Pretties opens with a common day for Tally Youngblood, who has finally become Pretty. She has the life she’s always wished for – parties, alcohol and endless fun. Her biggest problems now are hangovers and figuring out what to wear to events. We get to see what her life has become but luckily, the book doesn’t dally on Tally’s life as a Pretty much. It jumps right into action at the right moment, answering all the questions we had before and more.

From there, the novel flows quite nicely. Like in Uglies, there is never a dull moment in Pretties. The plot is tight and intriguing and the way it ends is even more fantastic than its predecessor’s. You might even say I enjoyed Pretties’ plot even more than I did Uglies’. The first book was good, but the second one blows it out of the water.

The cliffhangers we were left with in Uglies are mostly resolved by the end of this second installment, but it gives us yet another one right at the end. I won’t lie, you do see it coming, but it’s delivered in such a fantastic way and it’s so well-tied with previous events it still surprises you. The change in some characters is quite brilliant as well and it borders almost on cruel.

As for Tally, she goes from being annoyingly Pretty, back to being a capable person once again. We see her fall in love and it’s quite different from David, which is a relief. She becomes more mature and it shows in her relationships.

Another aspect I loved, is how the Pretties talked to one another. They had a very proper way of speaking. They say bubbly and bogus to mean a sharper, exquisite reality and something that’s just dreadful, respectively. They are annoying, but the way Scott Westerfeld portrayed them was quite genuine. Also, while Tally was Pretty, I wanted to bash her head with a hammer – same for everyone else, but as the book progresses and she’s freed from pretty-mindedness and goes back to being the amazing Tally I’d fallen in love with in the first book.

The writing in this book is still pretty fluid and sharp, as it was on Uglies. We get more of a glimpse of New Pretty Town and it’s a flamboyant, dizzying experience; same for the new sections of the wild, particularly the reservation. As for the atmosphere around Tally, it oozes determination and survival instinct. It’s a book full of suspense and it delivers.

Pretties never gets boring. It keeps you on the edge, guessing what’s going to happen next and the ending is the best example of such a factor. I loved this book even more than I did Uglies and I absolutely can’t wait to read Specials and see Tally’s story come to an end.



Top 5 best action films ~In my opinion anyway~

I’m not usually one for shoot ‘em up, kill ‘em all and huge explosions when I’m looking for a film; but occasionally I want an action film fix. Here are my top 5 list of the best action films ~in my opinion anyway~ in no particular order

#5 The Indiana Jones Series – Lucas Films has made a gazillion dollars on this franchise because it works. University professor and Tomb Raider Indiana Jones, has done some pretty out there things so far in this 4 movie series. He’s run from large boulders, survived an atomic blast by hiding in a refrigerator and has a strong dislike for snakes and spiders.  He carries a whip and his hat almost always stays on his head. Harrison Ford (Indiana) isn’t all that bad to look at even in his aged state, and his leading ladies never disappoint.

I enjoy this one purely because there is a high level of humor, without which, the films would be just a big bunch of meh.

#4 Die Hard Series – Bruce Willis plays John McClean, New York cop, and hero when the bad guys come to town in this 4 film franchise. First in an office building, then in an airport, then they target the Federal Reserve in New York and finally the entire of the USA. He seems to always be Johnny on the spot and the catch phrases run this and fast.

The explosions are legendary, and some scenarios are very unbelievable. This really isn’t aimed at a female target audience, but it’s an okay bunch of films to watch every now and again.

#3 Gone in 60 Seconds – Originally made in 1974 but remade in 2000 this one hits all the right spots; between explosions, car chases, bad guys, hot smart chicks and the unobtainable goal. You tend to forget the highly illegal activities of a bunch of reformed car boosters, who have banded together to save the little brother of one of their own.

Angelina Jolie does what she does best and burns some serious rubber alongside Nicolas Cage. Turn the volume up if you’re a bit of a rev head to hear the engines roar.

