Goals for the New Year

Here are my goals for 2011:
1. Write more. Finish revising Sisters for the sixth time.
2. Read more. My to read pile is insane... and is slowly taking over my room.
3. Be better at commenting. I tend to use google reader and forget to do that...
4. Become more organizing. A picture of my room would be a perfect example of why I need this.
5. Get better at mailing stuff.
6. And most of all, have fun.
What are your goals?

Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 96/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Rose Hathaway has always played by her own rules.
She broke the law when she ran away from St. Vladimir’s Academy with her best friend and last surviving Dragomir Princess, Lissa. She broke the law when she fell in love with her gorgeous, off-limits instructor, Dimitri. And she dared to defy Queen Tatiana, leader of the Moroi world, risking her life and reputation to protect generations of dhampir guardian to come.
Now the law has finally caught up with Rose- for a crime she didn’t even commit. She’s in prison for the highest offense imaginable: the assassination of a monarch. She’ll need help from both Dimitri and Adrian to find the one living person who can stall her execution and force the Moroi elite to acknowledge a shocking new candidate for the royal throne: Vasilisa Dragomir.
But the clock on Rose’s life is running out. Rose knows in her heart the world of the dead wants her back… and this time she is truly out of second chances. The big question is, when your life is about saving others, who will save you?
I am not going to spoil this book, because I like not being killed by fangirl and plus spoiling is for jerks. This book was epic. The plot was really engaging and I found myself to be engrossed into every detail of this book. I just loved how it slowly revealed details about the plot and not everything was shown at once. I obviously feel very attached to every character in these books. I mean I have been reading it for six books. I love Rose and while it is sad to see her go, I was happy with her ending, along with other people. I also can't wait for the new series that is coming from this world and will luckily have some of the character who didn't get a real ending in Last Sacrifice. This is the end of a stunning series and it is definitely bittersweet. I can't wait for more from Richelle Mead. She is such a clever and gifted writer that brings something amazing to each book.

Waiting on Wednesday (84)

Title: Bitter End
Author: Jennifer Brown
Publisher: Little Brown
Date: May 10, 2011
When Alex falls for the charming new boy at school, Cole, a handsome,
funny sports star who adores her, she knows she’s found her
soul mate—someone who truly understands her and loves her for
who she really is.
But as the months pass, Alex can no longer ignore Cole’s small putdowns,
pinches, or increasingly violent threats. As Alex struggles to
come to terms with the sweet boyfriend she fell in love with and the
boyfriend whose “love” she no longer recognizes, she is forced to
choose—between her “true love” and herself.
I loved Jennifer Brown's Hate List and can't wait for this book. It sounds epic.

The Lost Saint by Bree Despain

Rating:
Characters: 17/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 19/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 93/100 or A
Source: Publisher

The non-stop sequel to The Dark Divine delivers an even hotter romance and more thrilling action than Bree Despain's first novel. Grace Divine made the ultimate sacrifice to cure Daniel Kalbi. She gave her soul to the wolf to save him and lost her beloved mother. When Grace receives a haunting phone call from Jude, she knows what she must do. She must become a Hound of Heaven. Desparate to find Jude, Grace befriends Talbot - a newcomer to town who promises her that he can help her be a hero. But as the two grow closer, the wolf grows in Grace, and her relationship with Daniel begins to crumble. Unaware of the dark path she is walking, Grace becomes prideful in her new abilities - not realizing that an old enemy has returned and deadly trap is about to be sprung. Readers, raveous for more Grace and Daniel, will be itching to sink their teeth into The Lost Saint.
The thing that infuriated me the most in this book was how niave Grace was. I found myself rolling my eyes at some of her decisions, but I think it is the way that she was raised. Even though some of her decisions were stupid, Grace became more kickass and aware through out the book and I did enjoy her character. I loved Daniel in The Dark Divine, but he seemed overbearing and even more protective of Grace, which is understandable after what happened, but she kind of has the super powers now. Their relationship really developed and became something else then what it was before, which is what happens when people grow up and change. I really liked Talbot, even though I suspected what happened in the end. I also liked the complexities that are later revealed in his character. I love that Despain creates realistic characters that seem to bounce off the page, because they have their flaws and great attributes that help you understand them.
The plot was exciting. I was engaged in every second. I loved the idea of searching for a sibling, because I would be doing that if I was in that sitution. I also liked seeing other demons and really how much darkness is in the world. Talbot's training with Grace was intense and interesting. I find Despain's take on werewolves to be unlike anything that I have read. I like the idea of being infected, but only becoming one, if you forget your instincts. Despain crafts a clever and action pack tale that is easy to become consumed with. I recommend this book, if you love paranormal fiction with some depth.

In My Mailbox (Week of December 26th)

For Review:
Where She Went by Gayle Forman, with other goodies.
Huntress by Malinda Lo
When the Stars Go Blue by Caridad Ferrar
Rosebush by Michele Jaffe

Winners!

Shadow Hills Poster: Jamie

Entice: Lasha

Woot, congrats to you both!

Yay!

Merry Christmas!

I wish that you all have an amazing time and enjoy your time with your family.

Fragment Friday (4)

Merry Christmas Eve!
I hope you enjoy!

Contest!

So, it is Christmas Eve tomorrow and I decided to giveaway two books that I loved. A finished copy of Fall for Anything by Courtney Summers is up for grabs and so is a finished copy of When the Stars Go Blue by Caridad Ferrar.

Here is what Fall for Anything is about:
From the author of Cracked Up to Be and Some Girls Are comes a gripping story about one girl’s search for clues into the mysterious death of her father.
When Eddie Reeves’s father commits suicide her life is consumed by the nagging question of why? Why when he was a legendary photographer and a brilliant teacher? Why when he seemed to find inspiration in everything he saw? And, most important, why when he had a daughter who loved him more than anyone else in the world? When she meets Culler Evans, a former student of her father’s and a photographer himself, an instant and dangerous attraction begins. Cullen seems to know more about her father than she does and could possibly hold the key to the mystery surrounding his death. But Eddie’s vulnerability has weakened her and Culler Evans is getting too close. Her need for the truth keeps her hanging on...but are some questions better left unanswered?
And here is what When the Stars Go Blue is about:

A dancer driven to succeed.
A musical prodigy attempting to escape his past.
The summer they share.
And the moment it all goes wrong.
Dance is Soledad Reyes’s life. About to graduate from Miami’s Biscayne High School for the Performing Arts, she plans on spending her last summer at home teaching in a dance studio, saving money, and eventually auditioning for dance companies. That is, until fate intervenes in the form of fellow student Jonathan Crandall who has what sounds like an outrageous proposition: Forget teaching. Why not spend the summer performing in the intense environment of the competitive drum and bugle corps? The corps is going to be performing Carmen, and the opportunity to portray the character of the sultry gypsy proves too tempting for Soledad to pass up, as well as the opportunity to spend more time with Jonathan, who intrigues her in a way no boy ever has before.
But in an uncanny echo of the story they perform every evening, an unexpected competitor for Soledad's affections appears: Taz, a member of an all-star Spanish soccer team. One explosive encounter later Soledad finds not only her relationship with Jonathan threatened, but her entire future as a professional dancer.

