One Book At A Time

Review - The Other Countess (The Lacey Chronicles #1) by Eve Edwards

2012-03-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Title: The Other Countess

Author: Eve Edwards

Series: 1st

Pages: 352

Published: July 12th 2011 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780385740890

Source: Personal Copy

Description: England, 1582 Ellie—Lady Eleanor Rodriguez, Countess of San Jaime—possesses a worthless title, but her feisty spirit captivates the elite of the Queen's court—especially the dashing new Earl of Dorset. William Lacey, Earl of Dorset, has inherited his father's title—and his financial ruin. Now Will must seek a wealthy bride and restore his family's fortune. If only he hadn't fallen for the beautiful but penniless Ellie . . .Sparks fly whenever Ellie and Will are together, but circumstances—and the conniving interference of others—threaten to keep them apart.

I Give This ...

I've been eying this series forever. At first it seemed to be published only in the UK and I was debating an order from Book Depository. But, then I found out that it would eventually be a US release as well. I was happy to say the lease. This type of historical fiction in one of my weaknesses.

I liked both main characters immensely. I thought the lifestyle that Ellie lives was interesting. She's got the title, but nothing to back it up. In the eyes of those powerful at court, she not much better than a peasant. Especially when you factor that her father is seen as some what of a "leach". I was really intrigued by the fact that he studied alchemy. It's a subject that I'm not readily familiar with. It was interesting to read how he was viewed by others in society. I loved that Ellie sometimes despised what her father did and the position it often put her in. I also loved that in spite of all that, she would do anything for him.

I loved William! I love it when a character does exactly what I think he should. He may be an ass at times to Ellie, but I know he's thinking of what's happened to him in the past. I also love that he realizes his mistakes and is man enough to admit them AND apologize to her for it. And as much as I hate it, it fits with this time period that he denies his feeling and goes with what is expected of him. He knows his family and his lands are at stake.

I loved the secondary characters in this as well. Lady Jane turned out to be far more of an asset to the story than I thought. And her brother was down right wicked. I was saddened by turn of events at the end, but thought the story ended just the way it should. It makes me excited that I already have a review copy of book two in this series on my kindle!

Waiting on Wednesday - The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa

2012-03-07T05:01:00.012-07:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: The Immortal Rules

Author: Julie Kagawa

Publication: April 24, 2012

Decription: You will kill. The only question is when.
In the dark days since the insidious Red Lung virus decimated the human population, vampires have risen to rule the crumbling cities and suburbs. Uncontested Princes hold sway over diminished ranks of humans: their "pets." In exchange for their labor, loyalty and of course, their blood, these pets are registered, given food and shelter, permitted to survive. Unregistered humans cling to fringes, scavenging for survival. Allison Sekemoto and her fellow Unregistereds are hunted, not only by vampires, but by rabids, the unholy result of Red Lung-infected vampires feeding on unwary humans. One night, Allie is attacked by a pack of rabids, saved by an unlikely hero...and turned vampire. Uncomfortable in her undead skin, Allie falls in with a ragtag crew of humans seeking a cure, or cures: for Rabidism and for Vampirism. She's passing for human...for now. But the hunger is growing and will not be denied. Not for friendship—not even for love.

I'm really kind of over vampires. But, I can't wait to see what Kagawa does with this. I adore The Iron King series, so I am more than willing to give it a shot!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-03-05T04:53:00.004-07:00

What Are You Reading, is where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It is a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. Click on the picture to be taken to Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

This past week has been full! My sister-in-law had her baby boy on Monday evening! Such a tiny little guy at 5 lbs 13 ounces. Mom and baby are doing well (minus the spinal headaches). On top of that I've had to finish up report cards and kindergarten evaluations. I feel like I haven't had a spare moment. Maybe that's why I feel like crap today. I'm trying to fight of this cold (or something). I hope I can accomplish that!

Read Last Week:

Pieces of Us by Maggie Gelbwasser
Asenath by Anna Patricio
Absolutely, Positivelyby Heather Weber

Currently Reading:

Cascade by Lisa Bergren

Up This Week:

Perception by Kim Harrington
Starters by Lissa Price

In My Mailbox!

2012-03-04T03:57:00.003-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

Dark Frost by Jennifer Estep
Grave Mercy by R.L. LaFevers
Intangible by J. Meyers

Purchased:

A Rogue By Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean

Review - Diabolical (Tantalize #4) by Cynthia Leitich Smith

2012-02-29T04:25:00.030-07:00

Title: Diabolical

Author: Cynthia Leitich Smith

Series: 4th (Tantalize, Eternal, Blessed)

Pages: 368

Published: January 24th 2012 by Candlewick Press

ISBN: 9780763651183

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Prepare for a hell of a ride as Cynthia Leitich Smith calls on characters from her previous novels - and conjures up new ones - for a climactic showdown. When "slipped" angel Zachary and his werewolf pal, Kieren, arrive under suspicious circumstances to a mysterious New England boarding school, they quickly find themselves in a hellish lockdown with an intriguing assortment of secretive, hand-picked students. Plagued by demon dogs, hallucinatory wall décor, a sadistic instructor, and a legendary fire-breathing monster, will they somehow manage to escape? Or will the devil have his due? Best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith unites heroes from the previous three novels in the Tantalize Series - including Zachary's girl, Miranda, and Kieren's love, Quincie - along with a fascinating cast of all-new characters for a suspenseful, action-packed clash between the forces of heaven and hell.

I Give This ...

I've kept at this series hoping to capture what I loved in book two. Second book in the series, but it's the first one I read (luckily, I don't feel it matters which order you read the 1st and 2nd). It's come close with each one, but with some many different story lines and characters, it was hard to get the same feel.

I honestly think I enjoyed this one the most after Eternal. I finally felt like all the pieces of the story came together the way they should. Although, I do feel like a continuation is possible with two of the characters, I think I might stop with this series right here.

I enjoyed how there are so many forces at work here. I'm sure the real targets were Quince and Zachary, but the story included everyone. I was afraid one of them might do something to jeopardize the chances, but the devil has nothing on these two.

The story can get a little cheesy at times. I feel its better suited to younger teens that aren't looking for a lot of depth and through provoking dialogue. But, I've enjoyed the series since I first discovered it.

Review (or why I didn't finish) - Pure (Pure #1) by Julianna Baggott

2012-02-28T04:17:00.004-07:00

Title: Pure

Author: Julianna Baggott

Series: 1st

Pages: 448

Published: February 8th 2012 by Grand Central Publishing

ISBN: 9781455503063

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: We know you are here, our brothers and sisters . . .
Pressia barely remembers the Detonations or much about life during the Before. In her sleeping cabinet behind the rubble of an old barbershop where she lives with her grandfather, she thinks about what is lost-how the world went from amusement parks, movie theaters, birthday parties, fathers and mothers . . . to ash and dust, scars, permanent burns, and fused, damaged bodies. And now, at an age when everyone is required to turn themselves over to the militia to either be trained as a soldier or, if they are too damaged and weak, to be used as live targets, Pressia can no longer pretend to be small. Pressia is on the run. Burn a Pure and Breathe the Ash . . . There are those who escaped the apocalypse unmarked. Pures. They are tucked safely inside the Dome that protects their healthy, superior bodies. Yet Partridge, whose father is one of the most influential men in the Dome, feels isolated and lonely. Different. He thinks about loss-maybe just because his family is broken; his father is emotionally distant; his brother killed himself; and his mother never made it inside their shelter. Or maybe it's his claustrophobia: his feeling that this Dome has become a swaddling of intensely rigid order. So when a slipped phrase suggests his mother might still be alive, Partridge risks his life to leave the Dome to find her. When Pressia meets Partridge, their worlds shatter all over again.

I Give This

DNF (Did Not Finish)

I was really excited to read this book. It sounded right up my alley. I've had a new attraction to the dystopian genre and this one fit the bill.

Sadly, I just could not get into this story. I so rarely give up on something (one all of last year). But, I struggled just getting though a few pages. I didn't connect with the characters at all. I had a hard time understanding the world they lived in. When I realized I was only 30% into the story and had been reading it for 5 days, I made myself give up. There's to many great books out there to make myself finish a book I don't connect with.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-02-27T04:25:00.002-07:00

I did pretty good considering I was to tired to read most of out vacation! I totally expected that after walking around Disneyland for 3 days straight. Thankfully we have today off, so one more day for all of us to recover before it's back to school.

Read Last Week:

Allegiance by Cayla Kluver
Between Sea and Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore

Currently Reading:

Pieces of Us by Maggie Gelbwasser

Up This Week:

Absolutely, Positively by Heather Weber

Review - Fate (Tattoo #2) by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

2012-02-21T04:57:00.002-07:00

Title: Fate

Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Series: 2nd (Tattoo)

Pages: 355

Published: March 10th 2009 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780385735377

Source: Personal Copy

Description: For the past two years, Bailey Morgan has lived a double life: high school student by day, ancient mystical being by night. As the third Fate, Bailey literally controls the fate of the world, but as Plain Old Bailey, her life is falling apart. She’s got a tattoo that was supposed to be temporary (but isn’t), friendships that were supposed to last forever (but might not), and no idea what her future holds after high school graduation. Then Bailey meets the rest of the Sidhe, an ancient race defined by their power, beauty, and a sinister habit of getting what they want at any cost. Before Bailey knows it, she’s being drawn into an otherworldly web more complicated than anything she weaves as a mortal Fate.

I Give This ...

I picked up this book a long time ago, not realizing that it was a sequel to Tattoo. I honestly picked it up because of the pretty cover. I didn't read it right after finishing Tattoo, so I honestly didn't remember what had happened in the previous story.

I'm not sure if that lapse in between stories contributed to my inability of get into this story. I honestly almost gave up on this book a couple of times. I felt like it had a hard time getting past the Sidhe background. It was long and drawn out. The action was reserved for the last little bit of the book. It really wasn't enough to make the book really worthwhile to seek out.

I did like how the ending turned out. The Sidhe were trying to make Bailey play by their rules, when they didn't really apply to her. She something entirely different, so she should be an exception to the rules. I also enjoyed how the Sidhe represented different gods/goddesses throughout history. I enjoy when a book can take different views from different cultures and wrap them into one story that makes sense.

I would probably pass on this book unless you enjoy other books by Barnes, or have all ready read Tattoo.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-02-19T23:36:00.000-07:00

I'm amazed I got any reading done! But, then I'll be even more amazed if I get much done this coming week. We will see if a book is more tempting.

Read Last Week:

Diabolical by Cynthia Leitich Smith
The Other Countess by Eve Edwards

Currently Reading:

Allegiance by Cayla Kluver

Up This Week:

Between Sea and Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore

In My Mailbox!

