Fay-Bay's Books

Can't believe it's been so long!

2012-02-24T10:38:00.000-05:00

So, I guess I did it again. I completely ignore everything when I'm in school because I'm so focused on my work and keeping my grades up. I need to maintain the highest GPA I can so I can gain acceptance into the Nursing program at my College. Of course that means I've been completely avoiding any blogging and only reading a chapter every other day in my current book. Every time I feel like I'll have some free time to get some reading done, one of my professors will assign a 5 page essay or an exam. There is always something! I promise to try and do better and post some reviews shortly. I'm fairly certain that, in a couple days, it will have been a month since I posted anything! Sorry about that. I'm glad that (most of you) are still here! Thank you! :)

Revelations by Melissa De La Cruz

2012-01-26T16:44:00.000-05:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 288 Pages

Publisher: Hyperion Book CH

ISBN-10: 1423102290

My Rating: 5/5

Schuyler Van Alen's blood legacy has just been called into question: is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force. When an ancient place of power is threatened in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high, the battle is bloody, and through it all Schuyler is torn between duty and passion, love and freedom.

True to Melissa De La Cruz's style and in typical Blue Blood's fashion, this book was incredible! Melissa De La Cruz is one of my favorite authors. I know that if I pick up one of her books to read, I'm going to love it! She's always my "go-to" author. If I'm kind of in a reading funk, I know to read one of her books and it gets me back on the band wagon. I don't know what I'm going to do when I run out of books to read by her! haha. There is not one thing that I didn't like about this book. Amazing!

Revelations' is the continuing story of Schuyler, Bliss, and Mimi. Schuyler is living with the Force's and hating it. She finally found her grandfather and now can't even live with him. On top of all that, she has been banned from talking to anyone she cares about. Schuyler's got it rough. I don't want to give away too much....although
I guess I just did. But, this book is fantastic.

I was actually so into this book when I was reading it that I couldn't focus on my school work. I actually had to walk away from it and finish reading 'Revelations' because I couldn't stop thinking about it. It was action packed and intense! I highly recommend this series, if you haven't had the opportunity to read it yet, you should! It's well worth it!

Earth Blend by Lori Pescatore

2012-01-18T12:49:00.000-05:00

Paperback: 194 Pages

Publisher: CreateSpace

ISBN: 9781463673567

My Rating: 4/5

Earth Blend is the second book in the Blend trilogy and the sequel to Human Blend. In this installment, the mysteries of the Blends and Earthlings are revealed. How can Julie live a normal life when she is anything but normal? Her relationship with Austin is complicated by emerging abilities in both. Trust is hard to come by as lies and secrets hinder them at every turn. Is the past destined to repeat itself as the Earthlings once again rush to save them? Te ensuing chaos breeds fatal consequences.

'Earth Blend' is the second book in the Blend trilogy by Lori Pescatore. This review isn't really going to contain much info about the book because, if you haven't read the first one, I don't want to ruin anything in the second one. It is definitely a must read book though! Pescatore stays true to her style through Earth Blend with all of our favorite characters making a return!

'Earth Blend' picks up right where 'Human Blend' left off. I think that was a plus for these books because I always find myself asking questions when there is a time frame in between and we don't know what happened. Not only does 'Earth Blend' pick up right where book one left off, but it also contains a lot of background information not only on the human blends, but the earth blends as well. For someone like me, this is another positive feature. I love to learn about characters in books and having such detailed info as Pescatore gave us, makes the characters seem more relatable and it allows you to really get to know them.

Overall, the Blend trilogy (book one and two) are awesome and I highly recommend the series. I actually went back and read some other reviews and there are a lot of positive reviews. I'm not sure why I didn't hear about this trilogy earlier. If you haven't had the chance to read the Blend trilogy yet, I insist that you do! So far book one and two are available as ebook and paperback. I can't wait to read book three in the Blend series!

Human Blend by Lori Pescatore

2012-01-13T10:15:00.000-05:00

Paperback: 234 Pages

Publisher: CreateSpace

ISBN: 978-1453765135

My Rating: 4/5

Marion, Virginia seemed like a nice place to live a normal life, but she is not a normal girl. Laney has special abilities that keep her looking over her shoulder as she makes her escape from the men who had kidnapped her.
A young doctor's interest is piqued when he witnesses her mysteriously curing a young child's illness. He befriends her due to his growing fascination with uncovering the true nature of her abilities, but not without harboring secrets of his own.
Laney's budding relationship with a local boy puts both of them in danger when the men she was hiding from find her. All of their lives will change forever as ancient secrets become unearthed.

'Human Blend' was so much more than I anticipated it to be. I loved the Characters (for the most part) and the storyline was consistent, engaging, and it made sense. As with all books and characters, there will probably be something you like and something you don't like. The only problem I had with any character in this book was Laney. She can be a bit much sometimes haha. But she is still a GREAT character.

'Human Blend' is the story of Laney who runs away from these terrible people and attempts to live in secret in Marion, Virginia. The people she is running from are the worst sort of people. Anyways, I don't want to say much about them. So, Laney has these abilities that we learn about throughout the book. The first thing we learn is that she can see numbers and she can heal people. Which is really why these people want her in the first place.

Overall, 'Human Blend' is an awesome book. I was hooked on it and actually read it all within a couple days which is something I haven't done since the summer! I can't wait to start book #2, 'Earth Blend' and see where Laney's story goes. I'm actually planning on starting it today! So, if you haven't checked out 'Human Blend' by Lori Pescatore (which is book one in a trilogy) you definitely should, you won't be disappointed!

Kevin's Point of View by Del Shannon

2012-01-08T14:23:00.000-05:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 400 Pages

Publisher: Flatiron View Books

ISBN: 978-0-615-40123-2

My Rating: 4/5

Kevin Tobin is a relatively ordinary twelve-year-old dealing with the aftermath of his father’s death in a mountain biking accident near their home in Boulder, Colorado. To escape from his emotional turmoil, Kevin has developed his imagination into a dangerous foil and a powerful ally. While he antagonizes his mother and sister through his superhero antics on an average Wednesday morning, his ability to escape inside a character’s head becomes critical to his survival after his life is once-again turned upside down a year after his father’s death.

A mysterious package arrives in the mail, Kevin and his best friend are hunted down by a ruthless villain set upon world domination who is determined to retrieve the package, and after enlisting Kevin’s teenage sister and her pizza-delivery boyfriend in a battle for control over time itself, the secret of Kevin’s whole existence is revealed to him by a source we never expected.

I don't know exactly where to start with 'Kevin's Point of View.' There were so many great things about it! I loved the story! It was cute and light but it still had depth and was completely engaging. From the first few pages you are sucked into Kevin's world and you get stuck there. I just wanted to keep reading because it was such an amazing story.

My favorite character in the story, hands down, is Kevin. I loved that you actually get to see his immaturity and how unpredictable he is. I found myself laughing as he would transform into "Captain Disaster!" Another character that I particularly liked in 'Kevin's Point of View' was the bad guy, Devin. He is completely relentless. He knows what he wants and he does NOT hold back when he goes after it. We get to really see how deranged and psychotic Devin really is when one of his first interactions with Kevin is to try and kill him. All the characters in this book were developed very well and I really liked something about all of them.

Del did a fantastic job of writing Kevin. He is one of my favorite characters to date! Reading 'Kevin's Point of View' was like actually living through Kevin. He is so imaginative and Shannon does an amazing job of portraying it to us. I really loved that it made me feel like I was experiencing these events through this 12 year old boy. I hope to read more from Shannon in the future and I'm hoping there will be another 'Kevin's Point of View.' Oh, and I can't finish my review without saying, the ending to this book was incredible!! I was being presumptuous through it thinking I knew what was going to happen, turns out I was wrong! I won't spoil the book or the ending because I think everyone should read 'Kevin's Point of View' be Del Shannon!

The Wedding Gift by Kathleen McKenna

2011-12-15T13:21:00.002-05:00

Paperback: 254 Pages

Publisher: Bell Bridge Books

ISBN: 978-1-61194-052-7

My Rating: 5/5

Leann wasn't good enough for her upper-crust in-laws, so they gave her the mansion none of them wanted. Years ago, something or someone in the house killed Leann's brother. Will its violent secrets kill her next?

I have to start off by saying WOW! I am totally blown away by Kathleen McKenna's writing in 'The Wedding Gift.' It's such an awesome feeling to find a book that you can relate to, that you love, that you are fully invested in and I've found that in this book. I was in the middle of midterms when I started reading this so it took me a little while to read but I will admit, it did pull me away from studying at times.

This book is about a girl named Leann who is completely conceited and thinks that nothing is ever good enough. She's materialistic in the worst way. Even through all her flaws, I loved Leann's character. She was deep but shallow at the same time. There is such character development and relationship development between characters that you find yourself fully involved in every aspect of it. Leann marries for money...basically. Which ends up being a terrible mistake. This book is all about murder, affairs, broken hearts and strong, strong emotions. Oh, and don't forget about the amazing paranormal aspect as well!

'The Wedding Gift' was simply stunning. I'm still reeling from it. I was so into the book that I stayed up until 3 in the morning reading it last night! It's absolutely amazing and I would recommend it to everyone! This is not a YA title explicitly but it plays out like one. It's like a YA for adults, if that makes sense. Definitely, definitely check out 'The Wedding Gift' by Kathleen McKenna, I promise you will not be disappointed!

In My Mailbox

2011-12-06T15:57:00.000-05:00

IMM is a weekly event hosted by the Story Siren.

This week I received:

Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead

Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

Divergent by Veronica Roth

In My Mailbox

2011-11-20T10:47:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

This is the first time in a long time that I've done an IMM post. But, I was at...Marshalls the other day looking at books and I found a bunch of super amazing books in the clearance bin for $1-$3! :)

Shiver-Maggie Stiefvater

13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Jane Eyre

What did you get in your mailbox?

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

2011-11-11T10:51:00.000-05:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 480 Pages

Publisher: Speak

ISBN-13: 978-0142419809

My Rating: 4/5

While other teenage girls daydream about boys, Calla Tor imagines ripping out her enemies' throats. And she wouldn't have it any other way. Calla was born a warrior and on her eighteenth birthday she'll become the alpha female of the next generation of Guardian wolves. But Calla's predestined path veers off course the moment she saves the life of a wayward hiker, a boy her own age. This human boy's secret will turn the young pack's world upside down and forever alter the outcome of the centuries-old Witches' War that surrounds them all.

So, it took me a lot longer than normal to read 'Nightshade.' I would have finished it really quick (because it was really good) except that I hit midterms by the time I was almost halfway through. And I feel like I have more schoolwork in this half of my semester than the first. Anyways, I really really really liked 'Nightshade'! After reading so many books where the female lead is some weak, dependent girl it's refreshing to read a great book with a strong female lead.

'Nightshade' is told through Calla, she is the alpha wolf in her pack. She is supposed to marry Ren who is the alpha of another pack but when she meets Shay, things start to head in a different direction. Calla really comes across as one of those straight arrow type of people. Always does what she's told and doesn't ask any questions. But from the moment she sees Shay, she defies every rule that was set out for her. What makes Nightshade such an amazingly lovable book is the fact that it has that "forbidden love" element to it.

While the storyline is very similar to that of other books, it's still unique. Calla is an extremely unique character. She's strong, independent, stands up for herself, she's a great character. There were a couple things I didn't like so much about 'Nightshade' though. I found that, after reading halfway through, there were a lot of characters I just didn't care about....which is never good. At any rate, 'Nightshade' is a good book and if you haven't checked it out yet, you should!

Hurricane Winner!

2011-10-21T11:03:00.000-04:00

So, I realized today that I hadn't announced a winner for the Hurricane ebook! Sorry, I'm in the middle of midterms. Anyways, the winner of the ebook is Bethzaida!!

Make sure you check your email soon! I will be emailing the author today to inform her that you won!! :)

More fun!

2011-10-16T20:03:00.000-04:00

OK, so this is probably my fourth post apologizing about my lack of posting. So, I have to apologize again because I noticed that I've lost a couple followers recently. I swear I'm still here and I'm reading when I can but I am in my first semester of College right and I am right in the middle of midterms! AH!! I'm trying to squeeze in reading when I can but I have had 5 essays, an APA paper, and 3 tests due in the last week. I have a midterm tomorrow and Tuesday. So, I'm really really busy. But I promise I will start reading more (I hope) and posting more once I get through midterms. Thanks guys!! :)

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

2011-10-12T09:38:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 368 Pages

Publisher: Hyperion Book CH

ISBN: 978-142312131-1

My Rating: 5/5

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch. That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (a.k.a. witches, shapeshifters, and faeries). But then she discovered her family secret, and the fact that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.
Turns out, Sophie's a demon, one of only two in the world-the other being her father. What's worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will either destroy her powers for good-or kill her.
But once Sophie arrives, she makes a shocking discovery. Her new housemates? They're demons too. Meaning, someone is raising demons in secret, with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they're using Archer to do it. But it's not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

The first thing I have to say about Demonglass is, what an ending. Like, total cliffhanger of the worst AND best kind. I mean, love it but hate that I have to wait! UGH! haha. I'm definitely going to be die before the next book comes out. I literally can not wait to read it! Demonglass picks up right where Hex Hall left off.

Demonglass is the continuing story of Sophie Mercer. She was a student at Hecate but finds herself rushed off to live in England with her dad. This book was just as amazing as the first one and 9 times out of 10, that's almost impossible to do. Hex Hall was one of my favorite reads of 2011. It is full of action and romance and all things that make books amazing. Demonglass does not disappoint! I found myself loving it as much as the first one!

I don't want to say too much about 'Demonglass' especially if some of you haven't read 'Hex Hall' yet. But if you haven't, you need to! It's amazing!! I usually try to read my books in the order I buy/receive them but for this one, I couldn't wait. I knew how much I loved the first one which is what made me grab it right away! I am anxiously awaiting book 3 in the 'Hex Hall' series, if that cliffhanger doesn't do me in first! Definitely, definitely check out this series, it's amazing!!

Book Blogger Hop!

2011-10-07T13:27:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books!

This week's question is:

It’s time to spread some love beyond the borders of the Book Blogger Hop! This week, we aren’t answering a question. We are spotlighting our fellow bloggers. Find your favorite(s) author interview(s), guest post(s), book review(s), or bookish article(s) that ANOTHER BOOK BLOGGER featured on their site recently and tell us why you love it/them! As an additional challenge, find your favorite one of EACH of the categories above and spotlight all 4 (interview, guest post, review, article).

So this one is really tough! haha. I love all the blogs I follow but I'll post about this one because she is super fantastic! And because I was just over on her blog earlier snooping around hehe. She is:

The Crazy Bookworm! and she recently did this (unrelated) post about her top 5 favorite zombie movies (LOVE ZOMBIES) and umm she's awesome! haha. Check it out! Also, she is having the best Halloween giveaway ever! So check that out too!! :)

So that's my one pick for right now haha. I might go hop around and find some more and then post those as well! :)

Author Guest Post and giveaway!!!!

2011-10-04T09:56:00.000-04:00

Guest post by author Jenna-Lynne Duncan! She has a totally awesome book coming out soon called 'Hurricane' that I think everyone should get, it goes towards a well worthy cause! It's explained in the post! Also, I am giving away 1 ebook version of 'Hurricane' for Jenna-Lynne Duncan!

“When I woke, Hayden hovered over me. I was outside, lying on the hard gravel of an unpaved country road.

“What purpose does this serve?” Luke spit as he leaned against the front of the truck.

“Quiet. She just needs some fresh air.” Hayden was kneeling down beside me, his body so close I could feel the sweet heat of his breath as he spoke. I didn’t want to move, but I couldn’t ignore the reality of the situation. I was being kidnapped and heading deeper into the swamp, where it was likely my body would never be found. The alligators would eat my remains, and soon there would be nothing left of me. I could see the headlines in the fictional newspapers in my head. I didn’t hesitate to think out an escape plan. Before I knew it, I was on my bare feet taking off in the other direction. I didn’t think about the alligators that were likely in the water next to me. I just knew I had to get to the main road.

“She’s running away?” I heard Hayden say in a surprising tone.