Just fill out the form below, if you want to enter.

Out for Blood by Alyxandra Harvey

Rating:
Characters: 18/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 18/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 91/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Hunter Wild is the youngest in a long line of elite vampire hunters, a legacy that is both a blessing and a curse at the secret Helios-Ra Academy, where she excels at just about everything. Thanks to her friendship with Kieran Black, Hunter receives a special invitation to attend the coronation of Helena Drake, and for the first time, she sees the difference between vampires that must be hunted and vampires that can become friends—or even more. When students at the academy fall victim to a mysterious illness, Hunter suspects they are under attack from within. She will need someone she can trust to help her save the future of Helios-Ra . . . help that shockingly comes in the form of Quinn Drake, a drop-dead gorgeous vampire. Who said senior year would be easy?

Hunter gives us another glimpse into Harvey's stunning world of vampires. The Helios-Ra is an intensely interesting organization with both it's good and bad qualities that keep you immersed in every detail of the book. The glance into what is happening in the Drake Family was also engaging. I really enjoyed seeing character from the past books in the series and seeing how they were. Hunter was such a kick ass character, but she also had a heart and honestly cared for people. Quinn made me laugh so much and I seriously loved every moment that he was in the story. The plot was really exciting and I adored every moment of this book. The plot is fast, fun, and fierce. Harvey's world building is so epically original and reflect some of the realities in the real world of politics. Harvey is a fantastic writer, creates such a stunning story that is full of lovable characters. Seriously, read this series!

Here is Alyxandra Harvey's Facebook fan page. There are a lot of amazing things happening there. Click here to have a sneak peak of her upcoming book, Haunting Violet. I also have a copy of Out for Blood for giveaway, just fill out the form below.

Waiting on Wednesday (83)

Title: Bumped
Author: Megan McCaffery
Publisher: Harpercollins
Date: April 26, 2011
When a virus makes everyone over the age of eighteen infertile, would-be parents are forced to pay teen girls to conceive and give birth to their children, making teens the most prized members of society.
Sixteen-year-old identical twins Melody and Harmony were separated at birth and had never met until the day Harmony shows up on Melody’s doorstep. Until now, the twins have followed completely opposite paths. Melody has scored an enviable conception contract with a couple called the Jaydens. While they are searching for the perfect partner for Melody to bump with, she is fighting her attraction to her best friend Zen, who is way too short for the job.
Harmony has spent her whole life in religious Goodside, preparing to be a wife and mother. She believes her calling is to bring Melody back to Goodside and convince her that “pregging” for profit is a sin. But Harmony has secrets of her own that she is running from.
When Melody is finally matched with the world-famous, genetically flawless Jondoe, both girls’ lives are changed forever. A case of mistaken identity takes them on a journey neither could have ever imagined, one that makes Melody and Harmony realize they have so much more than just DNA in common.

I loved the Jessica Darling series and can't wait for more from Megan McCaffery. This book looks amazing and I want to read it so much.

Trailer Tuesday (24)

This book looks so amazing and the cover only makes me want to read it more.

This is a video isn't a trailer, but it is epic and helped me make it through finals. Thanks to Khy for showing me this!

Fall for Anything by Courtney Summers

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 98/100 or A
Source: Publisher
From the author of Cracked Up to Be and Some Girls Are comes a gripping story about one girl’s search for clues into the mysterious death of her father.
When Eddie Reeves’s father commits suicide her life is consumed by the nagging question of why? Why when he was a legendary photographer and a brilliant teacher? Why when he seemed to find inspiration in everything he saw? And, most important, why when he had a daughter who loved him more than anyone else in the world? When she meets Culler Evans, a former student of her father’s and a photographer himself, an instant and dangerous attraction begins. Culler seems to know more about her father than she does and could possibly hold the key to the mystery surrounding his death. But Eddie’s vulnerability has weakened her and Culler Evans is getting too close. Her need for the truth keeps her hanging on...but are some questions better left unanswered?

Other then the book being absolutely amazing, I honestly don't know what to expect when I read something from Courtney Summers. She makes the most cliché topics into intriguing and raw stories that just completely engross and excite you.

Eddie was easy to relate and her struggles are something that we all will sadly experience. Death. Suicide. Sadness. I also LOVED seeing a vulnerable character from Summers, the emotions were so raw and just jumped off the pages and into my heart. I also loved that Summers showed that you can have vulnerability and strength like Eddie did. Milo is the most supportive and sweetest friend and I loved how much he cared for Eddie, even when she didn't want that at times. He is such a powerful and strong character that I loved. Culler Evans has so much appeal and I fell in love with him, when Eddie did. The characters made this book. I love that Summers can mold them into realistic and stunning that anyone can relate to.

This plot was amazingly captivating. I love the story and the twist that went along with it. It is also a story that everyone can relate to, I have lost people I love to suicide and several more to death. Grief and lost is hard part of life, but Summer captured it in a beautiful way. There was so much originality in this book and it was unlike anything that I have read this year. Summers is one of my favorite writers ever. Just when I am expecting something, she completely surprises and wows me. Her writing is also stunning and realistic that I love it. I recommend that you buy this book tomorrow, it is so amazing and epic. I promise that you won't be disappointed.

In My Mailbox (Week of December 19th)

Books:
Death Cloud by Andrew Lane
Shadowspell by Jenna Black
Bitter Melon by Cara Chow
Human .4 by Mike A. Lancaster
The False Princess by Eilis O'Neal
Drought by Pam Bachorz
The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
Will Work For Prom Dress by Aimee Ferris
Also a card and cool artwork from Holly Cupala.

I also forgot to mention, but I got a very sweet card from Devyn Burton.

Radiance by Alyson Noel

Rating:
Characters: 16/20
Plot: 15/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 16/20
Recommendation: 16/20
Overall: 81/100 or B
Source: Publisher
Riley has crossed the bridge into the afterlife—a place called Here, where time is always Now. She has picked up life where she left off when she was alive, living with her parents and dog in a nice house in a nice neighborhood. When she’s summoned before The Council, she learns that the afterlife isn’t just an eternity of leisure. She’s been assigned a job, Soul Catcher, and a teacher, Bodhi, a possibly cute, seemingly nerdy boy who’s definitely hiding something. They return to earth together for Riley’s first assignment, a Radiant Boy who’s been haunting a castle in England for centuries. Many Soul Catchers have tried to get him to cross the bridge and failed. But all of that was before he met Riley . . .
I enjoyed the Immortal series and I though that I would have liked Radiance, because it was a companion novel. Sadly, I was disappointed. Riley seemed one dimensional and boring. I also though that she was such a major brat. The book was less then 200 pages and didn't have an amazing plot that enchanted me. I was bored for most of the book. It was original, but the characters and plot didn't support that. This book is meant for a younger age and might be enjoyed by them. I think that they will find Riley to be charming and sweet.