2012-02-18T23:44:00.000-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

NOTHING! I hope anyway. The family and I are on vacation in California for the next week. Hopefully will still have time to get some reviews up!

Review - The Selection (The Selection #1) by Kiera Cass

2012-02-17T04:22:00.001-07:00

Title: The Selection

Author: Kiera Cass

Series: 1st

Pages: 327

Published: April 24th 2012 by HarperTeen

ISBN: 9780062059932

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon. But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks. Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

I Give This ...

I was initially really excited about this one. But, then the reviews started to pour in and not all of them were praising it. So, when it came time to read it, it was with a little bit of hesitation.

The first thing I discovered is that this book is completely light-hearted. It may be set in the future, but it isn't a suspense filled dystopian book. It's more like a fairy tale set in the future. I found that I liked the setting, so it was easy to get into the story. I thought the idea of the class system was interesting, and fit in with other books that use this classification. While, I'm not a fan of The Bachelor or similar shows, the way this was set up was intriguing (although had them same vibe as I imagine the show could have).

For the most part, I liked America. I liked that she's still naive enough to believe that the class system is an easy thing to breach, that love can conquer all. But, I also liked that she learns the hard way that sometimes that's not always the case. I think it gives her just the attitude that she needed when she's selected for the competition. She's not all googly eyed for the prince and falling over herself trying to impress him.

For that matter, I think Max was my favorite part of the story. I was a little annoyed when he kept some obvious bad choices in the contest. But, his reasoning behind them actually made sense. While, it may have been old fashioned, not everything was for love. Some of it was to better the country, etc. I did really enjoy his blossoming relationship with America. I think she might be what he really needs. I hope she doesn't screw it up (I'm just not sure on the other "option").

In short, I enjoyed the story. It was a little campy at times. But, maybe it was just what I was looking for at the time I read it.

Review - A Want So Wicked (A Need So Beautiful, #2) by Suzanne Young

2012-02-16T03:54:00.032-07:00

Title: A Want So Wicked

Author: Suzanne Young

Series: 2nd (A Need So Beautiful)

Pages: 288

Published: June 26th 2012 by Balzer + Bray

ISBN: 9780062008268

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: Elise is a normal seventeen-year-old girl until the day she wakes up in a desert park, with no idea who she is. After that episode, her life takes a bizarre turn. She’s experiencing unexpected flashes of insight into people’s lives—people she’s never met before. Strangers frighten her with warnings about the approaching Shadows. And although Elise has never had a boyfriend, she suddenly finds herself torn between two handsome but very different young men: Abe, the charming bad boy whose affect on her both seduces and frightens her, and the mysterious Harlin, who’s new to town but with whom Elise feels an urgent, elemental connection—almost as if they are soul mates. Now Elise begins to question everything about her life. Why do these guys both want her so desperately? What are the Shadows? Why does the name Charlotte inspire a terrifying familiarity? And who is Elise, really?

I Give This ...

This might be a rare feat in itself. I think I liked this one MORE than I liked A Need So Beautiful. With the first book in the series, I didn't really love the story until the end. This time around, I really just enjoyed the entire novel.

I think the most important aspect of this novel was the simple fact that I liked Elise. She's trying hard to keep her family together since her mother died. She has a wayward sister and an absent father. When strange things start happening to her, she questions them. And I liked that she goes to her father. He may be absent, but I liked the relationship they do have. Her sister was interesting too. I think there bond with stood a lot of ups and downs between the two of them. I was sad to see that her sister didn't turn to her in her own troubles.

I thought the paranormal aspect of the story was interesting. I'm not sure how the whole Charlotte/Elise thing really worked. But, I didn't really dwell on it. I felt like Elise's need was a little different than the way it was portrayed in the first book. I felt more connected to it. I think my favorite part was actually the way the shadows were explained and portrayed. It didn't take me long to figure out how it all fit into the bigger picture.

I liked how the two romances were played out. It never felt like a love triangle. Maybe it was because I knew who Elise should be with. Plus, I just really got the creeps from Abe. I didn't like the way he talked. Turns out I was right in the manner of his speaking.

Once again, another angel series that I will be continuing. I love it when angel books are done right!

Waiting on Wednesday!

2012-02-15T03:52:00.012-07:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: Spellbound (Hex-Hall #3)

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Publication Date: March 13, 2012

Just as Sophie Mercer has come to accept her extraordinary magical powers as a demon, the Prodigium Council strips them away. Now Sophie is defenseless, alone, and at the mercy of her sworn enemies—the Brannicks, a family of warrior women who hunt down the Prodigium. Or at least that’s what Sophie thinks, until she makes a surprising discovery. The Brannicks know an epic war is coming, and they believe Sophie is the only one powerful enough to stop the world from ending. But without her magic, Sophie isn’t as confident.

Sophie’s bound for one hell of a ride—can she get her powers back before it’s too late?

I LOVED the first two in the series. If you haven't started this series yet, you should! I can' wait to get my hands on this one!

Review - Waterfall (River of Time #1) by Lisa Tawn Bergren

2012-02-14T04:26:00.001-07:00

Title: Waterfall

Author: Lisa Bergren

Series: 1st

Pages: 369

Published: February 1st 2011 by Cook, David C.

ISBN: 9781434764331

Source: Arranged tour

Description: What do you do when your knight in shining armor lives, literally, in a different world? Most American teenagers want a vacation in Italy, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives among the romantic hills with their archaelogist parents. Stuck among the rubble of the medieval castles in rural Tuscany, on yet another hot, dusty archaeological site, Gabi and Lia are bored out of their minds...until Gabi places her hand atop a handprint in an ancient tomb and finds herself in fourteenth-century Italy. And worse yet, in the middle of a fierce battle between knights of two opposing forces.Suddenly Gabi's summer in Italy is much, much more interesting.

I Give This ...

I kept seeing this series pop up around the blogs. It sounded interesting, but for some reason it never really grabbed my attention enough to add it to my to read list. Then this one came up as a free read for Kindle, and I picked it up quickly. But, it the book never got opened...until I signed up for a tour to promote the entire series. Man I wish I had read this sooner!

If you've read my blog for awhile, you know that I'm a big fan of the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. This is a lot like that, only less detail, less time consuming, a little bit more fun, and geared towards a younger audience! I loved that Gabi was familiar enough with ancient times that she didn't freak out the moment she realized that she might be in a different time period. And while I did think she managed to adjust a little too quickly, in never felt really farfetched. I loved that she didn't adjust her personality either. She's use to be a go getting female in the 21st century, and she doesn't back down from that. I absolutely loved how everyone was in awe of her and all she was doing was displaying a little bit of common knowledge in today's world.

I thought the romance in the story was very well crafted. In this time period, people of station rarely married for loved. Marcello is no exception, and he has long ago accepted what he has to do to better his family and his kingdom. But, when Gabi walks into his life things get disrupted to the extreme. I thought the fact that they both try so hard to fight it shows that the both know there place in life (and in history). I thought Gabi did a great job of trying to distance herself from him. But, sometimes you can't fight love, and I think that this is one of those stories. I'm curious how it plays out in the next book.

I don't know much about history in this place or time period. So, I'm not sure how accurate things are. But, it seems like Gabi knew one thing from her time period, and it's possible that she may have changed the timeline. Although, when you start discussing that it always makes me wonder if Gabi was always there effecting thing exactly this way, even though "technically" she hadn't even been born yet.

An awesome start to a series that I can't wait to continue. I'm glad I have the other two book already to go on my kindle!

Guest Post with Lisa Bergren

2012-02-13T04:01:00.033-07:00

When I’m not writing, I like to hang out with my family. We have some favorite TV shows we watch together—Amazing Race, Food Network Star, Once Upon a Time and Grimm.

We also like to cook and sit down for a good meal together. Favorite meals include pasta and something off the grill—salmon or steaks. And we love to have friends over; we have company every other week. Pizza off the grill is always a hit. Here’s a post we wrote for Reading Teen, in which we tell you how to do it…

We’re occasionally family travel bloggers—our sites are www.TheWorldisCalling.com and www.TeenTravelers.com So exploring new places, traveling whenever we can afford it, is a constant draw. In October, I took my daughter Emma to Italy, and we spent ten days in Rome, and five in Venice. It was wonderful!

Much to my kids’ chagrin, I get a kick out of hiking, so we’re always looking for a new, family-friendly trail. Here’s one we took when the aspens were in their golden glory, here in Colorado: http://www.theworldiscalling.com/2011/10/devils-head-peak-trail/

Going to movies, a thought-provoking, spirit-stirring Bible study, fixing up my house, Twitter and Facebook fill much of my free time. I also think reading is a luxury—to curl up with a good book is still one of my favorite pastimes. I just finished Cynthia Hand’s Unearthly and loved it. I try to review anything I read, inspired by book bloggers like you!

Lisa is offering 20 copies of River of Time books as prizes, as well as 3 Kindle readers ($79 version)! You can gather points at her blog/rafflecopter form for visiting each of the blogs on the tour and commenting, as well as doing a scavenger hunt.

Please visit http://lisatawnbergren.com/2012/01/teen-scene-blog-tour-contest/ for full details on this contest!

In My Mailbox!

2012-02-12T04:37:00.004-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

Magic Under Stone by Jaclyn Dolamore
Seraphina by Rachel Hartman

Review - Fever (The Chemical Garden #2) by Lauren DeStefano

2012-02-11T03:50:00.001-07:00

Title: Fever

Author: Laruen Destefano

Series: 2nd (Wither)

Pages: 368

Published: February 21st 2012 by Simon & Schuster

ISBN: 9781442409071

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: Running away brings Rhine and Gabriel right into a trap, in the form of a twisted carnival whose ringmistress keeps watch over a menagerie of girls. Just as Rhine uncovers what plans await her, her fortune turns again. With Gabriel at her side, Rhine travels through an environment as grim as the one she left a year ago - surroundings that mirror her own feelings of fear and hopelessness. The two are determined to get to Manhattan, to relative safety with Rhine’s twin brother, Rowan. But the road there is long and perilous - and in a world where young women only live to age twenty and young men die at twenty-five, time is precious. Worse still, they can’t seem to elude Rhine’s father-in-law, Vaughn, who is determined to bring Rhine back to the mansion...by any means necessary.

I Give This ...

I actually struggled with what to rate this. I just didn't enjoy it as much as Wither, but there was still a lot of spark to this book. I think it went in a direction I wasn't expecting.