“Go get her!” Luke yelled from behind me. “

New Orleans has always been a place of intrigue and mystery; the setting of endless vampire and ghost stories. Some are more real than you may think. I wanted to tell Madame Lalaurie’s story and the history behind New Orleans most haunted mansion. It plays a brief, but dark, role in my novel Hurricane but there is a truth behind it.

When writing, I tried not to do extensive research on the house on Rue Royal. I wanted to use only information that I myself had heard growing up, making it a true ghost story. Importance is not in the details, rather how the story is told. Of course, today I do know more about Lalaurie and the mansion on Royal Street than perhaps I would have liked to. It all goes back to the 1800’s. 1140 Royal Street was the tallest and most beautiful house at that time. Three stories high, it had a big wraparound porch on the second level; perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras activities. But, there would be no fun in that house. It was a house filled with horror. In the late 1830’s Madame Lalaurie was a socialite. To those who were her guests, she was described as kind, and charming. But to her servants she was anything but. She would severely mistreat them; beat them- she even threw a young girl off her third story balcony. One day there was a fire in her home. As the town people came to help her retrieve her valuables, they made a gruesome discovery in the attic. The servants had been beaten up and chained to the floor. After the townspeople made the discovery, a mob had called for Lalaurie’s blood. By that time, she had fled. Some say she was reportedly laid to rest in France, while others claim she never left. You can still visit the house today - if you dare. In the market for a new home? Lucky for you, the house is for sale. Its previous owner, Nicholas Cage, recently foreclosed and the house is now bank- owned.

Thank you so much for having me on your blog and I hope y’all will check out my novel Hurricane; the first book in a brand new series.

About Hurricane: Hurricane is a paranormal romance novel for young adults. It follows Adriana Alexander, a high school teen whose dreams predict the future. When her dream of two mysterious brothers attending her school comes true, she makes it her goal to figure out the brothers’ secret. What she didn’t predict was that the brothers would kidnap her on the eve of Hurricane Katrina. The book chronicles the trio’s evacuation from New Orleans, complete with a touch of voodoo and a vengeful ghost, and Adriana’s eventual return to the devastated city she loves. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the New Orleans Habitat for Humanity.

Giveaway!!

1. You do NOT have to be a follower to enter

2. You must be 13 or older in order to enter

3. Contest Deadline is October 18th.

To enter the giveaway for 'Hurricane' just click here:

Hurricane Giveaway!!

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel

2011-09-29T10:44:00.002-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover (ARC): 480 Pages

Publisher: Del Rey

Release Date: October 18th, 2011

ISBN: 978-20-345-52331-0

My Rating: 4/5

The year is 2195. The place is New Victoria. Nora, a very human teenager living in high society, falls in love with Bram, a handsome and polite eighteen-year-old lieutenant who happens to be suffering from "the Laz," a disease that is slowly turning him into one of the walking dead. Bram is fully conscious and healthy enough to take on Nora, killer zombies, and the treacherous humans that plague his life-at least for now. But it is only a matter of time before the Laz will take him away from Nora forever.

EDIT!!
I have to change my review for 'Dearly, Departed.' The time that I read it, I was really busy with school work so that was all that was on my mind. I heard all these amazing things about 'Dearly, Departed' so I read it again when I had a few days with no work. I love it!! I can't believe I came on here and gave it such a bad review previously. I figured that I would leave my original review here as well as my new thoughts. But this book is definitely amazing and well worth the read!! PLUS, I just found out Lia Habel is from my part of NY, AWESOME!!! hehe. Great, great book!!
EDIT!!

I had really high hoped for 'Dearly, Departed.' It was my first zombie/dystopian novel and everyone is always talking about how good they are. I'm not really sure how I feel about 'Dearly, Departed.' I couldn't connect with the characters and I just wasn't interested in the story. I don't know if it's just me or what but I just...couldn't get into it at all. I tried and tried but it just never clicked for me. I began reading the book with a positive attitude about it but I could feel myself losing interest the more and more I read.

'Dearly, Departed' is the story of Nora Dearly. Her parents died and she lives with her Aunt. She find out that her dad is not dead, in fact he is a zombie. I guess they say he suffers from the Laz. Some things I found disturbing, like Nora's ability to fall for Bram even though he is a zombie...I won't say much about the story line because the books not out yet.

The reason I gave this book a 3 even though I couldn't connect with it, is because it is NOT poorly written. In fact, it's written rather well and I could see how people could connect to some of the characters. I just couldn't. Overall, it was an alright book, for me. I definitely think people should check it out because I'm sure it's going to be really popular! I'll probably try reading it again down the road.

200 Follower Giveaway!

2011-09-25T12:42:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I realized that I never did a giveaway for my 200 followers so I decided I should do one now. Especially since I haven't been posting much because I've been swamped with schoolwork. So, I'm going to give one person a copy of 'Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle.'

Rules for giveaway:

You MUST be a follower to enter

Only open to US and Canada

You must be 13 or older to enter

Contest open to entries until October 24th

Additional entries for tweeting, blog posting and Facebook posts

The more followers I get, the more books I'll add to the giveaway!

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Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer

2011-09-21T10:08:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 754 Pages

Publisher: Little Brown

ISBN-10: 031606792X
ISBN-13: 9780316067928

My Rating: 1/5

From Amazon:
In Breaking Dawn, to be irrevocably in love with a vampire is both fantasy and nightmare woven into a dangerously heightened reality for Bella Swan. Pulled in one direction by her intense passion for Edward Cullen, and in another by her profound connection to werewolf Jacob Black, a tumultuous year of temptation, loss, and strife have led her to the ultimate turning point. Her imminent choice to either join the dark but seductive world of immortals or to pursue a fully human life has become the thread from which the fates of two tribes hangs.

Now that Bella has made her decision, a startling chain of unprecedented events is about to unfold with potentially devastating, and unfathomable, consequences. Just when the frayed strands of Bella's life-first discovered in Twilight, then scattered and torn in New Moon and Eclipse-seem ready to heal and knit together, could they be destroyed... forever?

I wasn't going to write a review for 'Breaking Dawn' even though I posted reviews for 'Twilight,' 'New Moon' and 'Eclipse.' I finally decided that I would post my review because I did post the other ones. And even though I hated 'Breaking Dawn' I should still write it. I really did hate 'Breaking Dawn.' I read the whole thing probably just as quickly as I read the other 3 books, but I hated it the whole time. I feel like, Meyer just wrote it an released it to make more money or something. There really is no point to the book. I mean, for a bunch of vampires, willing to lay their lives on the line for Bella, they are pretty submissive.

The whole book, I guess, is about the Volturi and the Cullens. Edward is supposed to turn Bella into a vampire or something, I don't know, whatever. So, they show up there and I was all excited that there was going to be some kind of epic battle and people would die and it would be awesome. Instead, they talked out their problems. WHAT? Excuse me? NO! lol. I mean, really? I can't even fully express how pissed off I was when I read the last book. I remember ranting about it to anyone that would listen. How stupid the final book was and that I HATED it. Lame, lame, lame.

I actually didn't watch Twilight the movie until after I read the book. I always read the book first. And by the time I jumped on the "Twilight bandwagon" New Moon was in production. But I've always loved Twilight. Well, I loved the books. But 'Breaking Dawn,' terrible and I will NOT spend money to see it....at least see it in theaters lol. I refuse! I will watch it eventually though, I have to right? haha. Anyways, 'Breaking Dawn' was a huge let down for me. I hated it. But I still love the series...just not 'Breaking Dawn.'

In My Mailbox

2011-09-18T09:51:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren.

I don't remember what the last books I posted were...but I just got 2 books this week so I'll just post about those! :)

This week I bought:

Signed First Edition of Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

and

Revelations by Melissa De La Cruz

What did you get in your mailbox?

The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle by L.J. Smith

2011-09-15T09:58:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 512 Pages

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN-10: 006114097X
ISBN-13: 978-0061140976

My Rating: 2/5

Elena: the golden girl, the leader, the one who can have any boy she wants.
Stefan: brooding and mysterious, he seems to be the only one who can resist Elena, even as he struggles to protect her from the horrors that haunt his past.
Damon: sexy, dangerous, and driven by an urge for revenge against Stefan, the brother who betrayed him. Determined to have Elena, he'd kill to posses her.

I know that a lot of people really loved this book And I'm fairly certain that even more loved the show but I didn't like either. I initially picked up 'The Vampire Diaries' book because it was recommended to me to read after Twilight. Now, I don't know if it was because this series pales in comparison to 'Twilight' or what it is but I really didn't like it. I actually couldn't even read the second book in this book because I didn't like it that much. And the only reason I went out and got it when I did, was because I wanted to read it before watching the show. I don't like the show either.

I'm not even really sure what to write here. I usually just tell everyone what the book is about that I read but I'm going to leave that part out. I think I will ask people some questions instead. Like, did anyone else really like this series? And if so, does it get better later on? I really just could NOT get into it, no matter how much I wanted to. I might give the series another shot though. I don't know that I'll watch the show but I will probably try reading the books again. Really though, it wasn't for me. And if my opinion changes the next time I read it, I'll be sure to jump on and post a new review with my changed rating.

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

2011-09-12T08:50:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 Pages

Publisher: HarperCollins

ISBN-10: 0061779814

My Rating: 5/5

Violet strained to see into the lake below. Multihued light seemed to be radiating up from beneath the water, centered among the reeds, and then diffusing outward as it reached the surface. Violet had never seen anything like it, and she knew that the spectrum of light was defying its very nature behaving in that way.
It could only be one thing.
There was something dead down there.

I put off reading 'The Body Finder' for a while because I had a lot of other books that I wanted to read ahead of it. And I wasn't so sure about it. I heard a couple good reviews and a couple bad reviews. After reading what it was about, I decided to get it. It's not so often you find a book about a girl who can sense the dead. I was instantly happy with this book. I really loved it, and I should know by now that if I put off reading a book, 9 out of 10 times, it's amazing! I don't know why I do it but I'm glad I do. It means I'm almost certain to have an amazing book to read and 'The Body Finder' was no exception.

'The Body Finder' tells the story of an average high school girl named Violet Ambrose. She has had a best friend her whole life named Jay who is a main character in the story as well. Ever since Violet was old enough to remember, she has been able to hear, taste, and see people's "echos." Violet usually can't ignore some of these echoes so she comes up with a thing where she will bury them in her backyard in her own makeshift cemetery and the echoes become less noticeable. Violet stumbles upon the echoes and bodies from a serial killer in her area and soon becomes an essential part of the investigation that puts her life, and those she loves, in danger.

Overall, 'The Body Finder' was an amazing story. I absolutely love it and I will definitely be going out and getting the next book in the series when I am out on my next book buying binge! There are a lot of characteristics that make this book amazing. For one, the characters are awesome, believable and similar to people you would know in real life. Two, there is some major romance and jealousy and all that good stuff in here too. It's mystery, it's a romance, it's YA. Really, it's just incredible and I highly recommend it!

College, wow!

2011-09-06T19:26:00.001-04:00

Hey guys, I just wanted to write a quick post and let everyone know that I'm still here ha ha. I started College last week and, let me tell you, I've been completely swamped. I feel like I don't even have time to breathe but, it is my first time in College. So, I'm sure once I get used to the way things work there and get adjusted to College life, I'll have more time to read and post reviews. I'm hoping to have a couple interviews up soon as well as some reviews. Although I find that 90% of my time is devoted to school work and reading, I try to use the other 10% to read and sleep. So, please, bare with me. I promise things will be back to normal soon! Thanks guys!!

Book Blogger Hop!

2011-09-02T10:11:00.000-04:00

Book Blogger Hop is a weekly event hosted by Crazy for Books.

This week's question is:

“What are you most looking forward to this fall/autumn season – A particular book release? Halloween? The leaves changing color? Cooler temperatures? A vacation? (If your next season is other than fall/autumn, tell us about it and what you are most looking forward to in your part of the world!)”

I love Fall! I love winter next to fall...but they are pretty close in comparison. I wish I lived somewhere where it was Fall and Winter all year. Maybe with Spring so I could go camping! haha. I love the way the outdoors feels in the Fall. The way the leaves look when they are changing color, and the fact that it's cool, but not cold. That and I love Halloween! haha. I just like the whole, get dressed up and go to a party or something. My next favorite season is Winter though. I love the snow. Like, love love LOVE! I love that it's cold out. My hubby likes to go snowboarding too so it gives me alone time hehe.

New England Witch Chronicles by Chelsea Bellingeri

2011-08-31T10:31:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 356 Pages

Publisher: CreateSpace

ISBN-10: 1463648979
ISBN-13: 978-14636978

My Rating: 5/5

From Amazon:
The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 were an embarrassing stain on America’s revered past. Innocent people were persecuted at the hands of a few over-zealous puritans. But what if there were real witches during those colonial hunts? What if there are witches in present day New England? That is what Alexandria Ramsey’s crazy grandmother believes. Grandma Claudia claims Alex descends from a long line of New England witches. Modern day witches in Hazel Cove, Massachusetts? Unlikely, but strange things are occurring in the weeks preceding Alex’s seventeenth birthday, which also coincides with her family’s annual Halloween party. Alex is haunted by bizarre reoccurring nightmares of a man chasing her through the Hazel Cove Cemetery. On a few occasions, when her emotions have spiraled out of control, inanimate objects have shattered around her. But that’s just a coincidence, right? Alex isn’t so sure, especially after a local girl, who supposedly dabbled in witchcraft, was killed in the nearby forest. Alex knows something strange is happening to her. With the arrival of a new boy in town, the mischievous James Van Curen, who is making her life difficult and causing problems between Alex and her best friend, Peter, Alex feels like her entire world is on the verge of chaos. Could Alex really be a witch? Is it possible Hazel Cove will become a battleground for modern day witches and witch hunters?

The first word that comes to mind when I think about 'New England Witch Chronicles' is WOW! I didn't really know what to expect when I started reading it. I read the description for the book, thought it sounded interesting so I agreed to review it. I never knew what I was getting into or that I would love it this much! I mean, I'm totally blown away! I can't believe that this book has not gotten more recognition than what it has, it's incredible! I also can't believe that I haven't heard of it before. I would have completely devoured this entire book in one sitting if I didn't have other things to do. Even now, I'm anxious to read more but there isn't more. There will be a book 2 and I can not wait to get my hands on it.

The story is that of Alex Ramsey. She lives in Hazel Cove, Massachusetts in an area known as the Hallows. Her father, Victor, is an attorney and her mother a drunk. She has a lifelong best friend named Peter. I really don't want to say too much about the book...because I want everyone to read it. I insist! But, Alex notices weird things going on around her. And most of them start with the arrival of a new kid at school, James, and his father. These events almost tear apart the one relationship she cherishes most out of them all, her lifelong friendship with Peter.

'New England Witch Chronicles' surpassed my expectations in a drastic way. I couldn't imagine loving this book as much as I do. And the ending was to die for! I mean, it's a cliffhanger and I practically got goosebumps! I'm not sure right now when the next book comes out, but I can assure you, the day it's out, I'll be first in line to buy it. This book deserves WAY more attention that what it's currently getting and I think everyone should read it. It was simply amazing!

In My Mailbox

2011-08-28T09:45:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

I haven't done IMM in a couple weeks so this is from all of those weeks! hehe.
For review:
New England Witch Chronicles by Chelsea Bellingeri

From RAK:
Bones of Faerie by Jamie Lee Simner-from Sara @ Urban Fantasy Reader
Torment by Lauren Kate-from Lacey @ Owl Love You Books
Thank you both!!! :)
Won:
Still Missing by Chevy Stevens

Bought:
The Secret Garden
Alice in Wonderland

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-08-26T10:47:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books.

This weeks question is:

“Non-book-related this week!! Do you have pets?”

Yes I do!! I love animals haha. But I have one cat right now. She is a cross but looks like a Norwegian Forest Cat. This isn't a picture of her, she's WAY cuter hehe, but that's what she looks like:

Well...she looks similar to that. And her name is Bella, but not because of Twilight. haha.