Room by Emma Donoghue

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 17/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 93/100 or A
Source: Borrowed
To five-year-old Jack, Room is the entire world. It is where he was born and grew up; it's where he lives with his Ma as they learn and read and eat and sleep and play. At night, his Ma shuts him safely in the wardrobe, where he is meant to be asleep when Old Nick visits.
Room is home to Jack, but to Ma, it is the prison where Old Nick has held her captive for seven years. Through determination, ingenuity, and fierce motherly love, Ma has created a life for Jack. But she knows it's not enough...not for her or for him. She devises a bold escape plan, one that relies on her young son's bravery and a lot of luck. What she does not realize is just how unprepared she is for the plan to actually work.
Told entirely in the language of the energetic, pragmatic five-year-old Jack, ROOM is a celebration of resilience and the limitless bond between parent and child, a brilliantly executed novel about what it means to journey from one world to another.
I don't read much Adult fiction, but my mom handed this to me right after she finished and told me to read it now. I had heard quite a few amazing things about Room and decided to give it a try and I am glad that I did. This book was unlike anything that I have ever read. Room was haunting and stunning, while uplifting and hopeful. It keeps on just coming back to me. I can't imagine being in a room for my whole life and not realizing what I was missing. Jack was the original naive character as possible. He didn't know what was outside his world. I really adored his courage and strength through out the book. Ma also had a lot of strength and I loved how she made up these clever "games" on ways to get the neighbours to notice this shack. While she seemed selfish, I haven't had to deal with the horrors that she has. It was epically original. Donoghue created a unique and interesting book that I loved. Jack's world was powerful and unique. I recommend that you go buy and read this book now, you won't regret it.

Interview with Trent from Shadow Hill

I have an interview with Trent... He is the jerk-ish bad boy in Shadow Hills. I hope that you enjoy this small glance into his mind. I hope you enjoy!
1.What was your favorite part of growing up in Shadow Hills?
I’ve been respected, practically revered, all of my life, and I can’t imagine living any other way. There are several families that have been in Shadow Hills since it was founded, but the Redford clan is undoubtedly the most well-regarded and formidable. Being wealthy and privileged is important no matter where you live, but it’s even more so here, because most of the residents of Shadow Hills are very intelligent.
2.What is the best and worst thing about being labeled "The Bad Boy" in your opinion?
The best thing about it is that I can get any girl I want---and I’m not even expected to treat them well. Some girls actually like not knowing whether or not I will want them at any given moment. I suppose the worst thing, if you can call it that, is the amount of unsuitable girls who follow me around like abandoned mutts. But all in all, I think that label works more for me than it does against me.
3. As a townie, what are your favorite things about Devenish Prep?
Again, it would have to be the status I hold at Devenish. If everyone already knows that you’re the best, it makes it easier to be exceptional. They’ve done half the work themselves by positioning me for greatness. In fact, when I play lacrosse, I have trouble trying to get someone to challenge me. It makes winning almost too simple.
4. If you could change one thing in your life, what would it be?
I would see to it that Persephone Archer got right back on a plane to California. She’s just some nobody, and yet she thinks she can do whatever she pleases in my town. She upsets the status quo, and she seems completely unaware of the appropriate way to behave.
5. Is there anything that you would like to add?
Only that I'd like to tell my cousin---and others---that they shouldn't count me out just yet. No doubt Zach is feeling quite the hero right now…but it's amazing how quickly things can change.

I have a signed Shadow Hills poster to one lucky winner. Just leave a comment below with your email address by December 26th.

Waiting on Wednesday (82)

Title: Lost Voices
Author: Sarah Porter
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Date: July 4th 2011
What happens to the girls nobody sees—the ones who are ignored, mistreated, hidden away? The girls nobody hears when they cry for help?
Fourteen-year-old Luce is one of those lost girls. After her father vanishes in a storm at sea, she is stuck in a grim, gray Alaskan fishing village with her alcoholic uncle. When her uncle crosses an unspeakable line, Luce reaches the depths of despair. Abandoned on the cliffs near her home, she expects to die when she tumbles to the icy, churning waves below. Instead, she undergoes an astonishing transformation and becomes a mermaid.
A tribe of mermaids finds Luce and welcomes her in—all of them, like her, lost girls who surrendered their humanity in the darkest moments of their lives. The mermaids are beautiful, free, and ageless, and Luce is thrilled with her new life until she discovers the catch: they feel an uncontrollable desire to drown seafarers, using their enchanted voices to lure ships into the rocks.
Luce’s own talent at singing captures the attention of the tribe’s queen, the fierce and elegant Catarina, and Luce soon finds herself pressured to join in committing mass murder. Luce’s struggle to retain her inner humanity puts her at odds with her friends; even worse, Catarina seems to regard Luce as a potential rival. But the appearance of a devious new mermaid brings a real threat to Catarina’s leadership and endangers the very existence of the tribe. Can Luce find the courage to challenge the newcomer, even at the risk of becoming rejected and alone once again?
Lost Voices is a captivating and wildly original tale about finding a voice, the healing power of friendship, and the strength it takes to forgive.

This book sounds lovely and I really want to read it. The cover is gorgeous too.

Trailer Tuesday (23)

I loved Fall for Anything and this trailer is haunting and gorgeous. Perfect for the book!

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story by Linda Sue Park

Rating:
Characters: 18/20
Plot: 16/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 18/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 88/100 or B
Source: Publisher
A Long Walk to Water begins as two stories, told in alternating sections, about a girl in Sudan in 2008 and a boy in Sudan in 1985. The girl, Nya, is fetching water from a pond that is two hours’ walk from her home: she makes two trips to the pond every day. The boy, Salva, becomes one of the "lost boys" of Sudan, refugees who cover the African continent on foot as they search for their families and for a safe place to stay. Enduring every hardship from loneliness to attack by armed rebels to contact with killer lions and crocodiles, Salva is a survivor, and his story goes on to intersect with Nya’s in an astonishing and moving way.
This story is based on The Lost Boys that traveled from Sudan into Ethopia, and lastly into Kenya. The story is based on Salva's life and I found it so heartbreaking. The horrors that are experinced will break your heart. I also liked that you saw Nya's battle with finding water and also the lack of resources in Africa and the efforts to help people with. The main probelm that I found with this book was the length, and I felt like more could have been elaborated. Park created a stunning protrait of what happened in Sudanese and how there is still a constant struggle there. It was an educational, but interesting read.

In My Mailbox (Week of December 12th)

For Review:
Fall For Anything by Courtney Summers
Wither by Lauren DeStefano
Bought:
Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead

Winners!

Charmed Braclet: Joli @ Actiin' Up with books
Signed Sarah Ockler Book of Choice: Debbie F.
Hope you enjoy!