Rhine and Gabriel don't make it very far before being ensnared in a twisted version of a brothel with an absolutely crazy "madame". Turns out the madame thinks she can get customers to pay lots of money for Rhine. Thankfully, it's a look but not touch sort of thing. It was interesting reading about their experiences her. Gabriel is kept so high on drugs (I think they called it Angel's Blood) that he can't even think straight. Rhine is desperately trying to find a way to escape. But, it doesn't take long for their past to catch up to them (I knew then what takes Rhine until the end of the book to figure out).

In their escape, they rescue one of the other girl's child and take her with them. Their journey to New York isn't pleasant for anybody. Gabriel goes through major withdrawals, the child has a broken arm (and she's mute), and Rhine must relive painful memories along the way. Nothing seems to go right for them, so I was hoping when they got to New York things would begin to look up.

But, Rowan is gone and their family home is in tatters. Which gives a different picture of the type of person Rowan really is than the one that Rhine gives us. With no were else to go, they follow the clue in the book the child has carried with her the entire way. I thought maybe my initial thoughts were wrong and that Gabriel and Rhine might find some sort of peace here. But, then Vaughn shows up and drags Rhine back to the mansion.

And this point, I think we realize what sort of monster Vaughn really is. I think I knew it all along, but the things he does to Rhine is really atrocious. And all in the name of science and finding a cure. I really think he's gone completely mad. Thankfully Linden discovers what's really going on. Although, I'm not sure that he fully understands what his father is capable of.

I think my lack of enjoyment in this book as that it's such a downer. They escape one crappy situation to wind up in another. The characters don't feel the same (but one spends part of the book on drugs and another trying to come off of them). It just didn't feel like the same story to me. I did still enjoy it and of course want to finish the series. I'm curious what happens next.

Review - Third Grave Dead Ahead (Charley Davidson #3) by Darynda Jones

2012-02-09T19:25:00.001-07:00

Title: Third Grave Dead Ahead

Author: Darynda Jones

Series: 3rd (First Grave on the Right, Second Grave on the Left)

Pages: 310

Published: January 31st 2012 by St. Martin's Press

ISBN: 9781250001542

Source: publisher sent for honest review

Description: Charley Davidson—grim reaper extraordinaire, private investigator . . . meh—is practicing her profession under the influence, caffeine and copious amounts of it, due to an extreme desire to induce insomnia. Every time she closes her eyes, Reyes Farrow, the part-human, part-supermodel son of Satan, is there. Only thing is, he’s a tad peeved. She did bind him for all eternity, so it’s hard blame him. But 13 days without a wink is bound to bring out the crazy in a girl. So, when a man hires her to find his wife, Charley accepts the job with one goal in mind: Put the man behind bars, and not the wet kind. She can sense the guilt waft off him and vows to find the woman’s body and prove he’s a murderer. In the meantime, Reyes is back in prison and none too happy about it . . . so Charley thinks, until she is carjacked by the dark-haired rake, who swears the very man he went to prison for killing is not only alive, but close by. And he wants Charley to find him. While a visit to her old friend Rocket sheds no light on Reyes’s situation, Charley finds out the man’s wife is still alive and time is running out. Finding her before she dies would be a miracle, but she has to try. Together with the help of a fashion-impaired receptionist named Cookie, Charley sets out to bring the bad guys to justice. She just hopes Reyes is not one of them. And that she’s not hallucinating from her self-induced bout with insomnia.

I Give This ...

I was really curious as to were this book might go since the 2nd in the series left me with mixed emotions. I was hoping the book might go back to the sarcasm I loved in the first book.

I'm very happy to say that I got that sarcasm back and then some. Charley on little to no sleep is down right hilarious. It took everything I loved about the first book in the series to the next level. I loved how Charley get tangled up with everything from dead clowns to biker gangs. She takes on a new case with a doctor and his missing wife. Turns out the case is way more complicated than it seems. I always find it interesting that each outside case in the book is not the focal point of the story. Yet, it adds just the right mix of events to break up the idea that the book is solely about Reye's.

Speaking of Reye's, he was different in this book. In each book, his character seems to take a different tone. While, I think I like him the best in the first book, he seems more true to his nature in this one. He is the devil's son, and I think it shows. Some of his actions didn't sit well with me. But, then I reminded myself who he really way. I'm curious as to how he really feels about Charley though. I couldn't get a good read on it this time around.

A great addition to the series, especially after a bit of a let down on the second book. Makes me that more excited to read the next installment. Although, it's a long wait. Maybe the author's new young adult series can tide me over this fall...

Review - Born Wicked (The Cahill Witch Chronicles #1) by Jessica Spotswood

2012-02-08T04:55:00.003-07:00

Title: Born Wicked

Author: Jessica Spotswood

Series: 1st

Pages: 326

Published: February 7th 2012 by Putnam Juvenile

ISBN: 9780399257452

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: "Blessed with a gift..."cursed" with a secret." Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship - or an early grave. Before her mother died, Cate promised to protect her sisters. But with only six months left to choose between marriage and the Sisterhood, she might not be able to keep her word . . . especially after she finds her mother's diary, uncovering a secret that could spell her family's destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra. If what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren't safe. Not from the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood - not even from each other.

I Give This ...

I really had high hopes for this book. The cover and title really capture your attention and then the description pulls you in. It was on my must read list the moment I saw it. While it didn't disappoint in the end, it took me awhile to get into it.

I think my initial problem lied with Cate. She really was boring at first. But, she's suppose to be this way. She carries the weight of their little world on her shoulders. She has taken on the responsibility of keeping their magic a secret from everybody. Plus, she basically the mother figure since she died a few years prior and their father is largely absent. That's a lot for a young woman to handle. I think her downfall was trying to suppress the magic instead of trying to learn to use it wisely.

But as Cate learns more about who she is and what she really wants, she really blossoms. By hiding her magic, she hasn't learned what she is fully capable of. She's more afraid of it than anything. I really enjoyed reading about her journey learning new things, even if it shocks her. I also learning a little bit about her sisters. I think we've just skimmed the surface when it comes to Maura and Tess (especially Tess). I get the feeling that the scope of their powers is something this fictional world hasn't seen. I'm curious how that might play out.

I enjoyed the romance in this as well. Cate convinces herself in the beginning that the perfect person for her is the next door neighbor. She hasn't seen him in 4 years, but they use to be best friends. He's from the right family and seems to be just the right fit. But, Cate falls for someone else. I thought it was perfect, and worked with the new Cate that emerges throughout the story. I'm not sure if Paul really cared for Cate, but at least his jealousy seemed genuine but never callous and mean.

I disliked the Brotherhood and the Sisterhood in this story. They represent vastly different things. But yet, neither group is really interested in Cate (or her sisters) as a person. They both want something from her and will use whatever means to get it. I was actually shocked at the Sisterhood's actions in the end. I was really wanting them to be the good guys.

This turned into a great story at the end. I feel that's something that rarely happens and is really worth pointing out. I can't wait to read the next one!

Top Ten Tuesday - Ten Books Recommended to People Who Don't Like To Read

2012-02-07T04:12:00.004-07:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. If your curious about this meme, visit Top Ten Tuesday where they have previous topics and upcoming topics listed as well.

Top 10 Books I'd Hand to Someone Who

Says They Don't Like To Read (in no particular order)

The Twilight Series - I know way overrated at this point. But, I really think this got people reading again. And I will point it out to people.
The Hunger Games Series - I've gotten so many people to read this series. And I have yet to hear of even one person who hasn't liked it.
The Harry Potter series - Need I say more.
The Poison Study series - I've recommend this countless times for those who want something more adult over Twilight. Still love the characters!
The Fablehaven series - I don't think this gets enough attention.
The Outlander series - only for the brave! But, it's wonderful.
Graceling - I really need to reread this.
Cleopatra's Daughter - I loved this book. Such a great historical fiction
The Book Thief - Not at all like I thought it was going to be.
Pride and Prejudice - I've had a hard time with the classics. But this one I could read over and over.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-02-06T04:20:00.001-07:00

Wow what a crazy week I've had. Last spring, I agreed to take over managing the book fair for my girls' school. It was something I was very excited for. I'm mean really who better for the job! Well, I think it was a smashing success. Don't have a total yet, but I'm very proud of it considering we have a very small school. I look forward to next year!

Read Last Week:

Waterfall by Lisa Bergen
A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young

Currently Reading:

The Selection by Kiera Cass

Up This Week:

Fate by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Pure by Julianna Baggott

In My Mailbox!

2012-02-05T09:20:00.001-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young (Around The World Tours)
The Selection by Kiera Cass (Around The World Tours)

Swapped:

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley

Review - Partials (Partials #1) by Dan Wells

2012-02-01T04:11:00.039-07:00

Title: Partials

Author: Dan Welss

Series: 1st

Pages: 472

Published: February 28th 2012 by HarperTEEN

ISBN: 9780062071040

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: The human race is all but extinct after a war with Partials--engineered organic beings identical to humans--has decimated the population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by RM, a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island while the Partials have mysteriously retreated. The threat of the Partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to RM in more than a decade. Our time is running out. Kira, a sixteen-year-old medic-in-training, is on the front lines of this battle, seeing RM ravage the community while mandatory pregnancy laws have pushed what's left of humanity to the brink of civil war, and she's not content to stand by and watch. But as she makes a desperate decision to save the last of her race, she will find that the survival of humans and Partials alike rests in her attempts to uncover the connections between them--connections that humanity has forgotten, or perhaps never even knew were there.

I Give This ...

It's hard to write a review for a book that had elements that your really liked but also had some that your really hated. It's especially difficult when one storyline is really intricate to the other. I often felt like my dislike for a portion of the story was spilling over into what I did like.

I admired Kira's determination to do all she can to find a cure for the RM virus. She's willing to go the extra mile to get the resources she thinks might help her find the answers. But, she can't possibly be the first to think of this. Makes me wonder how deep the control goes in the higher ups. I liked how she has friends that are just as determined as she is. And we're not talking about people in lower circles of society. These are all teens that are connects, have important positions, etc. Yet, they are willing to risk it all because they don't like what the world has become.

I really liked the idea behind this society, even though I felt like areas weren't really well explained at times. But, I think we get just enough to get a little bit of a grip of what's really going on now. And what might have happened in the past. I was completely fascinated with that idea that we created robots to fight for and in turn the killed off most of the human race. Totally plausible in my book. I found the RM virus interesting. But, I think that explanation of how it worked didn't make much sense. It felt like it was trying to be scientific sounding, but came across as anything but.

So what bothered me? It lies completely with the idea of mandatory pregnancy. The way it was presented in this book just really got to me. Women are REQUIRED to be pregnant at least once a year. And they don't care how you do it. The idea of being forced to have baby, fully knowing that it's going to die is just awful. And most of the time the don't care a thing about the mother and how she reacts to all of this. They study each infant like it's a science experiment and not a baby that could have had a future. The common thought is that enough babies are born, maybe one of them will survive. Not a society I would want to live in.