I hope everyone post's pictures of their pets. I can't wait to see them! I love animals! :)

Oriana's Eyes by Celeste Simone

2011-08-25T12:38:00.001-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 268 Pages

Publisher: iUniverse

ISBN-10: 144018724X
ISBN-13: 978-1440187247

My Rating: 4/5

As a pure-blood Winglet, Oriana isn't supposed to look at a half-blood much less speak to one. Half-bloods are the lowest of all races at Odon's University, because they are half Winglet and half Finlet. But when the half-blood, Dorian, locks eyes with her in the hallway, Oriana can't help becoming intrigued by his daring nature.
After sneaking out to the garden in the middle of the night to talk to him, Oriana knows she can't let her feelings go. She fears not following Odon's rules, but the more she sees Dorian the more she wants to break them all.
As Oriana's idea of perfection beings to crumble she seeks a way out of the imprisoning University that threatens not only her happiness, but her very life.
Dorian promises he has a plan to take her far away, but Oriana doubts they can escape Odon's all-seeing eye. She isn't sure what she fears more, being stuck in the University or finding out what lies beyond.

I was immediately drawn to 'Oriana's Eyes' after being contacted by the author and reading the synopsis. I hadn't heard of it before but I'm glad to have had the chance to read it because I really liked it. Oriana's story, and everyone else in the world Simone has created, is sad and beautiful at the same time. There is so much raw emotion in 'Oriana's Eyes' and it leaves you thinking about it long after you finish reading.

'Oriana's Eyes' is the story of Oriana. She is a Winglet at the University under the reign of Odon. Odon is like....a godly figure in the story. He controls everything, sets all the rules, and he has a group of Odonians to carry out his demands. Oriana has always been different. She always thinks outside the box and has never fully fallen under the same spell as everyone else. The Winglets and Finlets look down on the Half-Bloods and Part-Bloods but she doesn't. She stands out and it's her willingness to embrace that which is different and the fact that she isn't necessarily afraid that makes her stick out to Dorian. But because Dorian is a half-blood, they can't be together.

'Oriana's Eyes' is the first book in the 'Great Oak Trilogy' and I honestly can't wait to read the rest. Although 'Oriana's Eyes' ended on a final note that it could be one conclusive book, there is still so much possibility for a further story. I can't wait to find out what happens with Dorian. Will the power get to his head and he'll become like Odon? Or will he always find that safety and strength in Oriana to keep him level headed and in control? I will definitely be on the lookout for book number 2.

Micheal Grant's New Series 'Go BZRK'

2011-08-23T08:19:00.000-04:00

I have to share this awesome new thing I was contacted about. It's a "transmedia" type of thing. It's definitely a book but there are SO many other aspects to it so, I had to share! I'm super excited about it! So, here is, pretty much, everything you need to know about it and I hope you will all check it out:

The missing son of a U.N. diplomat... the reemergence of a strange organization... a pair of society twins caught in the middle... this is just the beginning of "Go BZRK," a new transmedia experience from author Michael Grant.

If you're ready to take the plunge in an interactive story like you've never experienced before, visit societytwins.com and register with nexushumanus.com to take your first steps in a strange and compelling universe.Filled with video, puzzles, community collaboration, and more, "Go BZRK" put YOU the player right in the middle of the action as you join Nexus Humanus and unravel a mystery that may hold the key to the fate of all mankind.

A Q&A with author Michael Grant.

What is “Go BZRK”? Is this a book or some kind of interactive story?

Both. The book comes out this winter, but the interactive part starts now. One leads up to the other, but they're part of a complete package.

Why “transmedia”?

There are different approaches to transmedia. Most people take a single story and reproduce it on various platforms. My philosophy has been to make each element - ARG, app, web, book - a thing unto itself, each revealing some aspect of the world of BZRK. I've been fascinated with this is as a new way to tell stories. The book remains central, but now I can reach beyond the book and create a much more complete world. I can tell stories that enhance the book, and stories that parallel the book, and stories that are offshoots of backstory. I guess the answer to "why" is "because it's fun."

Is this the future of publishing?

I began a few years ago reaching out to publishers and saying we collectively needed to understand that the old models were dead or dying. I want publishing to survive, and of course I'd like my own career to thrive. So Egmont Publishing and my partners and I certainly hope this is a part of the future of publishing.

How long is this running? Is this part of a larger picture?

We'll be running this in several chunks between now and the book release this winter. Because these things have a hard start/stop point, August is a ramp-up phase. There'll be a lot of content coming out, but the experience really gets underway at the end of the month… just in time to distract the kids from their schoolwork.

What if someone wants to follow the story but doesn’t want to participate?

You don't have to do anything. You can do one thing and not another. But the deeper you plunge the wetter you get. I think every part of this is fun, I think people will enjoy the ARG, the app, the site and the books.

App? You've mentioned that a couple times now.

Just wait and see.

What can you tell us about the story? What is “BZRK”?

It's a battle for the soul and freedom of the human race carried out simultaneously in the world we know, and in a world that you're not going to expect. It's a world where if you make a false move, you're going to lose your mind.

Insanity… is this something you have a personal familiarity with?

The line between writer and crazy person is very thin. Both go around holding long, involved conversations with people who aren't there.

What’s this other world thing all about?

Do you really want spoilers? I'll tell you this. We'll be going "down in the meat." It's going to be vast, bloody, and beautiful.

Wait… isn’t this supposed to be for kids?

Adults like to flatter themselves that kids won't get, won't understand, won't be able to handle, more intense, more complex stories. That's nonsense. It's the adults who are easy to creep out or scare. Say the word "biopsy" in a room full of adults. Or "audit." See? Easy to scare. Kids are a tougher audience because kids think they're immortal.

I hope that answers many of the questions people have about 'Go BZRK.' To me, it sounds incredible and I can't wait to dive into it!

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-08-19T10:01:00.001-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy For Books.

This week's question is:

“What’s the LONGEST book you’ve ever read?”
(Note: I’m putting one caveat on this question. You aren’t allowed to say the Bible, Torah, Qur’an, or other religious/spiritual text.)

I honestly have no idea what the longest single book I've read is. I've read a lot. But, I have to also say it was probably a Stephen King novel. I own practically every Stephen King novel and I've read them all. So I'm sure one of them had to have been the longest haha.

Released by Megan Duncan

2011-08-18T10:49:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 260 Pages

Publisher: CreateSpace

ISBN-10: 1461017726
ISBN-13: 978-1461017721

My Rating: 5/5

After a demon apocalypse kills their parents and everyone they know, 17-year old Abby Phillips, her brother Carter, and friend, Max flee their home to travel through what has become the wastelands of America. When radio transmissions of a resistance offering shelter and safety cease, Abby is tempted to give up. Struggling to overcome life-threatening obstacles in their dangerous journey, Abby and her companions quickly discover there are much worse things lurking in the dark than they could have ever imagined.

I've been wanting to read 'Released' by Megan Duncan for a long time. So I'm happy I was finally able to. 'Released' is an incredible book. It was a lot better than I even thought it was going to be! I not only fell in love with the characters, but I fell in love with the story. I connected with the characters very easily, which was a bit shocking, and the relationships between the characters is easy to believe. I've read a few books lately where I felt either disconnected from the characters or the characters were disconnected from the story. I'm happy to say, this was not one of those times! Duncan does an amazing job of showing the emotions of all the characters in 'Released.' You can feel their pain as you read, or their happiness. Their success' and failures.

'Released' tells the story of Abby, her brother Carter, and her long time crush (and Carter's best friend) Max. They lost both of their parents, mom when they were younger, and dad from the demon apocalypse. 'Released' is basically their struggle for survival against the thousands of demons, hell hounds, gremlins, and completely insane people while they travel to a military safe zone in New Mexico. They have to travel across the Country but, luckily for them, they have some experience. Along the way they meet some....interesting people. They rescue a girl named Taya and she quickly becomes a part of their group.

Duncan did an amazing job writing 'Released.' It's one of those books that you can feel as you're reading it. When they are being attacked by a demon, you can feel their fear just from the way Duncan writes. I'm definitely in love with character Abby and I can't wait to read book 2 in the series! I will definitely be keeping an eye out for that especially with the way things ended in 'Released.'

Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

2011-08-16T09:34:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback (ARC): 320 Pages

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Release Date: September 27, 2011

ISBN: 978-0-312-59056-7

My Rating: 4/5

In this thrilling first installment, a violent battle separates two young lovers on a ship bound for New Earth. Will they find a way back to their ship-and each other? And most importantly, will the survive and preserve the future of the human race?

When I first started reading 'Glow' I thought it was similar to 'Across The Universe' by Beth Revis. However, the more I read, the more I realized how entirely different the two books are. 'Glow' jumps right into action within the first couple of chapters. And it's one of those books that keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire book! The book never really dragged for me but my opinion started to change a little towards the end.

'Glow' is the story of Keiran and Waverly. Two children on the spaceship Empyrean on a route to New Earth. That's why I felt it was similar to 'Across The Universe' and for those reasons alone. 'Glow' quickly distinguishes itself as an action packed, enticing read, that is unlike any other. I literally have not read a book even remotely close to 'Glow.'

Ryan sets herself apart from her competition in a fierce way. She is a notable up and coming and I'm very interested to read the rest of the series. I was completely enthralled in 'Glow' from about a third of the way in and couldn't put it down after. I quickly jumped into Ryan's world and loved every minute of it! It's a fantastic story with awesome characters and an incredible story line. And her ability to make you anxious to keep reading and building suspense, incredible! I will definitely be on the look out for the next book in the series and I think everyone should check out 'Glow' on September 27th.

In My Mailbox

2011-08-14T08:00:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted over at The Story Siren.

This week I received:
For Review:

Oriana's Eyes by Celeste Simone

Released by Megan Duncan

RAK:
The Tiger's Curse by Colleen Houck-thank you Lacey @ Owl Love You Books! :)

Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow

2011-08-13T10:13:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 304 Pages

Publisher: Razorbill

ISBN-10: 1595142517
ISBN-13: 978-1595142511

My Rating: 3/5

The Real World is a frightening place. Just ask sixteen-year-old Dru Anderson, a tough girl who has taken down her fair share of bad guys. She's armed, dangerous, and ready to kill first and ask questions later. So it's gonna take her a while to figure out who she can trust...
Dru Anderson has been "strange" for as long as she can remember, traveling from town to town with her father to hunt the things that go bump in the night. It's a weird life, but a good one-until it all explodes in an icy, broken-down Dakota town, when a hungry zombie bursts through her kitchen door. Alone, terrified, and trapped, Dru's going to need every inch of her wit and training to stay alive. The monsters have decided to hunt back-and this time, Dru's on their menu. Chances oh survival? Slim to none.

'Strange Angels' by Lili St. Crow was really slow for me. I didn't get into it right away and at times, it felt like it really dragged. I thought I'd check it out because I saw it advertised in the back of one of my 'Vampire Academy' books. So, I checked it out but I didn't think it was really a series for me. I love the show 'Supernatural' which is what this book sort of reminds me of. It's like a mix of 'Supernatural,' 'Twilight' and 'Vampire Academy.' The ending of 'Strange Angels' changed my opinion of the book though. I was contemplating giving this book a lower rating but I liked the ending. And it's because of it, that I'll be getting the next book in the series.

'Strange Angels' is the story of Dru Anderson. Her mother died when she was very young, and her father is a hunter of the supernatural. He goes after all things from Suckers to Zombies. Dru is used to moving so, when her father moves her from Florida to Dakota, it's no surprise. What is a surprise, is that her father doesn't come home one night. While Dru is at school, she meets a boy named Graves. Graves becomes her savior in many ways. And he is always a strong point for her. He gives up and does a lot for her. It's a good story but I felt that it was a little slow for me. The end of the book had a lot going on but for me, everything else was a little slow.

I really didn't think that the ending would have changed the way I felt about the book. While I liked the characters, I couldn't really connect with them. It was difficult. However, they were interesting and all have very distinct qualities that set them apart. There is good character development, and in the end you are left with questions. Now that I've finished reading 'Strange Angels' I want to know what happens next. How tough will Dru really be? What happens with Christophe? Will we learn more about Dru's mom? I have lots of questions. And it's because of that, that I will definitely be getting book 2, 'Betrayals.'

And I'm back!

2011-08-11T09:39:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that, I'm home from vacation. I got in really late last night but I'm home. I have some awesome stuff going on in the next few weeks and a couple of those things will be giveaways. I hope to have an author interview or two! And some reviews, of course. But, I'd like to take today to recuperate and do some laundry! Just wanted to let everyone know I'm back! : )

Vacation!

2011-08-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

Hey guys, I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm going on vacation for a week. I'll be camping in Canada and I won't be back until next Thursday! So I won't be able to post anything until I get back on Thursday.
But, when I get back I'm planning on having a giveaway because I just realized that I didn't have my 200 follower giveaway yet! AH! And I'm SO excited to be over 200 followers, thank you! :)
So, next Thursday, watch out for an awesome giveaway! See you all then! :)

A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

2011-08-01T10:05:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback (ARC): 400 Pages

Publisher: HarperTeen

Release Date: September 27, 2011

ISBN: 978-0-06-199056-6

My Rating: 5/5

Skye first sees dark, charming Asher and golden, reserved Devin on the night of her seventeenth birthday. She has no idea what they want, or why they seem to follow her every move. They even know things about her that strangers could never know. Soon she begins to question not just the identity of the two boys, but also the truth about her own past.
Skye's torn between the one she can't help falling for and the one she can't stay away from. The consequences of her choice will reach further than the three of them could ever imagine.

'A Beautiful Dark' by Jocelyn Davies is one of the most amazing reads that I've experienced in a long time. I literally just finished reading it and I jumped right on the computer to write this review. It catches your interest from the start and holds it. And the ending, WOW! 'A Beautiful Dark' is incredible and I can definitely see myself reading it again and again! Jocelyn Davies delivered with 'A Beautiful Dark,' I'm still trying to stop reeling from all the excitement!

I won't say much about 'A Beautiful Dark' because it's an ARC. But, I will say, it was fantastic. I haven't been so in love with a book since Twilight, or The Hunger Games! 'A Beautiful Dark' is about a teenage girl named Skye. She has a very tragic story. She doesn't really doesn't date much, but she doesn't have that typical "average teenage girl" thing that you see in so many books lately. She's opinionated, thinks logically, and is all around, an amazing character!

I think that everyone should put 'A Beautiful Dark' by Jocelyn Davies on their wish list. For me, it's an absolute must have! I was completely captivated by it through the entire read. Davies has an incredible writing style that hooks into you and makes you want to read more and more! This is her debut novel, and wow, did she make an entrance onto the YA scene. Everyone will love 'A Beautiful Dark' especially fans of 'Fallen' and 'Twilight.'

In My Mailbox

2011-07-31T10:20:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren,

This week I received:
Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

and from Random Buzzers:
Faerie Winter by Jamie Lee Simner

What did you receive in your mailbox?

The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver

2011-07-30T09:46:00.001-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 368 Pages

St. Martin's Griffin: February 1, 2011

ISBN: 978-0-312-61478-0

My Rating: 3/5

Seventeen-year-old Rile, the only daughter of legendary demon trapper Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps. The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta's local Trappers Guild needs all the help it can get-even from a girl. When she's not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice Simon, Riley's out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils-Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life's about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.
But the a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley's routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood. And as if that wasn't bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart-and her life?

'The Demon Trapper's Daughter' by Jana Oliver was not what I expected. I actually don't even know what I really expected from it but that wasn't it. I felt very disconnected from the characters. I just couldn't...click with them. There was no appeal for me. The story line was decent. There were a few things I didn't like and a few things I did like.

The story is about Riley, a high school girl who is an apprentice demon trapper. Her father is also a demon trapper and her long time crush, Beck. Riley has experienced a lot of heartache and loss in her life and it continues throughout 'The Demon Trapper's Daughter.' Riley was a confusing character for me. She never really stuck with one personality throughout the book. At one point, she was a valley girl and all "omigod, did you see that totally cute guy? He's so amazing!" And then other times, she's completely mature and grownup. She doesn't talk like some love struck teenage girl. Sometimes she hates everyone, then she loves them. And I never really felt the love interest buildup the way I do in some books. However Riley's demon fighting, and Becks, is always a good time!