#2 Top Gun – Tom Cruise plays Maverick, a fighter pilot… there’s jets, uniforms and a teacher to seduce. Little more need be said. *air guitar to the song Danger Zone*

#1 Fast and Furious Series – Sometimes there’s Vin Diesel, sometimes there’s not; but there is always fast cars and a race to be won.  The sixth film in this franchise looks to be in the works and I haven’t seen Fast Five yet, but the other four films go a long way to cure the action film itch.

Quarter miles, drifting, stolen goods, mobsters, and undercover police work generally cover the gist of the series so far. Give me a Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez double act and I’m in action movie heaven.

What’re your top 5 action films?

Marianne here: I’m adding one of my favourite action franchises as well!

Lethal Weapon – Mel Gibson back in the day.



In the not too distant future our throw-away lifestyle has left the economy in ruins and more people are out of work and homeless than ever before. The dotcom boom has well and truly imploded and our “rubbish” is having its day in the spotlight once more.

Perry and Lester are turning the techno rubbish of the past into new inventions. From seashell toast making robots to Boogie Woogie Elmo’s capable of driving smart cars- for these two the only obstacles are the limits of their imaginations.  “New Work” is the new technological era and pretty soon bankers are criss-crossing the nation micro-investing in start-up ventures just like Perry and Lester’s. Together they are breathing new life into the economy and journalist Suzanne Church is on hand to record it all.

Not everyone is on board with this brand new economic belief system though and pretty soon the guys find themselves out of business. They may be down but they are certainly not out. After all they can still invent things. That is until a rogue Disney exec grows jealous of their rising popularity and convinces the authorities that their amazing 3D printers are being used to make AK-47s.Things are about to get bad. Really bad!

This novel is utter genius. Not only does it force the reader to take a closer look at their own use and often waste of technological devices, the relationships between our three main players will warm the heart of even the most cynical.  Perry and Lester raise geek power to a whole new level of awesomeness and their creations are absolutely awe-inspiring to behold. As for our intrepid reporter … well for those of us not as techno savvy as some, Suzanne’s layman point of view certainly helps with clarification and cuts through some of the harder concepts.

Doctorow has brought to life three amazingly complex and well rounded characters who not only standout as individuals but mesh well as a trio. The supporting cast is made up of such a range of different and intriguing personalities. They all take their turn at centre stage with full force. When I first read the blurb I must admit that for a girl who was raised on Disney movies, the idea of a twisted exec working for our favourite mouse was a little mind-blowing – but I must admit it became my favourite twist by far.

An astounding ride with a truly poignant and heart-warming ending that will leave a lingering smile on your face. Makers is fast paced, edgy and an all around moving tale that shines the spotlight onto some of the evils lurking in society. This is certainly a tale everyone can learn from techno junkie or not.

Makers-Cory Doctorow

Harper Collins

ISBN:978-0-00-732522-1

416 Pages



Howdy Ya’ll!

Welcome to another Life with Lisa! I feel like I haven’t written one in a while (last month was Burn Bright Book club’s Saturday post, and the week before, my Internet just didn’t want to cooperate, so instead one of my reviews was posted). So I’m pretty excited to finally get back into my groove.

This week’s post isn’t going to be anything about books (awwwh!) and it isn’t anything heart breaking either (yaaay!), but instead it’s going to be a bit more fun! Do you remember being younger, and it didn’t matter what the kid next to you looked like, dressed like, or sometimes even smelled like? Where the only thing you were worried about was your favourite colors, games, and sharing snacks during break time?

What would you answer if someone asked you what you’re favourite color was? Red? Blue? Orange?

Did you know, each colour represents a type of person? I didn’t!

If you don’t know me, I spend a lot of time reading and blogging (yes, very true), but besides that I also enjoy playing games, and reading interesting articles online. Yesterday I found one, that basically told you what your favorite color said about you and here it is:

White: Symbolic of purity, innocence and naiveness, white has strong connotations of youth and purity. If you are an older person, your preference for white could indicate a desire for perfection and impossible ideals, maybe an attempt to recapture lost youth and freshness. It may also symbolize a desire for simplicity or the simple life.