So, read with caution. I might be the only one who reacted that strongly to the idea of being forced to have children that way. Maybe it's because I'm a mom myself.

Review - Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand

2012-01-31T04:07:00.039-07:00

Title: Hallowed

Author: Cynthia Hand

Series: 2nd (Unearthly)

Pages: 403

Published: January 17th 2012 by HarperTeen

ISBN: 9780061996184

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: For months part-angel Clara Gardner trained to face the raging forest fire from her visions and rescue the alluring and mysterious Christian Prescott from the blaze. But nothing could prepare her for the fateful decisions she would be forced to make that day, or the startling revelation that her purpose—the task she was put on earth to accomplish—is not as straightforward as she thought. Now, torn between her increasingly complicated feelings for Christian and her love for her boyfriend, Tucker, Clara struggles to make sense of what she was supposed to do the day of the fire. And, as she is drawn further into the world of part angels and the growing conflict between White Wings and Black Wings, Clara learns of the terrifying new reality that she must face: Someone close to her will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.

I Give This ...

I've decided that angel book are hard to do right. It's just a delicate balance to make believable without being cheesy. After several bad ones (and some ok), I was pleased to come across the first in this series, Unearthly. Hallowed had a lot to leave up to after just an awesome opening.

I have to be honest when I say that Hallowed is not at all what I thought it would be. It honestly had that perfect second book feel, but without being a complete drag. It fills in most of those details that I thought might have been lacking in the first book. There's not a lot of action. It's more about those little moments, and piecing together that whole picture. I think I've have a clearer idea of were this story might be heading. I liked the overall bigger picture we get from this book. The world of angel decedents is much bigger than we though.

I really loved the battle Clara goes through in this book. She struggles with new feelings she has for Christian. I liked that she questioned whether it was genuine or the prophecy. I love that she doesn't want to give up Tucker, her first love. Because, as much as I hate love triangles, it can happen in real life. She struggles with the truth her mom has been hiding (protecting) from her. And she gets the whopped of all news concerning her father.

It was really a wonderful addition to the series, even if it doesn't carry the same punch that the first one did. It's sweet, subtle and might even make you tear up a little. I can't wait for the next one!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-01-30T05:07:00.014-07:00

Read Last Week:

Partials by Dan Wells
Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones
Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Currently Reading:

Waterfall by Lisa Bergen

Up This Week:

The Hollow by Jessica Verday
A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young

In My Mailbox!

2012-01-29T05:07:00.006-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Swapped:

Wishful Thinking by Alexandra Bullen

Feature and Follow and the Book Blogger Hop

2012-01-27T04:05:00.008-07:00

Q: Which book genre do you avoid at all costs and why?

I don't read nonfiction (or vary rarely). I think I read maybe one a year. It's just not something I'm interested in.

Review - Still Waters by Emma Carlson Berne

2012-01-26T05:05:00.034-07:00

Title: Still Waters

Author: Emma Carlson Berne

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 212

Published: December 20th 2011 by Simon Pulse

ISBN: 9781442421141

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: Hannah can't wait to sneak off for a romantic weekend with her boyfriend, Colin. He’s leaving for college soon, and Hannah wants their trip to the lake house to be one they’ll never forget. But once Hannah and Colin get there, things start to seem a bit...off. They can't find the town on any map. The house they are staying in looks as if someone's been living there, even though it's been deserted for years. And Colin doesn’t seem quite himself. As he grows more unstable, Hannah worries about Colin’s dark side, and her own safety. Nothing is as perfect as it seems, and what lies beneath may haunt her forever.

I Give This ...

I was really looking forward to this book. It had an interesting premise. I've always had a fondness for mysteries, and there's just not enough of them in the young adult genre. I was hoping it might live up to what I had build up in my mind.

I initially like the characters. Hannah and Colin seemed to be your typical teenagers, especially when it comes to their relationship. They're high school sweethearts that are beginning to feel the stress of what might happen after Colin lives for college. Especially since Hannah seems to have trouble repeatingg that 4 letter word that Colin has already said. I'm not sure why she thought a weekend away would help cure this problem.

I disliked how Hannah behaved to get the weekend planned. Stealing and lying seemed completely out of character. It made me wonder why she was trying so hard. It's like that last ditch effort to save something you are afraid of losing. I did like to setup of the lake house. It was down right creepy how the house seemed lived in, even though nobody had been there for quite awhile. And the nearest town was weird. I kept expecting this idea that they had traveled into some alternate universe. Might have worked better that way (a sort of Stephen King type thing).

But, the truth of the story seriously left me wanting. I felt like I wasn't getting the whole story. What I felt like happened didn't quite fit with what I was being told, especially since there's an alternating story buried in there as well. In the end, I wasn't sure who to believe. I wondered if the way the story was ended was leaving it open for a sequel. Not sure, if I really want to go there.

Overall, it was ok. If you expect a lot from your mysteries, I probably wouldn't read this one. If your just looking for something to creep you out a little bit, I think this would do it.

Review - Tempest (Tempest #1) by Julie Cross

2012-01-25T04:04:00.032-07:00

Title: Tempest

Author: Julie Cross

Series: 1st

Pages: 339

Published: January 17th 2012 by St. Martin's Griffin

ISBN: 9780312568894

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: 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 Give This ...

This book was definitely an interesting read for me. It's always a change of pace when there are elements of the story that work, and then others that don't. In the end, I decided to let it go and just enjoy it.

I think what kept this story going for me was the simple fact that I liked Jackson. He enjoyed the fact that he's a rich kid, but does everything to contradict that stereotype. I found it interesting that hid his ability to time travel from his father. I wondered if the events hadn't unfolded the way they did if he would have every told him. I loved that he is so loyal to his friends that when he's transported back to 2007, he purposely seeks them out. He knows that he's going to need them now more than ever.

For the most part, I enjoyed the time travel storyline. I thought it was interesting that he could only do little jumps at first. I also found it intriguing that he couldn't change an events and that any people he had contact with would not remember it in the future. I was also intrigued when he seemed to change "permanent" time periods. But, honestly the story lost me when they tried to explain what all that meant. I couldn't determine if it was a parallel universe or timeline or what. I didn't understand what the government really wanted with Jackson or what the "bad" guys wanted. But, I found that I could just overlook all that. I think I was over thinking it and the more I did, the more holes I could poke in the idea.

I ended up just letting my misgivings go. In the end, I really just enjoyed the story and the idea of time travel. I liked the idea of being stuck in a time you've already lived. I'm sure I will read the next one!

Review - A Million Suns (Across the Universe, #2) by Beth Revis

2012-01-24T04:29:00.034-07:00

Title: A Million Suns

Author: Beth Revis

Series: 2nd (Across the Universe)

Pages: 386

Published: January 10th 2012 by Razorbill

ISBN: 9781595143983

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: It's been three months since Amy was unplugged. The life she always knew is over. And everywhere she looks, she sees the walls of the spaceship Godspeed. But there may just be hope: Elder has assumed leadership of the ship. He's finally free to enact his vision - no more Phydus, no more lies. But when Elder discovers shocking news about the ship, he and Amy race to discover the truth behind life on Godspeed. They must work together to unlock a puzzle that was set in motion hundreds of years earlier, unable to fight the romance that's growing between them and the chaos that threatens to tear them apart. Godspeed was fueled by lies. Now it is ruled by chaos.

I Give This ...

I've been highly anticipating this second novel. I'm not one for sci-fi type books, but something about this series has grabbed, and I'm not going to let it go. This latest installment was everything that I hoped for.

I really felt for Elder this entirety of this book. He's trying hard to keep the peace and do everything within his power to get them to their final goal. But, when uprising start to happen aboard the ship, I wasn't surprised. We needed a little more discord. I do think those who were trying to lead the uprising had valid points, even if they were off base. Elder really is the best leader for the ship I think. He's just not very good with words, and no one could really see what he was doing behind the scenes to make sure everything was running smoothly. I also think he has a huge issue with the idea of absolute power. He doesn't really want it, but doesn't know what else can be done about it.

My thoughts on Amy went back and forth throughout the book. I thought she kept a level head while she's witnessing the uprising around her. Since we get part of the story for her point of view, we know she's scared at times. But, I think she does an amazing job of not showing it to those around her. I enjoyed her scavenger hunt to discover what the leaders' aboard the ship have been keeping secret for years. I didn't think she was a little unyeilding when it came to the records hall keeper (I can not remember his name for the life of me). She refused to see anybody's view point but her own when it came to him.

There are some definite twists in the story. Or they should be twists. For some reason, they just seemed like the logical direction that story should go. None of it really surprised me, but I wasn't disappointed in the slightest either. In fact, I loved the storylines in general.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-01-23T04:59:00.001-07:00

I always look forward to the weekend because I think I will get a lot of reading done. For some reason, it never turns out that way. Friday, I had an enjoyable night out with some co-workers. That is something that I have not done in a really long time! Saturday was spent at a birthday party. And then Sunday was spend cleaning, laundry, and shopping. No time for reading lol! Hoping to get some done this week!

Read Last Week:

Still Waters by Emma Carlson Berne
Hallowed by Cynthia Hand

Currently Reading:

Partials by Dan Wells

Up This Week:

3rd Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones
Waterfall by Lisa Bergen

In My Mailbox!

2012-01-22T04:47:00.009-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

Starters by Lissa Price
Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
Cascade by Lisa Bergren
Torrent by Lisa Bergren
Partials by Dan Wells (Around The World Tours)

Swapped:

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

B & K's Reading Daze

2012-01-19T04:29:00.010-07:00

I have two girls who love to read as much as I do. Granted they are 6 and 4, so reading isn't exactly what they do (although my oldest is doing really well with learning. I'm so excited that this love of mine seems to be passing on to them. So B & K's Reading Daze highlights some of the books they have enjoyed over the past month.

This actually isn't about books this time. It's about an app that I really want to point out. I purchased it for my Kindle Fire and since then my mom has also got it for her Ipad. My girls LOVE IT! Well worth the $0.99 for it! What is it ....

Where's My Water?

by Disney

I feel like they are actually thinking while using this app. They like Angry Birds as well. But more often than not, they are playing this one!

Review - Dearly, Departed (Gone With the Respiration #1) by Lia Habel

2012-01-18T04:28:00.051-07:00

Title: Dearly, Depareted

Author: Lia Habel

Series: 1st

Pages: 470

Published: October 18th 2011 by Del Rey

ISBN: 9780345523310

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Love conquers all, so they say. But can Cupid’s arrow pierce the hearts of the living and the dead—or rather, the undead? Can a proper young Victorian lady find true love in the arms of a dashing zombie? 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.

