Book Review: Because it is My Blood

Because it is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin

Series: Birthright #2

Published by Farrar Straus & Giroux (BYR) on September 18th 2012
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 368

Goodreads

“Every time I think I’m out, they pull me back in.”- Michael Corleone, The Godfather

Since her release from Liberty Children's Facility, Anya Balanchine is determined to follow the straight and narrow. Unfortunately, her criminal record is making it hard for her to do that. No high school wants her with a gun possession charge on her rap sheet. Plus, all the people in her life have moved on: Natty has skipped two grades at Holy Trinity, Scarlet and Gable seem closer than ever, and even Win is in a new relationship.But when old friends return demanding that certain debts be paid, Anya is thrown right back into the criminal world that she had been determined to escape. It’s a journey that will take her across the ocean and straight into the heart of the birthplace of chocolate where her resolve--and her heart--will be tested as never before.

Review: All These Things I've Done

I absolutely loved the first in this series and could not wait to dig into the sequel. I read it in one night, no joke.

Anya is quite the interesting character and I feel that she grows a bit more into herself and how she wants to be apart of the family business in this novel. I love seeing the romance set aside. A good portion of the book is set in Mexico on a cocoa farm, which I was happy to see that side of the business and will be interested to see where the next book will go. We're introduced to a character that really pulls Anya out of her feeling of being forced away from her family due to politics in America.

It's very hard to describe this book. It's a solid story-builder and I can't wait to see where Anya goes next on her journey and the tough decisions she will have to make. I enjoy the world, the characters and the plot lines to no end and I honestly wish this book wouldn't have ended. It's going to be hard to wait for the next book to come out.

Final Verdict: A fantastic follow up to All These Things I've Done and keeps you wanting more even during the slower parts of the novel.

Kristen

Kristen is the co-blog owner of The Book Monsters. I am a twenty-something year old who is passionate about reading. I am a Library Media Specialist in an elementary school in the suburbs of Chicago. When I'm not reading, I'm attending bookish events, spending time with my hubby, or catching up on TV shows (I am forever behind!).