Red: The color of strength, health, and vitality, Red is often the color chosen by someone outgoing, aggressive, vigorous and impulsive—or someone who would like to be! It goes with an ambitious nature but those who choose it can be abrupt at times, determined to get all they can out of life, quick to judge people and take sides. Red people are usually optimistic and can’t stand monotony; they are rather restless and not at all introspective, so they may be unaware of their own shortcomings. They find it hard to be objective and may blame others for any mishaps. Quiet people with a preference for red may feel the need for the warmth, strength and life-giving qualities of the color, or they blanket their true feelings under a sober exterior. Red is usually chosen by people with open and uncomplicated natures, with a zest for life.

Maroon: Harsh experience has probably matured the Maroon person into someone likable and generous. It is often a favorite color of someone who has been battered by life but has come through. It indicates a well-disciplined Red personality—one who has had difficult experiences and has not come through unmarked but who has grown and matured in the process.

Pink: This color embodies the gentler qualities of Red, symbolizing love and affection without passion. Women who prefer Pink tend to be maternal. Pink desires protection, special treatment and a sheltered life. Pink people require affection and like to feel loved and secure, perhaps wanting to appear delicate and fragile. Pink people tend to be charming and gentle, if a trifle indefinite.

Orange: This color of luxury and pleasure appeals to the flamboyant and fun-loving person who likes a lively social round. Orange people may be inclined to dramatize a bit, and people notice them, but they are generally good-natured and popular. They can be a little fickle and vacillating, but on the whole they try hard to be agreeable. Orange is the color of youth, strength, fearlessness, curiosity and restlessness.

Yellow: The color of happiness, wisdom and imagination, Yellow is chosen by the mentally adventurous, searching for novelty and self-fulfillment. Yellow usually goes with a sunny and shrewd personality, with a good business head and a strong sense of humor. It is the color of intellectuality and all things to do with the mind. Yellow folks are usually clear and precise thinkers who have a good opinion of their own mental capacities and who have lofty ideals. They may at times tend to shun responsibility, preferring freedom of thought and action.

Green: The color of harmony and balance, Green symbolizes hope, renewal and peace, and is usually liked by the gentle and sincere. Greens are generally frank, community-minded people, fairly sociable but preferring peace at any price. Green people can be too self-effacing, modest and patient, so they may get exploited by others. They are usually refined, civilized and reputable.

Blue: Soft, soothing, compassionate and caring, Blue is the color of deliberation and introspection, conservatism and duty. Patient, persevering, conscientious, sensitive and self-controlled, Blues like to be admired for their steady character and wisdom. They are faithful, but are often worriers with somewhat inflexible beliefs and can be too cautious, and suspicious of flamboyant behavior.

Blue-Green: Exacting, discriminating, poised and attractive, the Blue-Green person tends to be sensitive, intellectual and refined, persevering and stable if rather detached. Blue-Greens have excellent taste, and are usually courteous and charming, capable but often refusing help or guidance.

Turquoise: Complex, imaginative and original, Turquoise people drive themselves hard and may be in a state of turmoil under their outwardly cool exterior.

Lavender: This is often chosen by a person who lives “on a higher plane,” who never notices anything sordid and who is always impeccably and beautifully dressed. Lavender people may be on a continual quest for culture and the refined things of life, high and noble causes but without the necessity of getting their hands dirty. A Lavender person is usually creative, charming, witty and civilized.

Purple: Purples are highly individual, fastidious, witty and sensitive, with a strong desire to be unique and different. Temperamental, expansive and artistic, a Purple person may become aloof and sarcastic when misunderstood. If you chose Purple, you tend to be unconventional, tolerant and dignified, likely to achieve positions of authority.