I Give This ...

While describing this to a friend, I realized there's a lot of interesting elements to the story. And under most circumstances, I don't think it would work. But, for me it did. There's something about a post apocalyptic, Victorian society and zombies that just clicked with me.

When I first added this book to my list, I had a feeling it was going to be more steam punk. Which made me apprehensive because I haven't had the best of luck with steam punk. I was completely wrong to think that. While society is modeling the Victorian era, it has completely modern (and futuristic) technology. Nothing seemed foreign to me. I really liked how the whole society was set up. The Victorian age is one that I enjoy reading about, and I don't think I've read anything (besides Incarceron) were society has purposely mimicked that time period.

I especially enjoyed Nora. She's a fireball for a lack of a better term. She's grown up a little bit on the privileged side. But, she has no problems with those of lower rank (her best friend is). When she's kidnapped she shows appropriate behaviors, but also regroups and thinks for herself. There's never a time when she acts like the damsel in distress. I loved that she gets mad at her dad, but yet desires to understand what's made him this way.

I enjoyed the subtle romance in the story. It never felt like it was being shoved in my face. Both characters actually spend part of the book denying their feelings, which is a change from the confession your undying love lines. I also loved the inclusion of good and bad zombies. It was light-hearted and fun, but not overly campy.

I just really enjoyed this story. I'm looking forward to the next in the series!

Review - The Gathering Storm (Katerina Alexandrovna #1) by Robin Bridges

2012-01-17T04:28:00.036-07:00

Title: The Gathering Storm

Author: Robin Bridges

Series: 1st

Pages: 400

Published: January 10th 2012 by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780385740227

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: St. Petersburg, Russia, 1888. As she attends a whirl of glittering balls, royal debutante Katerina Alexandrovna, Duchess of Oldenburg, tries to hide a dark secret: she can raise the dead. No one knows. Not her family. Not the girls at her finishing school. Not the tsar or anyone in her aristocratic circle. Katerina considers her talent a curse, not a gift. But when she uses her special skill to protect a member of the Imperial Family, she finds herself caught in a web of intrigue. An evil presence is growing within Europe's royal bloodlines—and those aligned with the darkness threaten to topple the tsar. Suddenly Katerina's strength as a necromancer attracts attention from unwelcome sources . . . including two young men—George Alexandrovich, the tsar's standoffish middle son, who needs Katerina's help to safeguard Russia, even if he's repelled by her secret, and the dashing Prince Danilo, heir to the throne of Montenegro, to whom Katerina feels inexplicably drawn. The time has come for Katerina to embrace her power, but which side will she choose—and to whom will she give her heart?

I Give This ...

I was really looking forward to this book. I love historical novels and usually enjoy those in the young adult genre. Russian historical is one that I've only read a few of, and it's usually focused on later Romanov's. Sadly, I'm finding that I don't enjoy historical mixed with paranormal as much as I would have liked.

My favorite part of the book was the setting itself. I felt like I got a different look at Russian history. I liked how the nobility is portrayed. It seems a lot more complicated that the nobility of English history (which is what I'm most familiar with). I liked learning a little bit about the etiquette for the royal family and the rest of the nobility.

I also really liked Katerina. She's a duchess, but she doesn't give off the airs of nobility. She seems very down to earth. She gets the perks of being nobility, but would rather get down and dirty in the hospitals. This was a characteristic that I greatly admired in her. I also enjoyed the fact that she could raise the dead. Although, I admit it was a trait I didn't understand much more than she did.

I had a hard time with the actual paranormal elements of the story outside of Katerina's ability to raise the dead. There were far to many different paranormal elements and it really distracted from the story line. I didn't follow the different races of vampires and their abilities. I was intrigued that the fact the Empress of a fairy of the (light?) fairy court, but felt like it didn't get enough play into the story. And the final battle was just a little over the top for me. It just felt like to much was going on.

Overall I liked it for the historical elements. I'm not sure if I will continue this series or not.

Review: Don't Breathe a Word by Holly Cupala

2012-01-16T04:30:00.000-07:00

Title: Don't Breathe A Word

Author: Holly Cupala

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 304

Published: October 18, 2011 by HarperTeen

ISBN: 9780061766695

Source: Teen Book Scene

Description: Joy Delamere is suffocating...From asthma, which has nearly claimed her life. From her parents, who will do anything to keep that from happening. From delectably dangerous Asher, who is smothering her from the inside out. Joy can take his words—tender words, cruel words—until the night they go too far. Now, Joy will leave everything behind to find the one who has offered his help, a homeless boy called Creed. She will become someone else. She will learn to survive. She will breathe…if only she can get to Creed before it’s too late. Set against the gritty backdrop of Seattle’s streets and a cast of characters with secrets of their own, Holly Cupala’s powerful new novel explores the subtleties of abuse, the meaning of love, and how far a girl will go to discover her own strength.

I Give This ...

I was really looking forward to Holly Cupala's sophomore effort. I loved Tell Me A Secret. I was hoping that she had a knack for tacking tough subjects and turning them into something real. For the most part, I wasn't disappointed with this book.

I liked the story set up. We know something horrible has happened to Joy and we know that involved Asher. We're just not sure exactly what it was. I enjoyed the drastic opening we get. Joy is running away and she's making it her mission to make it look like a kidnapping. At first I couldn't figure out what this distinction was important. We gradually get the idea of why Joy goes to such extremes. I liked this slow build up. We get small flashbacks of what Joy's relationship with Asher was like. I have to admit (and maybe it's because we know from the start), I didn't like him from the start.

I also enjoyed Joy's journey with the homeless teens on the streets. It gives the book a distinct difference form others I've read. I can imagine what life must have been like for someone of Joy's background. Can you imagine scrounging for food, never bathing, and sleeping basically in the open? I can't and this story made me appreciate what I have. It also made me fully realize how bad things were that Joy never gave up. She knew she could go home at any time, but was determined to fade away.

I also liked the new friendships she forms. They don't know her background or were she's from. For the most part the accept her for what she is. Although, I think sometimes they feel she's just a runaway teen with no idea of the true hardships she might face. They have no idea what's she running from. She does learn that just like in regular life, life on the streets is filled with people who are just trying to get ahead. Your best friend might stab you in back and you may fall in love. The battle can just be a lot more dangerous.

My only issues with the story was the idea of becoming homeless to begin with. Joy was scared of Asher, but not just for her own safety. I get why she did, just not the extremes she went to. Becoming a homeless teen seems so farfetched for the circumstance. And I felt like the trouble with being homeless are glossed over a little bit. Joy had it hafd but nearly as hard as she could have. I think it would have been a lot worse had she not found Creed. I wonder how quickly she might have given up them. Her asthma was also an interesting addition to the story. For someone who lived in a spotless house to ward off attacks, had countless emergency inhalers, and almost dies because of it manage to live the way she did and not get sick until the end.

Those drawbacks really didn't effect my thoughts on the story overall. I enjoyed it and look forward to Holly's next book!

t's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-01-16T04:03:00.001-07:00

I feel like it's been a long week in this house. Still missing our time off I think. Both girls managed to get sick, but luckily, the husband was able to stay home with them (benefit of being self employed). Now were in the midst of trying to decide if we want to take a trip to Disneyland/Santa Barbara in February. A little too last minute for my taste!

Read Last Week:

Dearly Departed by Lia Habel
A Million Suns by Beth Revis
Tempest by Julie Cross

Currently Reading:

Still Waters by Emma Carlson Berne

Up This Week:

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand
Partials by Dan Wells

In My Mailbox!

2012-01-15T04:16:00.002-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

A Million Suns by Beth Revis (Around The World Tours)
Still Waters by Emma Carlson Berne (Around The World Tours)
Theft of Swords by Michael Sullivan
Rise of the Empire by Michael Sullivan
Silver-Tongued Devil by Jaye Wells
The Academie by Suzanne Dunlap
The Whisperer by Donato Carrisi

Review - I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder

2012-01-13T04:45:00.028-07:00

Title: I Heart You, You Haunt Me

Author: Lisa Schroeder

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 226

Published: October 27th 2009 by Simon Pulse

ISBN: 9781416955207

Source: Personal Copy

Description: Girl meets boy. Girl loses boy. Girl gets boy back... ...sort of. Ava can't see him or touch him, unless she's dreaming. She can't hear his voice, except for the faint whispers in her mind. Most would think she's crazy, but she knows he's here. Jackson. The boy Ava thought she'd spend the rest of her life with. He's back from the dead, as proof that love truly knows no bounds.

I Give This ...

I've had this sitting on my shelf for quite some time. After two wonderful books by Lisa Schroeder, I intended on reading sooner rather than later. I'm so glad I did!

It continues to amaze me that a story can be told so beautifully in so little words. I never would have thought that a verse novel could make me feel so much. Even though I have no personal experience with what Ava is going through, I instantly connected to her. Her grief and guilt jump off the pages. At first I was afraid that she wasn't going to let go of Jackson, and this was going to be a downward spiral into depression. But I should know better. Schroeder has a knack for taking these situations and having a light at the end of a dark tunnel. I was happy to see that life will go on for Ava.

What was strange for me, was I initially read Jackson completely wrong. I thought he was a controlling boyfriend in some of the flashbacks. And he came across that way in death as well. I think I took that differently than was intended. Especially in the end when I realized the reasons Jackson actually came back to Ava. It made me rethink my entire approach to the book.

An enjoyable read that I would recommend to anybody, particularly those who are hesitant to try verse. I look forward to what Schroeder produces next! And I will seek out Far From You, it's the only one I haven't read!

Review - Illuminate (Gilded Wings #1) by Aimee Agresti

2012-01-12T04:38:00.001-07:00

Title: Illuminate

Author: Aimee Agresti

Series: 1st

Pages: 544

Published: March 6th 2012 by Harcourt Children's Books

ISBN: 9780547626147

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: Haven Terra is a brainy, shy high school outcast. But everything begins to change when she turns sixteen. Along with her best friend Dante and their quiet and brilliant classmate Lance, she is awarded a prestigious internship in the big city— Chicago—and is sent to live and work at a swanky and stylish hotel under the watchful eyes of a group of gorgeous and shockingly young-looking strangers: powerful and alluring hotel owner Aurelia Brown; her second-in-command, the dashing Lucian Grove; and their stunning but aloof staff of glamazons called The Outfit. As Haven begins falling for Lucian, she discovers that these beautiful people are not quite what they seem. With the help of a mysterious book, she uncovers a network of secret passageways from the hotel’s jazz-age past that leads her to the heart of the evil agenda of Aurelia and company: they’re in the business of buying souls. Will they succeed in wooing Haven to join them in their recruitment efforts, or will she be able to thwart this devilish set’s plans to take the souls of her classmates on prom night at the hotel?