Entice by Carrie Jones

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 18/20
Originality: 20/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 94/100 or B
Source: Publisher
Zara and Nick are soul mates, meant to be together forever. But that's not quite how things have worked out.
For starters, well, Nick is dead. Supposedly, he's been taken to a mythic place for warriors known as Valhalla, so Zara and her friends might be able to get him back. But it's taking time, and meanwhile a group of evil pixies is devastating Bedford, with more teens going missing every day. An all-out war seems imminent, and the good guys need all the warriors they can find. But how to get to Valhalla?
And even if Zara and her friends discover the way, there's that other small problem: Zara's been pixie kissed. When she finds Nick, will he even want to go with her? Especially since she hasn't just turned. She's Astley's queen.
This series just keeps on getting more enchanting and exciting. I love Zara, she is just as sweet as she was in the last book and I can still relate to her. Astley becomes so sweet in this book and he has to deal with so many probelms in this book, but Zara's happiness is a pirority to him. Devyn, Issie, and Cassidy are as great in the last books. Entice will capivate your attention from the first word and it is hard to not finish this book in one sitting. The obstacles in this book were thrilling and left you wanting more. This book is still extremely original and unlike anything that I have ever read. Jones is a stunning writer that knows what a book needs and writes it in an elegant and magical way that engages you the whole time. Just like the title, this book will entice you into wanting more. I recomend this series to anyone that hasn't read it yet. You won't regret it.
Here is a link to the Astley VS Nick poll. There is also a contest going on at the facebook fanpage. I also have a copy of Entice to give away. Enter in the form below.

Interview with Delaney from Tell Me A Secret

I got to interview Miranda from Tell Me a Secret a few month ago. Teen Book Scene and Holly Cupala were awesome enough to let me also interview Delaney... I hope you enjoy!

What would you have liked to see, if you ever made it to Amsterdam?
Well of course it would have been brilliant to visit the Van Gogh Museum, the windmills, the canals…but seriously, the Red Light District. Or some of the underground clubs there. Whatever happens in Amsterdam stays in Amsterdam. I would love to bring home some raging Euro music…maybe even a raging Euro boy.
Miranda and Kamran were in love, but you used his insecurities when Miranda was pregnant to make him feel otherwise. Why were you so brutal to them both?
I’m not sure I know what you mean. Miranda got into her own situation—I didn’t have anything to do with it. I felt kind of sorry for her, actually. I was trying to be a friend to her, and she flat out rejected me. What kind of friend does that? So if Kamran decided he liked me better…who am I to argue?
Do you have any regrets from your senior year?
Nope. My favorite quote is from Anaïs Nin: “Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country.” So I’m throwing my kite into a new space now. The stars, the moon, the world.
What are some of your favorite bands that play at Chop Suey?
Chop Suey has had some great lineups in the past, and more stuff happening all the time. Some of my favorites? Gravity Echo, of course. I completely love them. Freezepop has come through town a couple of times—last time I saw them they were with Ming and Ping, these two guys (twins? the same guy? nobody knows) from Hong Kong who do these crazy pop songs with live streaming video. They’re great. I’ve seen Low there, which was…low. Totally mellow. I’ve also heard this local guy, I guess his name is Creed, and he plays with bands and stuff. I’ve heard he’s a street kid, but he can sing like hell.
Speaking of Chop Suey, you might like to know that it makes another appearance in the author’s next book (which she calls DON’T BREATHE A WORD)…and I might even make an appearance myself. Oh, alright, I do! You might even discover a bit more about my secrets. Not that I would tell you.

Thank you Delaney for stopping by. I don't think that it is possible to want DON'T BREATHE A WORD anymore then I do now.

When the Stars Go Blue by Caridad Ferrer

Rating:
Characters: 18/20
Plot: 17/20
Originality: 19/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 91/100 or A
Source: Publisher
A dancer driven to succeed.
A musical prodigy attempting to escape his past. The summer they share.
And the moment it all goes wrong.
Dance is Soledad Reyes’s life. About to graduate from Miami’s Biscayne High School for the Performing Arts, she plans on spending her last summer at home teaching in a dance studio, saving money, and eventually auditioning for dance companies. That is, until fate intervenes in the form of fellow student Jonathan Crandall who has what sounds like an outrageous proposition: Forget teaching. Why not spend the summer performing in the intense environment of the competitive drum and bugle corps? The corps is going to be performing Carmen, and the opportunity to portray the character of the sultry gypsy proves too tempting for Soledad to pass up, as well as the opportunity to spend more time with Jonathan, who intrigues her in a way no boy ever has before.
But in an uncanny echo of the story they perform every evening, an unexpected competitor for Soledad's affections appears: Taz, a member of an all-star Spanish soccer team. One explosive encounter later Soledad finds not only her relationship with Jonathan threatened, but her entire future as a professional dancer.
Through out the whole book, I could clearly feel that Soledad was just telling me this story. Her passion for dancing is similar to my passion for reading and writing, which made it so that I could connect to her. I could picture the scene and her action from the rich details each dance and emotion. She was such a strong and powerful character and I really appreciated that she was thinking about her future and not just about the present. Her romance with Jonathon is very important to the plot, as is her portrayal as Carmen for the drum and bugle corps. Jonathon seemed really sweet at the beginning, but Jonathon quickly became plagued with jealously. Their love seemed like us versus the world invincibility that a lot of first romance have. I also realized how troubled Jonathon really was. His love for Soledad wasn't healthy and it seemed like he was constantly questioning her feelings. He wasn't a bad person, he was just lost, because his relationship with Soledad was the first time that he was able to make choices. I adored Taz. He was such a funny and caring character and brought a lot to this story.
I really loved the drum and bugle crops part of this book. I knew just enough about it to understand the pressure that was on all of the characters and also didn't feel an information overload. It was awesome to see the dedication that people put into this sport and also how clique arise when you put teens together. I really enjoyed how original this book was. I haven't read a book like this in forever. The romance was so intense and consuming to the story and I loved it. The future aspect of the book was also fantastic, because that is what I am dealing with at the moment and few books are older YA. Ferrer is an amazing writer and I am so excited to read her next book. I would highly recommend this book to fans of Jenniefer Echols and Sarah Dessen. If you plan to read this, I would take a moment to just read about Carmen, because it will add depth to the story.

Waiting on Wednesday (81)

Title: The Last Little Blue Envelope
Author: Maureen Johnson
Publisher: Harpercollins
Date: April 26th 2011
I can't find a summary of this book everywhere, except that it is the sequel to 13 Little Blue Envelopes, which I loved! I can't wait to read this book. It just looks fantastic.

Trailer Tuesday (22)

It sounds fairly interesting and I really liked the new Sherlock Holmes movie that had Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law, and Rachel McAdams. It was a new portrait of a classic character and hopefully this books has that.

In My Mailbox (Week of December 5th)

For Review:
Entice by Carrie Jones
Out For Blood by Alyxandra Harvey
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
Exlixer by Hilary Duff
Zombies VS Unicorn edited by Justine Larbalestier and Holly Black

Christmas Cards and Yay!

I am doing Christmas Cards again. So, if you want fill out the form below.
Also, I just reached 700 followers, which is epic and I am really excited about that.