Brown: A Brown person has stamina and patience, tending to be very solid and substantial, conscientious, dependable, steady and conservative. Browns are not impulsive, and may be inarticulate and tactless but they love responsibility and are reliable and kindly. If you chose Brown, watch out for a tendency to be obstinate and inflexible.

Gray: The color of caution and compromise, diligent Grays search for composure and peace and often work hard without reward. Older Grays like life to run on an even keel with few ups and downs. Young Grays may be withdrawing from life and suppressing their personalities. Grays often have good business ability and tend to work too much.

Black: Dignified and impressive without being showy, Black people want to give the appearance of mystery, but their preference may also indicate a suppression of desires and worldly aims, suggesting hidden depths and inner longings.”

*This is taken from www.care2.com, I didn’t write this article myself.*

My favorite color is Blue, what’s yours?:)



Garth Nix was born in 1963 in Melbourne, Australia. A full-time writer since 2001, he has worked as a literary agent, marketing consultant, book editor, book publicist, book sales representative, bookseller, and as a part-time soldier in the Australian Army Reserve. Garth’s books include the award-winning fantasy novels Sabriel, Lirael and Abhorsen; and the cult favourite YA SF novel Shade’s Children. His fantasy novels for children include The Ragwitch; the six books of The Seventh Tower sequence, and The Keys to the Kingdom series. More than five million copies of his books have been sold around the world, his books have appeared on the bestseller lists of The New York TimesPublishers Weekly, The Guardian and The Australian, and his work has been translated into 37 languages. He lives in a Sydney beach suburb with his wife and two children.

1. Thank you for dropping by Burn Bright and congratulations on the release of your latest novel A Confusion of Princes. For readers who haven’t yet entered the Empire, how would you best describe Khemri’s tale and his world?

I don’t think I could do better than to quote the last line from possibly the best book review I’ve ever had from KIRKUS REVIEWS: “Space battles! Political intrigue! Engineered warriors! Techno-wizardry! Assassins! Pirates! Rebels! Duels! Secrets, lies, sex and True Love! What more can anybody ask for? (Science fiction. 14 & up)”

Returning to my own words, A CONFUSION OF PRINCES is a YA space opera, a coming of age and a ‘becoming human’ adventure story set in a vast galactic empire that is ruled by 10 million artificially augmented superhuman princes who are constantly competing with each other in the hope of becoming the next Emperor. Khemri is one of these princes, and the book is told in the first person, in his voice, as he discovers that being a prince isn’t necessarily all it’s cracked up to be, that life is more complicated than he thought, and perhaps being superhuman isn’t always better than being human.

2. You’re also the Co-founder of Creative Enclave and not only can we experience the adventure alongside Khemri, we can try our hand at the princely life ourselves in the beta version of Imperial Galaxy. Are you an avid gamer yourself?

I am avidly interested in games and game design, and I look at lots of them, but I don’t play anywhere near as much as I would like because I simply don’t have time. IMPERIAL GALAXY is, unfortunately, pretty much a stalled beta test, because we ran out of money several years ago and weren’t able to raise more to continue development. So it is only a kind of limited taste of what we hoped to achieve.

3. You are currently working on CLARIEL: THE LOST ABHORSEN which returns readers back to the Old Kingdom and is slated for a 2013 release. Are there any plans to continue with the series after Clariel?

Yes. But if I told you, then I’d have to . . . actually, it has been previously announced that I am going to do another Old Kingdom novel after CLARIEL, one set soon after ABHORSEN. The events in CLARIEL take place several hundred years before SABRIEL when the Old Kingdom is peaceful and settled, at least on the surface, so in some ways it is more of a standalone novel that shares the setting.

4. Which of your characters burns brightest in your mind and why?

They all take turns to burn brightly! I guess they are brightest when they are being written, so whoever is currently mid-story shines the most brilliantly. So at the moment, that would be Clariel. But I’m also working on a few other projects at the same time (not literally at the exact same time, I juggle things around) so that sword and sorcerous duo Sir Hereward and Mister Fitz are also prominent in my mind right now.


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