Manhattan Reader

IMM 27

2012-02-11T23:13:00.000-06:00

For Review (ARC's):

The Earthquake Machine by Mary Pauline Lowery

+February 28th, 2012

The Earthquake Machine tells the story of 14 year-old Rhonda. On the outside, everything looks perfect in Rhonda's world but at home Rhonda has to deal with a manipulative father who keeps her mentally ill mother hooked on pharmaceuticals. The only reliable person in Rhonda's life is her family's Mexican yardman, Jesus. But when the INS deports Jesus's back to his home state of Oaxaca, Rhonda is left alone with her increasingly painful family situation. Determined to find her friend Jesus, Rhonda seizes an opportunity to run away during a camping trip with friends. She swims to the Mexican side of the Rio Grande and makes her way to the border town of Boquillas, Mexico. There a peyote-addled bartender convinces her she won't be safe traveling alone into the country's interior. So with the bartender's help, Rhonda cuts her hair and assumes the identity of a Mexican boy named Angel. She then sets off on a burro across the desert to look for Jesus.

We Bury The Landscape by Kristine Ong Muslim

+April 1st, 2012

We Bury the Landscape is an exhibition of literary art. Ekphrasis, collected. One hundred flash fictions and prose poems presented to view. From the visual to the textual, transmuting before the gallery-goer’s gaze, the shifting contours of curator Kristine Ong Muslim’s surreal panorama delineate the unconventional, the unexpected, and the unnatural. Traversing this visionary vista’s panoply of “rooms of unfinished lives,” the reader unearths and examines and reanimates—revealing the transcendent uncanniness that subsists underfoot

Most Wanted (2)

2012-02-11T13:37:00.000-06:00

Girl Meets Boy: Because There Are Two Sides to Every Story Edited by Kelly Milner Halls

+December 28th, 2011

What do guys and girls really think? Twelve of the most dynamic and engaging YA authors writing today team up for this one-of-a-kind collection of "he said/she said" stories-he tells it from the guy's point of view, she tells it from the girl's. These are stories of love and heartbreak. There's the good-looking jock who falls for a dangerous girl, and the flipside, the toxic girl who never learned to be loved; the basketball star and the artistic (and shorter) boy she never knew she wanted; the gay boy looking for love online and the girl who could help make it happen. Each story in this unforgettable collection teaches us that relationships are complicated-because there are two sides to every story

Try Not To Breathe by Jennifer R. Hubbard

+January 19th, 2012

Learning to live is more than just choosing not to die, as sixteen-year-old Ryan discovers in the year following his suicide attempt. Despite his mother’s anxious hovering and the rumors at school, he’s trying to forget the darkness from which he has escaped. But it doesn’t help that he’s still hiding guilty secrets, or that he longs for a girl who may not return his feelings. Then he befriends Nicki, who is using psychics to seek contact with her dead father. This unlikely friendship thaws Ryan to the point where he can face the worst in himself. He and Nicki confide in one another the things they never thought they’d tell anyone—but their confessions are trickier than they seem, and the fallout tests the bounds of friendship and forgiveness

The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth

+February 7th, 2012

When Cameron Post’s parents die suddenly in a car crash, her shocking first thought is relief. Relief she’ll never have to tell them that, hours earlier, she had been kissing a girl.

But that relief soon turns to heartbreak, as Cam is forced to move in with her conservative aunt Ruth. She knows that from this point on, her life will forever be different. Survival in Miles City, Montana, means blending in and not making waves, and Cam becomes an expert at this—especially at avoiding any questions about her sexuality.

Then Coley Taylor moves to town. Beautiful pickup-driving Coley is a perfect cowgirl with the perfect boyfriend to match. To Cam’s surprise, she and Coley become best friends—while Cam secretly dreams of something more. Just as that starts to seem like a real possibility, her secret is exposed. Ultrareligious Aunt Ruth takes drastic action to “fix” her niece, bringing Cam face-to-face with the cost of denying her true self—even if she’s not quite sure who that is.

The Wood Queen by Karen Mahoney

+February 8th, 2012

Donna Underwood is in deep trouble.An ancient alchemical order is holding her accountable for destroying the last precious drops of the elixar of life. Never mind the fact that Donna was acting to free her friend, Navin, from the dangerous clutches of the Wood Queen at the time. But what the alchemists have in store is nothing compared to the wrath of the fey. The Wood Queen has been tricked and Donna must pay. Get ready for all hell - quite literally - to break loose.

Dead To You by Lisa McMann

+February 7th, 2012

Ethan was abducted from his front yard when he was just seven years old. Now, at sixteen, he has returned to his family. It's a miracle... at first. Then the tensions start to build. His reintroduction to his old life isn't going smoothly, and his family is tearing apart all over again. If only Ethan could remember something, anything, about his life before, he'd be able to put the pieces back together. But there's something that's keeping his memory blocked. Something unspeakable

Kiss The Morning Star by Elissa Janine Hoole

+April 1st, 2012

The summer after high-school graduation, a year after her mother’s tragic death, Anna has no plans – beyond her need to put a lot of miles between herself and the past. With forever friend Kat, a battered copy of Kerouac’s DHARMA BUMS, and a car with a dodgy oil filter, the girls set out on an epic road trip across the USA. Maybe somewhere along the way they’ll prove or disprove the existence of God. Maybe they’ll even get laid . . .

It’s a journey both outward and inward. Through the Badlands and encounters with predatory men and buffalo. A crazy bus ride to Mexico with a bunch of hymn-singing missionaries. Facing death, naked in the forest with an enraged grizzly bear . . . Gradually, Anna realizes that this is a voyage of discovery into her own self, her own silent pain – and into the tangled history that she and Kat share. What is love? What is sexual identity? And how do you find a way forward into a new future – a way to declare openly and without fear all that lies within you?

Black Heart by Holly Black

+April 3rd, 2012

Cassel Sharpe knows he’s been used as an assassin, but he’s trying to put all that behind him. He’s trying to be good, even though he grew up in a family of con artists and cheating comes as easily as breathing to him. He’s trying to do the right thing, even though the girl he loves is inextricably connected with crime. And he’s trying to convince himself that working for the Feds is smart, even though he’s been raised to believe the government is the enemy.

But with a mother on the lam, the girl he loves about to take her place in the Mob, and new secrets coming to light, the line between what’s right and what’s wrong becomes increasingly blurred. When the Feds ask Cassel to do the one thing he said he would never do again, he needs to sort out what’s a con and what’s truth. In a dangerous game and with his life on the line, Cassel may have to make his biggest gamble yet—this time on love.

Destined by Aprilynne Pike

+May 1st, 2012

Laurel now knows the truth: Yuki is a rare Winter faerie, the most powerful—and deadly—of all, and she is working with Klea to conquer and destroy Avalon. With Tamani, David, and Chelsea by her side, Laurel prepares for a fight she never thought she would have to face.

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

+May 1st, 2012

What if there were teens whose lives literally depended on being bad influences? This is life for sons and daughters of fallen angels in Sweet Evil.

Tenderhearted Southern girl, Anna Whitt, was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but it isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage, and her will-power is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna.

A cross-country trip forces Anna to face the reality that hope and love are not options for her kind. Forced to face her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns

What She Left Behind by Tracy Bilen

+May 1st, 2012

Sara and her mom have a plan to finally escape Sara's abusive father. But when her mom doesn’t show up as expected, Sara’s terrified. Her father says that she's on a business trip, but Sara knows he's lying. Her mom is missing—and her dad had something to do with it. Each day that passes, Sara's more on edge. Her friends know that something's wrong, but she won't endanger anyone else with her secret. And with her dad growing increasingly violent, Sara must figure out what happened to her mom before it's too late…for them both.

Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock

+May 8th, 2012

Mackenzie and Amy were best friends. Until Amy was brutally murdered. Since then, Mac’s life has been turned upside down. She is being haunted by Amy in her dreams, and an extremist group called the Trackers has come to Mac’s hometown of Hemlock to hunt down Amy’s killer: A white werewolf. Lupine syndrome—also known as the werewolf virus—is on the rise across the country. Many of the infected try to hide their symptoms, but bloodlust is not easy to control. Wanting desperately to put an end to her nightmares, Mac decides to investigate Amy’s murder herself. She discovers secrets lurking in the shadows of Hemlock, secrets about Amy’s boyfriend, Jason, her good pal Kyle, and especially her late best friend. Mac is thrown into a maelstrom of violence and betrayal that puts her life at risk.

Darkness Before Dawn by J.A. London

+May 28th, 2012

Humans huddle in their walled cities, supplying blood in exchange for safety. But not even that is guaranteed. Dawn has lost her entire family and now reluctantly serves as the delegate to Lord Valentine, the most powerful vampire for miles. It isn’t until she meets Victor, Valentine’s son, that she realizes not all vampires are monsters....

Endlessly by Kiersten White

+July 24th, 2012

The final chapter of Evie's adventures. Old friends, new ones, all wrapped up in impossible decisions. And some ball gowns. Because what's a life of normal and paranormal drama without a ball gown or two?

Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor

+September 2012

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

2012-02-11T13:11:00.000-06:00

Title: Thirteen Reasons Why
Author: Jay Asher
Release Date: October 13th, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Pages: 288
Format: Hardcover
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers thirteen cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker, his classmate and crush who committed suicide two weeks earlier.

On tape, Hannah explains that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he'll find out how he made the list.

Through Hannah and Clay's dual narratives, debut author Jay Asher weaves an intricate and heartrending story of confusion and desperation that will deeply affect teen readers.

Suicide has always been a delicate subject for me. For a long time throughout my early teenage years and well into high school I was Hannah. I knew what she felt, I knew what it was like to be standing by yourself, I knew what it was like to be bullied, and I could feel everything that Hannah felt.

It sucks sometimes to have these feelings like there's no more hope, there's no more happiness, there's no way to get away from this pain. And it sucks worse when it leads a person to commit a permanent act like suicide.

As Clay goes through the night of listening to Hannah, as he walks in her footsteps for one night, a new world opens up for him. And the question always remains Why? But sometimes there aren't any clear answers. Sometimes there just isn't a reason and as much as people hate that fact, it is what it is.

The character's in this world felt alive and for some of them it was like a new imprint was made on them as one by one they discovered there names on the list. Sometimes people just don't want to know the pain that the caused a person; ignorance is bliss, correct? But Hannah somehow got into their minds and hearts and through the working of Asher's tale that can grip anyone's heart forced them to confront their faults.

Asher wove a tale together that will be both memorable and haunting. This book has made me see the world through different eyes and I think anyone, especially those who feel like Hannah's path is the one for them, should read this book. I don't think anyone is selfish for choosing this road, but I do think that they need to honestly consider the aftermath of their act before turning to it.

This is a book for anyone and everyone to read.

Such A Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess

2012-02-09T16:27:00.000-06:00

Title: Such a Pretty Girl
Author: Laura Wiess
Release Date: January 2nd, 2007
Publisher: MTV and Pocket Books
Pages: 212
Format: Paperback
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Her father was supposed to be locked up until Meredith turned eighteen. She thought she had time to grow up, get out, and start a new life. But Meredith is only fifteen, and today her father is coming home from prison. Today her time has run out.They promised Meredith nine years of safety, but only gave her three.

This book touched me in places that I couldn't believe. It almost made me want to run to my mom and hug her, because obviously that was what Meredith needed in her life. I felt like I was watching a Lifetime movie that was worthy of an award because Laura painted such a wonderful and painful image of what happens when not one but both parent's fail a child.

After being raped by her father, he was locked away, but got out early. The news hits Meredith hard, especially when her mother takes him back with open arms.

It was disgusting to see this woman. My heart cried for Meredith and her friend, because what gets discovered just makes a person want to take both of them in and protect them. I just never understood how someone can be so evil, but the sad part is that this story hits too close to home because as much as people would like to admit that these things do not happen, that is not true at all.

For me, reading this was an eye-opener. I've never made myself blind to the events that happen in life, but at the same time confronting it is something I have avoided. So, I was not expecting the things that happen in this book to take such a hold of me.

I praise Wiess for writing this. I praise her fearlessness to tackle such a delicate subject that nobody wants to discuss, because this needs to be something that is not kept hidden. And I also feel like this book will be such a help to women in general who read this story.

Definitely something that should get picked up and read.

Waiting on Wednesday

2012-02-08T14:18:00.001-06:00

A weekly meme by Breaking the Spine

Take A Bow by Elizabeth Eulberg

+April 1st, 2012

Emme, Sophie, Ethan, and Carter are seniors at a performing arts school, getting ready for their Senior Showcase recital, where the pressure is on to appeal to colleges, dance academies, and professionals in show business. For Sophie, a singer, it's been great to be friends with Emme, who composes songs for her, and to date Carter, soap opera heartthrob who gets plenty of press coverage. Emme and Ethan have been in a band together through all four years of school, but wonder if they could be more than just friends and bandmates. Carter has been acting since he was a baby, and isn't sure how to admit that he'd rather paint than perform. The Senior Showcase is going to make or break each of the four, in a funny, touching, spectacular finale that only Elizabeth Eulberg could perform.

IMM 26

2012-02-05T01:10:00.000-06:00

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

For Review:

Slipping Reality by Emily Beaver

+January 30th, 2012

Thank You JKSCommunications

In a time of hardship and heartbreak, sometimes, reality just isn't enough. Slipping Reality is the story of fourteen-year-old Katelyn Emerson, who, when faced with the glaring reality of her brother's illness, rebels against the truth by slipping away into the depths of her own imagination. There, she finds the kind of support and comfort she feels she deserves. There, she does not have to feel so alone. And yet, as Katelyn's grasp on reality begins to unravel, so too does the story of a girl who grew up too fast and fell apart too soon. Emily Beaver's debut novel is a coming of age story that deals with the trials of young grief, insight, and growth where it's least expected

Favorite Places to Read

2012-02-04T09:07:00.000-06:00

Everyone has that place where they like to read and I just thought I would share some of mine!

BED!

Okay, so this isn't my bed, but now I know what I want for whenever I get my first apartment! But yes, I love to read in bed, especially in winter when it's cold outside and I can pull the cool sheets over me and just snuggle in with my book in hand. It is wonderful!!

Subway!

I don't know if anyone has ever ridden the New York City subway, but they are my absolutely favorite way to travel, especially when it's empty! Which is rare or if it's 2 in the morning. They are just so fun and they make a great place to read. I love to just sit there speeding by while escaping into a wonderful book.

I can promise that this is much cleaner than what you see right now. But yes, I like to read at my desk. My chair isn't as uncomfortable as I thought it would be so it's nice to just sit back and read.

My beautiful chair! I love this thing. It is so comfortable and I can just sit back and relax. I wish there was room to put a pillow, but it's still nice. I've fallen asleep on this thing many times, so when I pull out a book to read, it just makes it nice and comfortable.

So, these are some of my favorite places to read. What are yours?

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

2012-02-03T23:07:00.000-06:00

Title: Shiver
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Release Date: August 1st, 2009
Publisher: Scholastic Inc
Pages: 390
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Grace and Sam share a kinship so close they could be lovers or siblings. But they also share a problem. When the temperature slips towards freezing, Sam reverts to his wolf identity and must retreat into the woods to protect his pack. He worries that eventually his human side will fade away and he will be left howling alone at the lonely moon. A stirring supernatural teen romance.

I do not know why it took me so long to review this book. When I first picked it up I had no idea that I would fall in love with Grace and Sam so fast, and I had no idea that Maggie Stiefvater would write such a beautifully crafted story that brings to life characters that I can put down on my mental list of Awesome Characters.

To be honest, when I first started this book and discovered that it was about werewolves, I actually rolled my eyes. I was at the point in my reading life in which these supernatural beings were just being overused all over the place and nobody was doing anything new or different. And then...BAM! Stiefvater just took me by surprise, because her werewolves were different. They only changed in the winter time and during the summer time they are human. And a major plot twist is revealed at the climax at the book that left me speechless.

As for the characters of Grace and Sam, I just felt like they were so perfect for each other. It was like it was meant to be. Grace starts out the novel, showing off Stiefvater's beautifully crafted novel in words that can only be described as poetic. And then the novel switches to Sam's story, which is similarly as beautiful, but this time a haunting tune is found.

I felt like the other characters in the novel always kept surprising me, especially with her friend Olivia, because I never could imagine that would happen.

I wish this book had been longer, but I'm glad that Stiefvater made this into a trilogy. The story never went too fast but kept a good pace. And since I feel like this must be mentioned, the cover is awesome! If I ever get published as an author, I would love for the cover artist of this book to be the cover artist for my book. I like the UK version a lot better, I won't lie, but this cover is still awesome.

The Wolves of Mercy Falls has become one of my favorite trilogies that, if I had the time, I would honestly just read over and over again.

Revealing Eden by Victoria Foyt

2012-02-03T22:50:00.000-06:00

Title: Revealing Eden
Author: Victoria Foyt
Release Date: January 10th, 2012
Publisher: Sand Dollar Press
Pages: 307
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

Eden Newman must mate before her 18th birthday in six months or she'll be left outside to die in a burning world. But who will pick up her mate-option when she's cursed with white skin and a tragically low mate-rate of 15%? In a post-apocalyptic, totalitarian, underground world where class and beauty are defined by resistance to an overheated environment, Eden's coloring brands her as a member of the lowest class, a weak and ugly Pearl. If only she can mate with a dark-skinned Coal from the ruling class, she'll be safe. Just maybe one Coal sees the Real Eden and will be her salvation her co-worker Jamal has begun secretly dating her. But when Eden unwittingly compromises her father's secret biological experiment, she finds herself in the eye of a storm and thrown into the last area of rainforest, a strange and dangerous land. Eden must fight to save her father, who may be humanity's last hope, while standing up to a powerful beast-man she believes is her enemy, despite her overwhelming attraction. Eden must change to survive but only if she can redefine her ideas of beauty and of love, along with a little help from her "adopted aunt" Emily Dickinson

I'm not really sure what to say about this book. It was interesting in ways I didn't expect and it shows a lot of promise for the upcoming novels in the series. Foyt brings forth a world where those of darker skin color are the superior race, since they can stand up against the sun's blistering heat. She is called a Pearl, due to her white complexion.

When Eden and her father are taken to an island things go horribly wrong and thus the story really starts.

I like Eden, and Foyt makes it easy to really like it. The reader feels sympathy for her situation and makes her a likeable protagonist. And supporting characters like Ronsom help bring out Eden's character to light.

The plot doesn't move to fast but still keeps interest. The way this society functions makes the story appealing, but I'm a politics geek, so any new and different society looks good to me. One of the reasons why I read dystopia fiction, but I like that Foyt is able to keep this world very real, and very exciting.

One of the things I don't like as much is the cover. I'm sorry, but whoever came up with that cover just did not grasps the story at all, because I feel like this cover does not do the book justice. And I usually don't criticize the cover, but I just have to say something about this.

Like I said, Foyt pieces together a world full of secrets and adventure that leaves a lot of potential for the rest of the series.

Halflings by Heather Burch

2012-02-01T10:12:00.003-06:00

Title: Halflings
Author: Heather Burch
Release Date: February 1st, 2012
Publisher: Zondervan
Pages: 288
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

Seventeen-year-old Nikki must entrust her life to three half human, half angel young men; the Halflings are sworn to protect her at all costs, but when two fall for Nikki, it puts more than their lives in danger; their very eternal souls hang in the balance.