Books read in November 2010

128. XVI by Julia Karr
129. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
130. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
131. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
132. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling
133. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J.K. Rowling
134. Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling
135. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
136. Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony
137. The Time Traveling Fashionista by Bianca Turetsky
138. Room by Emma Donoghue
139. Radiance by Alyson Noel
140 A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford

Reviews posted from these books: 1 of these books so far, a few are planned to be posted later.
Books from Library: 0
Books for Review: 6
Books borrowed: 0
My Favorite: Other then all seven Harry Potter books, I love A Touch Mortal
My Least Favorite: Radiance, it was too slow...
Debut Authors '10: 44 read 6 books left

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Rating:
Characters: 20/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 19/20
Writing: 20/20
Recommendation: 20/20
Overall: 98/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home. As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near-misses end with the French kiss Anna—and readers—have long awaited?
I have not read a book that I have enjoyed as much as Anna and the French Kiss in a while. Anna is such a fantastic character. She reminds me of so many of my friends. She is uncertain of herself, but she is still able to find friends. I loved her interest in film. St. Claire is the type of guy that every girl wants. He is sweet, friendly, loyal, and sensitive. He also has a British accent and is cute, which just adds to his awesomeness. Like a girl with a crush, I loved every moment that he was in the book and wanted to know more about him. The relationship between Anna and St. Claire was realistic. It wasn't a sudden relationship, and started as a friendship and became a romance. The other friendships in the book were also a lot like what I have with my close friendships. The personal problems that St. Claire and Anna had, were explained enough that I understood the connection between them, but not enough that it overpowered the plot. The plot was stunning and I loved every moment that I was reading this book. It was very original in contemporary fiction. I haven't seen a lot book that are this realistic. The setting was also so intense and amazing. I really want to go to Paris and find the magic that St. Claire and Anna found. Perkins has become one of my favorite authors, since reading Anna and the French Kiss. I can't wait until her next books Lola and The Boy Next Door and Ilsa and the Happily Ever, which are companion books. This book was just what I wanted and I enjoyed the characters, plot, and setting. This book is a must for fans of contemporary young adult and I highly suggest that you buy this book now!

Fragment Friday (3)

Here is the summary of A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford:
Eden didn’t expect Az.
Not his saunter down the beach toward her. Not his unbelievable pick up line. Not the instant, undeniable connection. And not his wings.
Yeah.
So long happily-ever-after.
Now trapped between life and death, cursed to spread chaos with her every touch, Eden could be the key in the eternal struggle between heaven and hell. All because she gave her heart to one of the Fallen, an angel cast out of heaven.
She may lose everything she ever had. She may be betrayed by those she loves most. But Eden will not be a pawn in anyone else’s game. Her heart is her own.
And that’s only the beginning of the end.

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ockler

Rating:
Characters: 18/20
Plot: 19/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 19/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 93/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Things in Delilah Hannaford's life have a tendency to fall apart.
She used to be a good student, but she can't seem to keep it together anymore. Her "boyfriend" isn't much of a boyfriend. And her mother refuses to discuss the fight that divided their family eight years ago. Falling apart, it seems, is a Hannaford tradition.
Over a summer of new friendships, unexpected romance, and moments that test the complex bonds between mothers and daughters, Delilah must face her family's painful past. Can even her most shattered relationships be pieced together again?
Rich with emotion, Sarah Ockler delivers a powerful story of family, love, and self-discovery.
Fixing Delilah focused on her family and their many secrets. I believe that all families have that, even if your family is close, which my extended family isn't. I could relate to Delilah's questions about her history and what that means to her, because I feel that way. This book also focused on a mother and daughter relationship, and not another romance. Delilah has such an amazing voice, and I loved the sincerity and caring that I could feel through out the book. Patrick was such a sweet character. He was so patient of Delilah and really felt for her situation. I found the romance between Delilah and Patrick to be so cute. It was just so sweet and romantic. The setting of Red Falls, Vermont was gorgeous. I love the character that small towns hold, and I was interested in what was going to happen to the town after the book. I enjoyed the plot of Fixing Delilah so much. I found it to be captivating and stunning. It was also very original for contemporary fiction and I enjoyed it. Sarah Ockler created a stunning book about families, secrets, and hope. I can't wait for her next book. I would strongly recommend this book to fans of Sarah Dessen.

Waiting on Wednesday (80)

Title: Huntress
Author: Malinda Lo
Publisher: Little Brown
Date: April 5th 2011
Nature is out of balance in the human world. The sun hasn’t shone in years, and crops are failing. Worse yet, strange and hostile creatures have begun to appear. The people’s survival hangs in the balance.
To solve the crisis, the oracle stones are cast, and Kaede and Taisin, two seventeen-year-old girls, are picked to go on a dangerous and unheard-of journey to Taninli, the city of the Fairy Queen. Taisin is a sage, thrumming with magic, and Kaede is of the earth, without a speck of the otherworldly. And yet the two girls’ destinies are drawn together during the mission. As members of their party succumb to unearthly attacks and fairy tricks, the two come to rely on each other and even begin to fall in love. But the Kingdom needs only one huntress to save it, and what it takes could tear Kaede and Taisin apart forever.
The exciting adventure prequel to Malinda Lo’s highly acclaimed novel Ash is overflowing with lush Chinese influences and details inspired by the I Ching, and is filled with action and romance.

I loved Malinda Lo's first book Ash, which was clever and really sweet. I am really excited to read Huntress. The cover is also gorgeous.

Trailer Tuesday (21)

Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg looks really cute. It seems like a really sweet plot.

Matched by Ally Condie

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 20/20
Originality: 17/20
Writing: 20/20
Recommendation: 19/20
Overall: 95/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.
The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.
I was really intrigued when I heard about Matched. The premise reminded me of one of my favorite books as a child, The Giver. While there are some similarities, between The Giver and Matched, the many difference made me love it. Imagine a society where everything from your job to your marriage are chosen for you. I found this to be extremely intriguing, because I have always really appreicated all of the choices that I have in life.

Cassia was a very sweet and niave character at the beginning, but slowly she learns about how much the Society is really taking away from her. Her grandfather helped with this discovery by giving her a poem that wasn't allowed. The discovery that she didn't have to be with Xander also helped, because it showed that the Society isn't always right. She begans to question their motives. Ky was such a mysterious and interesting character. I really enjoyed him and wish that there had been more about him. I didn't really understand the appeal of Xander. Cassia and Xander were suppose to be such great friends, but there wasn't really any chemistry between them.

Matched had such an amazing plot. I found it really exciting, because I didn't know what to expect next and the plot had so many twist and turns. I ussually don't enjoy love triangles, but this one was essential to the plot and acctually made it more intense. There was a lot of originality in Matched, like how excaltly was the society made that way or what was happening in the Outer Providences. Condie was a spetacular writer that created such an amazing world with amazing characters. I would reccomend this book to fans of Dystopian Fiction.

In My Mailbox (Week of November 28th)

Books for Review:
Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
The Anti-Prom by Abby McDonold
The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta
Sister Mischief by Laura Goode
When The Stars Go Blue by Caridad Ferrer

Guest Post with Julie Chibbaro

I have the amazing Julie Chibbaro for a guest post on her research for Deadly. First, here is the summary of Deadly:

A mysterious outbreak of typhoid fever is sweeping New York.
Could the city’s future rest with its most unlikely scientist?
If Prudence Galewski is ever going to get out of Mrs. Browning’s esteemed School for Girls, she must demonstrate her refinement and charm by securing a job appropriate for a young lady. But Prudence isn’t like the other girls. She is fascinated by how the human body works and why it fails.
With a stroke of luck, she lands a position in a laboratory, where she is swept into an investigation of the fever bound to change medical history. Prudence quickly learns that an inquiry of this proportion is not confined to the lab. From ritzy mansions to shady bars and rundown tenements, she explores every potential cause of the disease.
But there’s no answer in sight—until the volatile Mary Mallon emerges. Dubbed “Typhoid Mary” by the press, Mary is an Irish immigrant who has worked as a cook in every home the fever has ravaged. Strangely, though, she hasn’t been sick a day in her life. Is the accusation against her an act of discrimination? Or is she the first clue in a new scientific discovery?

And here is Julie on writing historical fiction:
The great part about reading historical fiction, for me, is the sense that I’m having a fabulous time while also learning something. After the last page, I feel full and solid, like I ate a good meal. I try to write my books that way – entertaining and enlightening at the same time.
So how did I find the story for Deadly? Well, I grew up in New York, a place that always struck me as rather notorious for its epidemics (all big cities have this problem). I’d always heard about Typhoid Mary – mostly from teachers and parents who admonished us not to spread our germs around – and I always thought she somehow injected epidemics into people, or worse. In doing research for another book, I came across the real story of (Typhoid) Mary Mallon. Turns out she was a cook for rich NY families working in 1906. She never got the fever, only spread it unintentionally in her cooking.
This epidemic seemed a perfect set-up for a historical novel. I started to think about a girl who might be affected by this epidemic, and how she might be involved in this story. I began to hear Prudence’s voice, a 16-year-old girl saddened by the loss of her brother and father, who wants, in her words, “to fight death.”
As the story began to take shape, my research brought me into wonderful areas of discovery about the time period – the latest technology: telephones, cars, electricity – and how Prudence used this new technology to hunt down the cause of the epidemic. The Internet was very helpful in this area – quick dips to Google to find out small things. For bigger facts, or for getting a whole sense of the time, I had to get on my feet and go to the Lower East Side of NY where the story takes place, or visit a museum to look at old paintings or photos, or to the NY Public Library to look at old newspapers.
Using history in my novels allows me to do my two favorite things, reading and writing, at the same time. I hope after reading Deadly, you come away with a full feeling, or at least a sense of wonder about the world that existed a hundred years ago.

I hope you enjoyed!

Interview with Deliliah Hannaford from Fixing Deliliah and A Contest

I have the amazing Deliliah from Fixing Deliliah. Her story was very captivating, and I hope that you enjoy this tiny glimspe into her. world.
1. There are only three Hannafords left. what legacy would you like your family to leave?
That's a loaded question for sure! ;-) When I first arrived in Vermont with Mom and Rachel this summer, I was so bent on figuring out the past. I felt like I couldn't think about where I was going until I understood where I came from. There were so many fights, so many tears, so much pain... and now I realize that thinking about a legacy is kind of like trying to predict the future. Part of my problem was that I was so tied up with the past and the future -- the "what happeneds" and the "what ifs" -- that I was totally missing the moment, the right now, the important things that make life worth living. I'm still figuring that part of it out, but I'm getting better. :-) That said, whatever happens with my family, I hope that we've all learned to appreciate one another as family, and that we all have our secrets and imperfections, but above all, we love each other. I don't know if that's a legacy, but I hope we carry it with us for a long time.
2. What are the parts of Red Falls that you think that you will never forget?
If coming back here after eight years taught me anything, it's that I'll never truly forget Red Falls. Even though a lot of it was hazy on arrival, it was all still inside me, all the memories, good and bad. It was such a part of my life for so long -- so many memories of my family are tied to this place. So much of my family's history is wrapped up in this town, in this house, on the lake. After this summer, those memories are even stronger, even more cemented. I'm not going to forget any of it.
3. Patrick and you were friends growing up and now you realize that there is something more. How hard was it to act on your feelings without the fear of losing friendship?
Everything with Patrick happened so fast! Because I hadn't seen him since we were really young, I don't think I was worried as much about our friendship as I was about falling hard for him and then having to leave at the end of the summer, losing him all over again. I was also trying to deal with some trouble I'd gotten into back home, including a bit of a scandal with my non-boyfriend Finn, and I didn't want Patrick to simply be my distraction from that. The timing for us was actually really bad, but like Aunt Rachel says, when the universe is trying to hit you over the head with something, you might want to pay attention. :-) From the first moment I saw him under the bleachers that day, I knew I was falling for him, bad timing or not, lost friendship or not. Sometimes you just have to take that risk!
4. After going back to your grandma's, you gained a new appreciation for family and your past. What do you love most about your mom and Aunt Rachel?
If you asked me this when we first arrived in Red Falls, I don't think I would've been able to answer. But now I realize that even though their relationship still needs a lot of work, they really do love each other. I'm so grateful for that, because if my mom and Rachel can find a way to reconnect -- even if things are still super rocky -- it gives me hope for me and Mom, too. I'm also grateful that even when I was at my worst, they didn't walk out on me or give up. I love them for that.
5. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
I just want to say thank you for letting me share my story, and for being patient. I know I can be... difficult... sometimes. I had a lot of stuff to sort out this summer, and it wasn't always easy, but it helps to have a few good friends. True friends, like Patrick says, the best kind.
(But you know, good friends or not, I'm not sharing him. Sorry! :-) )
I hope that you enjoyed the interview as much as I did. I also have a signed copy of Fixing Deliliah or Twenty Boy Summer for giveaway. Just fill out the form below by December 9th and US only.

So Epic...

Happy Thanksgiving!
I am thankful for...

• My Family


• My Friends


• My Health


• My Future


• My Past


• My Home


• Good Books


• All of my amazing readers


• And the simple things of life.

Hope you all have an amazing day!

Waiting on Wednesday (79)

Title: Wolfsbane
Author: Andrea Cremer
Publisher: Penguin
Date: July 12th 2011
Betrayal, loss, pain, fear. How many trials can love endure and still survive?
This book looks so amazing and I love the cover. *wants*

Woot...

I did a guest blog on Holly Cupala's blog about five things that I want to see in Young Adult Fiction. If you want to read it, you can find it here.

Trailer Tuesday (20)

I am not sure if I will like this book. It sounds like every other Paranormal Romance. If you have read this, what did you think of it?

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Rating:

Characters: 18/20

Plot: 19/20

Originality: 18/20

Writing: 19/20

Recommendation: 19/20

Overall: 93/100 or A

Source: Publisher

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything— including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

I really enjoyed Nightshade. Calla had such a strong backbone, but she also cared for others. I could also relate to her down-to-earth personality. Ren was the typical bad boy, but I could tell that he had genuine feelings for Calla. I really liked the banter that Ren and Calla had back and forth, it reminded me of the banter in Old Hollywood films, which I love. Shay was such a sweetie and had some mystique at the beginning, but secrets slowly unraveled and I found myself liking him more. The plot was really engaging. I found myself intensely drawn into Nightshade. The romances were very sweet and well developed. The action was also well written. This book isn't like most werewolf books, it had a twist which made it more intriguing. Cremer's writing was really well developed. I found myself drawn into her world and I really enjoyed it. I highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys Paranormal Romance and is looking for something new.

In My Mailbox (Week of November 21st)

This is my In My Mailbox for this this week.