Well 'The Demon Trapper's Daughter' is not one of my favorite books, I still liked it. I thought it had some endearing qualities and had some annoyingly redundant aspects. I'll still be picking up the next book in the series which I think is set to come out in August. But it's definitely not on the top of my "most wanted" list.

Follow My Book Blog Friday

2011-07-29T09:54:00.002-04:00

Follow My Book Blog Friday is a weekly even hosted by Parajunkee's View

This week's question is:

Q. Let's step away from books for a second and get personal. What T-Shirt slogan best describes you?

It's hard to find a t-shirt that matches me...but I think this one explains just how deep my love for it is LOL:

This shirt is from Busted Tees

Love this week's question! Can't wait to see everyone's t-shirt! hehe.

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-07-27T09:54:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly even hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My WoW pick this week is:

Bloodlines

By: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: August 23, 2011

From Amazon:
When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

What are you Waiting on this week? Don't forget to leave links! :)

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2011-07-25T09:29:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 391 Pages

Publisher: Scholastic

ISBN-13: 978-0-439-02349-8
ISBN-10: 0-439-02349-1

My Rating: 5/5

Against all odds, Katniss has won the Hunger Games. She and fellow District 12 tribute Peeta Mellark, are miraculously still alive. Katniss should be relieved, happy even. After all, she has returned to her family and her longtime friend, Gale. Yet nothing is the way Katniss wishes it to be. Gale holds her at an icy distance. Peeta has turned his back on her completely. And there are whispers of a rebellion against the Capitol-a rebellion that Katniss and Peeta may have helped create.
Much to her shock, Katniss has fueled an unrest she's afraid she cannot stop. And what scares her even more is that she's not entirely convinced she should try. As time draws near for Katniss and Peeta to visit the districts on the Capitol's cruel Victory Tour, the stakes are higher than ever. If they can't prove, without a shadow of a doubt, that they are lost in their love for each other, the consequences will be horrifying.

'Catching Fire' is the second book in 'The Hunger Games' series by Suzanne Collins. I fell in love with 'The Hunger Games' and all the characters. All this book did, was make me love it more! 'The Hunger Games' is one of the most incredible series I've read to date. I love it! Collins came up with an incredible series and I'm thankful I get to live in that world if even for a short time!

'Catching Fire' is the continuing story of Katniss Everdeen. She is doing a tour through the 12 districts with Peeta for being the Victors of the 74th Hunger Games. Life isn't much better for her though. She still seems really depressed and she's torn between Gale and Peeta. I love how Collins broke down her struggle in this book for Peeta and Gale. If she chooses Peeta, she's doing what the Capitol wants. If she choose Gale, she's choosing to rebel and will put her life and the life of everyone she loves in jeopardy. And then there is a crazy twist in 'Catching Fire,' actually there is a couple twists.

Collins did an amazing job continuing the story of Katniss. I love the series so much! I really can't even describe how much I love it! haha. I know that 'Hunger Game's is being made into a movie so I'm really anxious to see it! And I'm really anxious to read the last book in the series, 'Mockingjay.' As for 'Catching Fire,' it's amazing!!!

Vacation!

2011-07-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to write a post and let everyone know that I'm going to be gone from today until Monday. So I won't be able to post on my blog till Tuesday! : ( Sorry guys! I thought I should come on and let everyone know that I'll be away and I didn't just stop blogging haha.
Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend and if you live down near my end (NY) try to stay out of that heat! UGH!

Happy Reading! :)

Blog Tour & Guest Post: Mishap & Mayhem by M.M. Shelley

2011-07-21T10:32:00.000-04:00

Blurb:

For centuries magical beings have hidden in the darkness, waiting. Some good, some evil. A battle is brewing, and only twins, Grasiella and Tatiana, have the power to stop it.

Buy links: Amazon, B&N, Smashwords

Bio:

M.M. Shelley is a storyteller, wordsmith and dreamer. MISHAP AND MAYHEM, a captivating story of faerie's and magic, is her debut novel. She has traveled the world extensively in search of the magic which is often overlooked in every day life. M.M. Shelley is a native of southern California, and a student of mythology from which she gets much inspiration.

Links: www.mmshelley.com / http://mmshelley.blogspot.com/

By the Sea Shore

The sea has always fascinated me; I think it has to do with the fact that it is so massive and filled with ancient stories. There are stories of pirates who had fought and died on the seas, forbidden romances, and romance lost. Stories of ghost who haunt lighthouses and lighthouse keepers with strange disappearances, stories of betrayal and revenge, wars won and lost.

My love for the sea is what inspired me to write a fantasy that involved the sea. Hawaii was the perfect setting for my story, I found the history to be so rich and I also don’t believe it’s shared enough. The islands are filled with some great stories of mythology and folklore.

When I first started talking to my friends and family about my story most of them thought that Hawaii was an odd place for a fantasy. I stuck with my ideas and I wrote Mishap & Mayhem, the story of twins Grasiella and Tatiana who visit their grandmother over the summer. I myself spent a summer with my grandparents and have some of the best memories. No, they didn’t live in Hawaii, but that was okay.

My grandfather did tell me stories, some of them about the sea. My grandfather use to go fishing some weekends and there is one story he told that was about a fisherman. The fisherman took his boat out real early one morning before there was light; he always went out into the sea alone, he liked the solitude.
He set up his nets like he normal did and turned away. There was a splash in the water near his boat; this got his attention because it was so close to his boat. He looked for his flash light to check the water, but it wasn’t in the place it should be. In his pocket was a lighter, he pulled it out giving it a flick as he held it over the water leaning over as he did so.

A mermaid was caught in the bindings of the nets. The fisherman was so surprised that he dropped the lighter into the sea. Before the fire extinguished it burnt the net giving the mermaid enough slack to break her way free. She did not disappear into the water; instead she reached for the fisherman and said to him, “You will not be catching any fish today or any day.” The fisherman would have been dragged into the sea below if he did not quickly pull out a pocket knife and fight the mermaid off.

My grandfather ended his story with this advice, “There are two things you make sure you have with you when you go fishing. A pocket knife and a beer, because with the one you never know what’s out in those waters and the other, at least you could always say you weren’t sober and couldn’t be sure.”

Thanks to Fay-Bay’s Books for letting me share with you all today. Please share with me what stories are some of your favorites. You can also find me over at my blog: mmshelley.blogspot.com and on twitter @MM_Shelley

Much love,
M.M. Shelley

Across The Universe by Beth Revis

2011-07-18T13:04:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 416 Pages

Publisher: Razorbill

ISBN: 978-1-59514-397-6

My Rating: 5/5

Amy and her parents are cryogenically frozen passengers aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed. They have been led to believe they will wake up on a new planet, 300 years in the future.
But fifty years before Godspeed's scheduled landing, Amy is mysteriously unplugged from her cryo chamber, the near-victim of an attempted murder.
Amy discovers an enclosed world where nothing makes sense, where Godspeed's passengers have forfeited all control to Eldest, a tyrannical and frightening leader, and Elder, his rebellious and brilliant teenage heir.
Amy and Elder are instantly bonded. But can they trust each other? All Amy and Elder know is that they must discover Godspeed's hidden secrets before whoever woke Amy tries to kill again.

I was extremely skeptical about reading 'Across The Universe.' I had heard some good things so I was interested in reading it, but I wasn't overly excited. And I'm not really all into Sci-Fi and stuff like that. 'Across The Universe' totally changed my perspective on Science Fiction. Revis is an amazing author. Her ability to flip back and forth and write between two characters (Elder and Amy) is astounding! Where most people would mix two personalities and stories, Revis made clear distinctions and stuck with them throughout! I will not only be watching for more stuff from Revis, but I will be looking into reading some more Sci-Fi!

'Across The Universe' is the story of Amy and Elder. Amy is a teenage girl from Earth. The book starts off with her going through a cryogenic freezing process. Let me just tell you, that the descriptions and depth of that part of the story are enough to give you nightmares! I would hate to have to undergo anything even remotely close to that level of torture! YEESH! Amy and her parents are set to wake up 300 years in the future on a new Earth like planet. Elder is the soon to be leader of the ship Godspeed. He has big shoes to fill and no one to teach him the ropes. Well, he has Eldest who is supposed to teach him everything but ends up teaching him next to nothing. Eldest stumbles upon Amy in the Cryo level because someone unplugged her. They quickly become friends and together try to figure out what exactly is going on on Godspeed and who is responsible for unplugging her.

One of the things that I loved about the way Revis wrote 'Across the Universe' is that, it's mystery and a sci-fi. I love to watch movies and make my own speculations about who the killer was or who robbed the bank or whatever. Always little clues and people (at least I) will always be like "OHHH! I know he did it. He's guilty! Look at him! and all the evidence points to him!" Then 5 minutes later, it's someone else. Well, that is what Revis does with 'Across the Universe.' Not only is the story captivating, but it keeps your mind engaged through the whole story and leaves you thinking about it when you're not reading. Trying to add up all the clues and figure out who did what. I was very doubtful when I started reading 'Across the Universe' but, even through my skepticism, I ended up loving it!

I'm looking for some suggestions for any Sci-Fi books, so if anyone knows any, please leave a comment so I can check them out. Thanks guys!! :)

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-07-15T08:08:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books!

This week's question is:

How/Where do you get your books? Do you buy them or go to the library? Is there a certain website you use like paperbackswap?

I actually buy almost all of my books. And there is really no specific store that I buy my books from. A few books that I get are for reviews. But I have never requested an ARC from anyone, I usually just buy what I want to read, and review it! :) I used to get a few books from the library but I moved recently and now I don't live anywhere near a library.

Can't wait to read every one's Hop answers! :) I learned about paperbackswap.com this week from Crazy for Books so I'll be excited to learn about more things like that!! haha.

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-07-13T11:38:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking The Spine.

This week's Waiting on Wednesday pick is:

The Faerie Ring
Kiki Hamilton
Publication: September 27, 2011

From Amazon:

The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood.

Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist.

Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty…

What are you waiting on this week? Don't forget to leave your links! :)

Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer

2011-07-12T05:22:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 640 Pages

Publisher: Little Brown

ISBN-10: 9780316027656
ISBN-13: 978-0316027656

My Rating: 5/5

From Goodreads:
Readers captivated by Twilight and New Moon will eagerly devour Eclipse, the much anticipated third book in Stephenie Meyer's riveting vampire love saga. As Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge, Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob —- knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella has one more decision to make: life or death. But which is which?

'Eclipse' is the third installment in the Twilight Saga. It was much, MUCH better than Twilight. I think I only liked it better because there was actually stuff going on in this book. Not Bella just sitting around thinking about depressing stuff and being Bella. There was vampires, werewolves, an army. Great! Definitely better than New Moon by far!

'Eclipse' is the continuing story of Bella Swan. She is still with Edward but confused about Jacob. I'm confused about it sometimes too. Like, pick someone! haha. The Volturi is keeping an eye on them to see if Bella is a vampire, but they also have to worry about Victoria. There is fighting, finally! It seems like everyone just kisses and makes up in the Twilight Saga.

'Eclipse' is superior to 'New Moon' on so many levels. And I like the fact that Bella isn't just sitting around feeling sorry for herself. I get the whole undying love thing but really, my life wouldn't come to a complete stop for months if some guy just walked away from me. I guess I get it...sort of. Anyways, 'Eclipse,' definitely WAY better. I already know how I feel about Breaking Dawn I just have to write my review. I will say that, even though I get frustrated with the 'Twilight Saga' I was still completely addicted to it when I first read it. I think it took me a week to read all 4 books. It wouldn't have been a week but I had to wait for Breaking Dawn to come in the mail from Amazon.

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead

2011-07-10T10:58:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 512 Pages

Publisher: Razorbill

ISBN: 978-1-59514-310-5

My Rating: 5/5

Dimitri's heart has gone dark. Now Rose must journey to the ends of the earth to find-and kill-her one true love...
or has the time come to join him?
My heart shattered. My world shattered. You will lose what you value most...
It wasn't my life...It wasn't even Dimtri's life.
What you value most.
It was his soul.

The 'Vampire Academy' series is one of my favorite series of books. Rose Hathaway, one of my favorite characters. I could probably rant and rave for hours about how amazing I think the Vampire Academy series is, but I think I've done that in the 3 reviews prior to this one. 'Blood Promise' is no joke. It's Rose on a whole new level. Mead's amazing ability to string together a story so perfectly is unbelievable!

The story is told through Rose Hathaway. She has left St. Vladamir's to keep her promise to Dimitri, the love of her lifetime. Impossibly sexy...he is like those men you hear about, tall, dark, and handsome! Rose shares an indescribable bond with her best friend, Lissa. But she leaves Lissa behind for Dimitri even though she has sworn to protect her. The story actually takes place throughout Russia. I was worried that I would miss all the drama back at the academy with Rose being in Russia, but you don't miss a beat! Rose regularly dives into Lissa's mind, just to check on her. And she has still has the dream encounters with Adrian.

Mead did an amazing job of blending two separate stories into one fantastic book! We get to read about Rose and everything she is going through in Russia. But we also get to know everything that is going on back at the academy with Lissa, Christian, and Adrian. There are also a ton of new characters introduced in 'Blood Promise.' One of those new people, well, I won't say who it is but he's important. And the book leaves off with Rose spinning another crazy scheme that easily will lead into Spirit Bound! I can not wait to read Spirit Bound. Hopefully I'll be picking it up soon!

New Moon by Stephenie Meyer

2011-07-07T11:18:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 563 Pages

Publisher: Little Brown

ISBN-13: 9780316024969

My Rating: 4/5

I knew we were both in mortal danger. Still, in that instant, I felt well. Whole. I could feel my heart racing in my chest, the blood pulsing hot and fast through my veins again. My lungs filled deep with the sweet scent that came off his skin. It was like there had never been any hole in my chest. I was perfect-not healed, but as if there had never been a wound in the first place.

'New Moon' is the second book in the Twilight Saga. I absolutely fell in love with Twilight when I read it. The day I finished Twilight, I ran out and bought New Moon. What can I say, I was addicted! lol. I loved New Moon at first...and I probably would have given it a 5/5 when I first read it. Now that I've had some time to let it sink in and really think about, and reread it. Not so much. The Twilight Saga is important to me because it rekindled my love for reading. But I didn't like New Moon nearly as much.

New Moon is the continuing story of Bella Swan. In a nutshell, it's Bella facing some unimaginable situation and fighting with her conflicting feelings for Edward and Jacob, her getting hurt, being clumsy, etc...While New Moon is still a great book, it's nowhere near as good as Twilight. I felt like New Moon was slow paced compared to Twilight. There wasn't much going on. You get to meet the wolf pack but that's about it. For me anyways. And I liked the whole thing with the Volturi. But there were a lot of parts when I was like, "that's it?"

The Twilight Saga is great! and I love it. But I think I only love it because it got me back into reading. And the whole forbidden love aspect. haha. Twilight is WAY better than New Moon. Hopefully I'll be able to write my review for Eclipse soon. And then Breaking Dawn. I have to say, I think a lot of people HATE Twilight because it's so popular...or it was? I think that, they got this opinion in their minds before they even read it. About how stupid it was going to be and it affected their "Twilight experience." It really isn't that bad!

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

2011-07-05T11:11:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 288 Pages

Publisher: Viking Juvenile

ISBN-10: 067001110X
ASIN: B004R96SCO

My Rating: 4/5

Lia and Cassie were best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies. But now Cassie is dead. Lia's mother is busy saving other people's lives. Her father is away on business. Her stepmother is clueless. And the voice inside Lia's head keeps telling her to remain in control, stay strong, lose more, weigh less. If she keeps on going this way-thin, thinner, thinnest-maybe she'll disappear altogether.

'Wintergirls' by Laurie Halse Anderson is completely different from anything that I've read. I have never read anything else by Anderson so I'm not sure if this is normal for her. I can't really compare. For me, 'Wintergirls' was a struggle at times, but amazing at others. I loved her sporadic writing style for Lia. It felt like I really got a look at the destruction within Lia's mind. How torn and damaged she really is. But at times, I felt like Anderson took things a little far.