I Give This ...

I haven't been looking forward to this review. I knew it was going to be a hard one for me to write because I never felt I had a firm opinion on the book. I'm hoping that writing this out will help me get a better grasp on my thoughts.

First off, Haven. She's seems like a smart girl, but she completely bought into this scholarship thing. What person would honestly believe they won a scholarship they never applied for. They just don't work like that. I didn't buy it, and neither should she. Besides that, I really liked her. I thought her background was interesting. I loved how she interacted with her friends. And even though I knew the opportunity was fake, I loved how she embraced it a made it the best she could. I also liked how she fell hard and fast for the wrong guy (we know teenager girls can do it), got hurt, but discovered something better.

I actually didn't mind the storyline either. I think it really could have worked. But, I don't think it was explained very well. While I understood what Haven was, it just seem that I fully understood what she could (or maybe it was I could never figure out why it mattered). She's suppose to be the really powerful being that hasn't unlocked her full potential yet. To me she just seemed like a smart, normal girl who just happened to see people as they really were. I just didn't get it.

I did like the hotel. It seemed creepy. I think that could have been explored more. I feel like we're barely skimming the surface of those who are working the hotel. What's they are doing to ensnare people, etc. I think Haven figures out way to quickly that something is wrong and is constantly on guard. Therefore, we see things through her eyes (obviously sense it's told from her point of view).

The biggest problem for me...it's long. And not in a good way. There are times this story seriously dragged on and on. It's a lot of information and very little action. I was bored for most of it.

Waiting on Wednesday - A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean

2012-01-11T04:46:00.013-07:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Title: A Rogue by Any Other Name

Author: Sarah MacLean

Release Date: February 28, 2012

What a scoundrel wants, a scoundrel gets . . . A decade ago, the Marquess of Bourne was cast from society with nothing but his title. Now a partner in London’s most exclusive gaming hell, the cold, ruthless Bourne will do whatever it takes to regain his inheritance—including marrying perfect, proper Lady Penelope Marbury. A broken engagement and years of disappointing courtships have left Penelope with little interest in a quiet, comfortable marriage, and a longing for something more. How lucky that her new husband has access to such unexplored pleasures. Bourne may be a prince of London’s underworld, but he vows to keep Penelope untouched by its wickedness—a challenge indeed as the lady discovers her own desires, and her willingness to wager anything for them . . . even her heart.

I've had a wonderful time reading the other books by Sarah MacLean. She's introduced me to historical romance, which I've never thought I would enjoy. I hadn't been paying attention that she had a new one coming out. I was super excited to discover this one recently!

Review - Under the Never Sky (Under the Never Sky, #1) by Veronica Rossi

2012-01-10T03:44:00.048-07:00

Title: Under The Never Sky

Author: Veronica Rossi

Series: 1st

Pages: 384

Published: January 3rd 2012 by HarperCollins

ISBN: 9780062072030

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction. As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions. They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers a barbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY.

I Give This ...

It's so hard to write an adequate review of a book that is much more than the description. I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but ended up thinking it was an awesome way to wrap up my reading in 2011.

We meet Aria in the midst of breaking the rules. She hasn't had contact with her mother for awhile and she befriends the son of the leader of her city in hopes of gaining information. When the fateful night goes horribly wrong, 3 people are dead. And it's her word against the son's. She's kicked out of enclosure, to certain death. But, instead of dying, Aria survives and embarks on an incredible journey.

Perry comes across Aria and knows her to be a "Dweller". He hopes she might be able to help him find who took his nephew. What was interesting, is that these two have met before. That fateful night in the dome, Perry broke in to harvest food. They both blame each other from what's happened since then. It doesn't help that years of hate and prejudice are feeding the feud.

I liked the world that Rossi has set up here. I was intrigued by the setup in the enclosed cities. They've lived so long this way, the basic human nature has been driven right out of them. The reality of the world is entirely fictional because they spend most of there time in the made up realms. They have no idea what the outside world is really like. I was confused by the world outside these enclosed cities. I didn't understand what the Aether really was and how it effected the world around them. This world did some particularly volatile. It's more of a out for yourself type of thing.

I think the best part was watching Aria transform in the outside world. She learns to accept who she really is and the changes that are happening to her. She also learns to trust Perry, even if his ways are a little unconventional. I enjoyed all the connections between the characters and how they interacted. By the end of the story, I really cared about each and every one of them.

There's a lot that happens in this story that I can't even begin to touch on it all. It was a little confusing at first because the sequence of events don't feel connected. But, I was able to catch on and fully immerse myself into the story. Reading this so soon after reading Touch of Power by Maria V Snyder, makes me think the style is very similar. I think fans of Snyder will like this as well!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-01-09T04:43:00.001-07:00

We're getting into the swing of the New Year. Trying to establish some new routines to meet our New Years goals. Trying to have some better time management and also include a family night in our week! With all of us out of the house during the week, I feel like we've kind of been all over the place. I am proud of us that we are still in the habit of having dinner as a family every night, but the girls are still young :)

Read Last Week:

Illuminate by Aimee Agresti
The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges

Currently Reading:

The Mephisto Covenant by Trinity Faegan

Up This Week:

A Million Suns by Beth Revis
Still Waters by Emma Carlson Berne

In My Mailbox!

2012-01-08T04:08:00.002-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

For Review:

Illuminate by Aimee Agresti (Around The World Tours)

Swapped:

The Borgia Betrayal by Sara Poole
Inheritance by Christopher Paolini

Finish that Series Challenge

2012-01-07T15:29:00.006-07:00

Here are the rules guidelines.

1) All books that are part of a continuing series qualify (i.e. Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove, Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum, James Patterson's Alex Cross, etc. etc.)

2) It doesn't matter if you have 1 or 10 books in a series to complete it, it qualifies (i.e. if you only need to read one more Sookie Stackhouse book to complete the goal, that's fine) The goal is to complete a series from wherever you are up to until the last published book.

3) The qualification period is January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. Books must be read during this time frame to count.

4) Take the button above and post about it. Use the Mr. Linky below to sign up, but make sure you link it directly to your post about this challenge.

5) If you don't have a blog, that's fine. Just leave a comment to sign up and tell us what you are reading.

6) Any format of book counts - audio, ebook, etc.

7) You should choose the series you want to finish before the challenge begins, but it isn't necessary. It's fine to change series during the year - as long as you complete whichever series it is.

8) Choose a level....

Level 1 - Complete 1 series.
Level 2 - Complete 2 series.
Level 3 - Complete 3 or more series.

OWN:

Borgia Betrayal by Sara Poole

Sisterhood Everlasting by Ann Brashares

Absolutely, Positively by Heather Weber

Fate by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Shadowfall by Erin Kellison

Inheritance by Christopher Paolini

U is for Undertow by Sue Grafton

V is for Vengeance by Sue Grafton

Wolfsbane by Andrea Cremer

Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia

Beautiful Chaos by Kami Garcia

Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

Betrayal by Lee Nichols

Surrender by Lee Nichols

LIBRARY:

Passion by Lauren Kate

Rapture by Lauren Kate

Embrace the Night by Karen Chance

Curse the Dawn by Karen Chance

Hunt the Moon by Karen Chance

The Wizard Heir by Cinda Chima

The Dragon Heir by Cinda Chima

The Sorcerer Heir by Cinda Chima

Bloodfever by Karen Moning

Faefever by Karen Moning

Dreamfever by Karen Moning

Shadowfever by Karen Moning

Fantasy in Death by J.D. Robb

Indulgence in Death by J.D. Robb

Treachery in Death by J.D. Robb

New York to Dallas by J.D. Robb

Celebrity in Death by J.D. Robb

Delusion in Death by J.D. Robb

Perfect by Sara Shepard

Unbelievable by Sara Shepard

Wicked by Sara Shepard

Heartless by Sara Shepard

Wanted by Sara Shepard

Twisted by Sara Shepard

Ruthless by Sara Shepard

2012 Debut Author Challenge

2012-01-06T15:21:00.005-07:00

To read and review a minimum of twelve young adult or middle grade debut novels between the dates of January 1, 2012 – January 31, 2013.

My List:

Illuminate by Aimee Agresti
The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges
Tempest by Julie Cross
Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood
The Selection by Kiera Cass

Review - The Girl of Fire and Thorns (Fire and Thorns, #1) by Rae Carson

2012-01-06T03:42:00.049-07:00

Title: The Girl of Fire and Thorns

Author: Rae Carson

Series: 1st

Pages: 424

Published: September 20th 2011 by Greenwillow Books

ISBN: 9780062026484

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness. Elisa is the chosen one. But she is also the younger of two princesses, the one who has never done anything remarkable. She can't see how she ever will. Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs the chosen one, not a failure of a princess. And he's not the only one who seeks her. Savage enemies seething with dark magic are hunting her. A daring, determined revolutionary thinks she could be his people's savior. And he looks at her in a way that no man has ever looked at her before. Soon it is not just her life, but her very heart that is at stake. Elisa could be everything to those who need her most. If the prophecy is fulfilled. If she finds the power deep within herself. If she doesn’t die young. Most of the chosen do.

I Give This ...

I'm really not sure what stopped me from reading this sooner. Which is sad, because hidden within the cover is a truly good book. It combined the elements of fantasy, magic, and even had a fairy tale feel too. Some of my favorite elements of a story as of late.

I actually loved the way Elisa is presented to us. She's the complete opposite of any princess heroine I've ever seen. I wondered how much of it was her own insecurities about herself, but I learned that she basically was a fat and unattractive princess (hey, it happens). I wondered how her life might have been different if she wasn't a chosen one. I liked how being seen this way has put a different sort of expectation on her. She doesn't behave the way you would think a princess should. But, she also can command a room when she wants to.

I thought the story of the chosen ones was really interesting. I would love to learn more about past chosen ones. I feel like we've barely touched the surface of this phenomenon. I was also really intrigued by the jewel that was placed in her navel when she was chosen (although, I do admit I thought what happens with it in the end was a little cheesy.) It seems to have a life of it's own and I liked how Elisa could detect moods, etc but what the jewel was doing at that moment.

The actions in this book is great. I really enjoyed the landscape we get to witness in the story. For as many location changes as we go through, it never feels like too much. And I felt I got an adequate understanding of the makeup of this make believe world. The characters cover a wide range of social hierarchy, which I think lends an interesting scope to the story. We learn so much for the king who can't defend his country to the poor who are struggling to keep their lands and lively hood safe. It's an impressive feet.