Tell Us We're Home by Marina Budhos:

Jaya, Maria, and Lola are just like the other eighth-grade girls in the wealthy suburb of Meadowbrook, New Jersey. They want to go to the spring dance, they love spending time with their best friends after school, sharing frappés and complaining about the other kids. But there’s one big difference: all three are daughters of maids and nannies. And they go to school with the very same kids whose families their mothers work for.
That difference grows even bigger—and more painful—when Jaya’s mother is accused of theft and Jaya’s small, fragile world collapses. When tensions about immigrants start to erupt, fracturing this perfect, serene suburb, all three girls are tested, as outsiders—and as friends. Each of them must learn to find a place for themselves in a town that barely notices they exist. Marina Budhos gives us a heartbreaking and eye-opening story of friendship, belonging, and finding the way home.

This book looks really cute and is for a Teen Book Scene blog tour.

Gunn's Golden Rules: Life's Little Lessons for Making It Work by Tim Gunn

On the runway of life, Tim Gunn is the perfect life coach.
You've watched him mentor talented designers on the hit television show Project Runway. Now the inimitable Tim Gunn shares his personal secrets for "making it work"—in your career, relationships, and life. Filled with delightfully dishy stories of fashion's greatest divas, behind-the-scenes glimpses of Runway's biggest drama queens, and never-before-revealed insights into Tim's private life, Gunn's Golden Rules is like no other how-to book you've ever read.
In the world according to Tim, there are no shortcuts to success. Hard work, creativity, and skill are just the beginning. By following eighteen tried-and-true principles, you can apply Tim's rules to anything you set your mind to. You'll learn why Tim frowns on displays of bad behavior, like the vitriolic outburst by Martha Stewart's daughter about her mother's name-brand merchandise. You'll discover the downfalls of divadom as he describes Vogue's André Leon Talley being hand-fed grapes and Anna Wintour being carried downstairs by her bodyguards. And you'll get Tim's view on the backstabbing by one designer on Project Runway and how it brilliantly backfired.
Then there are his down-to-earth guidelines for making life better—for yourself and others—in small and large ways, especially in an age that favors comfort over politeness, ease over style. Texting at the dinner table? Wearing shorts to the theater? Not in Tim's book. Living a well-mannered life of integrity and character is hard work, he admits, but the rewards are many: being a good friend, being glamorous and attractive, and being a success— much like Tim himself!
He is never one to mince words. But Tim Gunn is always warm, witty, wise, and wonderfully supportive— just the mentor you need to design a happy, creative, and fulfilling life that will never go out of style.
Not my ussually reading, but I really enjoyed it. I love Project Runway, so I had to read this. There were several narratives that I found really funny or engaging. It just sounded a lot like Tim Gunn and has his life experience in it, so if you are a fan of his, I highly suggest buying it soon. If not, I am sure that you will still find the book to be a charming and fun read.

Contest!

I have a copy of Her and Me and You by Lauren Strasnick for giveaway.
Here is the summary:
First love, broken friendships, and heartache all play a part in this evocative, voice-driven novel about Alex, a girl whose world is ripped apart when her father’s affair splits her family in two.
Alex moves with her mess of a mother to a new town, where she is befriended by hot, enigmatic Fred—and alternately flirted with and cold-shouldered by Fred’s twin sister, Adina. Others warn Alex to steer clear of the twins, whose sibling relationship is considered abnormal at best, but there’s just something about Fred—and something about Adina—that draws Alex to them and makes her want to be part of their crazy world…no matter the consequences.

Harry Potter and other stuff.

I can't believe that the last Harry Potter is coming out in just a few hours. I am so excited and can't wait to see it at midnight. I have been rereading the books for the last week and completely loved it.

I also want to let you all know that my C-reactive protein is higher then when I had my abscess. I feel fine and have to get several test. Wish me luck!

Invisible Things by Jenny Davidson

Rating:
Characters: 19/20
Plot: 17/20
Originality: 19/20
Writing: 18/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 91/100 or A
Source: Publisher
Sixteen-year-old Sophie knows there is more to the story of her parents' death. And she's on a mission to find the truth. To aid her in solving the decades-old mystery, Sophie has enlisted her best friend, Mikael, whose friendship has turned into something more. It's soon clear that Sophie's future is very much wrapped up in the details of her family's past, and the key lies with information only one man can provide: her parents' former employer, the elusive billionaire Alfred Nobel.
As the threat of war looms in Europe, dangers to Sophie and her loved ones grow. While her determination to solve the mystery doesn't waver, forces beyond her control conspire to keep her from her purpose. Then, news of her great-aunt Tabitha's death sets off a chain of events that leaves Sophie questioning everything.
The more Sophie learns, the more she realizes that nothing—and no one—in her life is what it seems. And coming to terms with the dark secrets she uncovers means imagining a truth that she never dreamed possible. Full of gorgeous settings, thrilling adventure, and romance, invisible things is a novel that dares to ask, what if?
I really enjoyed Davidson's previous book, The Explosionist. It was full of mystery and intrigue. Invisible Things started right where the last book ended. A lot that was a mystery in the first book is revealed, along with several other secrets. Sophie was just as clever and thoughtful in the first book. I love Mikael. He was lovely and I found him really interesting. I love the alternative history that Davidson creates. It is so rich and full of people that were actually in our world. I found parts of the plot to drag on and a bit was unrealistic. Even with that I found such a unique and stunning book that catches your attention from the beginning. I highly suggest that you should read this book, it will capture your attention and bring you to a new world.

Interview with Joëlle Anthony

Joëlle Anthony has been a storyteller her whole life, which transformed into her writing career. She has had a few small roles in movie, but decided to change to writing. Restoring Harmony is her first book.
What was the hardest and easiest part of writing Restoring Harmony?
The hardest part was Chapter One. Before I ever even queried agents, I cut 60 pages from the front end. Then my agent made me cut more. Then my editor made me cut even more! I found it extremely hard to give the book a running start and create the world Molly lives in at the same time.
The easiest part was the last chapter. I wrote it in about an hour and it never even needed much editing. By the time I got to it, I knew the characters so well, and I knew exactly what I wanted to happen, so it just flowed right out and was done in no time. Now if I could just write first chapters that easily, I’d be set.
2. Restoring Harmony takes place in the future, but if given a choice of time traveling to any point in time, where and when would you choose?
I’ve been asked this a couple of times and I always answer the same, so I should probably try to come up with something different, but honestly, there is only one answer. I really would love to go back to live in the early 1900s in a small town in Minnesota (brrr!) next door to Betsy Ray from the Betsy-Tacy books. The books could be renamed Betsy-Tacy-Joëlle. They had the best times!
3. Music is very important to Molly in Restoring Harmony, what are some of your favorite songs?
As a child of the eighties, I’m not allowed to answer this because it would be so embarrassing. Just kidding. Sort of.
Actually, I married the man who wrote my favourite songs, Victor Mecyssne (he took my last name when we got married so now he’s Victor Anthony. How cool is he?). Seriously, I was a big fan of his work and through a series of lucky events and a mutual friend, we met even though we lived 2000 miles apart. You can hear his work through his site (http://www.victoranthony.ca). It’s a romance story that would be unbelievable in a book.
Some of my favourite songs he didn’t write are Whiter Shade of Pale performed by Annie Lennox, I Wish I Was in New Orleans by Tom Waits, and all the songs by our pal, Tom Mitchell.
4. What are some of your favorite young adult novels?
The Betsy-Tacy high school books by Maud Hart Lovelace
Tribes by Arthur Slade
The Year My Sister Got Lucky by Aimee Friedman
The Timekeeper’s Moon by Joni Sensel
Six Rules of Maybe by Deb Caletti
Dairy Queen by Catherine Gilbert Murdoch
Rose Sees Red by Cecil Castellucci
5. Is there anything that you would like to add?
Thanks for having me. And thanks for blogging about books. Writers are really lucky to have so many great people blogging about authors, books, and writing.

Restoring Harmony by Joëlle Anthony

Rating:
Characters: 16/20
Plot: 17/20
Originality: 17/20
Writing: 17/20
Recommendation: 17/20
Overall: 84/100 or B
Source: Publisher
The year is 2041, and sixteen-year-old Molly McClure has lived a relatively quiet life on an isolated farming island in Canada, but when her family fears the worst may have happened to her grandparents in the US, Molly must brave the dangerous, chaotic world left after global economic collapse—one of massive oil shortages, rampant crime, and abandoned cities.
Molly is relieved to find her grandparents alive in their Portland suburb, but they’re financially ruined and practically starving. What should’ve been a quick trip turns into a full-fledged rescue mission. And when Molly witnesses something the local crime bosses wishes she hadn’t, Molly’s only way home may be to beat them at their own game. Luckily, there’s a handsome stranger who’s willing to help.
Restoring Harmony is a riveting, fast-paced dystopian tale complete with adventure and romance that readers will devour.
Molly tried to please everyone and was strangely happy in a dystopian world. I found that rather annoying. I don't feel that Molly would have acted that way with her upbringing, in some of the situations. Spill was awesome, I really liked his resourcefulness and how sweet he was. Her grandparent were lovely. This plot could have been so amazing. Parts were really exciting and interesting, but much of that wasn't explored more. I found the post-collapse world to be intriguing and did like what I learned about. I also enjoy organized crime and found the way that Anthony portrayed it to be stereotypical, but with a little twist. Anthony's writing was beautiful and I really enjoyed this debut. I think that you would enjoy this book, if you can't quite handle the sadness of most dystopian books, I would suggest this book.

Interview with Emma from The Replacements and giveaway.

Today, I have an interview with Mackie's sister Emma from The Replacements. I hope you enjoy learning about her.

1. You took care of Mackie with all of your heart and such immense devotion. What inspired to you to take care of your brother? And what has helped maintain such a supportive relationship?
Maybe you'd have to meet him to really understand, but Mackie has always been so hard for me not to like. I mean, I guess there were times when I resented him—when we were younger—but he's always tried so hard not to be any trouble. He's a really good brother, and whatever he needs, whatever he is, it's not his fault.
2. You have an extreme interest in Botany. What would you like to accomplish with that in the future?
You know, I first got interested in botany because I thought there might be a way to help Mackie deal with all the iron in the human world, but the more I studied, the more I got to love it. It's really interesting, and Mackie certainly isn't the only person I could help with it. After grad school, I'd love to go into medical research.
3. What is your favorite things about college?
It's probably cliche, but I have to say, my favorite thing about college is getting to meet new people. You have no idea how hard it is to make new friends in Gentry, and being on campus, especially in the labs, means getting to know people who actually have common interests.
4. What do you like most about Gentry? And what do you hate?
Gentry is kind of hard to talk about. I don't know that I really like anything about it, but I don't hate it as much as I did when I was younger. Now, I mostly feel sorry for the people who don't see that anything's wrong. It's like they can't help it. They just go along without questioning anything because it's what's easiest, and I don't admire or respect that, but I kind of understand it.
5. Is there anything that you would like to add?
Just that these were great questions and it's really nice to meet you! Thanks for having me, Sarah!

I also have a charm bracelet for giveaway. To enter, tell me what is your lucky number(s). Canada or United States addresses only and also enter by November 24th. Enjoy!

The Replacements by Brenna Yovanoff

Rating:
Characters: 18/20
Plot: 17/20
Originality: 18/20
Writing: 18/20
Recommendation: 18/20
Overall: 89/100 or B
Source: Publisher
Mackie Doyle is not one of us. Though he lives in the small town of Gentry, he comes from a world of tunnels and black murky water, a world of living dead girls ruled by a little tattooed princess. He is a Replacement, left in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago. Now, because of fatal allergies to iron, blood, and consecrated ground, Mackie is fighting to survive in the human world.
Mackie would give anything to live among us, to practice on his bass or spend time with his crush, Tate. But when Tate's baby sister goes missing, Mackie is drawn irrevocably into the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem. He must face the dark creatures of the Slag Heaps and find his rightful place, in our world, or theirs.

What I enjoyed most about The Replacements is the fact that Gentry is sort of both a scenery and a character. It is full of mystique and creepiness. It really worked for such a sleepy and small town. Mackie started the book and he understood that he was slowly dying and that really captured my attention, because I know that hopeless feeling. He slowly learns about what he really is and what he needs to do. I loved the devotion that Emma had to Mackie and found that sibling relationship to be so sweet. The plot of The Replacements was slow in a few places and a few things were too predictable, but overall I enjoyed the twist that Yovanoff brought to the story. The Replacements was unlike any thing that I can remember. Yovanoff made an amazing debut and I can't wait to read more from her. I recommend this book to fans of Holly Black or Melissa Marr.

Do it!

Leah Clifford is having an awesome contest.

For those not vlog friendly, mention the contest and link anywhere on the Internet. Each mention allows you to leave ONE name suggestion in the comments sections of Leah's video. Go do it. Did I mention that she is giving away a signed ARC...

Notes from the Blender by Brendan Halpin and Tricia Cook

Rating:

Characters: 17/20

Plot: 18/20

Originality: 17/20

Writing: 18/20

Recommendation: 18/20

Overall: 88/100 or B

Source: Publisher

Declan loves death metal--particularly from Finland. And video games--violent ones. And internet porn--any kind, really. He goes to school with Neilly Foster and spends most of his classroom time wondering what it might be like to know her, to talk to her, maybe even to graze against her sweater in the hallway. Neilly is an accomplished gymnast, naturally beautiful, and a constant presence at all the best parties (to which Declan is never invited). She's the queen of cool, the princess of poker face, and her rule is uncontested-- or it was until today, when she's dumped by her boyfriend, betrayed by her former BFF Lulu, and then informed she's getting a new brother--of the freaky fellow classmate variety. Declan's dad is marrying Neilly's mom. Soon. Which means they'll be moving in together.

This book was about how two people that are so different can become friends. Declan was such a shy and sweet person, under his different exterior. Neilly wasn't as she seemed either. She cared about her family a lot. I was glad that a romance between Neilly and Declan didn't develop. Their friendship was so amazing. The plot was full of humor. I found myself laughing so much. It was an original book that was focused on the merging of families, which is obviously happening more and more. Halpin and Cook were amazing writers that created separate character with their own motives and actions. I highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a funny and quick read.