All I have to say is that when I first opened this book up, I was not expecting the beautiful writing that practically danced off the pages. I don't know how Burch did it, but the story took a life of it's own very quickly and had been gripped by the first pages.

In Burch's debut novel, she brings to life a fun and witty character, Nikki, along side Raven, Mace, and Vine, as the sexy supernatural beings that come to Nikki.

I don't have much to say about this book, but I did like how Burch was able not only to present some strong characters, but also she was able to give the fallen angel's some weaknesses of their own (which don't include falling in love with human girls), so that wide range of variety in the story really brought me in.

Some aspects of the story that I had issues with dealt with the language used and a lot of the back story. Character's like Will, whenever they spoke it was like everything was going right over my head and I would miss a lot. And, something else that just didn't fit with me had to do with the way that the supernatural beings were borderline cliche at some points. I don't understand the appeal to a dark and dangerous being that is extremely sexy on top of that. I guess it has more to do with the latter, which gives the former a reason to be overlooked.

Either way, some character flaws I noticed, but they were so minor a reader would have to pay a lot of attention in order to catch. I can't say that I have a favorite character that isn't the heroine, because Burch introduces a large ensemble that brings to life these otherworldly creatures.

A must read of 2012. Worth the buy? That's up to the reader and how much they love angels to decide.

What I can say is that of all the angel books that I have read, besides the writing style, there didn't seem to be a huge different between this novel and that of other books similar to it. But Burch is getting a good start.

Top Ten Books That Would Make Great Book Club Picks

2012-01-31T10:39:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

1. Delirium by Lauren Oliver - I think great discussions can be had with this book, it definitely raises a lot of questions. Even if primarily teens would read this.

2. Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood - Honestly, I hate this book. Thinking of it makes me want to scream, BUT it is interesting when thinking about today's society and that of the book. It's scary how close this book is to hitting home with us, currently. This is something both adults and young adults can discuss, and talk about.

3. Saving June by Hannah Harrington - This is something that I feel that most teens can read and maybe even understand. And this is even good for adults, because it touches on topics that can be difficult to discuss.

4. Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson - Another book that I feel like teens and adults can read together, especially. Eating disorders are something, that I feel, adults do not understand fully, so when discussing with teens, it gives better insight.

5. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson - I know that this is an old book, but it still has the same power that it did back when it was first published.

6. Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky - Another YA dystopia, but the only reason I think this would be good for book clubs is because of the message that gets sent, especially in a school book club. A lot can be discussed like the broken society, the functioning of the schools, and what technology does to teens as a whole.

7. Ophelia Speaks by Sara Shandler - I can see this book in Mom-Daughter book clubs, because it's a beautiful collection of young girl's in their passage to womanhood.

8. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak - This was actually a book club book that we had in my high school, and some of the discussions that arise were fascinating.

9. My Mother the Cheerleader by Robert Sharenow - Again, another book club book that I once had. The time period that the book is set in and the character's and events bring something interesting to this novel.

10. XVI by Julia Karr - The things that happen to girl's in this society and what that means parallel to our own time can be a scary thought, but one that should be discussed, I feel.

The Suttering Tattoo by Greg Logsted

2012-01-28T21:51:00.000-06:00

Title: The Stuttering Tattoo
Author: Greg Logsted
Release Date: December 13th, 2011
Publisher: TKA Distribution
Pages: 220
Format: eBook
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

Steven Bishop is extraordinarily ordinary. He goes to school. He rides his motorcycle. He stutters. His best friend is a former Colombian cartel hit man turned cook/construction worker. You know, ordinary. All that changes the day Becky Moore walks into his classroom. Becky is dazzling, enigmatic.
One day Steven gives Becky a ride home on his motorcycle. There, they discover a severed arm, one of the fingers of which still has an unusual ring attached: a circle, in the middle of which is a heart, at the center of which is a bold number 37. While comforting Becky, Steven discovers a tattoo at the base of her neck: it is the same symbol. And so begins a thrilling descent into a world of crime and murder, a ride wilder than any Steven has taken before.

I'm not going to lie, it was a little difficult getting into.

Steven is this young man who has a stuttering issue and who meets Becky, a new girl in his school. After offering her a ride home on his motorcycle, they discovered a severed arm, and suddenly things go from dull to wow.

This turns into an adventure, with mystery and twists at each corner. Armed with his ex-con best friend, a pen, and Sudoku Steven and Becky go through the world that Logsted has created filled with action at every turn.

There were moments when I couldn't put it down, but there were also moments when I rolled my eyes and wished that the book would just end already. I don't know how to describe my feelings, besides this being a book that, unless really really interested, should probably just be borrowed from a friend.

I gave it four stars because I could a) finish it and b) Steven had held my interest at some points.

There was also a lot of questions I kept asking, which some got answered, and others are left up to the reader to decide. And I like that, because as annoying as it is at times, it just adds a little something to the novel to make it come alive.

A little more could have happened, some better character developments for example, but besides that it's not so bad.

IMM 25

2012-01-28T21:14:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren
Bought:

Soul Screamers Volume One by Rachel Vincent: My Soul to Lose, My Soul to Take, My Soul to Save

Spirit Bound by Christine Feehan

What did you get in your mailbox?

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

2012-01-27T11:33:00.001-06:00

Title: The Iron Daughter
Author: Julie Kagawa
Release Date: August 10th, 2010
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Pages: 359
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: The Iron King
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

I feel like I'm falling in love all over again with this series. As if the first book didn't convince me enough that this was something that would be of high interest. I don't know how Kagawa does it, but she has brought to life these mischievous little creatures into a whole new light.

The first thing I want to start out with is Ash, because I am falling so much in love with this prince. There is this dark, haunted soul that continues to resurface again and again, Kagawa never once breaking this spell that she has cast over him, that reveals this tormented man and what Fate has thrown at him. I kept wanting to hit Ash so many times, I was losing my mind. There is just something about him that makes me want to break in and start digging through this ice fortress that he has built around himself.

And Meghan, I'm becoming a little fond of her. There is still this selfish side of her that continues to show up, but I feel like at times it can be acceptable for her to be like that. For those who have read the book would know everything that she had to give up for the sake of others. I do feel like there is a lot of growth, that Kagawa has developed Meghan from this pig-farm girl that was practically invisible at her school, to this half-breed Summer Princess who gets stronger with each obstacle thrown at her.

The main story itself was fascinating. I love all the twists and turns that Kagawa throws into this book, and all the lies and deceptions that are uncovered. The world of the fey becomes incredibly complicated as the Iron fey becomes more and more of a threat, but with a looming war between Summer and Winter, Meghan realizes that this new world that she has been thrown into, and has slowly started to love, is in great danger.

Enemies become friends, friends become enemies, and a revelation is made that could change Meghan's life forever.

Once I picked this up, I couldn't put it down until I finished it because Kagawa takes this book at such a quick pace. Something is always happening and things are always changing, and before anyone can blink things go into mayhem.

Best book I have read in 2012, thus far. I wish I didn't have so much studying and reading to do for school so I can read the third book already, but soon enough. I am excited for this series because so far it is showing so much potential to be amazing.

This is a must, must read!

Adult vs. Young Adult

2012-01-25T21:26:00.000-06:00

I've always had this very liberal sense of reading, in the sense that my parent's could care less what book I picked up, they had much more important things to worry. I started reading my first adult book at the age of twelve when I first picked up Dan Brown. All the adults were reading him and I couldn't figure out why, so I went out and got The Da Vinci Code and afterwards pretty much read every single one of Dan Brown's books that year. When I was thirteen I picked up Jodi Picoult and fell in love with her writing as well and I couldn't have enough.

Basically, the entire world was my bookshelf since my parent's never monitored anything I read. All I had to do was ask for a specific title and I would get it for Christmas or my birthday or if they were feeling generous. So, when I started to discover people who's parents actually didn't let them read certain books because of language, graphics, or whatever I was a little confused. I mean, didn't parent's want their child to read? Why would they let them read this book but not that? What was wrong with that book?

In the simplest term, I didn't know that there was a difference between Young Adult literature and Adult literature. Before entering high school I was reading Jennifer Weiner, Christine Feehan, Heather Graham, and Jean M. Auel.

So, my question is why is there a difference? I get that some adult books make references to sex and have the whole graphic scene, but eventually kids would read about it.

I don't know, maybe it's because I'm not a mother myself. I am only eighteen, so I'm just naive, but I do know that if my kids would ever start to read I probably would give them free access to read about just whatever they wanted. And it's not because I care, but because while there should be limitations on certain things, limiting access to books is something I don't personally feel should be happening.

I was just wondering, especially for those parent's out there, what your opinion is on adult vs. young adult books? Do you think that parent's should put a censor on certain novels to their kids or let them read whatever they can? And if you believe in the censor, why? Don't you think that better connections would be made with your child if you didn't censor novels?

I want to know opinions on all sides of the case.

IMM 24

2012-01-22T04:05:00.000-06:00

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

ARC:

Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

Release Date: June 12th, 2012

Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters prey on humans, killing them to absorb their energy. But this summer the underwater clan targets Jason Hancock out of pure revenge. They blame Hancock for their mother's death and have been waiting a long time for him to return to his family's homestead on the lake. Hancock has a fear of water, so to lure him in, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter, Lily. Easy enough—especially as Calder has lots of practice using his irresistable good looks and charm on ususpecting girls. Only this time Calder screws everything up: he falls for Lily—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined. And just as his sisters are losing patience with him.

**Thank you Delacorte Press!

What did you get in your mailbox?

Fury by Elizabeth Miles

2012-01-20T20:48:00.000-06:00

Title: Fury
Author: Elizabeth Miles
Release Date: August 30th, 2011
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 370
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...

Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better--the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.

On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.

In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay.

Em and Chase have been chosen.

I got this book just as it came out and as I was reading I cursed myself for not having picked this book up sooner. I was completely captivated from the start and could not stop myself from taking in everything that was happening. It was almost like I couldn't read fast enough and some of the words just slipped out of this book coming to life.

This entire world that Elizabeth has created has come to life in ways that I could never imagined. I've always been fascinated with Greek mythology and when I realized what this book was about, I just knew it had to be great.

First off, is the cover. Can it be anymore beautiful? I'm thinking that this is Ty, and I wouldn't doubt that in the next two books the other two Furies appear. I just love the way Ty's hair goes from just the typical flowing hair to almost like fire. Whoever designed this is my hero. And not to mention the eyes, I felt like those popped out at me. Either that or I just get a little jumpy each time I think about the story and then I look at the cover.

Now onward to the meat of the tale. I can't believe I just said that. Anyways, Elizabeth's story was an amazing tale that I couldn't put down. The story comes to life as Em and Chase are haunted by the Furies who are out for vengeance. Em, who hooks up with her best friends boyfriend, and Chase, who holds a dark secret that haunts him.

As the story unraveled and the dark worlds of these teenagers were revealed, I felt myself getting goosebumps. I know that if the Furies were ever around, I would probably be on their Hit List. These women are cold to the core.

I could almost feel Em's desperation and Chase's need. I even felt sorry for them, because they got wrapped up in the world that is a teenagers life, and for that they were punished. I almost want to say that they had it coming for what they did, but I still feel bad.

I was always confused about Ty's intentions from the start when she was running after Chase, and of Ali as well. But it became almost clear near the end.

I really want to read the second book now because these three are not finished yet and they are out to get even. I've always believed in karma myself, so it should be interesting what happens in the next two books.

Miles wove together a beautiful original tale about what happens when teenagers play with fire...and get seriously burned.

The Word Gang by Mark McKenna

2012-01-18T21:57:00.000-06:00

Title: The Word Gang
Author: Mark McKenna
Release Date: December 8th, 2010
Publisher: Precipitation Press
Pages: 266
Format: Paperback
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 2 Stars

"The Word Gang" is the story of three kids in school who start using 'big' words to be disruptive. It is also the story of the transformational friendship between a troubled young girl, Kalisha Jackson, and a lonely old polyglot, Albrecht Spinoza. Other characters have to deal with assimilation into America (Sahmbaht Chan) and living with an alcoholic parent (BD Delbene). Lastly, "The Word Gang" is a very sneaky inquiry into the nature of language itself.

I'm not sure what my general feelings are for this book. It had an interesting plot to it and a lot of diverse characters to it, but for some reason the story did not click with me as well as I first had thought it would when I got it.

I think that my main problem with this book is that all the characters are trying to connect in some way this different types of people in order to draw in readers, but the problem that this book seems to have is that the characters are too unreal.

While I believe it is possible that a student, who is smart and cunning, can skip school for a year, I feel like the way Kalisha did it is not proof enough for me that she could get away with it. And her reasons behind it, just don't convince me enough that she shouldn't go to school.

And the other characters, they just felt like they were trying too hard. And the teacher, I don't understand him at all. This program that Kalisha and the other students are in makes little sense to me.

Really, for a lack of better words this book just left me speechless. Speechless in the way that it's different type of read for those who don't like books that go the traditional format of writing, because this book switches narration. McKenna introduces these switched narration by putting them in the middle of the page and italicizing them, and while this heads up is all great and good, I still feel like it adds to this books confusion.

I gave it a two for it's originality, but in everything else this book falls incredibly short.

Top Ten Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read Romance Novels

2012-01-17T15:22:00.000-06:00

Top Ten is a Weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish

1. The Flame and the Flower by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss - Possibly the best historical romance novel ever written. I literally fell in love with this genre just because of this book. Kathleen is a genius. She wrote a beautiful story about two unlikely people falling in love. Amazing!

2. A Pirate's Love by Johanna Lindsey - Another incredible story about two unlikely people falling in love. Thanks to this story I actually fell in love with sailors and wanted a caption as a husband. Or pirate, whatever makes sense.

3. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon - I would just like to make the claim now that even though I read the book about nine years after it's original publication, Jamie Fraser is mine! He is the reason why I will get married in Scotland, to a Highlander, who will be wearing a kilt at our wedding. The story is long, but incredibly detailed work of fiction that plays heavily on real life history. Gabaldon's story literally comes to life in the most unexpected ways.

4. Rebel by Heather Graham - The first historical romance I ever read, which is witty and fun to read. Something to check out completely. At the height of the Civil War, Aliana marries Union solider Ian Mackenzie. Ian has been assigned a dangerous mission to find the most notorious spy for the Confederacy, who is also known as his wife.

5. Because You're Mine by Lisa Kleypas - If you have never read historical romance, this book should at least be considered as one of the first. Maddy is trying to get away from an arrange marriage, and to do so she decides to ruin herself, and knows the perfect man to do it. Too bad he is too focused on his career to deal with women (and maybe a little heartbroken).

6. Stranger in my Arms by Lisa Kleypas - Not only romance but a little mystery as well. When Lara believes that her husband is dead, she feels relief, but when a stranger comes back claiming to be her husband her whole world turns upside down.

7. Treasure of the Sun by Christine Dodd - This is a little different because it doesn't take place in the UK, like the last few do (except for number 4, which takes place in Florida). But, this book is a great read because this is when California becomes a state and what happens when a wealthy man of Mexican decent tries to keep his farm and gain the woman of his love.

I've actually read a lot of Historical Romance novels, but these are my top books, which does not hit ten.

Tempest by Julie Cross

2012-01-16T11:32:00.000-06:00

Title: Tempest
Author: Julie Cross
Release Date: January 17th, 2012
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Pages: 352
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

The year is 2009. Nineteen-year-old Jackson Meyer is a normal guy… he’s in college, has a girlfriend… and he can travel back through time. But it’s not like the movies – nothing changes in the present after his jumps, there’s no space-time continuum issues or broken flux capacitors – it’s just harmless fun.

That is… until the day strangers burst in on Jackson and his girlfriend, Holly, and during a struggle with Jackson, Holly is fatally shot. In his panic, Jackson jumps back two years to 2007, but this is not like his previous time jumps. Now he’s stuck in 2007 and can’t get back to the future.

Desperate to somehow return to 2009 to save Holly but unable to return to his rightful year, Jackson settles into 2007 and learns what he can about his abilities.

But it’s not long before the people who shot Holly in 2009 come looking for Jackson in the past, and these “Enemies of Time” will stop at nothing to recruit this powerful young time-traveler. Recruit… or kill him.

Piecing together the clues about his father, the Enemies of Time, and himself, Jackson must decide how far he’s willing to go to save Holly… and possibly the entire world.

I will be honest, I was not excited to read this book. I regretted accepting the review, because it just started out so slow for me, and I just kept thinking what an idiot the main character was. The character's just didn't click well for me in the beginning.

But then things got interesting. It took awhile before the plot picked up, and I still kept thinking Jackson was an idiot, but at least a somewhat smarter idiot. I was confused a lot of the time, don't get me wrong. I could never tell in what moment in time Jackson was in, because I kept thinking that something different will happen and it will be revealed that he has a different time line or whatever. It was all a little complicated. And as for Holly, I never thought a character could whine as much as Bella Swan, but then I meet a character like Holly Flynn and that belief is disproved.

So why the fudge did I give this book five stars? Simple, because of the main plot line that surrounded it. The idea of time traveling, genetic engineering and corrupt government agents. It had it all. I feel like the character's could use a lot of work, but I liked the speed of the story, I liked how once the author started the ball rolling she didn't stop. Some authors always bring it back as the novel nears an end, but this author does not stop, and keeps going.

I like the diversity she has in them. There is Holly, the damsel in distressed, Adam, the smart geeky kid, and Jackson, the hero. And there was a lot more, but these main ones are what I noticed most. And I liked how with all this time traveling going on, I would get confused, but the author does a good job on keeping us on track. I just got confused because of all the long period jumps and not to mention all of Jackson's flashbacks makes it sound like it's current time. It's hard to explain.

There are a lot of unanswered questions and I was not happy at all with the ending. I understand why Jackson did what he did, but it still makes me mad at him. It was a little obvious half way into the novel that that was what he was going to do, but its still sad. I feel like the second book will have a lot of explaining, but I did like how the author did give us some answers, so things aren't too confusing.

Besides some character issues, overall a great book.

Switched by Amanda Hocking

2012-01-16T11:25:00.000-06:00

Title: Switched
Author: Amanda Hocking
Release Date: January 3rd, 2012
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Pages: 293
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

When Wendy Everly was six-years-old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy discovers her mother might have been right. With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds herself in a world she never knew existed - a world both beautiful and frightening, and Wendy's not sure she wants to be a part of it.

I wasn't sure what I was expecting. I have heard so many wonderful things about this story and equally so many not so wonderful things about this story. But I saw it, and decided that I should take a chance and see what it's like because I have reviewed a lot of self-published work and a lot of these authors have more promise than what people give them credit for.

The story starts with Wendy, a young brat who comes from a troubled past when her mother tried to kill her. She know lives with her brother and aunt but she still causes a lot of trouble for them. When Finn enters the picture and plans to take Wendy away, to her home, because she's a changeling. And I don't mean as in faery, but as in troll.

Hocking takes an old idea of changeling and instead of riding the faery wave with it, she takes a different route and goes after troll, but these trolls are different. They look exactly like humans besides some minor things and they behave mostly like humans. The troll aspect to them is kept though because these changelings are put into place in order to steal from their host family, who are typically wealthy. I like that about this book.

And then there's the idea of powers and how some have it and others, like Wendy, are extremely powerful. But Wendy isn't just any troll, she's a princess. I like how Hocking was able to incorporate the personalities of these characters to match that of what most people would think of trolls, because Wendy's biological mother is just horrible. And then there's Wendy's own temper tantrum that she has.

While this book isn't packed with a ton of action at the beginning, it does have a quick start. I like how Hocking is able to take the readers into Wendy's head and see what her human life is like. She is super close to her older brother and feels protective of her family. And then there's the contrast to what she experiences when she's at Forening, her homeland.

Wendy is stubborn and I like how Hocking took a realistic situation with a child who doesn't really know what to do in a situation that she's in. Wendy does a lot of things wrong and her mother just gets worse and worse.

Hocking, also did a fantastic job in bringing in a variety of characters. They are rich, spoiled kids who come back in order to live with their biological families, after taking from their host families. But they all have their soft sides and their own personality. Like Tove and Willa, they are both very different and yet Wendy can connect with them each. Even though Tove's family is trying to take away Wendy's crown, the two teenagers form a weird friendship that works. And Tove in the beginning seems like the typical rich boy that doesn't care about anything, but when he speaks he talks insightful of the social and political world that surround them and how it needs to get fixed.

Willa, she came off as snobbish at first. I wasn't sure if I would like her, but she started to grow on me, especially when Wendy needed her the most.

What I didn't like much was the way that Wendy became so focused on Finn and her family doesn't seem as important for the middle section of the book. While at no time does she actually become comfortable in her new home, she doesn't think much about her old family.

Overall, this was a great book and Hocking did a fantastic job in bringing these characters to life. I wish there was a little more action, but for the most part the book went well.

IMM 23

2012-01-15T09:35:00.001-06:00

**A weekly meme by Kristi at The Story Siren

ARC:

Revealing Eden (Save The Pearls Part One) by Victoria Foyt

The Stuttering Tattoo by Greg Logsted

Firelight (Darkest London #1) by Kristen Callihan

Freshman Year & Other Unnatural Disasters by Meredith Zeitlin

**Thank you Anne from Putnam for "Freshman Year"

**Thank you Grand Central Publishing for "Firelight"

**Thank you TKA Publishing for "Stuttering Tattoo"

**Thank you Sand Dollar Press Inc for "Revealing Eden"

Bought:

Switched (Trylle Book 1) by Amanda Hocking

Dreaming Awake (Falling Under Book 2) by Gwen Hayes

The Iron Daughter (Iron Fey Book 2) by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Queen (Iron Fey Book 3) by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Knight (Iron Fey Book 4) by Julie Kagawa

Under The Never Sky (Under The Never Sky Book 1) by Veronica Rossi

The Alchemy of Forever (Incarnation Book 1) by Avery Williams

A Million Suns (Across The Universe Book 2) by Beth Revis

Dreaming Awake by Gwen Hayes

2012-01-12T18:47:00.000-06:00

Title: Dreaming Awake
Author: Gwen Hayes
Release Date: January 3rd, 2012
Publisher: NAL Trade
Pages: 336
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: Falling Under
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

When Theia Alderson first encountered a mysterious, handsome boy in her dreams, she never imagined how finding Haden Black—and falling in love—could change her life. To save Haden, Theia sacrificed everything. And the dangerous bargain she made could have lasting repercussions.

Now Theia has returned to Serendipity Falls, and she finds herself struggling with the same deadly hungers that have tortured Haden. When students at their high school fall prey to a mysterious illness, Theia can’t help but wonder if Haden’s control is slipping—and how much longer she’ll have a grip on her own.

And still the nightmare realm of Under won’t let them go. Someone from Haden’s past is determined to destroy Theia from the inside out, starting with those closest to her, forcing Theia to choose between family and friends and a love that may have been doomed from the start…

The sequel to Falling Under, Hayes brings back Theia, Haden, and the rest of the gang. Now that Theia is back to the human world, she has some readjusting to do as she quickly realizes that things will not be the same. And that Mara, the queen of Under and a human's worst nightmare, will never let Theia go.

I have to say, I loved the first one, but this one completely blew my mind. The world that Hayes has created is haunting, chilling, twisted, dark, and incredibly creepy. She brings back this world that literally creates terror to the human world.

Theia's struggle to get back to normal and try to hide what could be her demon side that she now holds proves to be incredibly difficult. I felt like Hayes never rushed things when it came to Theia. She was able to keep a steady pace and realistically present the hardships that her heroine goes through. And with Haden, Hayes is still able to keep him a dark, delicious mystery that will make any girl want him.

When students in Theia's school begin to show signs of an unknown sickness, Hayes keeps us surprised at every turn with a revelation that continues to shock as the story develops.

The character's, I feel, go through some incredible developments and grow as the story progresses. Hayes even lets us into the minds of Donny and Amelia for a chapter, as the horror increases and everything begins to unravel as Mara grows stronger and stronger.

One thing I was not expecting was the way things ended. This leaves a lot open for hopefully future books, because so many things have been left open.

This book was as wonderful as the first and I have to say that I'm starting to love both Theia and Haden, because Hayes breathes such life into her character that it leaves no room for argument how wonderful they are for each other. This book definitely focused much more on the demonic aspect than the first, which brings goosebumps across my arms while reading it.

Another wonderful story by a wonderful author.

Most Wanted (1)

2012-01-12T15:25:00.002-06:00

"Most Wanted" is a list of books that I have on my wish list of either books that have yet to be released or books that have just recently been released but I have yet to get my hands on.

All links lead to Goodreads. Summaries come from either Goodreads, Amazon, or the authors website.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

+January 2nd, 2012

Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A. Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

Truth by Julia Karr

+January 17th, 2012

Nina Oberon’s life has changed enormously in the last few months. When her mother was killed, Nina discovered the truth about her father, the leader of the Resistance. And now she sports the same Governing Council–ordered tattoo of XVI on her wrist that all sixteen-year-old girls have. The one that announces to the world that she is easy prey to predators. But Nina won’t be anyone’s stereotype. And when she joins an organization of girls working within the Resistance, she knows that they can put an end to one of the most terrifying secret programs the GC has ever conceived. Because the truth always comes out...and the consequences can be deadly.

Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

+January 3rd, 2012

Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances… a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.

So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life…and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.

It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

+February 28th, 2012

I’m pushing aside the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and flame.

Perception by Kim Harrington

+March 1st, 2012

Everybody knows about Clarity "Clare" Fern. She's the psychic girl in school, the one who can place her hands on something and see hidden visions from the past.

Only Clare would rather not be a celebrity. She prefers hanging back, observing. Her gift is not a game to her.

But then someone starts playing with her head . . . and heart. Messages and gifts from a secret admirer crop up everywhere Clare turns. Could they be from Gabriel, the gorgeous boy who gets Clare's pulse racing? Or from Justin, Clare's hopeful ex-boyfriend who'd do anything to win her back?

One thing is certain. Clare needs to solve this mystery, and soon. Because the messages are becoming sinister, and a girl in town has suddenly disappeared.

Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

+April 3rd, 2012

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

The Book of Blood And Shadow by Robin Wasserman

+April 10th, 2012

It was like a nightmare, but there was no waking up. When the night began, Nora had two best friends and an embarrassingly storybook one true love. When it ended, she had nothing but blood on her hands and an echoing scream that stopped only when the tranquilizers pierced her veins and left her in the merciful dark.

But the next morning, it was all still true: Chris was dead. His girlfriend Adriane, Nora's best friend, was catatonic. And Max, Nora's sweet, smart, soft-spoken Prince Charming, was gone. He was also—according to the police, according to her parents, according to everyone—a murderer.

Desperate to prove his innocence, Nora follows the trail of blood, no matter where it leads. It ultimately brings her to the ancient streets of Prague, where she is drawn into a dark web of secret societies and shadowy conspirators, all driven by a mad desire to possess something that might not even exist. For buried in a centuries-old manuscript is the secret to ultimate knowledge and communion with the divine; it is said that he who controls the Lumen Dei controls the world. Unbeknownst to her, Nora now holds the crucial key to unlocking its secrets. Her night of blood is just one piece in a puzzle that spans continents and centuries. Solving it may be the only way she can save her own life.

The Last Echo by Kimberly Derting

+April 17th, 2012

Violet kept her morbid ability to sense dead bodies a secret from everyone except her family and her childhood-best-friend-turned-boyfriend, Jay Heaton. That is until forensic psychologist Sara Priest discovered Violet’s talent and invited her to use her gift to track down murderers. Now, as she works with an eclectic group of individuals—including mysterious and dangerously attractive Rafe—it’s Violet’s job to help those who have been murdered by bringing their killers to justice.

When Violet discovers the body of a college girl killed by “the girlfriend collector” she is determined to solve the case. But now the serial killer is on the lookout for a new “relationship” and Violet may have caught his eye....

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

+May 1st, 2012

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

In Honor by Jessi Kirby

+May 8th, 2012

Honor receives her brother’s last letter from Iraq three days after learning that he died, and opens it the day his fellow Marines lay the flag over his casket. Its contents are a complete shock: concert tickets to see Kyra Kelly, her favorite pop star and Finn's celebrity crush. In his letter, he jokingly charged Honor with the task of telling Kyra Kelly that he was in love with her.
Grief-stricken and determined to grant Finn's last request, she rushes to leave immediately. But she only gets as far as the driveway before running into Rusty, Finn's best friend since third grade and his polar opposite. She hasn't seen him in ages, thanks to a falling out between the two guys, but Rusty is much the same as Honor remembers him: arrogant, stubborn. . . and ruggedly good looking. Neither one is what the other would ever look for in a road trip partner, but the two of them set off together, on a voyage that makes sense only because it doesn’t. Along the way, they find small and sometimes surprising ways to ease their shared loss and honor Finn—but when shocking truths are revealed at the end of the road, will either of them be able to cope with the consequences?

City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare

+May 8th, 2012

The New York Times bestselling Mortal Instruments continues—and so do the thrills and danger for Jace, Clary, and Simon. Can the lost be reclaimed? What price is too high to pay for love? Who can be trusted when sin and salvation collide? Love. Blood. Betrayal. Revenge. Darkness threatens to claim the Shadowhunters in the harrowing fifth book of the Mortal Instruments series

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

+ May 29th, 2012

As the only Scion that can enter Hades at will, Helen descends to the Underworld in search of a way to overcome the Furies and end the cycle of revenge that has cursed the Scions. But she’s running out of time. Each descent weakens her both in mind and spirit. A mysterious stranger might be her only salvation, but the price may be her love for Lucas Delos.

As an unforgettable love triangle emerges, Josephine Angelini’s compelling saga becomes ever more intricate and spellbinding. The eagerly awaited sequel to the internationally bestselling Starcrossed, Dreamless delivers with a huge emotional impact that will leave readers satisfied—and longing for more.

Waiting on Wednesday

2012-01-11T08:15:00.001-06:00

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

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

Seriously, what is taking this book so long to come out! I need it. I need it now!

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

2012-01-10T13:01:00.000-06:00

Title: The Iron King
Author: Julie Kagawa
Release Date: February 1st, 2011
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Pages: 363
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined. Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home. When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change. But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

This book was amazing. I cannot think of any other way to describe it besides amazing. Kagawa kept me surprised as the story deepened and the character's started to come to life before my eyes. The imagination that this novel holds is incredible and it could bring out the child in anyone it was great.

I've been reading about faeries since I could remember, so most stories about such creatures turns from original to predictable, but I have to say that Kagawa completely changed my perception. She not only brought her own host of amazing creatures, she brought back to life creatures that are familiar to everyone and...modernized it. The reference to one of the most popular Fae tale is A Midsummer Night's Dream, which plays a big role in the story.

The entire plot line is fast pace, but not so fast that it's almost unbelievable. There was action everywhere and danger at every turn. Kagawa brought the world to life. I love this idea about how technology and the modern world leaks into the world of the "Fae" and what this would be for the future of these magical beings.

I can tell this series is off to a great start.

I have to say that one of the best things about this book is that Kagawa easily mixes humor into her tale. Even at the point of complete danger and no-nonsense scenes, somehow there's always a character that can throw out a joke. Grim and Puke are especially the lighthearted ones in this tale.

Meghan, I loved her. She feels like the universal character that almost anyone can relate to. There have been moments in everyone's life where they don't belong or they feel like something is not always together in their life, even those who appear to have it together. She is brave and honest and doesn't hold anything back. At moments I felt like she was a little selfish, especially when she runs into danger without a thought besides that of her loved ones.

Ash, I feel like I am bashing my head against a brick wall whenever I look at him. I kept thinking that something was going to happen, and we did see something but there was that wall again that was put up near the end, which feels like absolutely no progress was being made. But this is only the first book so I am looking forward to the next books in the series.

Something that I found great about the book is that I kept predicting how events will be played out later on, but Kagawa always surprised me by doing something different. So, if I had to sum up this book in one word it would be "Unpredictable." And this, I feel is a good thing because it keeps the reader guessing and wondering what will happen next.

Overall, a fantastic read. Stayed up all night to finish it and now I really want the rest of the series.

The Exiled Queen by Cinda Williams Chima

2012-01-09T11:43:00.000-06:00

Title: The Exiled Queen
Author: Cinda Williams Chima
Release Date: September 28th, 2010
Publisher: Hyperion Book
Pages: 586
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: The Demon King
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, Han Alister journeys south to begin his schooling at Mystwerk House in Oden’s Ford. But leaving the Fells doesn’t mean danger isn’t far behind. Han is hunted every step of the way by the Bayars, a powerful wizarding family set on reclaiming the amulet Han stole from them. And Mystwerk House has dangers of its own. There, Han meets Crow, a mysterious wizard who agrees to tutor Han in the darker parts of sorcery—but the bargain they make is one Han may regret. Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna runs from a forced marriage in the Fells, accompanied by her friend Amon and his triple of cadets. Now, the safest place for Raisa is Wein House, the military academy at Oden's Ford. If Raisa can pass as a regular student, Wein House will offer both sanctuary and the education Raisa needs to succeed as the next Gray Wolf queen.

This, by far, is much better than the first book. I was actually captivated for once and not completely annoyed with the characters. I don't know what happened but it seemed like when the character's were thrust into a new environment they just took on a new form and brought to life.

Raisa, for once, thought rationally. I actually felt sorry for her and Amon, because of everything they had to go through. But, I feel like when she went to the academy and started learning new materials, she started to take her ideas and started to sort them out. I don't know what's going to happen with her and Amon, because obviously Cinda has other plans for both, but this is only the second in the series, so I'm hoping for something surprising to happen.

As for Han, I was laughing at all the moments for this poor guy. A once theft-turned-wizard now has to mingle with the blue bloods, and he sticks out like a sore thumb. Of course he would have to deal with the likes of Micah and Fiona, because nothing would be interesting. And there a lot of good moments between the three of them.

At Oden's Ford, Han will learn to master his skill as a wizard, but soon he gains unwanted attention from people who are playing on all sides of what could be an impending war in the Fells. And everyone wants to make sure that Han is on their side. Especially, with his new wizard tutor, Crow, who has his own agenda up his sleeves that could prove deadly to Han.

This book, I feel is packed with much more action than the last one. I feel like there's a lot more going on, and the complicated political situation in the Fells has gone from bad to worse in a matter of months. And then there's the romance. The love interest for these characters seemed to take center stage a little more, but I think it's because now that all the main characters are within a school and not spread out across the realm, paths are bound to cross and people will spend a little more time with each other. I won't say who ended up with whom or what happened, but they are all interesting.

Overall, I feel like this book had a little more in everything, which proved to be in Chima's best interest. The book felt more alive to me because now I could put myself into the character's shoes and feel what they do. I felt like Chima did an excellent job making the character's believable. There wasn't much instant love, because that would make such a crappy book.

It was well written. There was an oops, because at one point Raisa refers to herself as seventeen, when she is only sixteen. But it was only one scene and I'm not so mean as to drop a star for one little grammar mistake, besides it's not like I'm the editor of this novel.

It was captivating, imaginative, adventures, romantic, and full of secrets and suspense at every dark corner that leaves the character's questioning who is trustworthy and who is the enemy. This book will keep a reader on their toes.

IMM 22

2012-01-08T11:45:00.001-06:00

Bought:

-Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer

When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemies, she's certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer, one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack and the man she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.

-Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer

Calla has always welcomed war. But now that the final battle is upon her, there’s more at stake than fighting. There’s saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay’s wrath. There’s keeping Ansel safe, even if he’s been branded a traitor. There’s proving herself as the pack’s alpha, facing unnamable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers’ magic once and for all. And then there’s deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

In the final installment of the Nightshade trilogy, New York Times bestselling author Andrea Cremer creates a novel with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until its final pages. A dynamic end to this breathtaking trilogy.

-Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

-Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday

Hartley Grace Featherstone is having a very bad day. First she finds out that her boyfriend is cheating on her with the president of the Herbert Hoover High School Chastity Club. Then he's pegged as the #1 suspect in a murder. And if that weren't enough, now he's depending on Hartley to clear his name. Seriously? Not cool.

But as much as Hartley wouldn't mind seeing him squirm, she knows he's innocent, and she's the only one who can help him. Along with her best friend, Sam, and the school's resident Bad Boy, Chase, Hartley starts investigating on her own. But as the dead bodies begin to pile up, the mystery deepens, the suspects multiply, and Hartley begins to fear that she may be the killer's next victim

For Review:

-Lost Exit by Kevin Michael

“Lost Exit” is about a young man trying to move beyond his past, despite the scars that never quite disappear and fears that linger inside. It blends the pain and angst of youth with the emotional struggle of a character searching for his own identity.

It has been a long summer of violence, turmoil, and change in Atlantic City in the late 1990’s. The city continues its transformation from faded seaside resort to vibrant, entertainment, gambling Mecca. Life styles clash in the casinos, on the Boardwalk, and in gang controlled neighborhoods while a bloody territorial war between rival families has left a trail of bodies scattered throughout the town. Lost Exit revolves around Timmy Davenport, a self-destructive college basketball player home for the summer, navigating a path through painful memories and long-forgotten friendships as he searches for answers, and above all, redemption.

The heart of the story concerns Timmy, his relationships with family and friends, as well as the city he grew up in, and the love of a game that was once his salvation. He gets one last chance to prove himself, both on and off the court. As he prepares for the basketball tournament that may define his future, Timmy, like Atlantic City itself, must confront the ghosts of his past before he can move forward.

-Enemy in Blue by Derek Blass

The streets aren't safe when your enemy wears a blue uniform and a gold badge. What if the good guys weren't good? What if a cop went rogue and killed an innocent man? What if it was all caught on video and the cop would do anything to cover it up? Chase this rogue cop through the streets and to the courtroom with Cruz Marquez, a fledgling attorney full of guts. Open and shut case, right? Part action film, part Law and Order, find out when the final gavel blow strikes!

***Thank You Kevin Michael and Derek Blass for your books!

Guest Post: Elicia Clegg

2012-01-07T12:44:00.001-06:00

Elicia Clegg

Books:
-Castigate My Sins
-Vexation
-Running On Chaos

Author Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook

Elicia Clegg, who was born in the small town of Spanish Fork Utah, affectionately known as happy-valley, moved, at age four, to Ogden Utah; a town riddled with a dark past of opium dens, brothels and business with underground tunnels constructed for criminals’ and prostitutes to escape police raids. Not only was Elicia’s environment surrounded in historical intrigue her family has long whispered about a Curse as many have died in strange events. To name but a few: her grandfather was thrown off a building in New York City, her great-grandfather “fell” off the historic Radisson in Ogden, her father was shot in the head, her brother died in a work explosion , her great-uncle had a truck load of lumber crushed him to death, her maternal great-grandfather was hit by car and died, a cousin who served two tours in Vietnam died on route home from his heart bursting, her maternal great-great-grandfather disappeared without a trace, and her grandmother, while volunteering, was stabbed to death at the State Mental Health Institute.

The short story behind the characters of Castigate My Sins:

Do the characters come alive in your mind? Are the characters apart of you? Are they someone from your past?

These questions and many more are asked about the characters of Castigate My Sins. The most tempting, and salacious answer would be to answer yes to them all. However it is never that simple, which brings about the creation, or at least the phantom thoughts of the main characters in Castigate My Sins.

At the age of 17, for the third time in my life, I decided to run away, not from home this time, but from the state of Utah's foster care system. Why? I could tell you a thousand lines and give you a few good reasons, and yet there is only one simple truth. I didn't like living in a state home, yes it is that simple. It was during this time, the time when I was in hiding and constantly afraid I was going to be found and put into a juvenile facility, that I began dreaming up the characters. Each one was a different part of me. They, much like many people who wear masks, are and were representations of the person I became in differing situations. I am sure any teenager, or adult for that matter, has found themselves acting like someone they are not.

Leigh: the character most like me, both physically and mentally, before I ran away, that is very important to know. Leigh was the before me, when I was a scholar and real nerd in school. She represents the side in me who strived to please all adults, to be what they wanted me to be, obviously there is only so far one can go in life if they are always trying to please others. Leigh locked herself inside a cocoon and it isn't until the end of the book that her world is shattered, which is what life was like for me during that time.

Sam: Leigh's mother was a woman I wanted to become. Sam sacrificed everything for Leigh and asked for nothing in return. I hoped to become a mother who would go to the end of the earth to save and protect her child. Thus the character Sam was born.

Suzy: This is a bit trickier. In the 90's, when I was a runaway, the Super Models were alive and thriving. I use to look at magazines and think how pretty this one particular model was and I wished to look like her, red hair, long legs, green eyes, so I emulate Suzy's looks from her, but the drugs and the giving up on life that was something all together different. When you are on the streets you see much sadness, and yes drug and alcohol abuse. I simple mirrored what I saw in other runaways and placed them all into Suzy, so in a way, Suzy is hundreds of people rolled into one. She is the lost child, so hurt, so in pain, the only way they can make it through the day is to dull all senses in hopes of no longer feeling the agony of just being alive.

Beth: was fear, the fear I felt all the time. When you are constantly looking over your shoulder you can't help but create fantastic ideas about the world around you. Beth was never told the truth, her world was created in lies, and it was this lie that changed her life and started the story. Beth is a sort of warning to parents, they need to trust their children, which means telling them the truth. I had wanted this most in life when I was a teenager.

Christopher and Michael, I will lump together, because I have written this book many different times, and these two characters evolved more than any other. Christopher use to be the main character, but as my readers know, his story was taken out, why? Well Christopher, the character, was too much like another character from my book Vexation, so I simply had to push him out. He is no one specific, I think any teenage girl has an image of what the perfect guy is like, and that was Christopher whereas Michael, in the original had a smaller portion of the story, and now he carries it.

Why the change? There are many reasons; mostly it is because I wanted to create a man, much like Sam, a man, or rather boy, who was willing to do anything for his love...but not in a romantic way. Michael is the ultimate statement of childhood love and innocence. Michael is my soul's hope for humanity.

Finally, as far as the villain, the bad guy.....we all have them, a story has to have one, and I believe in life, we have all met a villain that we just can't understand. I will confess that I modeled the villain after my own father as an attempt to figure him out, which can never be done. This character cares nothing for anyone and only thinks of himself, even in the end that is all he could think about.

It's sad if you think about it. The villain is never loved, so I ask...Do they never love because they are not loved, or are they not loved because they don't love?

Well I hope you have enjoyed a short trip inside my mind and my characters. If you would like to read excerpts or more about any of my other books please go to EliciaClegg.com. In the meantime, have an exciting, breathtaking day.

Castigate My Sins by Elicia Clegg

2012-01-07T12:44:00.000-06:00

Title: Castigate My Sins
Author: Elicia Clegg
Release Date: August 5th, 2011
Publisher: Smashwords
Pages: 255
Format: Paperback
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

It has been said perception is reality, and yet, what if the reality in question was twisted and corrupted to a disheartening degree of depravity? Would the corruption have the power to shift the human consciousness and control the very nature of what is and is not? In Elicia Clegg's newest novel five teenagers: Michael, Suzy, Christopher, Beth, and Leigh will have to answer that very question. Their souls will be thrown into a pit of malevolent despair where they will come face to face with their archetypal selves. their characters will be tested, they will be deceived, given half-truths, and face punishment for crimes they did not commit. Will any surrender to the ever growing lies, or will they escape the void of light and breathe life once again?

What I think must first be noted about this novel is that Elicia Clegg does not slap you in the face with the plot, but slowly eases in and BAM! here's how it is. It's been awhile since I read a story that held such twists and turns and kept me on my toes.

The basic premise of the novel is the secrets that each of these characters hold and what they do to handle these situations they get placed in. While this story doesn't exactly scream, "Amazing" at first, I slowly get swept into their lives and had been held there.

I think that what works best for Clegg when it comes to her book is the dark world she creates. She is excellent with describing not just the setting but the characters emotions, their thoughts, and everything that's inside of them to the point where it's like the reader is being sucked into their lives and taking a part of the action in the novel. I feel like that is what makes such a book good. When the reader is trapped into the place and no chance of being let go.

The themes are important, obviously, since they drive the book. And I think what stuck out for me is the title of the story and where Clegg was going. I won't reveal much more than the fact that they are tightly intertwined together.

I loved that I got the chance to read it, but the only reason it got a four is because I felt like a little bit more should happen. This is not a very long book, I took in within three hours, but I feel like Clegg could have played a little more with the characters and really give insight into them.

Either way it was a well done job.

Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting

2012-01-06T22:15:00.000-06:00

Title: Desires of the Dead
Author: Kimberly Derting
Release Date: February 15th, 2011
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 368
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: The Body Finder
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Violet can sense the echoes of those who've been murdered—and the matching imprint that clings to their killers. Only those closest to her know what she is capable of, but when she discovers the body of a young boy she also draws the attention of the FBI, threatening her entire way of life.

As Violet works to keep her morbid ability a secret, she unwittingly becomes the object of a dangerous obsession. Normally she'd turn to her best friend, Jay, except now that they are officially a couple, the rules of their relationship seem to have changed. And with Jay spending more and more time with his new friend Mike, Violet is left with too much time on her hands as she wonders where things went wrong. But when she fills the void by digging into Mike's tragic family history, she stumbles upon a dark truth that could put everyone in danger.

An amazing sequel to an amazing series! I am falling in love with Violet and Jay, especially Jay, as Derting takes the reader onto an adventure like no other.

Violet's abilities have helped her find serial killers and bring peace to the dead, but now she has attracted the attention of the FBI and an unknown threat. Violet will need the help of Jay and her wits in order to make it through.

While, Derting brings back familiar characters like Violet, Jay, Uncle Stephan, Chelsea, Claire, and so on, Derting also introduces some new characters like Mike and Megan, who somehow end up being at the heart of this drama. And a series addition, Sara Priest and Rafe, FBI agents (not exactly) who have taken special interest in Violet for her unknown (to them) unusual abilities.

Throughout the book, Violet would like to get them off her back, she finds that she is in a position where her secret does not have to be a secret, and can do some good. But at the same time in fear of losing Jay. Though, the latter doesn't seem to be so. I know that in the blurb Derting talks about Violet's relationship is in danger, I honestly don't feel like things between them were that bad. Or at least, not as bad as the author makes it sound.

Jay continues to be overprotective, and Derting continues to give us alternative point of view. But, the interesting part is that it was not like the last book where the reader gets the view point of the killer, in this version the reader gets the view point of a character who wants to threaten Violet.

I think what Derting does well is that her characters keep true to who they are. Violet continues to be stubborn and wanting to do what is right, while Jay continues to be protective and loving.

The biggest shocker comes near the end, because I honestly did not expect what happened, and I don't think many will see it coming. The ending leaves a lot open for the future books, which suggest that the FBI will be coming back and playing a deeper role. I feel like a lot more will happen with the addition of Sara and Rafe, which I am looking forward to.

And, before I forget, Derting also adds something new to Violet's abilities, which takes a small role near the beginning, but hopefully will be seen more of later on.

The only thing that I don't exactly like about this book is that Violet sometimes show's a lot of weakness and she leans too much on Jay. This is especially true whenever there's a dead body. I can understand the toll it takes on her, and I love how Derting describes it, but sometimes I wish that she could hold herself together. And another thing that I don't like is how Violet leaves her family and Jay out of certain situations. I can understand her need to protect them, but sometimes I think that she needs to realize that she has people there for her to help her. She doesn't need to do things by herself.

Besides this, I feel like this series is going places. I am excited for the next book and cannot wait for it.

Cover for "City of Lost Souls"

2012-01-06T21:01:00.000-06:00

Look at this beautiful work of art? I bet you can't guess who's on the cover for this book, that I am anticipating for 2012. It is an exciting time for novels!

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

2012-01-05T17:17:00.002-06:00

Title: The Body Finder
Author: Kimberly Derting
Release Date: March 16th, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 336
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes that the dead leave behind in the world... and the imprints that attach to their killers. Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find the dead birds her cat had tired of playing with. But now that a serial killer has begun terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, she realizes she might be the only person who can stop him. Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet on her quest to find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved to find herself hoping that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer... and becoming his prey herself

I have to say that the start of this series is the best way to end the year. I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book, because I could not imagine how it was that someone found dead bodies. It was interesting, I won't lie, but I couldn't really picture it. So, the way Derting expressed it through the book felt so original.

Violet, basically, can find the dead or at least those that went through a violent murder. Those murdered, and she assumes that it's only the ones who's lives were wrongfully taken, leave an echo that calls to her. And this calling - it can be any of the five senses plus this feeling - does not leave until the bodies are laid to rest. And on top of that the killers leave an imprint that matches that of who they murdered. So when a serial killer appears in her little hometown Violet feels their call. But on top of all this, as if it weren't enough, she has to deal with her growing feelings for her best friend Jay.

Overall, I loved the book. It was an excellent start to an excellent series. The character of Violet is conflicted with her emotions about her gift and that of her best friend, which just makes being a teenager that much more complicated. Derting brought Violet to life for me. While I wish that Violet was a little more stronger, instead of withdrawing into this zombie state that she gets in whenever the call of the dead is too powerful. And that she didn't lean so much on Jay, but in consequence it's a little cute, which makes the ending that much better.

I also enjoyed the alternative chapters that Derting gives. Not only do we get to see Violet's side of things but also get into the minds of the killers, which always asks the question: "Who did it?" That's what I feel Derting did an excellent job at. Not only did she keep us in suspense but she held on with all the twists that she had up her sleeve that kept the book going.

It went at an excellent pace and it didn't take long for things to really start going and once they did Derting kept it for the entire book.

This is on the list of my favorite new series for 2011 coming into 2012. I loved Violet and Jay, though if he could lighten up that would be great.

It was like I could not read this book fast enough. It was dark, haunting, hair-raising fun that made this first book excellent.

The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima

2012-01-05T13:27:00.000-06:00

Title: The Demon King
Author: Cinda Williams Chima
Release Date: November 9th, 2009
Publisher: Hyperion Book
Pages: 506
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 3 Stars

Times are hard in the mountain city of Fellsmarch. Reformed thief Han Alister will do almost anything to eke out a living for himself, his mother, and his sister Mari. Ironically, the only thing of value he has is something he can’t sell. For as long as Han can remember, he’s worn thick silver cuffs engraved with runes. They’re clearly magicked—as he grows, they grow, and he’s never been able to get them off. While out hunting one day, Han and his Clan friend, Dancer catch three young wizards setting fire to the sacred mountain of Hanalea. After a confrontation, Han takes an amulet from Micah Bayar, son of the High Wizard, to ensure the boy won't use it against them. Han soon learns that the amulet has an evil history—it once belonged to the Demon King, the wizard who nearly destroyed the world a millennium ago. With a magical piece that powerful at stake, Han knows that the Bayars will stop at nothing to get it back. Meanwhile, Raisa ana’Marianna, Princess Heir of the Fells, has her own battles to fight. She’s just returned to court after three years of relative freedom with her father’s family at Demonai camp – riding, hunting, and working the famous Clan markets. Although Raisa will become eligible for marriage after her sixteenth name-day, she isn't looking forward to trading in her common sense and new skills for etiquette tutors and stuffy parties. Raisa wants to be more than an ornament in a glittering cage. She aspires to be like Hanalea—the legendary warrior queen who killed the Demon King and saved the world. But it seems like her mother has other plans for her--plans that include a suitor who goes against everything the Queendom stands for.

I'm having a really hard time falling in love with this book. When I first came across it so many people were telling me great things about it. Like how awesome this high fantasy world is, how it's George R.R. Martin but for teens, how the strong the heroine is, and so on. I mean, there was so much that when I came across the book I knew I had to buy it.

But as the story got going and as the characters started to really open up to me, I found myself more and more annoyed with them. Let's start with Raisa. I understand what Chima is trying to do with her, I can see that she wants to make her this strong, stubborn girl who will make a great Queen. But the more I read of Raisa, the more I felt like she was just a little girl pretending to be grown. She plays with fire and at some point it goes from being a strong, independent character to simple childish games on, "How can I make my mother angry today." Not to mention for a girl who thinks about reputation she sure has no problem throwing herself at every cute boy she sees.

Then there's Han. Okay, he is completely different than Raisa, which gives me an idea on how the other side lives. Yet, he is also just another kid who keeps pretending to be an adult. He has good intentions, especially considering the background he came from, but there is just something about him that keeps nagging at me. Maybe it was that he has no personality what's so ever. I have not read of such a dry character before, since reading a certain novel years ago. There is no color to him. He's so mute. And Dancer is just the same way.

I feel like that is my problem when it comes to the main characters; they are too bland.

At first, when Raisa and Han first meet, I think, "Finally, we have some action going!" And I was all excited, but than Chima started to go backwards on me and go back to this monotone writing where the characters, again, express no emotions or give me some evidence that there is life in them.

Overall I was a little disappointed, and had to force myself to read through the ending. The ending was a little surprising, but I had already had some idea about the secrets of Han because of his silver cuffs, I mean, it was a little obvious, but Chima did surprise me with some character developments in the last few pages with all the characters. I mean, I never would have made the connection between Han and his ancestors. And as for Raisa, well, I actually saw some rational thinking on her side for once. I mean, I don't like that it took the book 400 pages before the character's started to get some life in them, but this leaves a wanting to read the second book.

I give this novel a three because despite heavy character flaws and some dull plot movement, this very complicated world that Chima created feels fresh and intriguing. Chima, no doubt about it, is excellent at creating worlds and making conflict that feels seriously disoriented in the beginning but as the story develops, slowly, the conflicts start to merge together and make sense. I also like how, despite her hints or best efforts, there wasn't much of a love story here. It was made obvious what the main point of the story was and not point it to finding romantic interest. Even if Raisa thinks otherwise.

An interesting tale that hopefully shows some promise for the coming novels in the series.

First Date by Krista McGee

2012-01-04T11:40:00.000-06:00

Title: First Date
Author: Krista McGee
Release Date: January 10th, 2012
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Pages: 336
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

The orphaned daughter of missionaries, Addy is quite content to stay in the shadows and never draw attention to herself. But when she's selected for a reality TV show to try to become the President son's prom date-a show she didn't audition for-she's suddenly in America's spotlight. The lights, the make-up, the competitions, and the blogs discussing every move she makes all make Addy incredibly uncomfortable. But through her time at The Mansion, Addy comes to realize that first impressions aren't always right, that hiding out may not be what God had planned for her life, and that her faith should affect everything she does. It may just be that her selection wasn't random at all and that she's on this show "for such a time as this."

It has been a while that I book has kept me up all night to finish reading. I wasn't sure what to expect besides a show where there are a bunch of girl's who will fight each other for a date with the President's son. And then there's Addy, a simple Christian girl who does not want to be a part of the show but convinced that for some reason God is using her to be there.

I struggled a lot coming up with a review for this amazing book. I just don't know how to describe Addy, a girl who is a devoted Christian, but seems to have trouble with accepting, at first, that this is what she is supposed to do, and not really understanding. I don't know, it's complicated to for me to state, because it's not a problem with her religion that she's having, it's a problem of understanding. She sometimes feels like she's not being a very good Christian, which is the best way I can put it.

Okay, on to the story. The story almost played out the same way I thought it would, which is not bad because the way the author played around with this is by making it funny and interesting. Addy, who is not like the other girl's who are basically throwing themselves at the President's son, seems to just grab people's attention because she is being herself. And, while she might think that she doesn't understand what that means, she slowly starts to realize why it is that she was sent there. At the same time she is dealing with this bad memory of her parent's death.

Jonathon Jackson, the President's son, really surprised me. I don't know why I was thinking of a show off man who loves having women thrown themselves at him. He was a great guy. There were moments when I think to myself that he's going to do something that will make him look like the bad guy, but throughout the novel he was just a sweetheart.

And the other girls, they pretty much acted as they would when it comes to a competition over a guy. Besides Addy's friend, these girl's were pretty much the pretty-face-bullies who released their claws whenever the camera wasn't looking. And the host, Hank, he was just as bad, if not worse. I say what really impressed me about Addy is how she took it all in. She really had to fight with herself in order to be good around all this negative energy that was surrounding her, especially when it came to Hank. She didn't give up and with the support of her uncle and Kara, her new friend, and Lexi, her friend from home, she pushes through.

What I feel that McGee did well is bringing out some colorful characters. Kara and Lexi were the type of crazy friends that most people have in this world. Her Uncle Mike, who was this little voice of support and reason, and always reminding Addy of God's plan for her. Her school principal, who had been the reason for her being in the competition in the first place. And the way these character's came together fit tightly into Addy's life.

While I feel like McGee did a good job in the end tying everything well together, I still feel like there are somethings that were untouched, like Jonathon and his plans for his future. Hank, though there was a hint of what might happen to him later on, and Addy. I almost wish there would be a sequel to this story, but I guess everything happens for a reason and whatever happens next for Addy will be up to Him.

I gave this book five stars for being a hilarious, touching story about finding yourself and love, while understanding your faith. McGee is absolutely wonderful and brings together a wonderful story.

IMM 21

2012-01-01T19:57:00.000-06:00

Bought:

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings -- and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that enter-ing the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost?

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

The Mortal War is over, and sixteen-year-old Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She's training to become a Shadowhunter and to use her unique power. Her mother is getting married to the love of her life. Downworlders and Shadowhunters are at peace at last. And—most importantly of all—she can finally call Jace her boyfriend.

But nothing comes without a price.

Someone is murdering Shadowhunters, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second, bloody war. Clary's best friend, Simon, can't help her. His mother just found out that he's a vampire and now he's homeless. Everywhere he turns, someone wants him on their side—along with the power of the curse that's wrecking his life. And they're willing to do anything to get what they want. Not to mention that he's dating two beautiful, dangerous girls—neither of whom knows about the other one.

When Jace begins to pull away from her without explaining why, Clary is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: she herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace.

The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima

One day Han Alister catches three young wizard setting fire to the sacred mountain of Hanalea. Han takes an amulet away from Micah Bayar, son of the High Wizard, to ensure the boy won’t use it against him. The amulet once belonged to the Demon King, who nearly destroyed the world a millennium ago. With a magical piece so powerful at stake, Han knows that the Bayars will stop at nothing to get it back.

Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna has her own battle to fight. She’s just returned to court after three years of riding and hunting with her father’s family. Raia aspires to be like Hanalea, the legendary warrior queen who killed the Demon King and saved the world. But it seems that her mother has other plans for her—plans that include a suitor who goes against everything the Queendom stands for.

The Exiled Queen by Cinda Williams Chima

Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, Han Alister journeys south to begin his schooling at Mystwerk House in Oden’s Ford. But leaving the Fells doesn’t mean that danger isn’t far behind. Han is hunted every step of the way by the Bayars, a powerful wizarding family set on reclaiming the amulet Han stole from them. And Mystwerk House has dangers of its own. There, Han meets Crow, a mysterious wizard who agrees to tutor Han in the darker parts of sorcery—but the bargain they make is one Han may regret.

Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna runs from a forced marriage in the Fells, accompanied by her friend Amon and his triple of cadets. Now, the safest place for Raisa is Wein House, the military academy at Oden's Ford. If Raisa can pass as a regular student, Wein House will offer both sanctuary and the education Raisa needs to succeed as the next Gray Wolf queen.

Best And Worst of 2011

2011-12-31T12:17:00.000-06:00

So, I just want to take time to reflect on this years best and worst book picks. 2011 was a big year for me: I read like there was no tomorrow, launched Manhattan Reader, and made some awesome new connections with bloggers and authors all around. I didn't have any reading goals but next year I will. As for my challenges, I participated in one:

Debut Author Challenge:
Goal: 15
Actually Read: 21

Overall a success.

Now to the books.

Favorites of 2011:
-The Fiery Cross by Diana Gabaldon
-Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
-Divergent by Veronica Roth
-Delirium by Lauren Oliver
-Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky
-Morganville Vampires by Rachel Caine
-Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini
-Something Borrowed by Emily Griffin
-XVI by Julia Karr
-Across the Universe by Beth Revis
-Vampire Academy, Frostbite, and Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead
-Falling Under by Gawen Hayes
-Choker by Elizabeth Woods
-City of Bones and City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
-The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
-Ten Things We Did (And Probably Shouldn't Have) by Sarah Mlynowski
-There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones
-Something Blue by Emily Griffin
-Brainrush by Richard Bard
-Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Disappointments of 2011 (Books I was excited to read but let down horribly):
-Fallen by Lauren Kate
-Wither by Lauren DeStefano
-Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead
-Possession by Elena Johnson
-Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Big Surprises of 2011 (Books I didn't expect to love but did):
-Passions by Lauren Kate
-Blood by K.J. Wignall

Best ARC of 2011:
-Crave by Melissa Darnell
-There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones
-The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark
-Saving June by Hannah Harrington
-Tempest by Julie Cross (Though this comes out 2012)
-Variant by Robin Wells

Worst ARC of 2011:
-Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison

Best For Review of 2011:
-Brainrush by Richard Bard
-Castigate My Sins by Elicia Cregg
-Far From the War by Jeffrey David Payne

Most Anticipated Books of 2011:
-Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

Wish I Had Read Before 2012 Comes:
-Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
-The Iron Knight by Julie Kargawa
-Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik
-Claire de Lune by Christine Johnson
-A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davis
-Eve by Anna Carey
-A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
-The Night Circus by Morgenstern
-Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
-An Echo in the Bone by Diana Gabaldon
-Deadly Cool by Gemma Halliday
-Unearthly and Hallowed by Cynthia Hand

Best Series of 2011:
-The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare
-The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Best Authors of 2011:
-Diana Gabaldon
-Gawen Hayes
-Beth Revis
-Richard Bard
-Stephanie Perkins
-Cassandra Clare
-Lauren Oliver
-Rachel Caine
-Richelle Mead (I guess, not so sure)
-Veronica Roth
-Katie Kacvinsky
-Emily Griffin
-Julia Karr

Waiting on Wednesday: Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

2011-12-28T07:56:00.000-06:00

If you are not waiting on this book to be released next year, you have no idea what you are missing. The anticipation is driving me nuts. I want to see Helen and Lucas together, like I hope most people are. And I want Helen's mom to disappear for eternity because she is a damn bitch who does not belong in this world.

Can't wait, can't wait, can't wait!

On A Dark Wing by Jordan Dane

2011-12-27T12:53:00.001-06:00

Title: On A Dark Wing
Author: Jordan Dane
Release Date: December 27th, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: 320
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 3 Stars

I would learn a lesson I wasn’t prepared for.

The choices I had made led to the moment when fate took over.

And Death would be my willing teacher.

Five years ago, Abbey Chandler cheated Death. She survived a horrific car accident, but her “lucky” break came at the expense of her mother’s life and changed everything. After she crossed paths with Death—by taking the hand of an ethereal boy made of clouds and sky—she would never be normal again.

Now she’s the target of Death’s ravens and an innocent boy’s life is on the line. When Nate Holden—Abbey’s secret crush—starts to climb Alaska’s Denali, the Angel of Death stalks him because of her.

And Abbey finds out the hard way that Death never forgets.

I have to say the cover and description drew me in. I was excited going into this book wondering what sort of wonderful story was hidden underneath it. But, like most things, as the pages started to turn and the story got closer and closer to the end, I found myself not interested at all. I would put the book down for a while, pick it back up for a few minutes, and put it down again. I honestly did not find myself drawn to this book the way I should have been.

For me, the character of Abbey was too much. I understand the feeling that of guilt over the death of her mother, but to me, it feels like Abbey is just drowning herself in this. I feel like she puts too much in one thing and doesn't focus on anything else. And then there's this obsession with a guy who probably doesn't even know her name. I mean, I've been a love sick girl before, but this was a little too much for me.

The story started out just a little to slow for me, and at times it was difficult to figure out who was telling the story and who wasn't because the narration kept switching. To be honest, I don't know Abbey at all, I don't know any of the characters at all, and because I don't know them I can't find any connection. This book felt like a good waste of time then an actual story to enjoy.

Near the end it got somewhat exciting, but not enough to make me want to go head over heels for this book.

I give it three stars because the suspense Jordan builds up did keep going a little, and I liked the way she brings out some of Abbey's emotions, but for the most part I feel like this book, in my opinion, could have been better. The story line is great, the entire concept of Death coming after Abbey and Nate, but I wasn't feeling it.

Bland, but okay if you have time to waste.

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

2011-12-27T12:18:00.000-06:00

Title: City of Ashes
Author: Cassandra Clare
Release Date: March 25th, 2008
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Pages: 453
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: City of Bones
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father. To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?

And so the adventure continues! I am just so happy I started this series because Cassandra Clare is possibly one of the best writers I know who frustrates me and can make me laugh and can make me cry all at once.

The stuff with Simon, so not expecting it. And this whole thing between Jace and Clary, like I said before, I don't believe it. They cannot be brother and sister, because unless Cassandra is investing in a new style of writing with incest, I don't believe it for a second. For me, it feels like Valentine is playing some cruel joke on his daughter.

So now someone thinks that Jace is on the wrong team - Valentine's side - and she is about to make Jace's life a living hell. And then there are the dead bodies that keep showing up and things keep heating up as a pending war will most likely break out.

The imagery, I have to say, is Cassandra Clare's best friend, because she is so vivid with her description and can literally draw me into the story and make me feel like I'm a part of it. I love the way she throws in the character's feelings and makes them believable to the reader, and brings out the emotions clearly.

The plot really begins to develop as the characters story line begins to get complex and more is revealed about their past. I like that the author knows how to draw this out and makes the reader hungry for more.

I literally devoured the pages as I was reading, trying to take it all in, especially during the climax scene where everything breaks out on the ship. It was like I could not read fast enough when it came to this book, and I was hating characters and loving them, and confused by them, and mad at them all at once.

And it's no lie that I nearly cried at the end because Jace is a moron and unless things change in the second book I will not like him again.

Twist and turns, with seductive dark secrets that lie in every corner. This story will give people goosebumps.

Brainrush by Richard Bard

2011-12-26T11:11:00.001-06:00

Title: Brainrsuh
Author: Richard Bard
Release Date: August 20th, 2011
Publisher: CreateSpace
Pages: 312
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

When terminally ill combat pilot Jake Bronson emerges from an MRI with extraordinary cognitive powers, everyone wants a piece of his talent--including Battista, one of the world's most dangerous terrorists. Thrust into a deadly chase across Europe and Afghanistan to save his love and her autistic-savant daughter, Jake discovers that his newfound talents carry a hidden price that threatens the entire human race.

When I first started this novel I was a little skeptical but as I got going with this book I realized that this was an amazing novel. The character of Jake was very believable and one thing that Richard Bard does perfectly is that he can really set the stage. A reader can almost feel like they are experiencing everything that is going on in the novel.

This was an amazing joy ride from page one and I almost could not put it down. I got this book to review early on and I have no idea why I took so long to review it because it was amazing. As the novel unfolds the character's really start to develop, and the author does a beautiful job of giving these characters life.

There were so many twists and turns, and you just follow the character Jake and try to keep up with him. And everything comes together, so tightly. There were moments I wanted to hit Jake, believe me, moments where I wanted to scream at these bloody people because they were not doing what they should, and I even felt like taking out a gun and shooting them all because they were just annoying me. And I have always said that if a book can make me feel strong emotions like that it is worth the reading. And there were moments where I felt my own heart race for Jake as he makes his way from California to Italy and then to his other locations.

I can only say that I hope Richard Bard lets me read his second book as well, because I loved, loved, loved this one and can't wait for the second one to come out.

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

2011-12-26T09:50:00.000-06:00

Title: Touch of Power
Author: Maria V. Snyder
Release Date: December 27th, 2011
Publisher: Mira
Pages: 394
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life....

I fell in love with Maria's work back in high school when I read her Magic Study books, and I am falling deeper in love with her now for this book. It was absolutely amazing. I love this complex fantasy world she created, and how she was able to bring these characters together.

In Avry's world, healers are looked down on after a plague broke out that left millions dead, and now she is traveling with these four very different but funny guys who want to use her healing abilities to bring back the health of their leader, while at the same time avoiding mobs and military leaders who have put a bounty on her head in order to get her for themselves. Turns out that after all the executions and witch hunts for the healers, Avry is now the last of her kind and extremely special.

First thing that I love about this book is Avry. She is witty and smart and strong, courageous woman. Even knowing that her kind is being hunted down and killed she still does her best to help those that she can. And when she and Kerrick are in the same room? It is hilarious how much they hate each other. The way they always fight and bicker is so cute. Belan was awesome, like a huge bear. Papa Bear as they call him in the book. And the monkeys, also known as Quain and Vinn were awesome.

All I can say is that all these characters were just full of color and wonderful.

I disliked Kerrick at first because he was just too much all at once and I really didn't like how he treated Avry at first. Near the end I started to really warm up to him but I just didn't like him at first.

As for the villains, there was a moment when I really felt sorry for Avry, especially with certain parts that had me shivering because it was so creepy. I have not met such a disturbed character like Tohon before.

The entire story line is twisted and dark, mysterious but intriguing, with characters that are full of life that can make you smile or want to seriously cry. I recommend this book to all fantasy lovers of the world, because this is great. The political part of the story is somewhat complex if the reader isn't paying attention to what is going on and who is friend or foe.

But for the most part this book is great and I cannot wait for the second book. Five stars for being awesome!

The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark

2011-12-24T07:37:00.002-06:00

Title: The Demon Lover
Author: Juliet Dark
Release Date: December 27th, 2011
Publisher: Random House
Pages: 416
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Adult
Rating: 4-5 Stars

Since accepting a teaching position at remote Fairwick College in upstate New York, Callie McFay has experienced the same disturbingly erotic dream every night: A mist enters her bedroom, then takes the shape of a virile, seductive stranger who proceeds to ravish her in the most toe-curling, wholly satisfying ways possible. Perhaps these dreams are the result of writing her bestselling book, The Sex Lives of Demon Lovers. After all, Callie’s lifelong passion is the intersection of lurid fairy tales and Gothic literature—which is why she finds herself at Fairwick’s renowned folklore department, living in a once-stately Victorian house that, at first sight, seemed to call her name.

But Callie soon realizes that her dreams are alarmingly real. She has a demon lover—an incubus—and he will seduce her, pleasure her, and eventually suck the very life from her. Then Callie makes another startling discovery: He’s not the only mythical creature in Fairwick. As the tenured witches of the college and the resident fairies in the surrounding woods prepare to cast out the incubus, Callie must accomplish something infinitely more difficult—banishing this demon lover from her heart

This is one of those books where it might be difficult to say, "I loved it!" or "I hate it!" This book feels like it's trapped in some weird world between the two. On the one hand there were certain moments where I was really, really enjoying the story and I couldn't put it down, and then there were moments where I just didn't want to keep reading this book because the characters frustrated me. I am torn.

When Callie moves to Fairwick to teach at the local college, dreams of a incubus vising her in the night start to haunt her. As she starts to get settled into this new life she realizes that all those that live around her are not what they seem. For the most part, I really did enjoy this book. It was great to step way from YA and into the adult world. The character of Callie interested me a lot because she was fun to read and had a great personality, but at the same time she frustrated me. I know it's the authors intention to purposely keep the main character out of knowing too much, I still felt like she was figuring things out at the last minute. And the biggest realization of a mistake she made did come at the last minute or what I think was the last moment.

The story line was actually original. I really liked the way the author made such a diverse group of characters, and even expanded when it came to the fairy tale world. They had this life in them and it would be easy to pick out some of their secrets, some which Callie seems to be ignorant on.

This book does leave with more questions than answers but it is only the first in the series, and I hope that in the next book to come Callie will regain something that she lost, and for those that read the book will know what that thing is. I won't lie and say I wasn't mad at her for her choice, and mad at the others because all they could do was sit around and feel bad for what happened. That was something I didn't like in this book, the way people just sat around and thought how bad they felt, and if they didn't do that they instead went into another extreme. It's like these magic people need to live in this world of extremes.

But for a large part I did like this book and I cannot wait to see what happens next with Callie.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2011-12-23T12:39:00.002-06:00

Title: City of Bones
Author: Cassandra Clare
Release Date: March 27th, 2007
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Pages: 496
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder -- much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing -- not even a smear of blood -- to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . .

I am probably the last person on Earth who has yet to read this book and when I finally had I needed to ask myself one question: What took me so long? This book was amazing! I honestly didn't know what to expect. With all the trends on vampires, werewolves, fallen angels, and wizards I was trying to decide where this book fell into place. And it turns out that it falls on all sides.

I honestly finished this book in one sitting. After Clary's mom goes missing, she discovers a world of myths and legends where demons roam and the existence of Shadowhunters.

One thing that I feel like Cassandra did an amazing job on had been the wide range of characters that are seen in this book. There was the leading lady Clary, which by the way is a cute name, who showed a lot of her strong sides, her weak sides, and her intelligence. Then there was the leading man, Jace, who I had trouble warming up to. But, of course, by the time I did, things went from wonderful to seriously messed up. And for those who have read the book know what I mean. And the rest of the cast who went from annoying me - Isabelle and Alec - to surprising me - Luke.

The introduction to the series was a great start, with the hunt for the Mortal Cup, which could turn children into Shadownhunters. The rise of the Accords and the evil villain Valentine, who I might not like at all but I do like his name.

This fantasy world has got politics and family drama so entangled in the story line that it just keeps moving the entire story forward.

I still don't believe what happened in the end when the news broke out about Valentine and Jace, and I will read the books to prove to myself that this is not true because this is complete unacceptable and if Cassandra Clare plans to keep things like that I will have to stop reading this series to boycott it. Just a little FYI, there.

Besides that, this book was great. It leaves a lot open for the next book. And I say, if you don't love it the first time around, don't stop reading it. I've had to force myself in tons of books to keep going before the love actually opened up, so I say, keep going forward, because when I first started this book I was not completely in love. I will admit. But now, I am crazy for it.

And before I forget, the humor in this book makes the dark theme so much more uplifting. It's hard to find that equal balance of fun and darkness all thrown into one, but I feel like Cassandra Clare really brought out the best in this story by doing that. I mean, Jace, will have you on the floor laughing he is so adorable. And this is why the ending is so hard, because I feel like that fun loving side of him is gone, but I hope more of it will come later on in the series.

Five stars out five for the dark, sexy, funny, twisted story that will keep anyone up all night to finish it.

Morganville Vampires vol. 3 by Rachel Caine

2011-12-20T08:13:00.000-06:00

Title: Morganville Vampires vol. 3: Lord of Misrule & Carpe Corpus
Author: Rachel Caine
Release Date: March 1, 2011
Publisher: NAL Trade
Pages: 464
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: Morganville Vampires vol. 1 & Morganville Vampires vol. 2
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Lord of Misrule

In Morganville, violent black clouds promise a storm of devastating proportions. As student Claire Danvers and her friends prepare to defend Morganville against the elements the unexpected happens: Morganville's vampires begin to vanish. Discovering why leads Claire to one last choice: swear allegiance to the evil master vampire Bishop- or die...

Carpe Corpus

An underground resistance is brewing, and in order to contain it Bishop vows to obliterate the town and all its inhabitants. Claire and her friends are the only ones who stand in his way. But even if they defeat Bishop, will the vampires go back to the old rules, after having such a taste of power?

What can I say that hasn't been said in the last two books I read (well, four actually). I really love the way they come together, because it feels like I'm only reading three books, when really I just finished six out of the current eleven that are out.

So to begin, in Lord of Misrule Bishop is about to turn the town upside and the town does a complete 180 in the next book. I love how much I hate Bishop. He is really just pure evil. And not to mention the craziness that goes on in these books. What I really like about Rachel is that she doesn't flat out tell you who is good and who is bad, besides our four main characters, you have no idea, because these vampires love to play mind games with everyone. I am literally with Claire every time she turns around and finds out that someone who was supposed to be a friend turns out to be a foe and vice verse, and then it turns out it is the opposite.

It's ridicules. But the fact that Rachel can keep such a tight hold on the complexities of the novel really makes her a wonderful author.

I won't lie, in Carpe Corpus I kept trying to figure out who was on what side, but Ms. Caine just loves to keep people guessing.

The way the last book ended was a little of a surprise to me, but since the series continues I can tell that a lot more will come up. I just want to know what will happen to all the characters, and I can't wait to see more of Claire and Shane, because they are just so adorable. Compared to the way Shane acted in the first book to now is really a huge development of a character. Not to mention Claire. I don't think I've ever seen such a tougher heroine like her before.

Michael continues to surprise me with each turn. I love how loyal Rachel stays to her character, never once breaking them away from who they are, but continues to add to them with each new book.

The story line continues to get more complex and the situations more dangerous, and honestly, the reader can never know what will happen next.

Five stars out of five for pure awesomeness.

Writing Contest

2011-12-19T15:13:00.000-06:00

Aspiring YA writers: win a literary agent or acclaimed author's feedback on your unpublished manuscript. This rare opportunity is being offered to the six winners of an essay contest recently announced by the literacy charity Book Wish Foundation. See http://bookwish.org/contest for full details. Open to U.S. residents age 13+.

You could win a manuscript critique from:

Laura Langlie, literary agent for Meg Cabot

Nancy Gallt, literary agent for Jeanne DuPrau

Brenda Bowen, literary agent and editor of Karen Hesse's Newbery Medal winner Out of the Dust

Ann M. Martin, winner of the Newbery Honor for A Corner of the Universe

Francisco X. Stork, winner of the Amelia Elizabeth Walden Award for The Last Summer of the Death Warriors

Cynthia Voigt, winner of the Newbery Medal for Dicey's Song and the Newbery Honor for A Solitary Blue

All that separates you from this prize is a 500-word essay about a short story in Book Wish Foundation's new YA anthology, What You Wish For. Essays are due Feb. 1, 2012 and winners will be announced around Mar. 1, 2012. If you win, you will have six months to submit the first 50 pages of your YA (or middle grade) manuscript for critique (which means you can enter the contest even if you haven't finished, or started, your manuscript). You can even enter multiple times, with essays about more than one of the contest stories, for a chance to win up to six critiques.

If you dream of being a published YA author, this is an opportunity you should not miss. To enter, follow the instructions at http://bookwish.org/contest.

IMM 20

2011-12-18T08:52:00.002-06:00

ARC:

First Date by Krista McGee

Addy Davidson is the last girl in the country who wants to be on the new reality TV show to win a date to prom with the President’s son. She’s focused on her schoolwork so she can get a scholarship to an Ivy League college, uncomfortable in the spotlight, never been on a date, and didn’t even audition for it.

But she got selected anyway.

So she does her best to get eliminated on the very first show… right before she realizes that the President’s son is possibly the most attractive guy she has ever seen in person, surprisingly nice, and seemingly unimpressed by the 99 other girls who are throwing themselves at him.

Addy’s totally out of her comfort zone—but that may be right where God can show her the most about who she is . . . and who she was meant to be.

**Thank you Ruthie from Thomas Nelson Publishing!

Remembrance by Michelle Madow

2011-12-17T07:57:00.000-06:00

Title: Remembrance
Author: Michelle Madow
Release Date: July 27th, 2011
Publisher: Dreamscape Publishing
Pages: 314
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

New Hampshire high school junior Lizzie Davenport has been reincarnated from Regency Era, England ... but she doesn't know it yet.

Then Drew Carmichael transfers into Lizzie's school at the beginning of the year, and she feels a connection to him, almost like she knows him. She can't stop thinking about him, but whenever she tries talking with him about the mysteries behind her feelings, he makes it clear that he wants nothing to do with her. Reaching him is even more difficult because she has a boyfriend, Jeremy, who has started to become full of himself after being elected co-captain of the varsity soccer team, and her flirtatious best friend Chelsea starts dating Drew soon after his arrival. So why can't she seem to get him out of her mind?

Even though Lizzie knows she should let go of her fascination with Drew, the pair of them soon find that fighting fate isn't going to be easy.

This book is beyond cute. I absolutely loved Michelle and all her characters. Whenever dealing with past lives, I find that the toughest thing to do is find a connection between the past character and the present character, but in this book Michelle did an amazing job in gathering each character and really reflecting all their personalities.

Another thing I loved about this book is that besides the supernatural about the rebirth, there's really nothing too extreme. It's a very self-explanatory and Michelle keeps it simple and clean. I could not relate this back to the Taylor Swift song, though. I tried thinking back to the video and what she was doing, but besides Elizabethan period nothing really close. Though, I would say that one big inspiration would probably be Jane Austen, because there was a lot more connections between the Jane's book, Pride and Prejudice then the Taylor Swift song.

The character of Drew really frustrated me and I was so mad at Liz for always forgiving him. He said such awful things to her that even if I was in love with him I would not forgive him for those comments. But I like the idea of this love is stronger than anything else, which is the essential theme.

I was surprised by the villain's though. One of the character's as the bad guy was obvious, but there was another that took me by surprise. And I like how everyone in Liz's life had some sort of connection to her in her past life. So, it wasn't just Drew but there was more, and the idea of time repeating itself is also interesting.

Besides Liz's fascination with Drew, which could be annoying, I loved it. The only problem I had is that it was too cliche. The idea of forbidden love is on the rise and I like to see the different ways authors tackle this, but the problem with Michelle is that hers was no different than some other authors. I didn't really find anything in the book about Liz and Drew's romance that really made me say, "Hey, that's cool!" I kind of just found it all the same.

Overall a good book. I highly recommend it for those who want a quick, easy read.

Books To Movies

2011-12-15T19:46:00.002-06:00

Check out this beauty!

The Star-Crossed Saga: ProtoStar by Braxton A. Cosby

2011-12-14T19:58:00.001-06:00

Title: The Star-Crossed Saga: ProtoStar
Author: Braxton A. Cosby
Release Date: September 25th, 2011
Publisher: Firefly Publishing and Entertainment
Pages: 356
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 3 Stars

It Starts With Choice! What would you choose: love or irrefutable duty?

On the brink of Civil War, the Torrian Alliance continues with its mission to obliterate Star-children across the universe in order to suppress an intergalactic evil. Following the recommendations of his Council, King Gregorio Derry has agreed to send his only son on a mission to restore honor to his family. Bounty Hunter Prince William Derry has crossed thousands of light-years to planet Earth, in order to fulfill this age old prophetic practice. The quiet days of Madisonburg, Tennessee are officially over as Sydney Elaine now knows the full meaning of the phrase Be careful what you wish for when she is confronted by this strange visitor. As an unforeseeable event delays his assassination, William decides to study his target more closely and begins to form a connection with Sydney that challenges his inner being. But this conflict is the least of his problems, as a conspiracy back on his home planet Fabricius threatens the lives of those he loves and his father s royal legacy. Along with that, he must unravel a hidden menace here on Earth that seeks to secure a vested interest that threatens both his and Sydney s safety. Will William be able to complete his mission or will he choose love, sacrificing everything he stands for?

I'm not going to lie, I was not as crazy about the book. It was interesting premise and I feel like it has a ton of potential if it was fixed around the edges. It felt like a very original idea, surrounded by the cliche notion that when a Prince goes to kill a Star-child he ends up falling in love.

I found myself putting this book down a lot and picking it up, and I just felt so disconnected from the characters. I don't know what it was but for some reason I could not lose myself in this book. I could picture it, because Braxton did an amazing job in the imagery but it didn't draw me in. It felt like he was explaining to me this is how it is and not here it is let me bring you in.

He does create likable characters though. I instantly liked Sydney, though I thought the author was trying too hard to point to the obvious of who she is. I liked her and I liked William. The characters are likable and, even sometimes, easy to relate to, but for me I just felt like I was watching a movie and not becoming a part of these characters.

I enjoy sci-fi and I feel like this has a ton of potential but right now it just didn't click well for me. It felt almost like the author was trying to give me too much in all the wrong places but too little in places that needed more. It's hard to explain but from the way it ended I have a feeling that the next book will be better than this.

It's rough, but still has the ability to be something great.

Top Ten Books I Want to Give As Gifts

2011-12-13T20:51:00.000-06:00

Top Ten is a list complied by the Broke and the Bookish.

1. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon - because if you have not read this yet, hit me up and I will get this to you.
2. Morganville Vampires Vol. 1 by Rachel Caine - Another one that needs to get read.
3. Remembrance by Michelle Madow - I just finished this really cute story and it is definitely one for the list.
4. There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones - Another cute one and I have plenty of Christian friends who would love this.
5. Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
6. Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini - Awesome!
7. Delirium by Lauren Oliver
8. Divergent by Veronica Roth
9. Across the Universe by Beth Revis
10. Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2011-12-11T18:19:00.000-06:00

Title: Catching Fire
Author: Suzanne Collins
Release Date: September 1st, 2009
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pages: 391
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: The Hunger Games
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

I may be seriously late for this, but I just want the world to know that I have been Team Peeta since the first book and I remain it until the end. So, i just want to get that out there. There's no getting around it, Gale is not my favorite, he would not understand, and Peeta is just awesome.

Now that we got that out of the way, let's get to the main point. I'm not going to lie that I didn't expect the Capitol to do what they did, but since this is a trilogy it makes sense that they would do something sneaky and make life difficult for Katniss, if I were them, I would do it too.

The entire plot had me on the edge of my seat, especially because I could not believe that they were going back into the arena, and that just freaked me out. The new characters that were brought in was almost refreshing to see some new faces, but I was a little confused on what was going on. I liked how Suzanne expanded her imagination to make a new, more complex arena.

I honestly had no idea what the Capital had planned, but the ending certainly left me confused. I kept thinking to myself what the heck is going on here.

I don't know what else to say, because this is really just awesome book. I was not happy with the way it ended completely, but it keeps the reader's something to look forward to in the last book.

Awesome book with the return of an awesome heroine

IMM 19

2011-12-11T00:33:00.000-06:00

For Review:

The Word Gang by Mark McKeena

is the story of lives transformed by friendship and good vocabulary.

It’s also the story of a lonely old philosopher (Mr. Spinoza) and a young girl (Kalisha Jackson) He can speak seventeen languages, but has no one to talk to; she’s cut school for a year and no one knows.

Complicating matters is Kalisha’s friendship with BD and Sahmbaht, a friendship slowly growing into love — for them both.

Notes to Self by Avery Sawyer

Two climbed up. Two fell down.

One woke up.

In the aftermath of a traumatic brain injury, Robin Saunders has to relearn who she is and find out what happened the night everything changed.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2011-12-09T17:00:00.000-06:00

Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Release Date: September 14th, 2008
Publisher: Scholastic Inc.
Pages: 374
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.

Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who lives alone with her mother and younger sister, regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before—and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that will weigh survival against humanity and life against love.

I loved, loved, loved this book. The action and adventure and the romance, it had everything that you can imagine. I'm surprised with myself for not reviewing this earlier.

I honestly felt something for the character of Katniss because in away she embodies everything that is both strong and weak about a woman. Her strength came when she took her younger sister's place in the arena and having to face against the Capital, but her weakness lies in where she can't see what her strength's are and has an even harder time seeing what is right in front of her some days.

I love the imagery that Suzanne gives off. When they were in the arena I was always on edge, because the suspense that gets built gives me chills whenever I think about the fact that these are children that are dying - not just anyone, but kids. The message is pretty clear, and I since reading this I have yet to watch another episode of Survivor because for me, I feel like these could be kids trying to survive.

Katniss is a very uptight character and that's understandable because of what she's been through, but it also helps her. I'm actually glad that it is Peeta that is in the arena with her, because they are completely opposite with each other, but they know how to survive. And later on in the novels, I feel, because clear about how much he is willing to go through.

This original story that Suzanne brought to life hits close to home in a lot of areas. Suzanne brings out both the worst and the best of all her characters, and the introduction to them as memorable is accomplished well.

I don't know about you guys, but I love the trailer and I cannot wait for the movie. 5 out of 5 stars for being amazing, with characters, imagery, language, and just bringing this world to life in a series of twists and turns at each corner.

Top Ten Childhood Books

2011-12-06T01:10:00.000-06:00

Top Ten is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

1. Nancy Drew (1-26) by Carolyn Keene - I have to admit that as a child I was not a fan of reading (yes, the truth must come out) but when I started reading Nancy Drew I was instantly hooked. I wouldn't go to bed sometimes without reading what happens next plus the pictures always made it cooler to read.

2. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt - So, I didn't actually read this book, but I did have someone read it to me, if that counts, and I really liked it. Maybe one of these days now that I'm older I'll actually pick it up and read it cover to cover.

3. Charlotte's Web by E.B. White - One of the few books I read as I kid and liked. I actually remember always wanting a pet pig afterwards.

4. Holes by Louis Sachar - There is something about the beginning I always liked, but I never seem to get to the end. Again, I was only a kid and hated reading so once I got to my favorite parts I would put it down. Still, I like it a lot.

5. The Babysitters Club by Ann M. Martin - This was such a cute and fast read for me. You can't go wrong with this book series.

6. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson - I almost wanted to cry in this book, but I held myself back, but seriously, this story just gives you waterworks.

7. Song of the Lioness Quartet by Tamora Pierce - My first steps into actual fantasy. I have this woman to thank for expanding my imagination and making me realize that there is more than just my very limited world of this.

8. Tick Tock, You're Dead by R.L. Stein - This probably the only book of his that I read. And was able to reread, without being scared.

9. Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen - I think I only read this because everything was really short, it wasn't until I stopped reading it that I realized that these stories were by real people! It was a revelation I couldn't believe. Anyways, I read a few more of these but this was my favorite series.

10. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: Two of a Kind series by Megan Stine - I actually started reading this in middle school in the sixth grade. I hadn't even realized I liked that until I found myself going to the library daily to pick up the next book. I actually liked this even before Nancy Drew, which I picked up a year later.

IMM 18

2011-12-04T11:36:00.000-06:00

ARC:

Five years ago Abbey Chandler cheated Death. She survived a horrific car accident, but her lucky break came at the expense of her mother’s life and changed everything. After she crossed paths with Death—by taking the hand of an ethereal boy made of clouds and sky—she would never be normal again.

Now she’s the target of Death’s Ravens and an innocent boy’s life is on the line. When Nate Holden—Abbey’s secret crush—starts to climb Alaska’s Denali, the Angel of Death is with him because of her.

Abbey finds out the hard way that Death never forgets

Split.

After being inexplicably targeted by an evil intent on harming her at any cost, seventeen-year-old Nikki finds herself under the watchful guardianship of three mysterious young men who call themselves halflings. Sworn to defend her, misfits Mace, Raven, and Vine battle to keep Nikki safe while hiding their deepest secret-and the wings that come with.

A growing attraction between Nikki and two of her protectors presents a whole other danger. While she risks a broken heart, Mace and Raven could lose everything, including their souls. As the mysteries behind the boys' powers, as well as her role in a scientist's dark plan, unfold, Nikki is faced with choices that will affect the future of an entire race of heavenly beings, as well as the precarious equilibrium of the earthly world.

The Exile: An Outlander Graphic Novel by Diana Gabaldon

2011-12-01T17:27:00.000-06:00

Title: The Exile
Author: Diana Gabaldon
Release Date: September 21st, 2010
Publisher: Del Ray
Pages: 208
Format: Hardcover
Interest: Series/Companion Novel
Others in the Series: Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, Voyager, Drums of Autumn, The Fiery Cross, and A Breath of Snow and Ashes
Age Group: Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

After too long an absence, Jamie Fraser is coming home to Scotland—but not without great trepidation. Though his beloved godfather, Murtagh, promised Jamie’s late parents he’d watch over their brash son, making good on that vow will be no easy task. There’s already a fat bounty on the young exile’s head, courtesy of Captain Black Jack Randall, the sadistic British officer who’s crossed paths—and swords—with Jamie in the past. And in the court of the mighty MacKenzie clan, Jamie is a pawn in the power struggle between his uncles: aging chieftain Colum, who demands his nephew’s loyalty—or his life—and Dougal, war chieftain of Clan MacKenzie, who’d sooner see Jamie put to the sword than anointed Colum’s heir. And then there is Claire Randall—mysterious, beautiful, and strong-willed, who appears in Jamie’s life to stir his compassion . . . and arouse his desire. But even as Jamie’s heart draws him to Claire, Murtagh is certain she’s been sent by the Old Ones, and Captain Randall accuses her of being a spy. Claire clearly has something to hide, though Jamie can’t believe she could pose him any danger. Still, he knows she is torn between two choices—a life with him, and whatever it is that draws her thoughts so often elsewhere.

As most of you know I am completely and utterly in love with Jamie Fraser. I envy Claire because she gets to have him and I don't, and he is just a fine piece of work. So when I heard this book was coming out I flipped out. I was going crazy. I didn't like the concept of it being a graphic novel at first because I don't typically read graphic novels (nor am I going to start just so people know) but this book was my one exception.

For those who have read Outlander like five thousand times (guilty!) already know the story through Claire's eyes, but this story tells the story of Jamie and his godfather Murtagh, who I was really missing. Why I decided to read this book is because throughout most of the series I always wondered what Jamie thought, and later on she switches narratives away from Claire and to the other characters, but still there was so much I wanted to know about Jamie, and these were things that only he could give someone, not the other way around.

It was an interesting approach and it really is a different story line told from the same base of characters. There is apparently a lot that happened that Claire didn't know of, obviously, but the way that Diana presented them fits well with the original novel, which is my favorite out of all the books.

The way it ends is sweet, but I feel like after she writes book eight Diana will need to write like a second half to the graphic novel, because there is so much that happens afterwards, super intense scenes, but still I feel like that will make the connections with these characters stronger.

I will say that for those that fear that they will just be reading the same story I just want to disprove that right now. It is a different story with characters we've never seen and just the fact that the reader would get to see the story from a different point of view should be addictive enough.

I am no artists professional, but I did love the work that was given. Everything was in beautiful colors and the characters had all these distinct features. Diana wanted to focus mainly on facial expression with the characters and I feel like that was achieved through this book. It is a work of art.

Fans of the novel should pick it up, even if you are like me who hates graphic novels, this is well worth the hour. And it's not as long as the other monstrous novels! Think of the time saved.

Highly recommend reading this book.

Top Ten Books for Winter

2011-11-29T01:50:00.001-06:00

Top Ten is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

Most of these books have already been released and I own them, and they sit on my desk giving me the stink eye for buying them and not having the time to actually read them (turns out in college the only way you will ever get to read a fun book is if you're up until 3 am), so this winter I plan to read 8 to ten books. Even if I never leave my apartment, I will finish them. I have much anticipation for some of these books. And other books here are ones that will be released in January and cannot come out fast enough.

1. The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark: I have an ARC copy of this book and need to have it read, so it's not for fun, but for review.

2. The Morganville Vampires vol. 3 & 4 by Rachel Caine: I miss Claire and Shane and Eve and Michael and the rest of Morganville.

3. The Iron King by Julie Kagawa: I hear such great things about this series that I just want to start it already so if I like it I can ring in the New Year with a set of books to read.

4. Nightshade by Andrea Cremer: I started this book back in September and then school got in the way, so I hope to finish this and go after the second book. From what I read, I already like it.

5. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare: Well, what do you expect? All the cool kids were reading it, and I just wanted to see what all the fuss was about.

6. A Million Suns by Beth Revis: The first book in the series was one of the best DA books that I read and I cannot wait to get my hands on this book.

7. Truth by Julia Karr: Another awesome DA book I read this year, and cannot wait for the sequel.

8. Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver: I will go after this woman if things do not turn out the way they should for the main character, because I am afraid that she will do something that will make me hate the series, like other authors have done. And for those that read the first book know what I'm talking about.

9. A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies: Well I've heard such good things about this book I figure, why not?

10. A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin: I must say, watching the TV show has peeked my interest in the show and the world that Martin has created.

IMM 17

2011-11-26T04:19:00.002-06:00

Bought (Presents!!!)-

A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin

Long ago, in a time forgotten, a preternatural event threw the seasons out of balance. In a land where summers can last decades and winters a lifetime, trouble is brewing. The cold is returning, and in the frozen wastes to the north of Winterfell, sinister and supernatural forces are massing beyond the kingdom’s protective Wall. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the land they were born to. Sweeping from a land of brutal cold to a distant summertime kingdom of epicurean plenty, here is a tale of lords and ladies, soldiers and sorcerers, assassins and bastards, who come together in a time of grim omens.

Here an enigmatic band of warriors bear swords of no human metal; a tribe of fierce wildlings carry men off into madness; a cruel young dragon prince barters his sister to win back his throne; and a determined woman undertakes the most treacherous of journeys. Amid plots and counterplots, tragedy and betrayal, victory and terror, the fate of the Starks, their allies, and their enemies hangs perilously in the balance, as each endeavors to win that deadliest of conflicts: the game of thrones.

Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

In Waterfall, American teenager Gabi Betarrini accidently finds herself in sixteenth-century Italy . . . Knights. Swords. Horses. Armor. And Italian hotties. Most American teens want an Italian vacation, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives there with their archaeologist parents. Stuck on yet another hot, dusty dig, they are bored out of their minds... until they place their hands atop handprints in an ancient tomb and find themselves catapulted into the sixteenth-century—and in the middle of a fierce battle between knights bent on killing one another.

Cascade by Lisa T. Bergren

Gabi knows she’s left her heart in the fourteenth century and she persuades Lia to help her to return, even though they know doing so will risk their very lives. When they arrive, weeks have passed and all of Siena longs to celebrate the heroines who turned the tide in the battle against Florence—while the Florentines will go to great lengths to see them dead.

But Marcello patiently awaits, and Gabi must decide if she’s willing to leave her family behind for good in order to give her heart to him forever.

Torrent by Lisa T. Bergren

Gabriella and Evangelia Betarrini are just two normal American teenagers. Normal except for the fact that they time travel to fourteenth-century Italy, where they’ve lived in castles they’ve seen as crumbling ruins, become swept up in historic battles, and fallen in love with handsome knights willing to do anything to keep them alive.

They’ve returned to the present to save their father, just short of his tragic death, and now all four return to the place that holds the girls’ hearts, medieval Italy. But remaining there means facing great risk as the battle for territory wages on and the coming Black Plague looms. Can they convince their parents to stay and leave behind everything they’ve worked so hard to accomplish? And will the girls sacrifice their futures in an uncertain past? Or in facing death head-on, will they discover life as it was always meant to be lived?

A Breath of Snow and Ashes by Diana Gabaldon

2011-11-25T23:01:00.000-06:00

Title: A Breath of Snow and Ashes
Author: Diana Gabaldon
Release Date: September 27th, 2005
Publisher: Delacorte
Pages: 1456
Format: Paperback
Interest: Series
Other Titles in the Series: Outlander, Dragonfly in Amber, Voyager, Drums of Autumn, and The Fiery Cross
Age Group: Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

The year is 1772, and on the eve of the American Revolution, the long fuse of rebellion has already been lit. Men lie dead in the streets of Boston, and in the backwoods of North Carolina, isolated cabins burn in the forest.

With chaos brewing, the governor calls upon Jamie Fraser to unite the backcountry and safeguard the colony for King and Crown. But from his wife Jamie knows that three years hence the shot heard round the world will be fired, and the result will be independence — with those loyal to the King either dead or in exile. And there is also the matter of a tiny clipping from The Wilmington Gazette, dated 1776, which reports Jamie’s death, along with his kin. For once, he hopes, his time-traveling family may be wrong about the future.

What can be said that hasn't already been said before? It's hard to review awesome series like these because everything you love about the series has been said in the past books and when you come to the sixth book it's like everything that's been needed to say is said. Which is hard because there are two more books after this one, so I can't be completely speechless just yet.

Diana Gabaldon is a genius. She brings back all the familiar characters, Jamie and Claire, the married couple that seems to just walk into one war, walk out, and into another again. Roger and Brianna, who really do make a sweet couple, and the rest of the characters. They continue with their lively spirits and their sense of humor as they return, but into a dark time for the colonies, as they prepare for a Revolution.

So many twists and turns in this tale, Gabaldon is sure not to disappoint in this installment as the war draws near tension rises on all sides and something big happens to poor Claire, well actually, a lot of big things happen to that woman, and Jamie. I almost forgot about them because I just didn't want to relive the goosebumps they gave me.

At the ending I cried, I swear it's like Gabaldon's mission to make her reader's cry or something. It was sweet and it had to be done but that did not make the waterworks from stopping. Honestly, I am just falling more and more in love with this series. Gabaldon is this master mind that gives us these books with character's that are beautifully written and a world where almost anyone can dive in and experience the fantasy full force.

She is a whirlwind of adventure and romance, with the love of family and friends brought together as the force of war tightens their bonds, but sadly in some cases it loosens it too.

You will not be disappointed by Gabaldon. If you make it to this book, there is no reason to stop now. There is still AN ECHO IN THE BONE and, there is book eight, who's title WITH MY HEART'S OWN BLOOD has finally been released. The title not the book.

Gabaldon is a true mastermind in the art of storytelling. If you haven't started her yet, you should consider soon enough.

Because You're Mine by Lisa Kleypas

2011-11-25T12:08:00.000-06:00

Title: Because You're Mine
Author: Lisa Kleypas
Release Date: October 25th, 2011
Publisher: Avon
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
Interests: Series
Age Group: Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Because the Dream...

Young, high-spirited Lady Madeline Matthews is expected to wed an aging, lecherous lord. But she would rather shame herself in the eyes of society than sacrifice her freedom, and resolves to render herself unmarriageable by indulging in a torrid affair with Britain's most acclaimed actor and notorious womanizer, Logan Scott.

Because the Heart...

He is legend in the footlights and in the bedchamber. But when the curtain falls, Logan is an intensely private, guarded man still tormented by past betrayals that cut deep into his pride and his heart. Now a forward little minx who seems completely out of place in the bright, sophisticated world of the London stage is disrupting his orderly existence with her constant presence, her unspoiled beauty and vibrant charm. And what begins with an onstage kiss threatens to blossom into something more rapturous and real. But first Logan and Madeline both must drop the masks they hide behind...and reveal their true selves in the golden glorious light of love.

Ever since I first read The Flame and the Flower I have become a sucker for Historical Romance novels. They are just adorable and you really can't go wrong with them.

I'm not going to lie, what drove me to this book was the new edition covers. I am starting to become a fan of Lisa Kleypas, because she writes so beautifully and is very detailed. She brings in this atmosphere of romance and resistance that is seen between the main characters of Maddy and Logan, and the tension between them is like electricity where if an outsider stands too close they'll probably be pulled back.

What I love most about this is that Logan is an actor! I will confess that when it comes to Historical Romance novels I do fall prey to the idea of pirates, who really aren't as bad as it sounds (really, a person could just consider them caption of a ship), but reading this book was so different, because Logan is as dangerous and handsome as those other men but he is this contained danger that is put on stage and can redirect that to a performance. Which is why everyone in the book loves Logan, well, almost everyone.

Now, obviously what Maddy had done to get away from a marriage was probably not the best thing in the world, in fact if it wasn't for the need to create drama in the novel I'm sure Lisa could have just let them live happily ever after in this little lie that the girl came up with, but it was incredibly sad afterwards. Later on I just felt like this need to hit Logan, because for an actor he really loves to be dramatic.

And the story also brings in characters like Andrew, Logan's best friend, who is a drunk and almost a failure to his father, the Duke. But Andrew is such a colorful character, and in fact he's just one of the many characters in the book. What I really love about Lisa is that she is able to take this ensemble of characters and give them so many different faces but yet they still hold on to who they truly are. And when reading this book, hopefully you would see that.

If I had to mention something I didn't like about this book - besides Maddy's little plot to get into Logan's bed - it would be the way later on Logan treats Maddy. I understand he is hurt and she obviously did lie, but I feel like he was trying too hard to hurt her and when someone pushes and pushes there is only so much a girl can take, so I wasn't completely surprised at the end when Maddy made the decision she did. In fact, I probably would have done it sooner, so I will grant her this patience she has.Yet, like most historical romance novels, things work themselves out in the end.

This is a very light and funny read that if you have a few hours in the day to just sit back and relax this would be a book to pick up and read. It could make you appreciate the small things in life, or hopefully it would.

I am just falling in love with Lisa's books.

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel

2011-11-24T22:04:00.000-06:00

Title: Dearly, Departed
Author: Lia Habel
Release Date: October 18th, 2011
Publisher: Del Ray
Pages: 470
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

The year is 2195. The place is New Victoria—a high-tech nation modeled on the manners, mores, and fashions of an antique era. A teenager in high society, Nora Dearly is far more interested in military history and her country’s political unrest than in tea parties and debutante balls. But after her beloved parents die, Nora is left at the mercy of her domineering aunt, a social-climbing spendthrift who has squandered the family fortune and now plans to marry her niece off for money. For Nora, no fate could be more horrible—until she’s nearly kidnapped by an army of walking corpses.

But fate is just getting started with Nora. Catapulted from her world of drawing-room civility, she’s suddenly gunning down ravenous zombies alongside mysterious black-clad commandos and confronting “The Laz,” a fatal virus that raises the dead—and hell along with them. Hardly ideal circumstances. Then Nora meets Bram Griswold, a young soldier who is brave, handsome, noble . . . and dead. But as is the case with the rest of his special undead unit, luck and modern science have enabled Bram to hold on to his mind, his manners, and his body parts. And when his bond of trust with Nora turns to tenderness, there’s no turning back. Eventually, they know, the disease will win, separating the star-crossed lovers forever. But until then, beating or not, their hearts will have what they desire.

As far as the end of the world goes, I would really, really, really hope that it wasn't through zombies. They scare me to death and reading this book just had chills running up and down my arms, and of course, reading in the daytime.

I am not a zombie fan, but just the fact that Lia had been able to make me feel this way through her characters and the story she was telling it most definitely puts her on top of my list. It's not many stories where I feel like I am being drawn in so deeply by the characters, and it's not every character that I feel something for.

From the beginning of the story we get into Nora's life and what its like to live in this New Victoria, really the history behind it is awesome (put that's the history junkie speaking) and I loved how real these characters were. In the beginning, I can freely say that I hate Nora's aunt. And Nora, our main heroine, is just great.

As far as the story goes this is my first steam punk novel, so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect, but as I was reading this I thought how great it was that this author was able to so easily intermingle the Victorian age with new technology. I have to say that the first half of the novel is what I'll remember most, because it really sets the stage, and brings to back to life this era of private school girls, society, best friends, and of course a guy after the heroine. I love how the author gives us girl's in dresses and carriages, and zombies.

What I really liked though is the different points of view. While I can't say that i am strictly against first person novels that only show that person, I have to say that one of the things I am really loving is how Lia was able to give us Nora's point of view and Bram's, and the villains point of view as well. That was incredibly interesting, and of course this love story between Nora and Bram.

I almost can't wait to read the second book.

Top Ten Authors I Want At My Dinner Table

2011-11-22T00:09:00.000-06:00

Top Ten is a weekly meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish, which consists of lists for bloggers to share with each other over a variety of topics.

1. Julia Karr - I love, love, loved XVI and I would love to talk to her about the next books and just to talk in general to her about the topics surrounding her books.
2. Beth Revis - ACROSS THE UNIVERSE was so captivating, and I am just loving this woman.
3. Jodi Picoult - Really, she should be number one. This woman is my ideal, the reason of why I started to tackle serious topics in my novels instead of the world of the YA. She is like my hero, and I have read every book she has written and probably know so much about her that I could be considered a stalker. Except for where she lives and her phone number, which I will find.
4. Diana Gabaldon - Love OUTLANDER and the other books. They are just so wonderful, long, but wonderful. I am in love with Jamie and would love to be in Claire's shoes, without the war of course.
5. Meg Cabot - It shocks me that I have yet to review anything from her. She makes me feel young again and I love knowing that no matter how old you get there will always be this young heart. Even though some of her books these days are leaning towards the darker side of things, they are still awesome.
6. Lauren Oliver - I'm afraid that instead of eating, I would be shaking her down for information on the rest of the series and to know what is going to happen after DELIRIUM and if our beloved heroine would achieve the happiness she deserves with the person she deserves (those who read the book know what I'm talking about.)
7. Veronica Roth - Hello, DIVERGENT people. Who wouldn't want this genius at their dinner table?
8. Lauren DeStefano - I was so disappointed with WITHER I just want to sit down and talk with this woman and explain what makes no sense in her book, and figure out what the heck she was thinking writing this thing.
9. Dan Brown - I am still a fan of the DA VINCI CODE and ANGELS AND DEMON, and probably among the minority that loved the movies and still watch them both. I loved his other works that don't include Robert, but these two are my favorite, especially when he meets Sophia, I was so hoping for a future there. Ah well, it'll happen. In my dreams.
10. Gwen Hayes - I love, love, love, love, loved FALLEN UNDER and just can't wait for the next book to come out. She was awesome and I would talk her ear off.

I have to say, looking at my list 2012 will look like an amazing year for books!

Giveaway

2011-11-20T13:43:00.003-06:00

A Beautiful Dark by Jocelyn Davies

On the night of Skye’s seventeenth birthday, she meets two enigmatic strangers. Complete opposites—like fire and ice—Asher is dark and wild, while Devin is fair and aloof. Their sudden appearance sends Skye’s life into a tailspin. She has no idea what they want, or why they seem to follow her every move—only that their presence coincides with a flurry of strange events. Soon she begins to doubt not just the identity of the two boys, but also the truth about her own past.

In the dead of a bitingly cold Colorado winter, Skye finds herself coming to terms with the impossible secret that threatens to shatter her world. Torn between Asher, who she can’t help falling for, and Devin, who she can’t stay away from, the consequences of Skye’s choice will reach further than the three of them could ever imagine.

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Meghan Chase has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagined…

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school…or at home.

When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.

But she could never have guessed the truth—that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face…and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

RULES:
-Must be 14 years or older
-Must live in the United States
-Only one entry allowed

**This is my first contest, if there is ANY problems, please let me know right away! Thank you.

IMM 16

2011-11-20T13:16:00.000-06:00

For Review:

On the brink of Civil War, the Torrian Alliance continues with its mission to obliterate Star-children across the universe in order to suppress an intergalactic evil. Following the recommendations of his Council, King Gregorio Derry has agreed to send his only son William, on a mission to restore honor to his family. What starts out routine, becomes a lot more complicated as an inopportune crash landing delays the assassination. During this time, William begins to form a 'connection' with Sydney that challenges his inner being. But this conflict is the least of his problems, as a conspiracy back on his home planet Fabricius threatens the lives of those he loves and his father's royal legacy. Along with that, he must unravel a hidden threat here on Earth that seeks to secure a vested interest that threatens both his and Sydney's safety. Will William be able to complete his mission or will he choose love, sacrificing everything he stands for?

Saving June by Hannah Harrington

2011-11-19T19:17:00.001-06:00

Title: Saving June
Author: Hannah Harrington
Release Date: November 22nd, 2011
Publisher: Harlequinteen
Pages: 336
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Harper Scott’s older sister has always been the perfect one so when June takes her own life a week before her high school graduation, sixteen-year-old Harper is devastated. Everyone’s sorry, but no one can explain why.

When her divorcing parents decide to split her sister’s ashes into his-and-her urns, Harper takes matters into her own hands. She’ll steal the ashes and drive cross-country with her best friend, Laney, to the one place June always dreamed of going California.

Enter Jake Tolan. He’s a boy with a bad attitude, a classic-rock obsession and nothing in common with Harper’s sister. But Jake had a connection with June, and when he insists on joining them, Harper’s just desperate enough to let him. With his alternately charming and infuriating demeanour and his belief that music can see you through anything, he might be exactly what she needs.

Except June wasn’t the only one hiding something. Jake’s keeping a secret that has the power to turn Harper’s life upside down again.

This book is an emotional ride that takes the reader into the life of Harper, after losing her sister to suicide. The subject of suicide is always a very emotional one for me, just because of how personal it gets for me. And when reading something about suicide, but not from the victims point of view, but the aftermath, it just makes it much harder.

Harper's life was surrounded by the perfect life of her sister June, who in a twist of events kills herself. Now Harper is left to ask why, especially surrounded by her somewhat dysfunctional family. And as a way to save her sister from the life she hated, Harper decides to take her sister's ashes to California, her sister's dream.

The book was so warming but sad at the same time. It makes people think about who is in their life and what certain people mean to everyone. Death is a very touchy subject, but it is also one where if people talk it over, they can start this healing processes.

When Jake appears in Harper's life and takes her to California, things get interesting. I love Jake, because he is so understanding, and sometimes I wish he wasn't so closed off from people. It's almost like him and Harper try to block people out and in the process draw each other in, it's weird, but you can see that. Laney, as much of a good friend as she was, pretty much annoyed me a lot of the time. I just wish someone would tell her to shut up and almost applauded Jake for when he told her off, but also felt bad because of the way he did it.

I really liked the ending, because it made me cry, it made me smile, it broke my heart, and just gave me this hope for the characters. Harper was trying so hard to push people away, and when she lets them in it's great. These characters came to life and the music. I have to know what the authors intention of using the music in the book as one of the main themes. Most of the artists, of course, I've never heard of, but whenever music was involved, it was like it brought them together. Harper and Jake that is.

Anyways, I absolutely loved this book, and I highly recommend it because this book is sad and beautiful and just everything you can imagine.

The Poison Diaries: Nightshade by Maryrose Wood

2011-11-16T10:38:00.000-06:00

Title: The Poison Diaries: Nightshade
Author: Maryrose Wood
Release Date: October 25th, 2011
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 288
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Others in the Series: The Poison Diaries
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Our heroine, Jessamine, has lost her faith in the men she loved, and her innocence as well. She turns to the dark side and plots to kill her father, using his own poisons, before becoming an assassin, a poisoner for hire. Can she recover from her heartache and reunite with her true love, Weed? Find out in this thrilling story where poisons, darkness and horror are a part of everyday life, and love is the only cure

I'm not going to lie, I didn't read the first book, but now I'm going to have to read it, because I want to know how Jessamine and Weed (I still can't believe that's his name) fell in love, and the relationship with her father. There was a lot that was going on that I didn't understand too well, since I hadn't read the first book, but what I really like about Maryrose is that I understood enough to get me through.

I like how you can understand who Jessamine is and get a pretty clear picture of the first book, to understand. I could see her being almost being different in the first book, than when she's in this book where she's dark, haunted. And the pull she has to the dark force of Prince Oleander, is very easy to catch.

What I love about Maryrose is how she can make the reader feel exactly what Jessamine feels; there's this sense of guilt, this darkness inside of her, and it's almost like poetry is being written here. But like every haunting tale there's always that one piece of light, and that's Weed. Even though Jessamine is being seduced by Oleander to become this assassin, Weed searches for her, and there's this moment when the reader wants them to find each other, because it's like magic.

I don't want to give too much away, but the ending almost had me in tears. I love the imagination that is being poured into this story and I just can't wait for the next book to come out. Of course, I want Weed and Jessamine to find each other and take this evil that has taken hold of them both and throw it away.

The story takes you to another world where things can get twisted and there's this huge force of darkness around our heroines. I cannot wait for the next book and I highly recommend it.

Possession by Elana Johnson

2011-11-14T22:40:00.000-06:00

Title: Possession
Author: Elana Johnson
Release Date: June 7th, 2011
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Pages: 416
Format: Nookbook
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 2 Stars

Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play

I just have one question: What on Earth was I reading?

From page one I was confused and felt like this was a first draft or something. I honestly thought that as I kept reading things would make more sense, but instead, they just complicated things. I had no idea what Vi was doing half the time or what the heck was even going on. It literally felt like I was reading something I would have written when I was thirteen and sucked at writing.

This is one of those books where everyone gives off so much hype about and talk about them endlessly and say great things, and I then I read it and it's like, BAM! all those great things you hear about this book turn out to be not so true, at least from my experience.

I felt like Vi was upset a lot of the time. I felt like she had this I'm-trying-really-hard-not-to-care-right-now attitude that just doesn't work for most people. She has potential to be a good heroine and I feel like this story can be good if it was polished up, and let the readers in the know. I understand that sometimes writers get so into their worlds and when they write they want the reader to see what they see, but I feel like Elana went the wrong way. She could at least explain what was going on.

Somehow I made it to the end, because in the back of my mind I kept hoping that something would change and that this story would get better; it was hopeless.

Basically, from what did make sense Vi lives in the world where the Goodies and the Baddies don't get along, because the Goodies follow what the rulers of this world, the Thinkers, say and do, while the Baddies don't, and that's really all I understood.

It could be better and the idea behind it is great, but the actual story itself is a mess. I'm still debating to read the second book or not, so who knows.

The Hunger Games Official Trailer

2011-11-14T20:36:00.000-06:00

What's New? - Week of November 13

2011-11-13T10:59:00.000-06:00

Wherever You Go by Heather Davis

November 14th, 2011

Seventeen-year-old Holly Mullen has felt lost and lonely ever since her boyfriend, Rob, died in a tragic accident. The fact that she has to spend most of her free time caring for her little sister and Alzheimer’s-stricken grandfather doesn’t help. But Holly has no idea that as she goes about her days, Rob’s ghost is watching over her. He isn’t happy when he sees his best friend, Jason, reach out to help Holly with her grandfather—but as a ghost, he can do nothing to stop it. Is his best friend really falling for his girlfriend?
As Holly wonders whether to open her heart to Jason, the past comes back to haunt her. Her grandfather claims to be communicating with the ghost of Rob. Could the messages he has for Holly be real? And if so, how can the loved ones Rob left behind help his tortured soul make it to the other side?

The Space Between by Brenna Yovanoff

November 15th, 2011

Everything is made of steel, even the flowers. How can you love anything in a place like this?

Daphne is the half-demon, half-fallen angel daughter of Lucifer and Lilith. Life for her is an endless expanse of time, until her brother Obie is kidnapped - and Daphne realizes she may be partially responsible. Determined to find him, Daphne travels from her home in Pandemonium to the vast streets of Earth, where everything is colder and more terrifying. With the help of the human boy she believes was the last person to see her brother alive, Daphne glimpses into his dreams, discovering clues to Obie's whereabouts. As she delves deeper into her demonic powers, she must navigate the jealousies and alliances of the violent archangels who stand in her way. But she also discovers, unexpectedly, what it means to love and be human in a world where human is the hardest thing to be.

Lightbringer by K.D. McEntire
November 15th, 2011

The Never is a place of greys, a world a breath beyond our own, layered just past the memories of yesterday and the fleeting present moment. It is here, in this dismal limbo, that ghosts such as Piotr, Lily, and Elle must sort out an existence, both protecting the children called Lost and themselves from the walking darkness that is the army of rotting Walkers.

Caught between her duty to her calling as the Lightbringer and her concern for her new ghostly friends, Wendy must walk the line between the two worlds, aiding Piotr in his fight against the Walkers as well as searching out the wandering soul of the one who means the most to her. Time, however, is running out and in the end... who will she choose?

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
November 15th, 2011

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting
November 15th, 2011

In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max who speaks a language she's never heard before . . . and her secret is almost exposed.

Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills give way to real crisis and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime

Death Watch by Ari Berk

November 15th, 2011

They say the dead should rest in peace. Not all the dead agree.

One night, Silas Umber's father Amos doesn’t come home from work. Devastated, Silas learns that his father was no mere mortician but an Undertaker, charged with bringing The Peace to the dead trapped in the Shadowlands, the states of limbo binding spirits to earth. With Amos gone, Silas and his mother have no choice but to return to Lichport, the crumbling seaside town where Silas was born, and move in with Amos’s brother, Charles.

Even as Silas eagerly explores his father’s town and its many abandoned streets and overgrown cemeteries, he grows increasingly wary of his uncle. There is something not quite right going on in Charles Umber’s ornate, museum-like house—something, Silas is sure, that is connected to his father’s disappearance. When Silas’s search leads him to his father’s old office, he comes across a powerful artifact: the Death Watch, a four hundred year old Hadean clock that allows the owner to see the dead.
Death Watch in hand, Silas begins to unearth Lichport’s secret history—and discovers that he has taken on his father’s mantle as Lichport’s Undertaker. Now, Silas must embark on a dangerous path into the Shadowlands to embrace his destiny and discover the truth about his father—no matter the cost.

Destined by Jessie Harrell

November 17th, 2011

When Psyche receives a prophecy gone horribly wrong, she learns that even the most beautiful girl in Greece can have a hideous future. Her fate? Fall in love with the one creature even the gods fear. As she feels herself slipping closer into the arms of the prophecy, Psyche must choose between the terrifyingly tender touch she feels almost powerless to resist and the one constant she's come to expect out of life: you cannot escape what is destined.

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2011-11-12T21:46:00.002-06:00

Bought:

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes that the dead leave behind in the world... and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find the dead birds her cat had tired of playing with. But now that a serial killer has begun terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, she realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet on her quest to find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved to find herself hoping that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer... and becoming his prey herself.

The missing dead call to Violet. They want to be found.

What did you get in your mailbox?

The Juliet Spell by Douglas Rees

2011-11-09T13:30:00.000-06:00

Title: The Juliet Spell
Author: Douglas Rees
Release Date: September 27th, 2011
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Pages: 304
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 4 Stars

I wanted the role of Juliet more than anything. I studied hard. I gave a great reading for it—even with Bobby checking me out the whole time. I deserved the part.

I didn't get it. So I decided to level the playing field, though I actually might have leveled the whole play. You see, since there aren't any Success in Getting to Be Juliet in Your High School Play spells, I thought I'd cast the next best—a Fame spell. Good idea, right?

Yeah. Instead of bringing me a little fame, it brought me someone a little famous. Shakespeare. Well, Edmund Shakespeare. William's younger brother.

Good thing he's sweet and enthusiastic about helping me with the play...and—ahem—maybe a little bit hot. But he's from the past. Way past. Cars amaze him—cars! And cell phones? Ugh.

Still, there's something about him that's making my eyes go star-crossed....

This is cute, this is really, really cute. For those that want a light read and something cute, this is the book to go to. Miranda is obsessed with becoming Juliet in her school's production of Romeo and Juliet and she does a spell and accidentally brings William Shakespeare's brother, and things take off from there.

It feels like Juliet is becoming a very popular girl this year, and I want to applaud Douglas in being able to take a role like Juliet and adding some twists to it. I mean the magic? Edmund? That's pretty original here. And 2011 looks like the year for Shakespeare because it's not just Romeo and Juliet that keeps getting retold, but several of his other works, and even the man himself is being put on the spotlight here. So this is a big year for Shakespeare.

Now on to the actual story. I liked the beginning and I liked Miranda. I can't say I completely agree with her reasons to become Juliet in the play or what she is willing to do to get it, but I like her as a general person. And I like the characters. I was afraid that this would just be surrounded by simply the actors and their motivations in this play and so on, but then the story actually starts developing and the characters start forming in some way. The story becomes sophisticated as love, jealousy, and friendship begin to take shape. The characters become alive, and while I would suggest that Douglas should have gotten the ball rolling a little sooner, the fact that it does later on makes the story worthwhile.

Miranda's mom was great, one of my favorite characters. I don't think I could handle being told that I had a boy from Elizabethan era staying in my house as well as she would, so kudos to her.

I normally don't comment on the covers, but this one I have to say is pretty awesome. It also seems to follow the theme of girl's in dresses theme, but it's pretty nice.

If you have time to sit around and have a fun read, this would be it. It will be worth your time. I don't want to say too much, but this is one in the making. And the final performance? Magical. This is like so much is happening and then all of a sudden all this wonderful magic forms and it's great.

Crave by Melissa Darnell

2011-11-06T17:14:00.000-06:00

Title: Crave
Author: Melissa Darnell
Release Date: October 25th, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: 432
Format: Advance Reader's Copy
Interest: Series
Age Group: Young Adult
Rating: 5 Stars

Savannah Colbert has never known why she's so hated by the kids of the Clann. Nor can she deny her instinct to get close to Clann golden boy Tristan Coleman. Especially when she recovers from a strange illness and the attraction becomes nearly irresistible. It's as if he's a magnet, pulling her gaze, her thoughts, even her dreams. Her family has warned her to have nothing to do with him, or any members of the Clann. But when Tristan is suddenly everywhere she goes, Savannah fears she's destined to fail.

For years, Tristan has been forbidden to even speak to Savannah Colbert. Then Savannah disappears from school for a week and comes back…different, and suddenly he can't stay away. Boys seem intoxicated just from looking at her. His own family becomes stricter than ever. And Tristan has to fight his own urge to protect her, to be near her no matter the consequences….

I have to say, finding original stories these days has become a difficult tasks, because lots of authors seem to love to fall into the trap of vampires as sexy and dangerous, and fall into the same trap of the supernatural genre has, but I have to say this story surprised me in a lot of levels.

I enjoyed Melissa's book a lot. The whole witches vs. vampires vs. vampire-witch baby is this fun twisted ride. And the fact that it was the girl this time who was the vampire surprised me, because as I was reading this I thought to myself the exact opposite of what I would have originally believed.

The fact that Savannah was considered an outsider is something I can relate to, because for a long time I was an outsider as well, and even now in college people still treat others like they are not good enough, and the worst part for Savannah is that none of this was her fault to begin with. This is just some weird traditions that go back centuries and the fault of genetics. And then the way she uses fear as the fuel that drives the Brat Twins to despise Savannah is interesting and real at the same time.

The love between Savannah and Tristan is cute and some of the things they did to be together surprised me, especially Tristan. There are moments when someone can tell this boy is truly in love, I mean he goes to an extent to prove this to Savannah. I never thought the boy had so much will power, and I found myself cheering them on the whole way.

And finally the ending. It was not a complete disappointment, because it gives you something to think about and when you get the sneak peek on the next book, it's like a mouth dropper.

I can tell that this series will be one that doesn't just revolve around these two love birds, but a whole system that is being threatened here. I loved the originality of this story and how alive all the character's were. I mean, everyone had their own personality. There was Anna and Carrie and Michelle, each with distinct personality but still working well together, and then there were the guys, which I found both creepy, like Savannah did, which just makes Melissa even better because she can make me feel like Savannah felt being around them.

And what I think she did best was switching points of views. I always want to know what the other person is thinking, whether a guy or girl, because it just drives me nuts, and I was glad that Melissa had differing points of views, because it's essentially the same story but a whole different effect. So I hope the rest of the series continues that way.

There was one mistake that was made when Savannah was referred to as a junior and not a sophomore, which she was. I don't know if it's because I have an ARC, or if that's how the finished product is, but besides that there just a whole lot of goodness in there.

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2011-11-06T01:30:00.001-05:00

I actually did not get anything this week, which I am surprisingly relieved about. My TBR pile is getting higher and higher and soon it'll be bigger than me, and luckily this weekend and according to my calender next week I have a very slow weekend, which i will use to my advantage to stay in bed and read.

I'll probably have a few things next week, but as far as this week goes, that's just not the case, but I would love to hear about what you guys got.

Let me know in the comment section so I can check out all your goodies.

National Novel Writing Month

2011-11-02T13:36:00.000-05:00

Yesterday began the much anticipated month, November! Which, if you are a writer, means one thing: Start and finish a novel with 50,000 words or more, and if you are a college student this means forgetting the word sleep and binge drinking on coffee in order to get that out of the way and to do school work.

I love this month. It's really the only time I get any of my works fully completed. If anyone out there is participating in the challenge you can add me.This will be my fourth year doing this, I believe, and I have finished all my works, which is awesome.

I know this is supposed to be a book blog, but I couldn't help share this news, which if you are in this blog universe of book reviewing you might have already heard whispers about. I, for one, say that it is a great opportunity to finish novels, because the one rule they have is that you are not allowed to go back and correct your work. They give you a deadline and if you don't meet it, well, I'm sorry, but if you do you get an awesome certificate and the bragging rights to tell everyone that you have successfully finished a novel in a month. You can leave out the part about it being a complete mess, but you did finish it. That's your mess you made and finished.

Trust me, my past novels I haven't even gone into and edit yet. I'm waiting for them to come out with a National Novel Editing Month, preferably December, but in the summer time that would be good to. That way you get a break, let your mind be refreshed, do some other writing, and then in like June or something you can go back and edit it. If you're in school, that works awesome with your schedule, because summer is here. If not, and you are in the adult world, well, I'm sure you can do it.

That's my little talk on it. I highly recommend you try it, even if you don't finish, you will still have something started. I have heard it say that the hardest part of a novel is starting it, which I can attest to. And if you can't do it this year, lucky you this is an annual event, so I hope to see you around next year!

And for those current wrimo's out there, good luck this month.

Feel free to leave a comment about what you are hoping to achieve this month or even your book ideas. And even advice you might have to someone who really wants to do this but doesn't know where to start. Advice is always wonderful.

My two cents on advice, which I find helps people, is take your iPod, mp3, Last.fm, Pandora, whatever you use to listen to music, and the first song that comes, see if you can write a novel on it. What does that song inspire and how can you use it? If that doesn't work, there is this wonderful NaNoWordSprints on twitter, and they are super helpful.

Take care bloggers.

Waiting on Wednesday

2011-11-02T13:13:00.000-05:00

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so. New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.

The Eternal Child Virtual Book Tour

2011-10-30T19:34:00.002-05:00

I was contacted by Outskirts Press earlier this month and they asked if I was interesting in posting something on this virtual book tour of The Eternal Child. This is the author's first book and I have not read it yet, but once I do I will give a review.

If you are interested in this book it is $14.95, but if you go to www.outskirtspress.com/bookstore you will get a 40% discount.

They also sent me a courtesy author interview, though I might see if I can ask him my own questions. But for now, this is what I have.

About the Author, David Wasserman
This is the first novel by David Wasserman, currently a senior at Millburn High School in New Jersey. He is studying performing arts and fiction writing, and hopes to one day make a career out of both.

About the Book
"For centuries, Alex Montera has led a life of running and hiding. That all changes when he comes to the rescue of Iris Lisanté. He finds himself mysteriously drawn to her, and as the two grow close, Iris soon discovers a world beyond her wildest imagination, a world of vampires, werewolves, and other creatures hidden from the rest of the world. Unknown to Iris, a bounty on Alex’s head has forced him to lead a rather reclusive life. As every vampire in the world, led by Alex’s elusive, sadistic sire William, catches up with him, Iris finds that with Alex, she is swept into a centuries old feud, that has been carried and fought for centuries, one from which there may be no escape.”

Courtesy Author Interview

What is the title of your book?

The Eternal Child

What is your book about?

My book is about a fugitive vampire who has been on the run for his entire existence. He suddenly comes to the rescue of a young woman who had been attacked by what appears to be an animal. For some reason he decides to stop running, and stays with her. He integrates himself into her life, and gets to know her friends, and is finally able to pursue a human-esque life. That is until vampires from all over the globe catch up with him looking to collect his bounty. The true essence of the book is this: For every vampire, there is one human, one human in the entire world who can make that vampire a human again, but the catch is, they may come at any time, and only once. If the human dies or becomes a vampire, then that vampire will never get another chance to become human again.

Why did you decide to write it?

I decided to write this story, because I feel somewhere in the recent years, vampires have been stripped of what makes them what they are. In my opinion, vampires are the most dangerous of the mythological creatures. They are all about seduction and corruption, not to mention they have all of these illusionistic powers. I wanted to bring that back to vampires, and I hope I did.

How did you get your book published?

I sent in my manuscript to Outskirtspress, hoping that self-publishing was a smart direction, and I was more than happy with the result.

What types of readers will be interested in your book?

Hopefully the readers that are big on fiction and heavy sci-fi, but I feel it could appeal to all kinds of readers, the story is much, much more than just vampires.

What is special about your book? What differentiates it from other books in the same category?

Personally, what I feel is special about my book is it's heart, the human connections these non-human creatures make with ordinary human beings. What I feel differentiates it from other books in the same category, would have to be the depth and emotion behind the characters, especially the vampires. Because it shows how such an inhuman thing can feel human emotions stronger than most human beings could.

Have you published any other books? Do you plan to publish more?

I have not published any other books, but I plan to publish two sequels of The Eternal Child.

Manhattan Reader

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Most Wanted (2)

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

Such A Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess

Waiting on Wednesday

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Favorite Places to Read

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Revealing Eden by Victoria Foyt

Halflings by Heather Burch

Top Ten Books That Would Make Great Book Club Picks

The Suttering Tattoo by Greg Logsted

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The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

Adult vs. Young Adult

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Fury by Elizabeth Miles

The Word Gang by Mark McKenna

Top Ten Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read Romance Novels

Tempest by Julie Cross

Switched by Amanda Hocking

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Dreaming Awake by Gwen Hayes

Most Wanted (1)

Waiting on Wednesday

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

The Exiled Queen by Cinda Williams Chima

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Guest Post: Elicia Clegg

Castigate My Sins by Elicia Clegg

Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting

Cover for "City of Lost Souls"

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima

First Date by Krista McGee

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Best And Worst of 2011

Waiting on Wednesday: Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

On A Dark Wing by Jordan Dane

Top Ten Books I Read in 2011

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Brainrush by Richard Bard

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

The Demon Lover by Juliet Dark

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Morganville Vampires vol. 3 by Rachel Caine

Writing Contest

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Remembrance by Michelle Madow

Books To Movies

The Star-Crossed Saga: ProtoStar by Braxton A. Cosby

Top Ten Books I Want to Give As Gifts

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

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The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Top Ten Childhood Books

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The Exile: An Outlander Graphic Novel by Diana Gabaldon

Top Ten Books for Winter

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A Breath of Snow and Ashes by Diana Gabaldon

Because You're Mine by Lisa Kleypas

Dearly, Departed by Lia Habel

Top Ten Authors I Want At My Dinner Table

Giveaway

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Saving June by Hannah Harrington

The Poison Diaries: Nightshade by Maryrose Wood

Possession by Elana Johnson

The Hunger Games Official Trailer

What's New? - Week of November 13

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The Juliet Spell by Douglas Rees

Crave by Melissa Darnell

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National Novel Writing Month

Waiting on Wednesday

The Eternal Child Virtual Book Tour