I probably would have given a 5 if the ending hadn't felt like a little bit of a letdown. I was expecting Elisa to have this awesome magical power within her to conquer the evil that was hunting her. And in away this did happen, just not in the way I had hoped. I'll live though, and will definitely continue on with the series!

2012 Off The Shelf Challenge

2012-01-05T15:17:00.003-07:00

This challenge is to read those books you own a copy of, print, digital, and audio, you have been meaning to read, but never gotten to. If you don’t own enough books for the challenge you can read your TBR list instead. And no, you do not need to get rid of your books afterwards, that’s completely your choice, this challenge is only to read them.

My List:

Fate by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Absolutely, Positively by Heather Webber

Review - Irish Moon by Amber Scott

2012-01-05T04:41:00.037-07:00

Title: Irish Moon

Author: Amber Scott

Series: Written as a stand alone but there is a sequel

Pages: 358

Published: December 10th 2010 by Goodnight Publishing

ISBN: 9781456522735

Source: Kindle Free Read

Description: Druid Magick... Breanne grapples with the old ways, her mentor murdered before she masters her talents. The stranger washed ashore must be the key to proving murder. Knight Errant... Ashlon made a vow to bury the Bloodstone, it's horrific past, it's secrets, in the farthest reaches of Ireland. Fate's Twisted Course... Passion binds them but betrayal will test every belief under an Irish Moon.

I Give This ...

Since this was free read for my kindle, I wasn't sure what to expect. The title and description were enough to spark my interest. But, would it hold my attention. It must have captured my attention enough that I read it soon after downloading it. And with as many other books I have to read, this is a rare accomplishment all by itself.

I really enjoyed the setting. There's something mystic and regal about Ireland. I think Scott managed to capture that. I liked that Breanne is so fiery. She's lives in a time were women were still considered propriety, but she's been given a lot of freedom considering. Not only has she not been pushed to marry (until now) but she's allowed to practice the old Druid ways. I do think these freedoms have allowed her a certain arrogance.

I did have a little difficulty placing Ashlon's role in this entire mess at first. I feel we get to know his character as the story goes along. But, as the story is pieced together, I really liked what was presented to me. He's dedicated to his task, even if he doesn't understand fully what he has been asked to do. I also like that he didn't expect to find companionship and a sense of belonging on his journey.

While I enjoyed the magic involved in the story (I have a hard time labeling this as paranormal because it just didn't feel like that), I enjoyed the romance even more. I liked the stolen kisses while no one is looking. I liked how it made Breanne change her mind on everything she ever thought she wanted. I especially liked how it made Ashlon decide to settle down.

I really enjoyed this book. A worthy free read that will make me look for other books by this author!

Support You Local Library Challenge 2012

2012-01-04T15:07:00.001-07:00

Rules:

Anyone can join.
You don't need a blog to participate. If you are a Non-blogger please leave a comment with a link (if you review elsewhere) to your review or with the book(s) you read.
Audio, ebooks (some libraries allow ebooks to be checked out), bound books are ok.
No re-reads
Create a sign up post and post the link in the linky (click on the picture to be taken to the hostess!).
Challenge goes from January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012

Levels:

Level 1 - Read 12 library books (this is the one I'm shooting for)

Level 2 - Read 24 library books

Level 3 - Read 36 library books

Level 4 - Read 37+ library books

My List:

Review - Bleeding Hearts (Drake Chronicles, #4) by Alyxandra Harvey

2012-01-04T04:40:00.047-07:00

Title: Bleeding Hearts

Author: Alyxandra Harvey

Series: 4th (Hearts At Stake, Blood Feud, Out For Blood)

Pages: 304

Published: December 20th 2011 by Walker Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780802722843

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: As vampires from all over the world descend on the Drake farm for the Blood Moon gathering, security is ramped up. Lucy has been temporarily banned, for her own safety—and to allow Solange some time to adjust to her new existence. But their enemies realize how much Lucy means to the family, and plan to abduct her to use her for leverage against the new royal family. Instead, Lucy’s cousin Christabel is kidnapped by mistake—and Connor Drake immediately heads off in pursuit, but isn’t in time to prevent Christabel’s infection by the Hel Blar. He can’t save her human life, but he can still try to save her new vampire life, and is willing to put his own life on the line for the girl he has grown to care so much about. Can he save Christabel, the Blood Moon, and his mother’s newly forged Vampire Alliance?

I Give This ...

I've loved the Drake Chronicles to this point. I like how it's a continuation of the same story, but a new character becomes a spotlight. It seems like before the character gets their own story, we don't seem to know much about them. I like how each character find their "perfect" match.

What I liked about this story is the direction the storyline seems to be taking. It's getting a little bit darker the deeper in we get. The transition of power doesn't seem to be easy and it's interesting how it's effecting this family. I actually hope we might get a book from the parents point of view eventually. I think their story might be very interesting. There was a short story type of thing at the end, but I'm not sure if that was preview of the next book. All I can say is I want more. And I really want to know what the heck is going on with Solange.

I also really liked how we get a little bit more of the characters we've seen in previous books. Nick and Lucy for example aren't just background characters in this book. I've missed them! I also really loved the way Lucy's character has grown. She's staking her mark on the vampire world. Even if she's only human.

I did feel the main characters of Connor and Christabel were a bit of a let down. There was something missing from their story. Christabel didn't seem to get fired up over anything, which made it hard for me to understand was Connor saw in her. I did like Connor a little bit more. It does seem the story played him off as the "geek" enough that I had a hard time getting to know him.

Obviously nothing that will keep me from reading the next book in the series. The story ended with a cliffhanger, that I have to know what happens next. Plus, I love enough of the characters that I want to see were the series takes them.

100 + Book in 2012 Challenge

2012-01-03T15:13:00.003-07:00

REDIRECT TO HERE

Top Ten Books I'm Excited To Read in 2012

2012-01-03T03:39:00.032-07:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. If your curious about this meme, visit Top Ten Tuesday where they have previous topics and upcoming topics listed as well.

Our topic today is 10 Book I'm Excited to read in 2012!

In no particular order here are my the books I'm looking forward to that come out in 2012

The Last Echo by Kimberly Derting

A Million Suns by Beth Revis

Spellbound by Rachel Hawkins

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

Insurgent by Veronica Roth

The Second Empress by Michelle Moran

The Queen's Vow by C.W. Gortner

Four Sister, All Queens by Sherry Jones

The Flower Reader by Elizabeth Loupas

A Rogue By Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean

Challenges for 2011

2012-01-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

I did ok on the challenge front for 2011. I excelled in some of them and others pretty much barely made the radar. For the complete list of books check the link!

For my 100 + books challenge, I read 175 total for the year. Less than 2010, but an impressive number none the less.

100+ Books

I didn't do as well this year in the Support Your Library Challenge. This one I plan to really work on this year. I read 12 books from the library

Support Your Local Library

I also didn't do well in the Off Your Shelf Challenge. I read 12 for this as well. I need to get to those books on my shelf!

Off The Shelf Challenge

I did about the same for the Adult Paranormal/Fantasy challenge. I was doing really in the beginning, but come summer the challenge was basically abandoned. I managed 15 for this challenge.
Paranormal/Fantasay Challenge

I did excellent in the Ebook challenge, as long as you don't care that most of those books were books for review. But, my kindle was well loved since I've received it. 70 book total read on my kindle!
E-Book Challenge

I also impressed myself with Debut Author Challenge, although I was really bad at remembering to get the extra entries for linking my reviews! I read 43 books by authors published for the first time in 2011!
Debut Author Challenge

I'm behind on getting my challenges up for 2012. I think it's mainly because I haven't see who is hosting the ones I always participate in (100+ Books and Support Your Library) and haven't seen others that really interest me. I'm looking to branch away for YA paranormal romance this year. Maybe a historical fiction challenge!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2012-01-02T04:32:00.001-07:00

Oddly enough, I think we're all looking forward to school starting again tomorrow. Although, I know I will miss sleeping in. We went back to our old schedule way to easily. The New Year came in the usual way. I was the only one awake! Here's to 2012 be a little less trying than 2011. My family went through quite a lot of changes this past year!

Read Last Week:

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson
Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
I Heart You, You Haunt Me by Lisa Schroeder

Currently Reading:

Illuminate by Aimee Agresti

Up This Week:

The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges
The Mephisto Covenant by Trinity Faegan

Best of 2011

2011-12-31T04:05:00.125-07:00

It's so hard to choose a top 10 from so many great books! So here they are ...

Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder
The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones
Between Shades of Grey by Ruta Sepetys
Where She Went by Gayle Forman
Night Road by Kristin Hannah

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Want to Go Private by Sarah Darer Littman
Legacy by Cayla Kluver
The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa
Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
Shift by Jeri Smith-Ready
The Day Before by Lisa Schroder
River Marked by Patricia Briggs
Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez

What to look for in 2012

Everneath by Brodi Ashton (January 24, 2012)
Incarnate by Jodi Meadows (January 31, 2012)
A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink (March 20, 2012)

Review - Pandemonium (Delirium #2) by Lauren Oliver

2011-12-30T04:50:00.001-07:00

Title: Pandemonium

Author: Lauren Oliver

Series: 2nd (Delirium)

Pages: 375

Published: February 28th 2012 by HarperTeen

ISBN: 9780061978067

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: 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.

I Give This ...

I felt like I had to sit and think about this book for quite awhile. It was a good follow up to Delirium. It was well above how I usually feel for the second, but it had a different feel than the first novel.

I had the most trouble with the different time periods. I'm horrible at reading chapter titles and it took me awhile to get use to how the novel was set up. It felt choppy because I kept wondering how Lena got to be back in society. I knew the story would get to it eventually, it just bugged me for some reason. I think it would have worked just fine in a normal time line. Was Delirium set up the same way? (I honestly can't remember.)

Lena shows some admirable characteristics when meet her in the wild. She's injured, near death, and has lost Alex. I think it's hard for her at first to pick up the pieces, she needs that push. No one in the Wild can shirk his/her duties. I liked that they gave her time to come to terms with what's happened to her, but know when she needs the push to move on. I liked how Lena finds her place in this little band of outsiders. When she finds what she wants to do in this group she pushed for it.

I liked the pacing of the actions while they are infiltrating the city. I like how the don't tell Lena the whole story. I think it was necessary for her to go in blindly even though she doesn't like it in the end. I loved Lena's interactions with Julian. I liked that he was able to see the other side of things. Such a blow to his dad and the people he is connected to. I'm curious as to how this will effect society's view on the "illness".