'Wintergirls' is told through Lia, an extremely troubled girl. Lia has so many problems but most of them stem from her anorexia. The fact that she has a best friend who suffers from bulimia doesn't help. From the very first paragraph in the book, we get an in depth look at how messed up Lia is when we find out about Cassie's death. Best friends for years, yet it doesn't faze her. The whole book is Lia struggling with cutting, anorexia, mental issues, downfalls with her family, and a ton of other problems.

At times while I was reading 'Wintergirls' I thought that Anderson was very vicious with some of the things she said. That she took things too far. But, when I think back now about it being Lia's thought process it makes sense. Being fat is unacceptable in today's society and Lia knows it. Her solution, don't eat. It's sad. 'Wintergirls' was an intense and emotional read for me. I really liked it. After I got used to Anderson's writing style for Lia, I loved it. I love how different it is and how much it allows you to really get in Lia's head. I definitely plan on reading more from Anderson soon!

In My Mailbox

2011-07-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

This week I bought:
City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

Stargazer by Claudia Gray

Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

I received:
The Darlings are Forever by Melissa Kantor

What did you receive in your mailbox?

RAK

2011-07-02T09:13:00.001-04:00

For those of you who don't know, RAK is Random Acts of Kindness. An amazing thing that the Book Soulmates run. If you haven't signed up yet, you definitely should! :)

The RAK I received this month was:

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
From: Lisa @ A Life Bound By Books

Thank you so much Lisa! :) I can't wait to read Nightshade. I'm soooo excited haha.

Can't wait to see everyone else's RAK!

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-07-01T10:21:00.000-04:00

Friday's Books Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books.

This weeks question is:

“What keeps you reading beyond the first few pages of a book, and what makes you want to stop reading a book and put it back on the shelf?“

Usually what keeps me reading a book past the first few pages are the characters. Or the potential story line. The way the author writes too. Sometimes you can get a book and just tell within the first page or so that it isn't going to be good. I usually give the book a chance anyways and continue to read. If it improves, that's awesome and I'll finish it. If it gets worse, I probably won't. I've only read one book so far that was so...terrible I couldn't finish it.

Can't wait to see every one's answer to this weeks question! Thanks for Hopping by! :)

The Nightmarys by Dan Poblocki

2011-06-30T10:10:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 Pages

Publisher: Random House

ISBN: 978-0-375-84256-6

My Rating: 5/5

Timothy July has a secret. And it's giving him nightmares.
Abigail Tremens has a problem. Her nightmares are haunting her...while she is awake.
When they team up for a school project, they don't realize that Abigail's past and Timothy's present are making them the target of a terrible curse. A curse that turns their worst fears to reality.
But their fears are just the beginning. The curse steams from a strange artifact that gains strength by devouring a human soul. And it needs to feed again.

It's refreshing to read a book that's not part of a series. Especially one that held my interest so well and freaked me out along the way. I'm a sucker for scary things. Horror movies, books, whatever! Poblocki did an amazing job of creating a spine-chilling novel! It was completely freaky throughout. I mean, who isn't scared of creepy figures in your room at night watching you?

'The Nightmarys' is a story told through Timothy. He was partnered up with the new girl in his class, Abigail. Things seem to be normally strange for Timothy but after Abigail is in his life, it goes from strange to bizarre. They suddenly find themselves on a quest to rid themselves from these nightmares that happen whether they are sleeping or not! It was definitely creepy! Poblocki doesn't reveal too much info about the characters so it leaves a lot to imagination. And I love that! I love that I can read about a character and just being able to picture what I think they look like from head to toe.

Poblocki's other novel, 'The Stone Child' is definitely being added to my "To Buy" list. If it's half as good and creepy as 'The Nightmarys' I know I'm going to love it! Poblocki definitely delivered with 'The Nightmarys.' As usual, this was another book I was holding off from and it turns out, I loved it! haha. Can't wait to read 'The Stone Child.'

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

2011-06-27T08:31:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 304 Pages

Publisher: St Martin's Griffin

ISBN-13: 978-0-312-53276-5
ISBN-10: 0-312-53267-8

My Rating: 4/5

Just as Ever is learning everything she can about her new abilities as an immortal, initiated into the dark, seductive world be her beloved Damen, something terrible is happening to him. As Ever's powers increase, Damen's begin to fade after he is stricken by a mysterious illness that threatened his memory, his identity, his life.
Desperate to save him, Ever travels to the mystical dimension of Summerland, where she uncovers not only the secrets of Damen's past-the brutal, tortured history he hoped to keep hidden-but also an ancient text revealing the workings of time. With the approaching blue moon heralding her only window for travel, Ever is forced to decide between turning back the clock and saving her family from the accident that claimed them-or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows weaker by the day...

'Blue Moon' is the second book in The Immortals series by Alyson Noel. I found that I could easily jump back into Ever and Damen's world. It was easy to get lost in the story. The beginning moved quickly and the ending was captivating, but the middle of the book left me wanting slightly more. I still love the series, so far, but 'Evermore' for me, was superior. I find that's usually the case with any series. The first book is typically the best. That's not to say, that 'Blue Moon' wasn't good. On the contrary, it was excellent! I just found 'Evermore' to be slightly better.

'Blue Moon' picks up where 'Evermore' leaves off. Ever and Damen are head over heels in love with each other, an undying bond and connection, all that. But there's a new kid at school, Roman. Ever struggles with whether or not it's he is a bad person, or if she just truly does not like new people. I don't want to give away too much, I'm sure tons of people have already read the series but for those who haven't, don't want to spoil it! I'll just say, we get to dive farther into Summerland, the Immortals, and everything else about that world. for me, book two was a learning experience. You get to learn a lot about the characters, including some back stories, and about Summerland and what being an Immortal is really about.

'Blue Moon' is definitely worth reading! Noel has a writing style that's incomparable. Although I didn't like 'Blue Moon' as much as 'Evermore' I still loved it! I will absolutely keep reading this series. I can't wait to see how Ever will overcome her newest obstacle!

In My Mailbox

2011-06-26T09:58:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

This week I received:
From Random Buzzers:

The Sorceress by Michael Scott

What did you get in your mailbox?

Book Blogger Hop

2011-06-24T09:49:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books!

This week's question is:

“When did you realize reading was your passion and a truly important part of your life?”

I think I knew from the time I was little that reading was an important part of my life. I don't know if anyone remembers this but, when I was in elementary school, we had to read books and keep a journal of the books we read. We had to draw a picture for it, write what it was about, and whether or not we liked it. Sort of like a blog, right? haha. Anyways, my journal in school was HUGE! I mean, most kids read the bare minimum but I read and read and read. I went to author signings when I was little too and I actually got to meet Sylvia McNicoll and she personalized and signed a copy of 'Bringing Up Beauty' for me, which in turn became one of my favorite books! I hit a bump for a while where I gave up on reading. I'm sad that I did because now that I started reading again, I love it. I love to read books. It is now and will always be my biggest passion!

I really can't wait to read everyone's answer to this weeks Hop question!! :)

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

2011-06-21T09:31:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 Pages

Publisher: Hyperion Book CH

ISBN-10: 1423121309

My Rating: 5/5

I turned to leave, but the door slammed shut inches from my face. Suddenly a wind seemed to blow through the room and the pictures on the walls rattled. When I turned back to the girls, all three of them were smiling at me, their hair rippling around their faces like they were underwater.
The one lamp in the room flickered and went out. I could just make out silvery traces of light passing under their skin, like mercury. Even their eyes were glowing. They began to levitate, the tips of their Hecate-issue loafers barely brushing the mossy carpet. Now they weren't homecoming queens or supermodels-they were witches, and very dangerous ones at that.
Even as I fought the urge to fall to my knees and throw my hands over my head, I was wondering, was this what I was capable of?

Wow. That's all I can say is wow. This book was incredible! It was so captivating and funny and I loved it! I can't wait to read Demon Glass. I'm considering breaking my book buying ban just to get it! haha. Hex Hall was especially appealing to me because I find that Sophie and I are a lot of like. Just in the sense of her sarcastic sense of humor and the way she makes jokes. And the ending! Who was expecting that!! Absolute must read!

The story is told through Sophie Mercer. A witch who has been sentenced to live at Hecate Hall (Hex Hall) until she is 18. 'Hex Hall' is jam packed with all your favorite kinds of supernatural creatures: ghosts, witches, warlocks, shape shifters, werewolves. You name it and there's a good chance it's probably in there. Sophie's sarcastic sense of humor had me laughing page after page! And, I was totally involved in her story. And I could read where her feelings came from as she developed them for Archer. I liked everything about 'Hex Hall' from beginning to end.

I honestly can't wait to buy 'Demonglass' which is the second book in the Hex Hall series. I actually just added it to my shopping cart on amazon so that I can buy it when I'm done this review haha. I would definitely break my book buying ban just to find out what happens with Jenna, Archer, and especially, Sophie. If you haven't had the opportunity to pick up 'Hex Hall' or you've been holding off on it for some reason, DON'T! It's an engaging story from cover to cover and you won't be disappointed!

In My Mailbox

2011-06-19T08:59:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the Story Siren.

This week I received a RAK:

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
From: Lisa @ A Life Bound By Books!
I'm so excited! I really wanted Nightshade, so thank you Lisa!

For those of you who don't know what RAK is, I suggest you hop on over to The Book Soulmates and check it out!

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

2011-06-18T09:12:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 352 Pages

Publisher: HarperCollins

ISBN:978-0-060121467-7

My Rating: 5/5

Rule #3:
Don't stare at invisible faeries.
Rule #2:
Don't speak to invisible faeries
Rule #1:
Don't ever attract their attention
Aislinn has always seen faeries. Powerful and dangerous, they walk hidden in the mortal world. When the rules that have kept Aislinn safe from them stop working, everything is suddenly on the line: her freedom; her best friend, Seth; her life; everything.
Faery intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of the ancient rules and modern expectations swirl together in Melissa Marr's stunning twenty-first century faery tale.

I put off reading 'Wicked Lovely' for a long time. I was skeptical because I had heard so many mixed things about it. People saying they loved it and people who hated it. Luckily for me, I loved it! I don't see how you couldn't. 'Wicked Lovely' is my first fairy book and it did not disappoint. It was sinfully good, and irresistible. I would have read it all in one sitting if life hadn't gotten in the way. I don't know why I always put off reading certain books but when I do, they are usually the ones I love most.

'Wicked Lovely' tells many different stories. Those being: Aislinn, Keenan, Donia, and Beira. I apologize if I missed anyone there. There's a long list of view points. Aislinn is a mortal girl who is no strangers to faeries or the absurdity of faery tales. She is one of very few unique humans born with the gift of Sight. As was her mother and her Grams. Aislinn finds herself thrust into a world of danger and excitement when she catches the eye of the King of the Summer Court. Broken down, Aislinn is one of hundreds who will partake in a test to see if she is the Summer Queen. She is supposed to love the soon-to-be King but finds herself in a bizarre love triangle when she can't suppress her love for long time friend, Seth.

There are so many amazing qualities about this book. I'm very anxious to dive into the rest of the series and see what happens with Aislinn, Seth, and Keenan. Not only is the storyline completely captivating, but it has one of the most beautiful covers I've seen to date. I'm also happy that I got a copy of 'Wicked Lovely' with extras inside. In the back of the book is a play list for each significant section in the story. As well as an author interview, six intriguing facts about Melissa Marr (Which I loved), and her reading list. Great book, even better with the extras! If you haven't had a chance to read it yet, I suggest that you do! It's amazing!

Book Blogger Hop

2011-06-17T08:12:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy For Books!

This weeks question is:

“How many books are currently in your To-Be-Read (TBR) Pile?”

I currently have like 14 books in my To Be Read pile. It's not a lot compared to most people but...if you think about it, it's still kind of a lot haha.
Ok, I'm adding an edit to my original post. I would absolutely have more books in my TBR pile BUT I came up with this system, for now, where I can't have more than 14 books in my pile. Sometimes I do but only by a few. If I didn't do that, I'd be broke from buying books! lol. I do have a lot of already read books though! :)

Don't forget to leave your links so I can hop on over to your blog! : )

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-06-15T07:08:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My pick for this week is:

After Obsession
By Carrie Jones
Publication Date: September 13th 2011

From Goodreads:

Aimee and Alan have secrets. Both teens have unusual pasts and abilities they prefer to keep hidden. But when they meet each other, in a cold Maine town, they can't stop their secrets from spilling out. Strange things have been happening lately, and they both feel that something-or someone- is haunting them. They're wrong. Despite their unusual history and powers, it's neither Aimee nor Alan who is truly haunted. It's Alan's cousin Courtney who, in a desperate plea to find her missing father, has invited a demon into her life-and into her body. Only together can Aimee and Alan exorcise the ghost. And they have to move quickly, before it devours not just Courtney but everything around her.

Filled with heart-pounding romance, paranormal activity, and rich teen characters to love-and introducing an exciting new YA voice, Steven Wedel-this novel is exactly what Carrie Jones fans have been waiting for. Meet your next obsession.

What are you waiting on this week?

Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard

2011-06-14T09:35:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 320 Pages

Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 978-0-385-73935-1

My Rating: 5/5

It's hard to find beauty in the Badlands of Washokey, Wyoming. Fourteen-year-old Grace Carpenter sure knows there's nothing beautiful about her mother's pageant obsessions, or about the cowboy dances or pickup trucks adored by her small-town classmates. True beauty is wild girl Mandarin Ramey: seventeen, shameless, and utterly carefree. Studious and self-conscious. Grace would give anything to be like Mandarin.
When these girls, so utterly different from one another, are united for a school project, they embark on an unlikely, explosive friendship, packed with nights spent skinny-dipping in the canal, liberating the town's animal head trophies, and searching for someplace magic. When Mandarin suggests that they make a pact to run away, Grace goes along with the idea on a whim. Maybe it's the wildwinds that plague their badlands town the make her say yes.
After a while, however, Grace has second thoughts. It turns out that Mandarin's unique beauty hides a girl who's troubled-even dangerous. And no matter how hard Grace fights to keep their friendship alive, even the strongest relationships can't withstand betrayal.

'Like Mandarin' easily surpassed my expectations. I was completely hooked by Grace and Mandarin by the end of the Chapter 1. I love to read fantasy books with supernatural creatures and the works but every once in a while, it's good to touch ground with something as stunningly beautiful as 'Like Mandarin.' Hubbard has an amazing capability to write a captivating story that's so compelling, you can't stop reading till it's over! The worst part of this book for me, was that it had to end. I feel in love with Grace and Mandarin.

The story is told through Grace, a high school student who is advanced for her age. Being skipped up in school because she's overly smart, she comes across withdrawn and isolated. She has this...unhealthy obsession with Mandarin Ramey. They slowly become friends and the book is basically their story. Mandarin is as toxic as they come, at least for Grace. She tries to corrupt her by putting her in the most undesirable situations. In the beginning of the book, Grace is normal, good grades, tried to keep to herself. After meeting Mandarin, she's dressing a little more provocatively, and acting a little more crazy. When it comes to Mandarin, everything else is second.

Hubbard created an amazing story. 'Like Mandarin' has definitely been one of my favorite books of 2011. It's incredible! I wish that I could share a little piece of the world that she has created in 'Like Mandarin' with everyone. I can't wait to read more from Kirsten, but I have to admit, it will be hard to pass the bar set with 'Like Mandarin.'

In My Mailbox

2011-06-12T09:05:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren.

This week I received one book but I'm super excited about it!

For review:
A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

From Goodreads:

Skye never questioned the story of her life. Her Aunt Jo adopted her after the death of her parents when she was just a child, and together they flip through memories the way some people flip through photo albums.

She never questioned if the stories were true.

Until the night of her 17th birthday, when the arrival of two strangers intrudes on her cozy life. Polar opposites, like fire and ice, Asher is dark and wild, while Devin is fair, cold, and aloof. Skye has no idea what they want—only that their presence coincides with the beginning of some shockingly strange events. Events that Skye, if she dares to think it, might be responsible for causing.

High up in the mountains of Boulder, Colorado, Skye finds herself caught in the middle of an ancient battle, one that began untold millennia ago. Torn between unpredictable Asher, whom she loves, and the infuriating Devin, who she can’t stay away from, her fate is murky as a starless night. And as the secrets of her true identity are revealed, Skye realizes that her destiny may reside in the Heavens—or somewhere darker.

What did you receive in your mailbox? : )

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-06-10T12:10:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is normally hosted Crazy for Books, but this week Lori's reading corner is guest hosting it so hop on over and check it out! :)

This week's question is:

“WHO IS THE ONE AUTHOR THAT YOU ARE DYING TO MEET?

Oh man, I can only pick one?!?! There are SO many. I really want to meet B.Pine who wrote 'Familiar Origins' because she is amazingly awesome and super nice. I want to meet Richelle Mead because she wrote one of my favorite series, 'Vampire Academy' and Melissa De La Cruz, Charlaine Harris, Stephen King, shall I continue? lol. I really can't just pick one...it's too hard. Especially since there are so many incredible authors! I'm very interested to read every ones answers though!

I also have to apologize that I couldn't get the picture to work for the book blogger hop. I tried a few times and it kept just saying it was a broken link. I'll try again later to figure it out! : )

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

2011-06-09T09:36:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 544 Pages

Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers

ISBN-13: 978-0316015844

My Rating: 5/5

About three things I was absolutely positive.
First, Edward was a vampire.
Second, there was a part of him-and I didn't know how potent that part might be-that thirsted for my blood.
And third, I was unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him.

I need to start off this review by saying that I read 'Twilight' a long time ago. However, I didn't have my book blog then. If I did, I can assure you that it would have been fulled with me swooning over Edward Cullen and just gushing about the book in general. I thought that, since it's been a little while since I've read (or reread) 'Twilight,' it was safe to write a fair and accurate review without having heart palpitations every time I mention a certain sparkling vampire. I fully intend to write a review for all 4 books in the Twilight Saga but for now, let's just start with Twilight.

'Twilight' is the story of Bella Swan. Not that I feel the need to reiterate the story to you as I am sure we are all VERY aware of who Bella and the Cullens are. Bella moves to Forks, Washington, meets an incredibly beautiful boy named Edward who turns out to be a vampire. And a sparkling one at that! I think that Stephenie Meyer has a very...unique writing style. I do love 'Twilight'-the book-even to this day. But Stephenie Meyers book is unbelievable. I am not ashamed to say, I was obsessed when I read 'Twilight.' From the first page on, I was hooked. I was "irrevocably" in love with it lol. I do highly recommend that everyone at least try 'Twilight' out, it may not exactly be your cup of tea but I love it.

I don't think I've ever read through anything as quickly as I read through the 'Twilight Saga.' It completely consumed my life for a long time. It's so...compelling that I've heard of women leaving their boyfriends, heck even their husbands, because they can't compare to Edward Cullen from 'Twilight.' I won't comment on that but I will say, I almost loved 'Twilight' that much lol. However, my love for the 'Twilight Saga' has faded, I'll never have a bookshelf that doesn't have the entire Saga on it. It rekindled my love for reading and brought me back into a world I had given up on! I haven't stopped since so I am forever thankful to Stephenie Meyer and the 'Twilight Saga.'

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-06-08T09:36:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My Waiting on Wednesday pick for this week is:

Bloodlines
by Richelle Mead
Publication Date: August 23, 2011

From Amazon:

When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

What's your Waiting on Wednesday pick this week?

The Magician by Michael Scott

2011-06-07T09:33:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 496 Pages

Publisher: Delcarote Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 978-0-385-73728-9

My Rating: 4/5

California:
In the hands of Dr. John Dee and the Dark Elders, the book of Abraham the Mage could mean the destruction of the world as we know it. The most powerful book of all time, it holds the secret of eternal life-a secret more dangerous than any one man should ever possess. And Dee is two pages away from the knowledge that would bring the Dark Elders into ultimate power.
His only obstacle? Josh and Sophie Newman-who are eight thousand miles away.
Paris:
After fleeing Ojai, Nicholas, Sophie, Josh, and Scatty emerge in Paris. The City of Light. Home to Nicholas Flamel. Only, this homecoming is anything but sweet.
Niccolo Machiavelli, immortal author and celebrated are collector, lives in Paris and is working for Dee. He's in hot pursuit, and time is running out for Nicholas and Perenelle. Every day they spend without the book, they age one year: their magic becomes weaker and their bodies more frail. For Flamel, the Prophecy is clearer and clearer. It's time for Sophie to learn the second elemental magic.
Fir Magic.
And there's only one man who can teach her: Flamel's old student the Comte de Saint-Germain-alchemist, magician, and rock star.
Josh and Sophie Newman are the world's only hope. If they don't turn on each other first.

When I first started reading 'The Magician' by Michael Scott, I was completely confused. I could barely remember anything from the first one. But, after reading for a little bit, I quickly caught on to what was going on and everything that lead up to it. 'The Magician' is written very well, just like I've come to expect from Scott. It picks up exactly where 'The Alchmyst' leaves off and there is something going on from beginning to end.

'The Magician' is the continuing story of Sophie and Josh Newman, alongside Nicholas, Perenelle, and some new and very memorable characters. At the end of 'The Alchemyst' Sophie, Josh, the Shadow, and Nicholas were escaping to Paris from Dr. John Dee. But, when in Paris, they face a new opponent, Niccolo Machiavelli. Sophie has been 'awakened' but Josh hasn't, so he struggles with that as does Sophie. They are constantly on the run from Niccolo, Nidhogg, Disir, Dr. Dee, Golems, animated statues, you name it, and they are being chased by it or fighting it!

The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel has been, and continues to be, one of my favorite series. I'm looking forward to reading 'The Sorceress' and then, the newest book in the series, 'The Warlock'. Scott has a very distinct writing style and his combination of fiction with non-fiction makes this series completely captivating and leaves you thinking about it for days!

In My Mailbox

2011-06-05T09:53:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

The books I got this week are:

Thirst No. 1 by Christopher Pike

Strange Angles by Lili St.Crow

The Demon Trappers Daughter by Jana Oliver

The Body Finder by Kimberely Derting

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

What did you receive in your mailbox?

R.A.K.

2011-06-04T10:51:00.000-04:00

Apparently, it's June! lol. I didn't even realize. So, since it's the end of the month, I need to post my huge thanks to the lovely ladies over at Book Soulmates for having the RAK. I think it's one of the best things I've seen so far, for those of you who don't know what RAK is, I highly suggest that you check it out. It's incredible!
Another HUGE thanks to Cialina over at Muggle Born. She sent me a copy of 'Across the Universe' by Beth Revis! I'm so excited and I can't wait to read it. Thank you so much Cialina! : )

I can't wait to see what everyone else's RAK's were! And make sure you hop on over to Cialina's blog and check it out! : )

Never Knowing by Chevy Stevens

2011-06-02T09:50:00.000-04:00

Hardcover: 416 Pages

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

ISBN: 978-0-312-59568-5

Release Date: July 5, 2011

My Rating: 5/5

At Thirty-Three, Sara Gallagher is finally happy. Her antique furniture restoration business is taking off and she's engaged to a wonderful man. But there's one big question that still haunts her-who are her birth parents? Sara is finally ready to find out.
When her birth mother rejects her, she discovers her biological father is an infamous killer who's been hunting woman every summer for more than thirty years.
Soon she realizes the only thing worse than finding out your father is a killer is him finding out about you.

'Never Knowing' is an action packed thriller from start to finish. There is never a dull moment in the book. I really loved this book. Maybe because I found that I could relate to Sara in more way than one, or maybe because it was written beautifully. Either way, it's an incredible story! I was hooked from the beginning and it just kept getting more and more intense. I'm going to be going out and picking up 'Still Missing' which is Stevens debut novel. I honestly can't wait to read more from her, I loved this book so much! I don't know why I waited so long to read it.

The story is told by Sara. Her story is tragic in so many ways...my heart just kept breaking and breaking for her. I was attached. I'm still attached. Just like Sara, I'm obsessed. I wish that it didn't have to end! I don't want to say too much about the story because the book is not out yet BUT I will say, in one word, incredible! It held my interest from start to finish.

'Never Knowing' is empowering. One of the things I loved about it, is that it's so believable. I was explaining the book to someone and they though it was a "true story" book. It's suspenseful and engaging from beginning to end. I highly recommend it. I can't wait to read more from Chevy Stevens.

Book trailer!

2011-05-31T08:26:00.000-04:00

I recently read a book called 'Familiar Origins' by B. Pine. I loved it! It's like...Harry Potter meets Eragon. What's not to love, right? Anyways, I recently found out that there is now a book trailer for 'Familiar Origins' and I decided that I had to share it with everyone! : ) Without further adieu, here it is:

I'm eagerly awaiting word on the next book in the series...even though 'Familiar Origins' just came out! I still can't wait to read the next one! You can check out more on B. Pine's brillant saga on her site here: http://www.dracawards.com/

In My Mailbox

2011-05-29T12:06:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

The books I received this week are:

ARC:

Dearly Departed by Lia Habel

RAK (Random Act of Kindness):

Across the Universe by Beth Revis

What did you receive in your mailbox this week?

Fridays Book Blogger Hop

2011-05-27T07:25:00.000-04:00

Friday Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books.

This weeks question is:

"What book-to-movie adaption have you most liked? Which have you disliked?"

That's a difficult one to answer ha ha. I have to go right to Harry Potter because it's my favorite series. But, I also really like the Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. I loved it so much! I'm not sure what other ones there are. I like It by Stephen King, the movie adaptation...and uhhh yeah, I guess that's it ha ha. That's all I can think of at the moment anyways. I will state that I love, LOVE, books way more than I love the movie adaptations of them. That's not to say I don't love a good movie but I'd prefer a book over a movie. Can't wait to read everyones answers! Don't forget to leave your links! : )

Evernight by Caludia Gray

2011-05-26T09:05:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 336 Pages

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN: 978-0-06-128439-7

My Rating: 4/5

Bianca wants to escape. She's been uprooted from her small town and enrolled at Evernight Academy, an eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn't fit in.
Then she meets Lucas. He's not the "Evernight type" either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs, and wants Bianca to be careful-even when it comes to caring about him.
"I couldn't stand it if they took it out on you," he tells Bianca, "and eventually they would."
But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can't be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart...and to make Bianca question everything she's ever believed.

I have to start off by saying that I gave 'Evenight' a 4/5 but only because the beginning was a little slow for me. That's not to say nothing was going on, because it was. I just had a hard time getting into it. Around the 100th page though, I was completely hooked. From that point on, 'Evernight' deserves a higher rating than 4/5. Unfortunately, I don't rate on parts of books, I rate the whole thing. That being said, 'Evernight' was still an amazing book! It's kind of like a modern day version of Romeo and Juliet. I loved it!

The story is told through Bianca who is starting at Evernight Academy. One thing I have to admit, I never read the back of a book because I don't want anything to be given away when I read. I like everything to be a surprise and, trust me, 'Evernight' is full of them! Bianca is an easily likable character, she's a little more upbeat then most of the other characters and she's tough. She doesn't fit right into Evernight Academy, but she isn't a total outcast either. Gray has a unique writing style that sets her book apart from the hundreds of other supernatural, YA novels.

I don't want to give too much away about the series...or at least book one. I think it's absolutely worth reading. Everyone, at some point, should check out the 'Evernight' series. It's fabulous! I don't have the rest of the books in the series yet but I can't wait to get them and find out what happens!

Evermore by Alyson Noel

2011-05-25T09:33:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 320 Pages

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN-13:978-0-312-53275-8

My Rating: 5/5

After a horrible accident claims the lives of her family, sixteen-year-old Ever Bloom can see people's auras, hear their thoughts, and know someone's entire life story by touching them. Going out of her way to avoid human contact and suppress her abilities, she has been branded a freak at her new high school-but everything changes when she meets Dame Auguste.
Damen is gorgeous, exotic, and wealthy. He's the only one who can silence the noise and random energy in her head-wielding a magic so intense, it's as though he can peer straight into her soul. As Ever is drawn deeper into his enticing world of secrets and mystery, she's left with more questions than answers. And she has no idea just who he really is-or what he is. The only thing she knows to be true is that she's falling deeply and helplessly in love with him.

'Evermore' by Alyson Noel is amazing! I've only read book one so far and I'm already hooked. I love it! It's highly addictive. I devoured almost the entire book in one go. It's immaculate! I can honestly say, I can't think of a single thing I didn't like about 'Evermore' except that it had to end! Luckily, I got into this series late and there are already a ton of books out for me to read! So I can't wait to dive into 'Blue Moon.'

'Evermore' is about a sixteen year old girl named Ever. She has a death experience, she comes back, and, ever since then, she's been haunted and tormented by the constant onslaught of thoughts, seeing ghosts, and viewing people's auras. She meets a boy named Damen who is more perfect than perfect. Sound familiar? It should. 'Evermore' is similar to all the other poplular YA books like Twilight and Fallen. This book has some distinct qualities that set it apart from all those other books though. And that's what really drew me in. I loved the characters which plays a major part in whether or not I'll like a book. And I usually know early on when reading a book whether or not I'll like it. I knew by the end of Chapter 1 that I would love 'Evermore.'

I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes Twilight, Fallen, Hush Hush, or any of those books. A lot of complaints that I've seen from people who have read 'Evermore' is that it's very similar to Twilight. I don't really feel like it is. Like I said, 'Evermore' has it's own, very distinct, qualities that set it apart from all the rest and it's absolutely worth reading. You should definitely, definitely, check it out if you haven't yet!

Familiar Origins Giveaway Winner!

2011-05-24T08:20:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Familiar Origins giveaway is:

Donna McBroom!

Congratulations Donna!! : ) You can expect to receive your copy of 'Familiar Origins' along with lots of swag in the next couple of weeks! I know that you'll love it, it's going to be an amazing series! And a HUGE thanks to the fabulous author, B, for letting me host an interview with her and the giveaway!

Friday Book Blogger Hop

2011-05-20T09:48:00.000-04:00

Friday Book Blogger Hop is a weekly event hosted by Crazy for Books.

"If you were given the chance to spend one day in a fictional world (from a book), which book would it be from and what would that place be?"

If I had the opportunity to spend a day in any, ANY fictional world....that's a tough question. I totally want to cop out and say I'd spend the day at Hogwarts because that would be incredible! lol. But, I won't say that....How about...I'd love to spend the day in the Vampire Academy....yeah, that would be amazing! Alright...maybe Hogwarts would be better....or I could go into Familiar Origins! That would be an experience worth living. I'd love to be able to meet the characters from that book...see the dragons..live at the school. Hmm...that's a really tough question for me. Can't I just hang out in all of them? ha ha. What book would you live in for the day?

Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway, there's only a few days left! Just click here. : )

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-05-18T10:37:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly even hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My Waiting on Wednesday pick this week is:

Witches of East End
by Melissa De La Cruz
Publication: June 21st 2011

From Amazon:

The three Beauchamp women--Joanna and her daughters Freya and Ingrid--live in North Hampton, out on the tip of Long Island. Their beautiful, mist-shrouded town seems almost stuck in time, and all three women lead seemingly quiet, uneventful existences. But they are harboring a mighty secret--they are powerful witches banned from using their magic. Joanna can resurrect people from the dead and heal the most serious of injuries. Ingrid, her bookish daughter, has the ability to predict the future and weave knots that can solve anything from infertility to infidelity. And finally, there's Freya, the wild child, who has a charm or a potion that can cure most any heartache.

For centuries, all three women have been forced to suppress their abilities. But then Freya, who is about to get married to the wealthy and mysterious Bran Gardiner, finds that her increasingly complicated romantic life makes it more difficult than ever to hide her secret. Soon Ingrid and Joanna confront similar dilemmas, and the Beauchamp women realize they can no longer conceal their true selves. They unearth their wands from the attic, dust off their broomsticks, and begin casting spells on the townspeople. It all seems like a bit of good-natured, innocent magic, but then mysterious, violent attacks begin to plague the town. When a young girl disappears over the Fourth of July weekend, they realize it's time to uncover who and what dark forces are working against them.

What book are you most anticipating this week?

Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway while you're here! There's only a few days left to enter! Just click here! : )

The Tales of Beedle the Bard by J.K. Rowling

2011-05-17T10:28:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 128 Pages

Publisher: Children's High Level Group

ISBN: 978-0-7475-9987-6

My Rating: 5/5

The Tales of Beedle the Bard contains five richly diverse fairy tales, each with its own magical character, that will variously bring delight, laughter and the thrill of mortal peril.
Additional notes for each story penned by Professor Albus Dumbledore will be enjoyed by Muggles and wizards alike, as the Professor muses on the morals illuminated by the tales, and reveals snippets of information about life at Hogwarts.

'The Tales of Beedle the Bard' is a short, five story, fairy tale book by J.K. Rowling. It fits in nicely with the Harry Potter series, especially the final book 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.' It's a great book for kids, at least the fairy tales. In between each fairy tale, there are "notes by Albus Dumbledore." It's basically all his thoughts, or the "real" story. And in there, since the book is not written for muggles, Rowling add's little footnotes and explanations to things that us muggles might not understand.

The five stories in 'The Tales of Beedle the Bard' are:
-The Wizard and the Hopping Pot
-The Fountain of Fair Fortune
-The Warlock's Hairy Heart
-Babbity Rabbity and her Cackling Stump
and
-The Tale of the Three Brothers
Out of the five tales within the book, The Tale of the Three Brothers is probably the most popular, as it was recited by Hermione Granger for 'The Deathly Hallows.'

If you're a fan of the Harry Potter series, then this is a must have! I absolutely love it. The tales are good for kids but the notes from Albus Dumbledore make it suitable to an older audience. Also included in the books, are illustrations by J.K. Rowling, which I thought was pretty neat. It's a great little sidekick to have to go along with the 'Harry Potter' series.

Wereling by Steve Feasey

2011-05-15T09:11:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 288 Pages

Publisher: Feiwel & Friends

ISBN: 978-0-312-56912-5

My Rating: 3/5

Fourteen year-old Trey Laporte was "just a kid." Not anymore. Not after the day he wakes up in agony-retina splitting, vomit-inducing agony. His clothes are torn. His room is trashed.
Now, demons are closing in on every side, and the most psychopathic bloodsucker to rock the Netherworld wants to destroy him. And Trey is falling for a girl who is half vampire, half human, and insanely pretty. Above all, Trey must face one terrifying question: Is he a boy...or is he a werewolf?

I'm not really sure where to start with my review for 'Wereling' by Steve Feasey. I loved it in the beginning. It was so good and had such an amazing build up. It came highly recommended to me so I was expecting more. However, by the end of the book I found myself disinterested. I really liked some of the characters-like Trey-but was completely unaffected by others. At one point, there is a traumatic thing that happens to one of the main characters, but I didn't react to it...at all. I just read right past it and then went, "oh! Someone died?" which probably isn't a good thing. That's not to say, however, that 'Wereling' was bad. It certainly wasn't. Feasey is a great writer and wrote a very good story. I think parts just dragged a little and it got less interesting the farther into it I got.

The story is about Trey Laporte. He's fourteen years old and an orphan. He lives in an orphanage for only a few hours of the book as he is "rescued" by Lucien, a friendly vampire who was a friend of his parents. In a short time Trey receives a ton of bad information. He was rescued by a vampire, he's a werewolf, his parents were murdered....by Lucien's brother. So, the whole book is Trey working through his anxiety, having a couple demon run ins and falling in love with Lucien's daughter, Alexa. I don't see the relationship build up there. It seemed like, all of a sudden he was just like "I love her" but there was no reason to. Alexa is just a normal person who knows a few magic spells taught to her by her sorceress mother. I thought it was a little odd that she was....normal? Her dad's a vampire, her mom's a witch. There has to be something there right? Maybe it will be revealed at a later time!

All in all 'Wereling' was a decent read. I'd say it's worth checking out when you have some free time or you're all caught up on other reading you want to do and you're looking for something to check out. Like I said, it's got a good premise, huge build up, some great characters, but the story line was lacking a little....and it was a little slow. Has anyone else read 'Wereling' yet? I'm very interested to see what other people thought of it.

Author Interview and giveaway!

2011-05-13T15:12:00.000-04:00

I want to start off by saying a huge thank you to B, she's been incredibly kind to me and I love 'Familiar Origins' so it was amazing for me to do this interview! : )

1. Where did your inspirations come from when writing Familiar Origins?
My inspiration came from the time I lived in England. Learning about medieval history and visiting castles and cathedrals gave me many ideas for short stories. I am also fascinated by dragons. After I returned to the US, I came up with the plot of Familiar Origins out of a group of short stories I had written over the course of a few years.

2. Besides writing, what other things do you enjoy doing?
I like reading. Fantasy and Science Fiction are my favorite genres, but I’m open to reading anything. Unfortunately most of my reading lately involves research for my stories. I also like to garden, but no one would believe that if they caught a glimpse of my backyard right now!

3. While writing 'Familiar Origins' did you ever have any kind of writer's block? If so, how did you overcome that?
I never had writer’s block for that particular book. I wrote ‘Familiar Origins’ while I was working full time and finishing up college, so I would write whenever I had a few free hours, and I always had tons of ideas and scenes in my head just waiting to end up in my word processor. I do get writer’s block at times; when that happens all I can do is just set it aside for a week or two and move to another writing project. But a good workout on my elliptical machine has broken down more than one writer’s block spell for me.

4. Is there any messages that you would like to convey to your readers and/or fans?
Yes! Thank you for giving my book a chance, and I promise there is much more to follow.

5. Is there anything in particular that you have to have with you while you are writing?
I must have music playing while I write. It doesn’t matter what kind of music. I will listen to just about anything.

6. Is there a certain character that you enjoyed writing about more than the rest?
Galen is the character I have the most fun writing about. I love them all, but Galen’s point of view is a bit different from the rest. Being one of the younger characters, she looks up to the others, and sees things in a more innocent light, at least for now. And sometimes she seems to have more common sense than the older characters. But she is still very much a young girl; even though she is so incredibly powerful, talented and courageous, she is also a little insecure, ingenuous and a bit of a crybaby. I like the challenge of balancing those characteristics in her.

7. Are you currently working on anything else?
Most of my writing time is going into this series. I have a science fiction story I am also working on, but I have not even finished the first draft yet, so I am not sure if I will look into having it published. I am also writing backstories about some of the supporting characters in ‘Familiar Origins’ as well.

8. Finish this sentence: "I can't live without..."
COFFEE! I was going to say chocolate but I have gone several days without it in the past. I can’t say the same for coffee.

9. You’re clearly passionate about writing (it shows in your work), is there anything else that you are equally as passionate about?
I have been thinking about this question for a bit, and I have to say no, nothing comes close to the feeling I get when I start writing and end up with a story out of basically nothing except an idea and a few prompts. I like doing other things, like playing video games, growing flowers and veggies, and cooking, but really, it doesn’t compare to writing.

10. Do you enjoy reading? If so, what are your favorite books?
I do enjoy reading. I don’t think I would have started writing if I didn’t read as much as I do (or did). As I mentioned before, Fantasy and Sci-Fi are my favorite reads. My favorite books are the Wheel of Time books by Robert Jordan. I would recommend them to anyone. It’s a wonderful saga!

11. What's a normal day like for you when you are writing a book?
That is a great question. Most of my writing happens at night. I am home with two preschoolers, and I have a teenager as well, so there’s not much time for day writing. Sometimes in the afternoon I can take an hour or so and sit at the computer, but usually I am doing other things. My writing time is usually between 10:30PM and 1AM. Saturday nights I will pull a late night or sometimes an all-nighter, if I’m not too exhausted. And some Sundays my husband will take charge of the kids and I can spend Sunday afternoon on the computer. But mostly the writing stuff I do during the day is either research, editing, or revising. The creative stuff comes out at night.

12. Are any of the characters in 'Familiar Origins' based off of yourself or anyone else that you know?
No, the characters pretty much developed on their own as I wrote the story. There is only one character that I can say I came up with based on another character. The king in The Thirteenth Warrior gave me the idea for Ben at first. And Ben was originally supposed to be the central character in the book, but as the story developed, a different character took over as the central figure, which I found amazing, even as I wrote it. But none of the other characters were truly based on anyone, real or fictional.

Now for the giveaway!

Courtesy of the ever fabulous B. Pine, I am giving away an amazing prize pack of:

A copy of 'Familiar Origins' signed by B. Pine and the illustrator!
A bookmark and a promotional postcard signed by the author and illustrator
A 4x6 magnet of the cover art of 'Familiar Origins'

Rules of the contest:

-You must be at least 13 to enter

-Contest is open to the US and Canada only, sorry guys!

-You DO NOT have to be a follower but it is greatly appreciated.

-Contest deadline is May 21st

To enter the contest, simply go here and fill out the form.

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-05-11T09:23:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My Waiting on Wednesday pick this week is:

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Release Date: May 31st 2011

from Goodreads:

How do you defy destiny?

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.

As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

Flip by Martyn Bedford

2011-05-10T09:16:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 272 Pages

Publisher: Wendy Lamb Books

ISBN-13: 978-0-385-73990-0

My Rating: 5/5

One morning fourteen-year-old Alex wakes up to find himself in the wrong bedroom, in an unfamiliar house, in a different part of the country. six months have disappeared overnight. The family at the breakfast table are total strangers.
And when he looks in the mirror, another boy's face stares back. A boy named Flip. Alex may be trapped forever inside a body that belongs to someone else.

I absolutely, positively, loved 'Flip' by Martyn Bedford. It was so compelling that I had an exceedingly difficult time putting it down. I thought about it a lot. And I'm still thinking about it now that I've stopped reading it. It's such a powerful and emotional story. It's beautiful in so many ways-writing, story, characters. In one word, Fabulous!

'Flip' is about a boy named Alex...who turns out to be Flip. Alex is the "psyche" of one boy (himself) trapped inside the body of another boy, Flip-Philip Garamond. Alex has no idea what happened or how it happened. One day he was Alex, living with his family, an average kid. The next day, he wakes up as Flip, the polar opposite of his former self. Alex plays on the chess team, plays the Clarinet, has one friend named David and he's never kissed a girl let alone had a girlfriend. Flip, however, has hundreds of friends, he's on the cricket team, has two girlfriends, your typical high school jock. The story is all about Alex's struggles to maintain his new life as Flip while trying to figure out what happened, and how to fix it. One thing about books, is that people reactions to life altering events (such as Alex & Flip) never react the way I think. Like, when someone sees a talking animal there just like, "wow, that cat talked" but in 'Flip' their reactions to these events are realistic. Vomit inducing, stressful, real reactions. 'Flip' is an amazing story!

I think that everyone should absolutely, without a doubt, read Flip. It's incredible. I love Bedford's style and I sincerely hope to see a lot more from him in the future! If you have checked out 'Flip' already, I'm curious to hear what you think, so let me know! : ) I, for one, love it!!

In My Mailbox

2011-05-09T08:37:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly event hosted by The Story Siren.

This week I received:

Never Knowing by Chevy Stevens

Can't wait to see what everyone else got in their mailboxes this week! : )

Friday Book Blogger Hop

2011-05-06T09:46:00.000-04:00

The Book Blogger Hop is a weekly event hosted by Crazy for Books.

This week's question is:

"Which book blogger would you most like to meet in real life?"

Ummm...there are a lot I'd like to meet. Normally I would have picked a particular blogger but she is....not as friendly as I thought. So, I'm going to name a few and they would be: The BookSoulmates because they are super nice, helpful and I love their blog. Another one is B. Pine, she's an author she wrote Familiar Origins (amazing book!), but she also blogs so I think she counts...right? lol. I'd love to meet her. She has to be one of the nicest people that I've met through blogging. Plus, she wrote one of my favorite books! : ) In all honesty though, my list of bloggers that I'd like to meet because they are such amazing people is quite extensive. I think I'd want to meet almost every single one of them! : )

Steel by Carrie Vaughn

2011-05-05T10:17:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 304 Pages

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN: 978-0-06-154791-1

My Rating:3/5

Sixteen-year old Jill has fought in dozens of fencing tournaments, but she has never held a sharpened blade. When she finds a corroded sword piece on a Caribbean beach, she is instantly intrigued and pockets it as her own personal treasure.
The broken tip holds secrets, though, and it transports Jill through time to the deck of a pirate ship. Stranded in the past and surrounded by strangers, she is forced to sign on as crew. But a pirate's life is bloody and brief, and as Jill learns about the dark magic that brought her there, she forms a desperate scheme to get home-one that risks everything in a duel to the death with a villainous pirate captain.

'Steel' is my first Carrie Vaughn book. I was so excited to read it because it's about pirates and I love pirates! Although I gave 'Steel' a 3/5, I will still definitely be checking out more of her work because I love the way she writes. Everything flows together very smoothly. However, I was dissapointed with the book a little. I thought it would be more..."real-life" pirate like. Filled with tons of pillaging, booty, and fights. There was only really one fight and that was at the very end. And it didn't even take place between the main character (Jill) and the bad guy (Edmund Blane). There was no real pillaging. These pirates weren't even what my idea of pirates are. They are like, the robin hood of pirates. They free slaves from ships, they don't go pillaging, nothing. That was my biggest dissapointment with 'Steel'.

The storty takes place through a young girl named Jill. She's a teenage fencer. She loses a match-by a mere second-and naturally becomes sulky and depressed about the whole thing. She finds the tip of a rapier on the beach whil on vacation, and is sent back in time when she falls in the ocean with it. The pirates who find her rescue her, and take her on as a crew member on their boat, the Diana. The Captain is the "pirate queen" Marjory Cooper. IT's all a very good premise for an amazing book. I do love the story, it was fantastic. But, the lack of pirate-ness ruined it for me. Also, there were amazing set-ups that never went anywhere. The whole time I read 'Steel' I thought something magical would happen between Henry and Jill. It just felt like...he was there, they were friends, and then all of a sudden, she HAD to kiss him and that was it. Nothing. Jill is a likable character, so is Henry, Blane, Abe, all of them. They are all amazing characters.

Not everything about 'Steel' was bad. There was an incredible story line. There were some believable characters. But, the book, over all, left me wanting more. Which is never good. Unless it's a series and there will be a sequel. This is a stand alone book though. I will definitely be checking out more by Carrie Vaughn because, as I said, incredible writer. I just am not overly enthusiastic about 'Steel'. I would still recommend that people read it because it really has an amazing story. And, I might have been anticipating it so much, that it ruined it for me.

In My Mailbox

2011-05-03T10:17:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox (IMM) is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren.

Bought:

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

Evernight by Claudia Gray

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead

From Random Buzzers:

Flip by Martyn Bedford

Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard

For Review:

My Sparkling Misfortune by Laura Lond

R.A.K. April 2011

2011-05-01T10:20:00.000-04:00

For those of you who don't know, RAK (Random Acts of Kindness) is hosted by the Book Soulmates. It's an amazing thing really. There are a lot of people that sign up on there. Anyways, I got one book. I received:

An ebook version of Switched by Amanda Hocking form Ivy...I'm not sure if she has a blog because she didn't mention it...

I haven't gotten a chance to read this yet because I don't have an ereader but I plan on reading it soon on the computer! : ) So, thank you so much Ivy!! Can't wait to see everyone else's RAK!

Friday Book Blogger Hop!

2011-04-29T10:24:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy For Books.

This week's question is:

"Summer is coming quickly - what 2011 summer release are you are most looking forward to?"

This is a super hard question for me. I'm anticipating so many good books and I have an extensive list of books to buy when they come out ha ha. But, if I had to pick one or two I would have to go with Passion by Lauren Kate and Die For Me by Amy Plum....and Forever by Maggie Stiefvater! Ok, that's it those three ha ha. I linked all three books to their goodreads pages so if you want to check them out, just click on them! : )

What books are you most excited for this summer? Don't forget to leave your links! : )

Happy Hopping!

Book trailers

2011-04-28T08:10:00.000-04:00

I haven't posted since Tuesday-it's terrible, I know! And I feel awful...but I was in Canada visiting my family for a week for Easter. So I didn't get much time in to read because I was visiting. BUT now I am back in NY. Even though I have family coming to visit this weekend. I'm still hoping to be able to get some reading in and be able to keep up posting. Anyways, I missed the Waiting on Wednesday meme yesterday. And I like WoW and Friday's Book Blogger Hop, they are two of my favorite weekly events. So, I'm just going to share some awesome book trailers with you! : )

The first one is for the 'Dark Days of Supernatural-Summer Tour 2011'. I am anxiously awaiting ALL of these books. I read Hereafter already and reviewed it, but I'll probably still buy the actual copy of the book when it comes out. Anyways, here's the awesome trailer that showcases all of the books that I can't wait for! : )

What did you think? Are you waiting for any of these books to come out?

The books and release dates in the video are:
Divergent by Veronica Roth-May 3, 2011
Illusions by Aprilynne Park-May 3, 2011
Die For Me by Amy Plum-May 10, 2011
Cryptic Cravings by Ellen Shreiber-May 17, 2011
Something Deadly This Way Comes by Kim Harrison-May 24, 2011
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini-May 31, 2011
Hereafter by Tara Hudson-June 7, 2011

I can not wait for all of these books to be released!! They are probably my most anticipated books at the moment.

My Sparkling Misfortune by Laura Lond

2011-04-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 126 Pages

Publisher: Create Space

ISBN-13: 978-1460922361

My Rating: 5/5

Yes, you have guessed it: I am a villain. What? You wanted a noble hero? Well, tough. You've got the wrong book then. But let me tell you something before you put it down: there are no heroes without us villains. They'd have nothing to show off against. Besides, good boys do some wicked tricks as well, as you will see if you keep reading my story, and it takes some heroism to be a villain at times, too. I suppose you already know it though, if you're smart, which you have to be because I'm not writing this for silly people.

I absolutely loved this story! I can honestly say that I don't think I've ever read anything like it. Especially because it is from the villains point of view. I completely adored the story and characters. Even the "villain." Lond created a captivating tale full of suspense and humor. I think it would be an amazing book to anyone but particularly to a younger...young adult ha ha. Like, between 10 years and 13 especially.

'My Sparkling Misfortune' is a book about a book told through Lord Arkus, or the Lakeland Knight. He is the villain in the story, which is one thing that makes this book so different from anything else. Another thing that completely separates 'My Sparkling Misfortune' from any other like it, is the fact that Lord Arkus is writing his own book, which is the book you are reading. So, at some points, it's like he's commentating, which is really cool. I also love the cover picture and the pictures throughout the book. Every chapter has a picture at the very end depicting one event that happened within the chapter.

'My Sparkling Misfortune' is a great story. Lond writes with good humor and created awesome characters! I liked everything about the story. Especially the flip flop with the villains. It's definitely worth the read, which is why I gave it 5/5! I would suggest it to people who are fond of fairy tale type books. It's a quick, but cute, read and I hope that Lond will be writing more books like this one. I'll definitely be watching for more from her.

Hoppy Easter!!!

2011-04-24T08:29:00.000-04:00

I normally would post a book review and/or my IMM but, it's Easter. So, I thought I'd make a post wishing all my fabulous followers a Happy Easter!!!! : )

For Easter this year, my family and I dyed Easter Eggs...even though were all grown up, it's still a tradition! ha ha. And today we are having a big Easter Dinner with ham, asparagus (YUM!), scalloped potatoes and all that yummy goodness!! : )

I would love to know what everyone else is doing for Easter! Are you doing an Easter Egg hunt? What are your Easter dinner plans? What is your favorite Easter tradition?

I hope everyone has an amazing Easter and there will be some good things to come on the blog soon!

Happy Easter everyone!!!!!!!!

Friday Book Blogger Hop

2011-04-22T11:33:00.000-04:00

The Friday Book Blogger Hop is a weekly event hosted by Crazy for Books.

This week's question is:

"If you find a book you love, do you hunt down other books by the same author?"

Absolutely! I always read other books by authors that i like and/or love. I mean, if they have one book out that you loved a lot, then why not try out there other books as well right? Whether or not you like there other stuff is another thing altogether. For example, I loved the Twilight Saga, it's what got me back into reading. So, I checked out The Host by Stephenie Meyer and I found myself really bored with the beginning of the book and I never ended up finishing it. But, that's not to say I won't give any other book she releases a shot. I definitely will.

What about you? Do you hunt down other books by the same author if you love their work?

Hereafter by Tara Hudson

2011-04-21T10:52:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Hardcover: 416 Pages

Publisher: HarperTeen

ISBN: 978-0-06-202677-4

Release Date: June 7th, 2011

My Rating: 5/5

Drifting in the dark waters of a mysterious river, the only thing Amelia knows for sure is that she's dead. With no recollection of her past life-or her actual death-she's trapped alone in a nightmarish existence. All of this changes when she tries to rescue a boy, Joshua, from drowning in her river. As a ghost, she can do nothing but will him to live. Yet in an unforgettable moment of connection, she helps him to survive. Amelia and Joshua grow ever closer as they begin to uncover the strange circumstances of her death and the secrets of the dark river that held her captive for so long.

'Hereafter' by Tara Hudson is one of my favorite books so far this year. It's incredibly powerful and completely riveting. I could have devoured the entire book in one sitting! I had other things going on so it took me a little longer to read it but when I wasn't able to read it, I was thinking about it. I love ghost stories and Tara Hudson has created an amazing one.

The story is told by Amelia, a young girl who knows only that she's dead. She relives her death over and over and it's a terrifying one. She meets Joshua who, esentially, rescues her. They develop a love through a friendship. Their story is inspiring. As usual, I won't give away much because it's an ARC.

Hudson is an amazing author who created a beautiful story! I could picture everything as I read, which is always a plus. Amelia is an extremely loyal and lovable character and Joshua is just as incredible. I can't wait to read more about Amelia and Joshua. I hate having to wait but this is a the first book in a series (I noticed on goodreads!) and I'm anxiously awaiting book #2. I have to recommend that everyone buy, pre-order, or borrow Hereafter from the library! It's an amazing story!

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-04-20T09:20:00.000-04:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Breaking the Spine.

My WoW this week is:

Die for Me by Amy Plum

Release date: May 10, 2011 (SO CLOSE!)

from Goodreads:

My life had always been blissfully, wonderfully normal. But it only took one moment to change everything.
Suddenly, my sister, Georgia, and I were orphans. We put our lives into storage and moved to Paris to live with my grandparents. And I knew my shattered heart, my shattered life, would never feel normal again. Then I met Vincent.
Mysterious, sexy, and unnervingly charming, Vincent Delacroix appeared out of nowhere and swept me off my feet. Just like that, I was in danger of losing my heart all over again. But I was ready to let it happen.
Of course, nothing is ever that easy. Because Vincent is no normal human. He has a terrifying destiny, one that puts his life at risk every day. He also has enemies . . . immortal, murderous enemies who are determined to destroy him and all of his kind.
While I'm fighting to piece together the remnants of my life, can I risk putting my heart—as well as my life and my family's—in jeopardy for a chance at love?

What book are you waiting for? Don't forget to leave your link! : )

My weekend!

2011-04-18T07:36:00.000-04:00

I just wanted to make a post to let everyone know why I haven't posted since Friday. I feel bad when I don't post more than everyday or every other day. I don't think there's some rule stating that you have to post that much BUT I worry about not having things to post or not posting things. Anyways, I had family come and visit me this past weekend. I'm usually the one that has to go and visit other people so I didn't do any blogging. I also didn't get any reading done this weekend. To be honest, all I really did was hang out with my family and go shopping ha ha. So, instead of leaving every one in the dark about why I haven't been posting, I thought I'd just let you know.

I'm in the middle of reading 'Hereafter' by Tara Hudson right now. I have to say, it's amazing. I am SO excited to start reading it again because I haven't been able to read since Thursday! So I will hopefully be posting the review for that sometime soon. Thanks for being patient with my non-posting lol. Also, I'm planning a giveaway really soon so be on the lookout for that! : )

Book Blogger Hop

2011-04-15T09:46:00.000-04:00

Friday's Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy for Books.

This week's question is:

"Pick a character from a book you are currently reading or have just finished and tell us about him/her."

I recently read 'Familiar Origins' by B. Pine which has a lot of amazing and unforgettable cahracters in it. I guess if I have to pick one it has to be Galen. Galen is a child...I think she's 8 when the book starts...maybe 9. She lives with her mom and dad and is an amazing scout. She can travel through the woods with complete quiteness and be totally undetected! This little girl is fierce though. Her village is attacked by these horrible men and they just burn everything and kill everyone. Luckily Galen survives the attack and manages to get away. She has this magical ability that helps her. I don't want to spoil the book and give away too much though but I will say that she is one of the best characters (they all are) in the book. And the book itself is amazing. You can actually read a sample chapter for it on Goodreads! It's amazing!! : )

What was your character pick? Don't forget to leave your links! Happy hopping : )

Marked by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast

2011-04-12T10:49:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 320 Pages

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN-13: 978-0-312-36026-9

My Rating: 3/5

Enter the dark, magical world of the House of Night, a world very much like our own, except here vampyres have always existed. Sixteen-year-old Zoey Redbird has just been Marked as a fledgling vampyre. That is, if she makes it through the Change-and not all of those who are Marked do. It sucks to begin a new life, especially away from her friends, and on top of that, Zoey is no average fledgling. She has been chosen as special by the vampyre Goddess Nyx. Zoey discovers she has amazing powers, but along with her powers come bloodlust and an unfortunate ability to imprint her human ex-boyfriend. To add to her stress, she is not the only fledgling at the House of Night with special powers. When she discovers that the leader of the Dark Daughters, the school's most elite group, is misusing her Goddess-given gifts, Zoey must look deep withing herself for the courage to embrace her destiny-with a little help from her new vampyre friends.

I've wanted to start reading the 'House of Night' novels for a long time. I heard amazing things about them so I was excited when I received a copy of the book and couldn't wait to read it. Unfortunately, I'm not a fan. Although I didn't completely hate it, I didn't love it either. I mean, I'm so conflicted over whether or not I liked it...I like the parts when Zoey isn't having inner thoughts within her inner thoughts. And there are so many celebrity comparison's it's crazy! And, according to Zoey, every one's a slut. She practically calls everyone a slut. That's not to say the book was all bad though. I did enjoy parts when Zoey wasn't being a prude or having stupid inner thoughts. I just knew that every time I saw her "thinking" something and then there was a bracket, she was probably going to say something dumb.

The story is told through Zoey Redbird. She's a typical high school student with some annoying friends. I don't usually like all the characters in the book so it didn't surprise me that I hated Kayla, her friend from her high school. Or that I didn't like Heath. Zoey was tolerable at best. I think that maybe this series just isn't for me. I was interested in the book. It had an amazing story line. The plot was incredible. However the overly annoying characters and numerous "slut" definitions and celebrity references ruined it for me.

Overall, I Marked was okay. Like I said, I didn't love it, didn't hate it. I'm absolutely willing to give the series another shot and I will be picking up Betrayed. There is incredible potential for the series so I'm hoping it will get better as it goes. I know that not everyone shares my opinion and hundreds or maybe thousands of people LOVE this series. I can't say as of yet if I do. I want to read the second book and see if it's any better.

Has anyone else read this series? If so, do you think it got better or worse after book 1?

Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead

2011-04-09T10:49:00.000-04:00

Reading Level: Young Adult

Paperback: 448 Pages

Publisher: Razorbill

ISBN: 978-1-59514-197-2

My Rating: 5/5

Rose knows it is forbidden to love another guardian. Her best friend, Lissa-the last Dragomir princess-most always come first. Unfortunately, when it comes to gorgeous Dimitri Belikov, some rules are meant to be broken...
Then a strange darkness begins to grow in Rose's mind, and ghostly shadows warn of a terrible evil drawing nearer to the Academy's iron gates. The immortal undead are closing in, and they want vengeance for the lives Rose has stolen. In a heart-stopping battle to rival her worst nightmares, Rose will have to choose between life, love, and the two people who matter most...but will he choice mean that only one can survive?

The Vampire Academy series is easily one of my favorites. Although I've only read the first three books, it's a series that I love to get so completely consumed in that I don't care about anything else. Ha ha. I loved 'Shadow Kiss' so much, it's hard to describe. It's definitely my favorite in the series so far and it completely surpassed my expectations for the series.

'Shadow Kiss' is told through Rose Hathaway. It picks up shortly after 'Frostbite'. Rose is still attending St. Vladimir's Academy and (by the end of the book) is mere months from graduating. She trains like crazy, and all the graduating Dhampir students are partaking in a field exam where they are assigned a Moroi to guard from fake "strogoi" attacks. Rose was, and remains to be, one of my favorite characters in a series. And I can't get enough of her and Dimitri. Their story really heats up in this book. I don't want to give away too much for the people who haven't read this book but I was shocked by the ending!

If you haven't had a chance to read Vampire Academy, or have just been putting it off, I urge you to start reading it! The series just keeps getting better and better. I mean, I can really only say that it's amazing. Richelle Mead is a phenomenal writer and I love reading her books! I desperately want to read the next book in the series, Blood Promise. I'm sure it's going to be just as incredible!

Familiar Origins by B. Pine

2011-04-06T09:40:00.000-04:00

Paperback: 438 Pages

Publisher: Silver Leaf Books

ISBN: 978-1-60975-031-2

Release Date: May 1st, 2011

My Rating: 5/5

There is a universe where dragons are supreme sentient beings, second in power only to the Creator of all. These dragons are divided into two factions. The Debellos live to conquer worlds to fuel their powerful magic, while the Tueri strive to protect these worlds and their sentient beings.

One world, teeming with human life and rich with magic, is the perfect illustration of the struggle between the Debellos and the Tueri. Despite their centuries-old deadlock, the dragons know that the very outcome of their conflict depends on which side will gain control of eight special humans. And so both factions watch and wait patiently, hoping to be the first to find the human best suited for them to train and guide. They focus on five young children with the power to challenge dragons, who hold the fate of their world within their hearts and minds.

As these five children grow up, they confront tragedy and horror, betrayal and deception. With their innocence shattered at a tender age, they must learn how to live under the influence of powerful beings wishing to use them for their own ends. They must come to terms with who they are and what their fate holds for them. And they must survive the will of the one Debellos who has ultimate control of all their lives.

'Familiar Origins' is the first installment in 'The Draca Wards Saga'. B. Pine has done an amazing job of creating a new world, with unforgettable characters. 'Familiar Origins' is one of those books that grabs you from the first page, pulls you in, and keeps you there. I mean, what more could you ask for? Magic, shape shifting, dragons, warriors, epic battles. This book has a little bit of everything that turns a good book into a great book!

Normally, I would break down the book a little here and talk about the main character. Unfortunately, there are quite a few main characters and they are all so unique and dominant in their own way, that it's hard to break them down in a quick, sentence long synopsis. I will mention a few of my favorites. One of the characters in the book is Ben. Ben is completely in love with Princess Jania but he can't tell her. Because she's a princess and he's a nobody? Because they are mage partners? Because they are stuck sitting beside each other in class for the next 7 years? I mean, pick one! lol. He's distraught over the whole thing. I also really liked Rohen. He has one of the more tragic, heartbreaking stories in the book. His story was what pulled me initially and made me gasp in shock from the beginning.

Basically, the book is centralized around the academy. All the Wards (the kids like Rohen and Ben) end up going to the academy to hone in on a particular skill. At the Academy the children can become Healers, a Mage, a Scout. There's a lot of possibility. But, they also have special powers, if you will, that make them unique. Like the ability to use night vision, visit the astral plane, sense magic users and other people near them.

I loved 'Familiar Origins' from start to finish. There wasn't anything that I disliked about it...except that it had to end! I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. I can't wait to find out more about the Draca Wards, and the Dragons. If you are a fan of the Harry Potter series, then you will definitely love 'Familiar Origins' so make sure you pick it up and check it out on May 1st!