I was kind of disappointed in the ending. I had been expecting it all along. But, I really wanted it much sooner in the book. I think it's kind of a blow to the storyline and to Lena's character to have it happen on the last pages. It was one of those things that made me think about giving it a lower rating. But, after much consideration, I kept it were I originally had planned.

A worthy addition to the series. Still think it has some characteristics of the Pretty series, but it's beginning to take a life of it's own. I'm looking forward to the next one (and such a long wait it will be).

Holly Cupala Interview + Giveaway!

2011-12-29T04:29:00.039-07:00

Thank you, Page, for inviting me to your blog to talk about Don’t Breathe a Word (coming next week!), and hello to readers! Page asked a few questions for me to answer with the Don’t Breathe a Word playlist lyrics—some of the answers may be cryptic, but I’ll do my best!

How long have you been writing?
“You won't be seventeen forever
And we can get away with this tonight”
~Seventeen Forever, Metro Station

How are your two books different? Same?
“But don't you know who you are,
What's been done for you?
Yeah don't you know who you are?”
~You Are More, Tenth Avenue North

Which character have you identified most with?
She’s searching for no one (but herself)
Her eyes turn to green and she seems to be happy that she is her
And this time I think you'll know”
~You’re Not Alone, Saosin

What do you read in your spare time?
“I’m looking for a place
Searching for a face
Is there anybody here I know”
~I’m with You, Avril Lavigne

Favorite part of living in the Northwest?
“Take me to the city
Let me hear the crowds and the screams
All the flashes all that noise
And this is the night we'll be free”
~Frontload, Freezepop

Best part about being an author?
“This is your life, is it everything that you dreamed
That it would be when the world was younger,
And you had everything to lose?”
~ This is Your Life, Switchfoot

Any author you’ve loved meeting?
“You and me have seen everything to see
From Bangkok to Calgary
And the soles of your shoes are all worn down”
~I Will Follow You into the Dark, Death Cab for Cutie

Do you still keep in touch with baby board friends (the ones who helped inspire Tell Me a Secret)?
“In the name of love,
What more in the name of love.”
~Pride (In the Name of Love), U2

Follow the rest of the tour for more chances to win books, swag, and secrets—today you can see what Kate has to see about DBAW at I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read!, and find out who makes secret cameos from Tell Me a Secret at A Good Addiction—don’t forget to enter the cover recreation contest and enter the Words Have Power video contest…

Thank you, Page, for having me, and I hope readers love Don’t Breathe a Word!

Holly's website: www.hollycupala.com

Don’t Breathe a Word Tour Details: http://theteenbookscene.weebly.com/dont-breathe-a-word-tour-details.html

And now for the Giveaway!

There will be a weekly international winner for one copy of Don't Breathe a Word!
If winner is US you will receive a signed copy from Holly!
If winner is international you will receive a copy from book depository!

You get one initial entry just by filling out the form!!

*There will be one book given per day, drawn weekly. Everything entered by Saturday night will be put into a drawing on Sunday. So be sure and visit the other tour stops!

*The points DO accumulate, meaning entries put in for week one are still going to count for the drawings in weeks 2 and 3. (This is to reward those who follow/enter from the start, and doesn't punish them later because their entries are more spread out)

ENTRIES:
*There is one automatic entry
*For every post someone comments on, it is one entry.
*They will have to link to the blog post they commented on.

*There is an extra entry if they tweet, facebook, do a blog post or somehow include on their blog. It is one for each of these, but only 1 per type (meaning they can't tweet every day and get points for it... its just one tweet)

*They need to fill out the form EACH time they do something to enter. If there is no link, the entry does not count (beyond the first initial entry, that you can just enter to win from)

ENTER FORM HERE

Review - A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink

2011-12-28T04:24:00.001-07:00

Title: A Temptation of Angels

Author: Michelle Zink

Series: I hope!

Pages: 400

Published: March 20th 2012 by Dial Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780803737266

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: When her parents are murdered before her eyes, sixteen-year-old Helen Cartwright finds herself launched into an underground London where a mysterious organization called the Dictata controls the balance of good and evil. Helen learns that she is one of three remaining angelic descendants charged with protecting the world's past, present, and future. Unbeknownst to her, she has been trained her whole life to accept this responsibility. Now, as she finds herself torn between the angelic brothers protecting her and the devastatingly handsome childhood friend who wants to destroy her, she must prepare to be brave, to be hunted, and above all to be strong, because temptation will be hard to resist, even for an angel.

I Give This ...

I've only read the first in Michelle's previous series. But, since I enjoyed it, I was willing to give this one a shot. I didn't set my expectation too high, because I often feel the angel books fall short of their marks. I ended up being pleasantly surprised by this book.

I found Helen to be an interesting character. She knows nothing of who she really is. Everything that has been taught to her has been secretly done. Her father tried to teach her skills by turning them into games. I liked learning about the games he use to play with such as finding the two quickest exits out of places and how to go unnoticed in a group. When it came time to use these skills, I think she was surprised at how much she remembered. I admired how much she kept her head despite all she has gone through. I also liked that she didn't readily believe what everybody told her. It sometimes feels like characters are willing to accept that paranormal without batting an eye.

The brother's Quinn and Darius rounded out the story nicely. I had a feeling one of them would turn out to be a love interest and I really enjoyed the tension between them. I also liked how the other brother liked to call their feelings out. I'm not sure what he's deal is exactly. I get the sense there might be more to that story as well. I also liked how there's almost a love triangle. It played a pivotal role in the story, but not how one might think. And, I loved how Helen made a definite choice!

I actually enjoyed the mythology behind the angels, the decedents, and their demon counterparts. It's explained enough that you understand what's going on. But, I also liked that there's plenty of room for more books. I don't think we've learned enough about the Dictata. I'm also curious to see what the descendents actual duties might be. Most of this book is about finding who is hunting them and putting everything right.

The book also has a very Victorian feel to it. But, it also has some modern tendencies. I found that I enjoyed it very much!

Review - Touch of Power (Healer #1) by Maria V. Snyder

2011-12-27T04:58:00.002-07:00

Title: Touch of Power

Author: Maria V. Snyder

Series: 1st

Pages: 394

Published: December 20th 2011 by Mira

ISBN: 9780778313076

Source: Publisher via Netgalley

Description: Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan absorbs 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 Fifteen Realms, 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 Give This ...

I've been eagerly awaiting this book for several reasons. First, I've yet to come across a book Maria has written that I didn't like. Second, this sounded more like the type of story in The Study series which is my favorite. I was not disappointed.

I was immediately drawn to Avry's character. I liked that she's a healer, which has put her on the run for the past years. But the fear of death doesn't overpower her need to help people. She's especially drawn to children close to death. When she's "rescued" from prison, she doesn't know what to expect. And it's definitely not the idea of traveling across half the country to heal a man she's has no intention of healing. But, it's either that or risk being caught by the bandits chasing them. She's got a hefty bounty on her head, and she's worth more if she's brought in alive.

I loved learning about the world Avry lives in. It's in complete turmoil since the plague devastated most of the population. There are a few people willing to go to great lengths to control it all. Turns out these people are connected in ways you wouldn't imagine, and they're playing a game for the ultimate prize. Avry has to decide who to trust, what previous notions she has to let go, and most of all what might be best for the country as a whole. Imagine being able to influence something on that level.

The story is full of characters I loved. I enjoyed Kerrick and his band of men. I think Avry was so use to being alone, that this group showed her what it was like to have people care about you. I also enjoyed their devotion to Ryne not matter what it cost them. It's truth faith in some, even if it can be some what blinded. I enjoyed the intrigue and even the deviousness of the "bad" guys. I never knew what to expect.

It's a wonderful fantasy story full of magic, suspense, and romance. I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoyed The Study series!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2011-12-26T04:16:00.003-07:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous holiday! My family enjoyed it. Now to enjoy the rest of our break from school (and me from work). Not much planned, maybe a movie, some shopping, and some reading!

Read Last Week:

Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey
A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink
Irish Moon by Amber Scott

Currently Reading:

The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson

Up This Week:

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
Illuminate by Aimee Agresti

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-25T04:46:00.001-07:00

From my house to yours! I hope you have a very wonderful holiday fully of family, laughter, and love!

Merry Christmas!

In My Mailbox!

2011-12-24T04:41:00.003-07:00

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

Review:

A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink

Free:
- Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
- Irish Moon by Amber Scott

Review - When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellisen

2011-12-20T04:08:00.001-07:00

Title: When the Sea is Rising Red

Author: Cat Hellisen

Series: Stand Alone

Pages: 288

Published: February 28th 2012 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

ISBN: 9780374364755

Source: Around The World Tours

Description: After seventeen-year-old Felicita’s dearest friend Ilven kills herself to escape an arranged marriage, Felicita chooses freedom over privilege. She fakes her own death and leaves her sheltered life as one of Pelimburg’s magical elite behind. Living in the slums, scrubbing dishes for a living, she falls for charismatic Dash while also becoming fascinated with vampire Jannik. Then something shocking washes up on the beach: Ilven's death has called out of the sea a dangerous wild magic. Felicita must decide whether her loyalties lie with the family she abandoned . . . or with those who would twist this dark power to destroy Pelimburg's caste system, and the whole city along with it.

I Give This ...

I don't mind fantasy. In fact, I usually really like it. But, every once in awhile I come across a book that just seems so far out there that it's hard for me to enjoy. I think this was one of those.

The basic story line, I think I would have enjoyed. Rich girl fakes death to avoid arranged marriage (not to mention horrible brother and checked-out mom). I liked the idea of her living and working with people far below her station. It's was also interesting to watch her battle with the idea that life on the other side. She's debates several times about swallowing her pride and dealing with everything just to have the comforts of home (and the rich life). I actually really liked Felicity for all that she goes through in this book.

What really fell flat for me was the paranormal/fantasy aspect of this novel. I understood the superstitions but thought it should be something that stayed in the background. The sea witch that's brought to life was just too much. But, I guess you can't have vampires (loved that Felicity called them bats) etc, without other paranormal elements. That storyline was also a little hard to follow.

I also had a hard time with Dash. I wanted to like him, but something about him just didn't sit well with me. I'm glad I never did because there was a reasoning behind that feeling. I also thought the book was a little heavy in reference to drugs and sex. For a young adult book, it seems to be tossed around very nonchalantly. I don't mind it usually, but it bothered me in this one.

So, in the end I was left with very mixed feelings. It wasn't what I had hoped it would be.

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

2011-12-19T04:17:00.001-07:00

Read Last Week:

Pandemomium by Lauren Oliver
Touch of Power by Maria Snyder

Currently Reading:

Bleeding Hearts by Alyxandra Harvey

Up This Week:

A Temptation of Angels by Michelle Zink
Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson