Source: Bought
Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect. As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.
Last year, I heard so much about Hex Hall and how amazing it was, but somehow I didn't end up reading it till a year later and I regret that. Hex Hall was a hilarious book that is full of charming characters, a remarkable plot, and a premise that leaves you wanting more. Like Sophie didn't understand all the strength and power that she possessed in the beginning of Hex Hall and that made me sad, since she was such an amazing girl. I loved that she found out who she is and what that exactly means. I loved all the sarcastic humor that she had, which made the story more enjoyable. I also loved that she was a good friend and made mistakes, but she didn't hold that against herself. Archer was a very swoon-worthy guy and I loved every moment that he was in the book. Jenna was such a great friend to Sophie and I loved see all the trust and loyalty that they had between each other. Cal was also so sweet.
The plot of Hex Hall is just as remarkable as the characters. There were so many surprises along the way that I was on my toes through out the book. The ending was remarkable and I guess waiting had it's advantages, because I read Demonglass right afterwards. I think that the premise was really original and plotted out. I seriously can't wait for more from Hawkins. This book is a one of the kind gem in the young adult paranormal section. Seriously read it as soon as possible.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday (96)
Title: Bad Taste in Boys Author: Carrie Harris Publisher: Random House Date: July 11th 2011 Someone's been a very bad zombie. Kate Grable is horrified to find out that the football coach has given the team steroids. Worse yet, the steriods are having an unexpected effect, turning hot gridiron hunks into mindless flesh-eating zombies. No one is safe--not her cute crush Aaron, not her dorky brother, Jonah . . . not even Kate! She's got to find an antidote--before her entire high school ends up eating each other. So Kate, her best girlfriend, Rocky, and Aaron stage a frantic battle to save their town . . . and stay hormonally human. This book sounds epic! Gotta love zombies.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Trailer Tuesday (32)
I completely love this book and this trailer is so awesome.
Labels:
A Touch Mortal,
Leah Clifford,
Trailer Tuesday
Monday, March 28, 2011
Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr
Source: Bought The Summer King is missing; the Dark Court is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale, his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey. Aislinn tends to the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark King and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life. Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the Faery Courts, and in the final conflict, some will win . . . and some will lose everything. The thrilling conclusion to Melissa Marr's New York Times bestselling Wicked Lovely series will leave readers completely breathless. I adored this series and I will miss every character in this book that I have grown attached too. They are complete bad asses and dangerous, but you can't help completely loving them. The plot of Darkest Mercy was full of surprises and twist. Like with the thing about Keenan, I was completely surprised with what happened to him and felt so stupid about it. The ending left me wanting more and I was sad to know that it was over. Marr weaved such a remarkable story that had a stunning ending. I absolutely love this series and can't wait to see what Melissa Marr will come up with next. If you haven't read this series, you need to read it as soon as possible. I promise that you won't regret it.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
In My Mailbox (Week of March 27th)
This Week, I just bought The Dark and Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan. Here is what it is about:
There are many things that Annah would like to forget: the look on her sister's face when she and Elias left her behind in the Forest of Hands and Teeth, her first glimpse of the horde as they found their way to the Dark City, the sear of the barbed wire that would scar her for life. But most of all, Annah would like to forget the morning Elias left her for the Recruiters.
Annah's world stopped that day and she's been waiting for him to come home ever since. Without him, her life doesn't feel much different from that of the dead that roam the wasted city around her. Then she meets Catcher and everything feels alive again.
Except, Catcher has his own secrets -- dark, terrifying truths that link him to a past Annah's longed to forget, and to a future too deadly to consider. And now it's up to Annah -- can she continue to live in a world drenched in the blood of the living? Or is death the only escape from the Return's destruction?
Annah's world stopped that day and she's been waiting for him to come home ever since. Without him, her life doesn't feel much different from that of the dead that roam the wasted city around her. Then she meets Catcher and everything feels alive again.
Except, Catcher has his own secrets -- dark, terrifying truths that link him to a past Annah's longed to forget, and to a future too deadly to consider. And now it's up to Annah -- can she continue to live in a world drenched in the blood of the living? Or is death the only escape from the Return's destruction?
I am so excited to read it!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Quote Love (2)
Quote Love is a new meme created by Midnight Twilight's Book Blog. It's kind of like Teaser Tuesday from Should Be Reading, but with this one you can choose any quote from any book, not just the one you're currently reading. The quote can be thought provoking, or funny, or just really powerful, it's all up to you which kind of quote you choose.
This quote is from If I Stay by Gayle Forman.
"Sometimes you make choices in life and sometimes choices make you."
I like this quote, because I would like to believe that I make my own destiny. I think that the people around you also help shape and mold you into the person that you are. I think that I have had several choices in my life that have utterly changed who I am and that is more then important. This quote is actually on my bathroom mirror. Along with a few others...
This quote is from If I Stay by Gayle Forman.
"Sometimes you make choices in life and sometimes choices make you."
I like this quote, because I would like to believe that I make my own destiny. I think that the people around you also help shape and mold you into the person that you are. I think that I have had several choices in my life that have utterly changed who I am and that is more then important. This quote is actually on my bathroom mirror. Along with a few others...
Friday, March 25, 2011
Friday Five
1. In two months, I will graduate high school. In three months, I will be twenty years old. Life can be completely insane.
2. I read Girl Wonder earlier this week and loved it so much. Seriously pre-order it now.
3. The end of Skins Series 5 was insane. I am so excited for Series 6. Same goes for Pretty Little Liars.
4. My sister still hasn't had her baby... she is almost a month late and not really happy...
5. There has been a lot of movie news lately. Katniss has been casted as Jennifer Lawrence, which I am 99.9% sure she will do amazingly (Seriously watch Winter's Bone ASAP) and Divergent by Veronica Roth was bought by Summit Entertainment. Lenore also announced her book and movie deal. This is the press release:
2. I read Girl Wonder earlier this week and loved it so much. Seriously pre-order it now.
3. The end of Skins Series 5 was insane. I am so excited for Series 6. Same goes for Pretty Little Liars.
4. My sister still hasn't had her baby... she is almost a month late and not really happy...
5. There has been a lot of movie news lately. Katniss has been casted as Jennifer Lawrence, which I am 99.9% sure she will do amazingly (Seriously watch Winter's Bone ASAP) and Divergent by Veronica Roth was bought by Summit Entertainment. Lenore also announced her book and movie deal. This is the press release:
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers has acquired a YA novel called Level Two by Lenore Appelhans, in a joint acquisition with CBS Films. According to S&S, this is the first time the company has coordinated a deal so that an author received a simultaneous book and film offer. In Level Two, the liminal place between our world (Level One) and heaven, Felicia spends her days reliving her memories from the security of her pod—until she gets broken out by Julian, a boy she met on Earth. Appelhans writes the popular YA blog Presenting Lenore. Level Two will be published in either fall 2012 or spring 2013, with a 200,000-copy first printing.
It sounds really epic. Congrats to Lenore!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Wither by Lauren DeStefano
Source: Publisher
What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.
When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.
But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.
What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.
When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.
But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.
Wither was such an insane story that I couldn't help loving. I couldn't imagine knowing when I would die and everyone else in the world is in pretty much the same boat. It made Rhine's story so heartbreaking, because of the fact that she was forced into a marriage. She wanted to find something different and is forced into the last place she wanted to be in. I loved how calculating she was and the fact that she was so ruthless and strong. Linden was so niave. He honestly had no clue what he was doing I hated his clueless nature at times. I adored Gabriel. He wanted so much for Rhine and I completely adored him. The plot of Wither completely engaged me every point along the way. I kept on trying to guess what would happen next and was wrong most of the time. I found myself engaged in the world and completely found it believable for our future. This was a really unique dystopian novel. DeStefano is a fantastic writer. Wither is her debut and I can't wait from more in the future. Wither is an amazing book and I highly reccomend that you check out this book, if you are a fan of Dystopian fiction. I am sure that the twist and turns will surprise you and the fantastic character will grab your heart. The amazing setting only made this story so much stronger and more daunting.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday (95)
Title: Lola and The Boy Next Door
Author: Stephanie Perkins
Publisher: Penguin
Date: September 29th 2011
For budding costume designer Lola Nolan, the more outrageous the outfit—more sparkly, more fun, more wild—the better. But even though Lola's style is outrageous, she's a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins move back into the house next door.
When the family returns and Cricket—a gifted inventor and engineer—steps out from his twin sister's shadow and back into Lola's life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.I loved Anna and The French Kiss. I am so excited for this book. It sounds so amazing. Plus who hasn't a crush on the boy next door...
Author: Stephanie Perkins
Publisher: Penguin
Date: September 29th 2011
For budding costume designer Lola Nolan, the more outrageous the outfit—more sparkly, more fun, more wild—the better. But even though Lola's style is outrageous, she's a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins move back into the house next door.
When the family returns and Cricket—a gifted inventor and engineer—steps out from his twin sister's shadow and back into Lola's life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.I loved Anna and The French Kiss. I am so excited for this book. It sounds so amazing. Plus who hasn't a crush on the boy next door...
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Interview with Ruta Sepetys and Giveaway!
Ruta Sepetys was raised in a family of artists, readers, and music lovers. She wrote creepy stories as a child and told anyone who would listen that she was going to marry Roald Dahl. In addition to music and writing, Ruta enjoys teaching at the university, collecting eccentric art, and traveling with her dreamy husband. Ruta’s work has taken her to 41 countries on six continents. Her adventures have inspired dozens of stories and since she has intimate knowledge of heartbreak and teen angst, she decided to write books for young adults. Ruta’s degrees have nothing to do with literature, but do involve failed attempts at becoming an opera singer, an investment banker, and Roald Dahl’s wife.
1.Between Shades of Gray is the only young adult novel about what happened in USSR. These people had daily struggles and had to adapt. Knowing that this happened people, did it make Between Shades of Gray harder to write? Was there ever a time that you wanted to quit?
Emotionally, it pulled me through the wringer. Every day I was left pondering questions like “What does it take to bear the unbearable? And “Who survives this kind of thing?” I was left in awe of the people who managed to use suffering as a great teacher and somehow, while everyone around them was dying, their will to live burned like fire. Once I conducted the interviews I knew that quitting was not an option.
2. As someone with Lithuanian heritage, do you feel that your culture has changed from this event?
I have so much love for Lithuania and the people of the Baltics. Growing up with a name like Ruta Sepetys certainly emphasized my heritage. But although I wrote the book, it’s not really my story. The story belongs to the people of the Baltics. Much of Stalin’s terror has been dormant and I hope that we can bring the stories out of the dark in order to celebrate the heroes who have been nameless and faceless for over fifty years.
3. Since you books is a historical novel, what other points in history interest you?
Yes, I enjoy reading about the Westward Migration and The Great Depression.
4. What are some of your favorite young adult novels?
Oh, there’s so many! Here are a few:
“How I Live Now” by Meg Rosoff
“Dead Rules” by Randy Russell
“A Northern Light” by Jennifer Donnelly
“Charles and Emma” by Deborah Heiligman
“Wintergirls” by Laurie Halse Anderson
5. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Just to say thank you for your fantastic blog and for all that you do to support writers and readers!
Thanks for having me, Sarah!
Below are my links:
www.rutasepetys.com
www.betweenshadesofgray.com
www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
1.Between Shades of Gray is the only young adult novel about what happened in USSR. These people had daily struggles and had to adapt. Knowing that this happened people, did it make Between Shades of Gray harder to write? Was there ever a time that you wanted to quit?
Emotionally, it pulled me through the wringer. Every day I was left pondering questions like “What does it take to bear the unbearable? And “Who survives this kind of thing?” I was left in awe of the people who managed to use suffering as a great teacher and somehow, while everyone around them was dying, their will to live burned like fire. Once I conducted the interviews I knew that quitting was not an option.
2. As someone with Lithuanian heritage, do you feel that your culture has changed from this event?
I have so much love for Lithuania and the people of the Baltics. Growing up with a name like Ruta Sepetys certainly emphasized my heritage. But although I wrote the book, it’s not really my story. The story belongs to the people of the Baltics. Much of Stalin’s terror has been dormant and I hope that we can bring the stories out of the dark in order to celebrate the heroes who have been nameless and faceless for over fifty years.
3. Since you books is a historical novel, what other points in history interest you?
Yes, I enjoy reading about the Westward Migration and The Great Depression.
4. What are some of your favorite young adult novels?
Oh, there’s so many! Here are a few:
“How I Live Now” by Meg Rosoff
“Dead Rules” by Randy Russell
“A Northern Light” by Jennifer Donnelly
“Charles and Emma” by Deborah Heiligman
“Wintergirls” by Laurie Halse Anderson
5. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Just to say thank you for your fantastic blog and for all that you do to support writers and readers!
Thanks for having me, Sarah!
Below are my links:
www.rutasepetys.com
www.betweenshadesofgray.com
www.facebook.com/rutasepetys
Love Ya Like a Sister by Tom Kepler
Source: Author
If you want something done right, then do it yourself. At least, that's what people say. But does that include having three girlfriends at the same time--and stealing a car?
Life is simple for Randy: 1) he loves his girlfriend and 2) he likes his motorcycle. And even if he really likes his motorcycle and only thinks he's pretty sure he loves his girlfriend, it's still the same difference. Easy to know, easy to think about.
Then Randy's life gets complicated. In one week he makes friends with a senior girl and her five-year-old sister, his girlfriend dumps him, and his ex's older sister helps him with his math--although, it turns out, she's better at biology.
While trying to uncomplicate their lives, Randy and his friends learn what to do when your parents are too busy, too divorced, too drunk, or too dead to help.
If you want something done right, then do it yourself. At least, that's what people say. But does that include having three girlfriends at the same time--and stealing a car?
Life is simple for Randy: 1) he loves his girlfriend and 2) he likes his motorcycle. And even if he really likes his motorcycle and only thinks he's pretty sure he loves his girlfriend, it's still the same difference. Easy to know, easy to think about.
Then Randy's life gets complicated. In one week he makes friends with a senior girl and her five-year-old sister, his girlfriend dumps him, and his ex's older sister helps him with his math--although, it turns out, she's better at biology.
While trying to uncomplicate their lives, Randy and his friends learn what to do when your parents are too busy, too divorced, too drunk, or too dead to help.
I really liked this book. The relationship between sisters was really sweet and I enjoyed it. Randy was a great character. The plot was really interesting and kept me entertained. The love triangle really worked in this story and ussually I hate it, but Kepler made it work.Kepler was a gifted writer and I am excited to see what he will write about next.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Guest Post with Tom Kepler
Today, I have a guest post with Tom Kepler. I hope you enjoy.
2.) "Island": a poem I wrote when I was 20 years old. Price: $12.95. This is the list price of my first book, a book of poems entitled Bare Ruined Choirs. I wrote this poem for a young woman named Cindee--one spring a long time ago. Cindee wasn't one of the "sister" neighbors I grew up with--and when the fling was flung, I went back to my sister friends for a friendly bowl of popcorn. That "sister friend" relationship is a large part of Love Ya Like a Sister.
Island
This is what I see…
a wide stretch of river,
cottonwoods
peering lazily into water
oars slip-slipping
eddies of baywood and crayfish,
rowboat sliding upstream
and one green feather of island
slurring water,
succulent seed of sun-moist loam.
3.) Bob Dylan's John Wesley Harding vinyl album: $10. For sale online for that price, but out of stock! If I dig my turntable out of the closet, I might even play it. You know what I like about Dylan? That he's prolific.
4.) A 60's-something Austin Healy, $500. E-bay has one priced for $29,995. Now why did I sell mine so many years ago for $500? Oh, yeah, because it was a worn out pile of junk and I couldn't afford to get it fixed. But it was so way cool!!!! Randy in Love Ya Like a Sister would be jealous of this sports car, just like I was jealous of his Triumph motorcycle as I wrote the novel.
5.) Royal Manual Typewriter, $46. This was my first typewriter, and $46 is its current selling price online. I wrote my first novel with my Royal--kept the typewriter and threw away the novel. I still remember the sound of the keys hitting the paper. You really had to smack the keys; typing was a muscular thing, nothing electronic or digital about it.
6.) Dixon Ticonderoga #2 pencils, about half a box, about $3.85. These pencils are my favorite writing implement. The physical sensation of the graphite marking the paper is transcendental. And the colors are so beautiful! I wrote "Island" with a #2 Ticonderoga; in fact, I write all my poetry with a "Ti."
7.) Two feet of snow, for free. It snowed two feet on my birthday this year on February 2. This photo is from that blizzard. Free badge available on my blog website.
8.) Veggies, prices vary. If I decide to do a garden yardsale this fall, stop by for some organic, home-grown vegetables. In my fantasy novel I'm working on now, The Stone Dragon, gardening and a garden gnome are important to the events of the story. Photos of the Stone Dragon here: http://www.tomkeplerswritingblog.com/2010/03/photos-of-stone-dragon.html.
9.) Lava lamp, $5 OBO. Left behind when my my son moved to Washington. Please buy this; otherwise, I might use it and come to love it.
10.) Muse, will give away to the right person. Used and slightly tarnished, but definitely fixable. One of those products that never wears out. Luckily, no matter how many I give away, I've always got two--one for personal use, and one for the world.
Ah! I feel lighter, more free. Thank you for visiting my garage sale and listening to my stories. Everything I sell is definitely "collectible." And what you don't collect, a guy comes around once a week who will take it if I leave it by the curbside. Now, to arrange all those "garage sale" memories in my brain in a usable order--then I can start writing.
This is my chance to unload all those items that I have dragged around for years, chained to me karmically--like Marley's ghost in Dickens' A Christmas Carol. One person's junk is another's treasure. Prepare to look for unexpected treasures! Got your pickup or station wagon parked nearby?
1.) My First Novel: I'll pay you to never read it. At a little over 200 pages, I don't even remember the name of this one (if it was ever titled). I knew I'd have to revise, but then I realized the premise was embarrassing--something about an apocalyptic disaster and a guy and his horse. I have to pull out one character, though--Maggie. She is much like Gwen in Love Ya Like a Sister, only older.2.) "Island": a poem I wrote when I was 20 years old. Price: $12.95. This is the list price of my first book, a book of poems entitled Bare Ruined Choirs. I wrote this poem for a young woman named Cindee--one spring a long time ago. Cindee wasn't one of the "sister" neighbors I grew up with--and when the fling was flung, I went back to my sister friends for a friendly bowl of popcorn. That "sister friend" relationship is a large part of Love Ya Like a Sister.
Island
This is what I see…
a wide stretch of river,
cottonwoods
peering lazily into water
oars slip-slipping
eddies of baywood and crayfish,
rowboat sliding upstream
and one green feather of island
slurring water,
succulent seed of sun-moist loam.
3.) Bob Dylan's John Wesley Harding vinyl album: $10. For sale online for that price, but out of stock! If I dig my turntable out of the closet, I might even play it. You know what I like about Dylan? That he's prolific.
4.) A 60's-something Austin Healy, $500. E-bay has one priced for $29,995. Now why did I sell mine so many years ago for $500? Oh, yeah, because it was a worn out pile of junk and I couldn't afford to get it fixed. But it was so way cool!!!! Randy in Love Ya Like a Sister would be jealous of this sports car, just like I was jealous of his Triumph motorcycle as I wrote the novel.
5.) Royal Manual Typewriter, $46. This was my first typewriter, and $46 is its current selling price online. I wrote my first novel with my Royal--kept the typewriter and threw away the novel. I still remember the sound of the keys hitting the paper. You really had to smack the keys; typing was a muscular thing, nothing electronic or digital about it.
6.) Dixon Ticonderoga #2 pencils, about half a box, about $3.85. These pencils are my favorite writing implement. The physical sensation of the graphite marking the paper is transcendental. And the colors are so beautiful! I wrote "Island" with a #2 Ticonderoga; in fact, I write all my poetry with a "Ti."
7.) Two feet of snow, for free. It snowed two feet on my birthday this year on February 2. This photo is from that blizzard. Free badge available on my blog website.
8.) Veggies, prices vary. If I decide to do a garden yardsale this fall, stop by for some organic, home-grown vegetables. In my fantasy novel I'm working on now, The Stone Dragon, gardening and a garden gnome are important to the events of the story. Photos of the Stone Dragon here: http://www.tomkeplerswritingblog.com/2010/03/photos-of-stone-dragon.html.
9.) Lava lamp, $5 OBO. Left behind when my my son moved to Washington. Please buy this; otherwise, I might use it and come to love it.
10.) Muse, will give away to the right person. Used and slightly tarnished, but definitely fixable. One of those products that never wears out. Luckily, no matter how many I give away, I've always got two--one for personal use, and one for the world.
Ah! I feel lighter, more free. Thank you for visiting my garage sale and listening to my stories. Everything I sell is definitely "collectible." And what you don't collect, a guy comes around once a week who will take it if I leave it by the curbside. Now, to arrange all those "garage sale" memories in my brain in a usable order--then I can start writing.
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
Source: Publisher
Lina is just like any other fifteen-year-old Lithuanian girl in 1941. She paints, she draws, she gets crushes on boys. Until one night when Soviet officers barge into her home, tearing her family from the comfortable life they've known. Separated from her father, forced onto a crowded and dirty train car, Lina, her mother, and her young brother slowly make their way north, crossing the Arctic Circle, to a work camp in the coldest reaches of Siberia. Here they are forced, under Stalin's orders, to dig for beets and fight for their lives under the cruelest of conditions.
Lina finds solace in her art, meticulously—and at great risk—documenting events by drawing, hoping these messages will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive. It is a long and harrowing journey, spanning years and covering 6,500 miles, but it is through incredible strength, love, and hope that Lina ultimately survives. Between Shades of Gray is a novel that will steal your breath and capture your heart.
Lina is just like any other fifteen-year-old Lithuanian girl in 1941. She paints, she draws, she gets crushes on boys. Until one night when Soviet officers barge into her home, tearing her family from the comfortable life they've known. Separated from her father, forced onto a crowded and dirty train car, Lina, her mother, and her young brother slowly make their way north, crossing the Arctic Circle, to a work camp in the coldest reaches of Siberia. Here they are forced, under Stalin's orders, to dig for beets and fight for their lives under the cruelest of conditions.
Lina finds solace in her art, meticulously—and at great risk—documenting events by drawing, hoping these messages will make their way to her father's prison camp to let him know they are still alive. It is a long and harrowing journey, spanning years and covering 6,500 miles, but it is through incredible strength, love, and hope that Lina ultimately survives. Between Shades of Gray is a novel that will steal your breath and capture your heart.
Lina was such an amazing character. She had remarkable heart and even more hope about the future in such a dark and depressing part of human history. I couldn't help caring about her. Jonas was such a sweet brother to Lina. I loved how their mother protected them as much as possible and you could feel the love that she had for her children. Andrius was such an amazing boy and I adored him. This book was really hard to read. Every single moment counted for these people and it showed in Sepetys' masterful writing that made me feel every emotion possible. The plot of Between Shades of Gray was remarkable and I absolutely loved it. I read this book so quickly, because I was invested in all of the characters and I had to know that they were okay. This books is really unique and kept on surprising me along the way. Sepetys is a fantastic writer. She crafted an amazing story about human compassion and hope that I couldn't help loving every moment of. This story is impossible to hate and is a must read for everyone. Seriously, go buy Between Shades of Gray now. I promise that you will not regret this book.
Labels:
Between Shades of Grey,
Review,
Ruta Sepetys
Sunday, March 20, 2011
In My Mailbox (Week of March 20th)
For Review:
White Cat by Holly Black
Red Glove by Holly Black
My Life, The Theater, and Other Tragedies by Allen Zandoff
Family by Micol Ostow
A & L Do Summer by Jan Blazanin
Hourglass by Myra McEntire
Carmen by Walter Dean Myers
Trial by Fire by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things that I Learned in Southern Belle Hell by Crickett Rumley
Stay by Deb Caletti
Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott
Sometimes It Happens by Lauren Barnholdt
Given by Peace, Love, and Teen Fiction:
Through The Night by Lynette E. Theisen
Bought:
Falling Under by Gwen Hayes
Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins
The Devil's Kiss by Sarwat Chadda
Dark Goddess by Sarwat Chadda
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Quote Love (1)
Quote Love is a new meme created by Midnight Twilight's Book Blog. It's kind of like Teaser Tuesday from Should Be Reading, but with this one you can choose any quote from any book, not just the one you're currently reading. The quote can be thought provoking, or funny, or just really powerful, it's all up to you which kind of quote you choose. This Quote is from The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen:
"That was the thing. You never got used to it, the idea of someone being gone. Just when you think it's reconciled, accepted, someone points it out to you, and it just hits you all over again, that shocking."
This is my favorite Sarah Dessen Quote. This makes me think of when I lost my sister and how dark my live felt and even though it has been seventeen years, I miss her everyday. I think that this quote captures grief and lost so well, which is why Sarah Dessen is such a stunning writer.
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Locket by Stacey Jay
Source: Publisher
On her seventeenth birthday, Katie discovers a locket and decides to wear it for good luck. But when her boyfriend Isaac finds out she cheated on him— with their mutual best friend Mitch, no less—he dumps her, leaving her devastated.
And then a miracle happens. The locket burns on Katie's chest and she feels herself going back two weeks in time, to the night she cheated with Mitch. At first, Kate is delighted to be a better girlfriend to Isaac this time around. But as other aspects of her life become inexplicably altered, she realizes that changing the past may have had a dangerous effect on her present.
Can she make things right before the locket destroys everything—and everyone that she loves?
Katie is such an awesome character. She is very quick witted and caring. Isaac was selfish at times and didn't seem to care for Katie like he should. A lot of the comments that he made, were so mean and I wanted to punch him in the face. Mitch was such a sweet guy and I couldn't help loving him. Sarah was a great friend and wanted to keep close with Katie. As a fan of Doctor Who, I love anything to do with Time Travel in Young Adult novels. The Locket was amazing, because who hasn't made a mistake that they wanted to change. That is what made the premise of The Locket so amazing. I also liked that there were changes in what Katie knew, because of the time travel and that made it more intense. I was engrossed in this book from the very beginning. The ending of the story was so intense and amazing. I can't wait for more from Stacey Jay. I always end up loving her books so much. I recommend this to someone looking for an intense and amazing book that is full of magic.
On her seventeenth birthday, Katie discovers a locket and decides to wear it for good luck. But when her boyfriend Isaac finds out she cheated on him— with their mutual best friend Mitch, no less—he dumps her, leaving her devastated.
And then a miracle happens. The locket burns on Katie's chest and she feels herself going back two weeks in time, to the night she cheated with Mitch. At first, Kate is delighted to be a better girlfriend to Isaac this time around. But as other aspects of her life become inexplicably altered, she realizes that changing the past may have had a dangerous effect on her present.
Can she make things right before the locket destroys everything—and everyone that she loves?
Katie is such an awesome character. She is very quick witted and caring. Isaac was selfish at times and didn't seem to care for Katie like he should. A lot of the comments that he made, were so mean and I wanted to punch him in the face. Mitch was such a sweet guy and I couldn't help loving him. Sarah was a great friend and wanted to keep close with Katie. As a fan of Doctor Who, I love anything to do with Time Travel in Young Adult novels. The Locket was amazing, because who hasn't made a mistake that they wanted to change. That is what made the premise of The Locket so amazing. I also liked that there were changes in what Katie knew, because of the time travel and that made it more intense. I was engrossed in this book from the very beginning. The ending of the story was so intense and amazing. I can't wait for more from Stacey Jay. I always end up loving her books so much. I recommend this to someone looking for an intense and amazing book that is full of magic.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
The Candidates by Inara Scott
Source: Bought
Dancia Lewis is far from popular. And that's not just because of her average grades or her less-than-glamorous wardrobe. In fact, Dancia's mediocrity is a welcome cover for her secret: whenever she sees a person threatening someone she cares about, things just...happen. Cars skid. Structures collapse. Usually someone gets hurt. So Dancia does everything possible to avoid getting close to anyone, believing this way she can suppress her powers and keep them hidden.
But when recruiters from the prestigious Delcroix Academy show up in her living room to offer her a full scholarship, Dancia's days of living under the radar may be over. Only, Delcroix is a school for diplomats' kids and child geniuses--not B students with uncontrollable telekinetic tendencies. So why are they treating Dancia like she's special? Even the hottest guy on campus seems to be going out of his way to make Dancia feel welcome.
And then there's her mysterious new friend Jack, who can't stay out of trouble. He suspects something dangerous is going on at the Academy and wants Dancia to help him figure out what. But Dancia isn't convinced. She hopes that maybe the recruiters know more about her "gift" than they're letting on. Maybe they can help her understand how to use it...But not even Dancia could have imagined what awaits her behind the gates of Delcroix Academy.
The premise of The Candidates was really exciting. I liked the idea of everyone having the ability to have gifts, it was properly developed, which is where Delcroix comes in. Danica was easy to relate to and very sweet. I really liked Jack. He was a very funny and awesome character. He was also a bad boy, which is hot. Cam was very clean cut and his support of Delcroix, got annoying at times. Danica's grandmother was such an awesome lady. She was so funny and supportive of Danica, which was amazing. The plot of The Candidates was slow at times, but it definitely picked up and became addictive. There was a lot of background information that I am sure that book 2 will be twice as entertaining. This book was really original. Scott made unique characters and plot lines. I also loved that it was set in the Pacific Northwest. I would recommend this to fans of paranormal romance.
Dancia Lewis is far from popular. And that's not just because of her average grades or her less-than-glamorous wardrobe. In fact, Dancia's mediocrity is a welcome cover for her secret: whenever she sees a person threatening someone she cares about, things just...happen. Cars skid. Structures collapse. Usually someone gets hurt. So Dancia does everything possible to avoid getting close to anyone, believing this way she can suppress her powers and keep them hidden.
But when recruiters from the prestigious Delcroix Academy show up in her living room to offer her a full scholarship, Dancia's days of living under the radar may be over. Only, Delcroix is a school for diplomats' kids and child geniuses--not B students with uncontrollable telekinetic tendencies. So why are they treating Dancia like she's special? Even the hottest guy on campus seems to be going out of his way to make Dancia feel welcome.
And then there's her mysterious new friend Jack, who can't stay out of trouble. He suspects something dangerous is going on at the Academy and wants Dancia to help him figure out what. But Dancia isn't convinced. She hopes that maybe the recruiters know more about her "gift" than they're letting on. Maybe they can help her understand how to use it...But not even Dancia could have imagined what awaits her behind the gates of Delcroix Academy.
The premise of The Candidates was really exciting. I liked the idea of everyone having the ability to have gifts, it was properly developed, which is where Delcroix comes in. Danica was easy to relate to and very sweet. I really liked Jack. He was a very funny and awesome character. He was also a bad boy, which is hot. Cam was very clean cut and his support of Delcroix, got annoying at times. Danica's grandmother was such an awesome lady. She was so funny and supportive of Danica, which was amazing. The plot of The Candidates was slow at times, but it definitely picked up and became addictive. There was a lot of background information that I am sure that book 2 will be twice as entertaining. This book was really original. Scott made unique characters and plot lines. I also loved that it was set in the Pacific Northwest. I would recommend this to fans of paranormal romance.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday (94)
Title: But I Love Him
Author: Amanda Grace
Publisher: Flux
Date: May 8th 2011
Tonight was so much worse than anything before it.
Tonight he didn't stop after the first slap.
At the beginning of senior year, Ann was a smiling, straight-A student and track star with friends and a future. Then she met a haunted young man named Connor. Only she can heal his emotional scars; only he could make her feel so loved-and needed. Ann can't recall the pivotal moment it all changed, when she surrendered everything to be with him, but by graduation, her life has become a dangerous high wire act. Just one mistake could trigger Connor's rage, a senseless storm of cruel words and violence damaging everything-and everyone-in its path.
This evocative slideshow of flashbacks reveals a heartbreaking story of love gone terribly wrong
This book sound amazing and I want to read it so much. Amanda Grace is also a pen name for Mandy Hubbard.
Author: Amanda Grace
Publisher: Flux
Date: May 8th 2011
Tonight was so much worse than anything before it.
Tonight he didn't stop after the first slap.
At the beginning of senior year, Ann was a smiling, straight-A student and track star with friends and a future. Then she met a haunted young man named Connor. Only she can heal his emotional scars; only he could make her feel so loved-and needed. Ann can't recall the pivotal moment it all changed, when she surrendered everything to be with him, but by graduation, her life has become a dangerous high wire act. Just one mistake could trigger Connor's rage, a senseless storm of cruel words and violence damaging everything-and everyone-in its path.
This evocative slideshow of flashbacks reveals a heartbreaking story of love gone terribly wrong
This book sound amazing and I want to read it so much. Amanda Grace is also a pen name for Mandy Hubbard.
Labels:
Amanda Grace,
Mandy Hubbard,
Waiting on Wednesday
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Trailer Tuesday (31)
I read this book a week ago. I liked it a lot. This trailer is definitely different and awesome.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Keys to the Repository by Melissa De La Cruz
Source: Bought
Lavish parties. Passionate meetings in the night. Bone-chilling murders. Midterms. The day-to-day life of Schuyler Van Alen and her Blue Bloods friends (and enemies) is never boring. But there's oh-so-much more to know about these beautiful and powerful teens. Below the streets of Manhattan, within the walls of the Repository, exists a wealth of revealing information about the vampire elite that dates back before the Mayflower. In a series of short stories, journal entries, and never-before-seen letters, New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz gives her hungry fans the keys to the Repository and an even more in-depth look into the secret world of the Blue Bloods. Won't you come inside?
Lavish parties. Passionate meetings in the night. Bone-chilling murders. Midterms. The day-to-day life of Schuyler Van Alen and her Blue Bloods friends (and enemies) is never boring. But there's oh-so-much more to know about these beautiful and powerful teens. Below the streets of Manhattan, within the walls of the Repository, exists a wealth of revealing information about the vampire elite that dates back before the Mayflower. In a series of short stories, journal entries, and never-before-seen letters, New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz gives her hungry fans the keys to the Repository and an even more in-depth look into the secret world of the Blue Bloods. Won't you come inside?
I found this to be a cute little guide into the Blue Blood Series. I enjoyed all of the short stories inside of the book and the profiles of the characters. I recommend this to fans of the previous books.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
In My Mailbox (Week of March 13th)
For Review:
Bitter End by Jennifer Brown
The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong
Divergent by Veronica Roth
A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young
So Much Closer by Suzanne Colasanti
Dreamland Social Club by Tara Altebrando
Brother/Sister by Sean Olin
Saturday, March 12, 2011
My Most Read Author
Several bloggers have done this, so I decided to join in with my five most read author.
1. Meg Cabot
There is a reason that Meg Cabot is well know. She writes a lot of book and fairly quick. They are really cute and fun read. I have somehow read 26 of her books and that is not near the amount she has written. My favorite of her books it the Mediator Series. Ghost are pretty epic.
2. Roald Dahl
I loved Dahl growing up. I devoured his books like crazy. I have read 16 of his books. My favorite it The Witches. I have no clue how many times I have read it. Such an amazing book.
3. Scott Westerfeld, Cate Tiernan, and Lemony Snicket
I have read 15 books of each author.
Scott Westerfeld is epic. I haven't hated any of his books. Though Peeps has made me never want a cat ever. My favorite series is the Midnighter series. It is so epic.
Cate Tiernan wrote the Sweep series, which I love. I gobbled up that whole series in a week. I am so glad that my library had them all.
I love Lemony Snicket. His books make me laugh, cry, and totally get invested in the story. A Series of Unfortunate Events are my favorite books by him.
4. Kate Brian, Holly Black, and Melody Carlson
I have read 13 books of each.
Kate Brian's books are so engaging and suck me into the story. So addicting and I love the Private Series.
Holly Black is epic. So, of course I love her. Ironside is my favorite of her books.
My brother is a future pastor and he buys me Melody Carlson books, because I find them interesting. They are also quick reads. My favorite is Who I Am...
5. Sarah Dessen and Elizabeth Scott
I have read 10 of their books.
I adore Sarah's style, which makes it a perfect read. Plus the characters are so easy to relate to and I adore the boys. The Truth about Forever is my favorite, closely followed by What Happened to Goodbye and Just Listen.
I swear Elizabeth Scott is the future Meg Cabot. She writes such amazing books, so quickly. I have loved all of books, even the one by her paranormal pseudonym. My favorite book by her is Between Here and Forever.
1. Meg Cabot
There is a reason that Meg Cabot is well know. She writes a lot of book and fairly quick. They are really cute and fun read. I have somehow read 26 of her books and that is not near the amount she has written. My favorite of her books it the Mediator Series. Ghost are pretty epic.
2. Roald Dahl
I loved Dahl growing up. I devoured his books like crazy. I have read 16 of his books. My favorite it The Witches. I have no clue how many times I have read it. Such an amazing book.
3. Scott Westerfeld, Cate Tiernan, and Lemony Snicket
I have read 15 books of each author.
Scott Westerfeld is epic. I haven't hated any of his books. Though Peeps has made me never want a cat ever. My favorite series is the Midnighter series. It is so epic.
Cate Tiernan wrote the Sweep series, which I love. I gobbled up that whole series in a week. I am so glad that my library had them all.
I love Lemony Snicket. His books make me laugh, cry, and totally get invested in the story. A Series of Unfortunate Events are my favorite books by him.
4. Kate Brian, Holly Black, and Melody Carlson
I have read 13 books of each.
Kate Brian's books are so engaging and suck me into the story. So addicting and I love the Private Series.
Holly Black is epic. So, of course I love her. Ironside is my favorite of her books.
My brother is a future pastor and he buys me Melody Carlson books, because I find them interesting. They are also quick reads. My favorite is Who I Am...
5. Sarah Dessen and Elizabeth Scott
I have read 10 of their books.
I adore Sarah's style, which makes it a perfect read. Plus the characters are so easy to relate to and I adore the boys. The Truth about Forever is my favorite, closely followed by What Happened to Goodbye and Just Listen.
I swear Elizabeth Scott is the future Meg Cabot. She writes such amazing books, so quickly. I have loved all of books, even the one by her paranormal pseudonym. My favorite book by her is Between Here and Forever.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Friday Five
Here is a little update of what is going on in my life:
1. I got into Seattle University and Western Washington University. I am having a hard time choosing, because they are amazing schools. I hate deciding!
2. Two classes left till end of high school and my senior project.
3. I suggest watching Never Let Me Go. It is amazing... Andrew Garfield is pretty.
4. I am past my reading slump. What are some books that you would recommend?5. I am still on my diet. 3 dress sizes down in a month and a half.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Bloody Valentine by Melissa De La Cruz
Source: Bought
Vampires have powers beyond human comprehension: strength that defies logic, speed that cannot be captured on film, the ability to shapeshift and more. But in matters of the heart, no one, not even the strikingly beautiful and outrageously wealthy Blue Bloods, has total control. In Bloody Valentine, bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz offers readers a new story about the love lives of their favorite vamps - the passion and heartache, the hope and devastation, the lust and longing. Combined with all the glitz, glamour, and mystery fans have come to expect, this is sure to be another huge hit in the Blue Bloods series.
Also, witness the bonding of Jack and Schuyler.
Bloody Valentine start right after Miguided Angel ended and is jampacked with details about the chacters. I loved seeing Oliver and meeting Freya. The best story is seeing how Allegra met Schulyer's dad. I am also a Jack and Schuyler shipper, so seeing them get Bond was so sweet. It also had a few surprise characters that added to the story that I have missed. I definitely can't wait for Lost in Time. I definitely recommend this book to fans on Melissa De La Cruz.
Vampires have powers beyond human comprehension: strength that defies logic, speed that cannot be captured on film, the ability to shapeshift and more. But in matters of the heart, no one, not even the strikingly beautiful and outrageously wealthy Blue Bloods, has total control. In Bloody Valentine, bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz offers readers a new story about the love lives of their favorite vamps - the passion and heartache, the hope and devastation, the lust and longing. Combined with all the glitz, glamour, and mystery fans have come to expect, this is sure to be another huge hit in the Blue Bloods series.
Also, witness the bonding of Jack and Schuyler.
Bloody Valentine start right after Miguided Angel ended and is jampacked with details about the chacters. I loved seeing Oliver and meeting Freya. The best story is seeing how Allegra met Schulyer's dad. I am also a Jack and Schuyler shipper, so seeing them get Bond was so sweet. It also had a few surprise characters that added to the story that I have missed. I definitely can't wait for Lost in Time. I definitely recommend this book to fans on Melissa De La Cruz.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Waiting on Wednesday (93)
Title: Clean
Author: Amy Reed
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Date: August 9th 2011
You’re probably wondering how I ended up here. I’m still wondering the same thing.
Olivia, Kelly, Christopher, Jason, and Eva have one thing in common: They’re addicts. Addicts who have hit rock bottom and been stuck together in rehab to face their problems, face sobriety, and face themselves. None of them wants to be there. None of them wants to confront the truths about their pasts. And they certainly don’t want to share their darkest secrets and most desperate fears with a room of strangers. But they’ll all have to deal with themselves and one another if they want to learn how to live. Because when you get that high, there’s nowhere to go but down, down, down.
I love Amy Reed's Beautiful. This book sound just as amazing. I can't wait to read it.
Author: Amy Reed
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Date: August 9th 2011
You’re probably wondering how I ended up here. I’m still wondering the same thing.
Olivia, Kelly, Christopher, Jason, and Eva have one thing in common: They’re addicts. Addicts who have hit rock bottom and been stuck together in rehab to face their problems, face sobriety, and face themselves. None of them wants to be there. None of them wants to confront the truths about their pasts. And they certainly don’t want to share their darkest secrets and most desperate fears with a room of strangers. But they’ll all have to deal with themselves and one another if they want to learn how to live. Because when you get that high, there’s nowhere to go but down, down, down.
I love Amy Reed's Beautiful. This book sound just as amazing. I can't wait to read it.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Trailer Tuesday (30)
I got this book last week. It is already a international bestseller. So, I am very excited about it. I also love anything to do with time travel, so I am sure that it will be spectacular. Plus it is British!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Source: Publisher
With a wink and a nod to Bram Stoker, New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith unites the casts of Tantalize and Eternal in a delicious dark fantasy her fans will devour.
Quincie P. Morris, teen restaurateuse and neophyte vampire, is in the fight of her life -- or undeath. Even as she adjusts to her new appetites, she must clear her best friend and true love, the hybrid werewolf Kieren, of murder charges; thwart the apocalyptic ambitions of Bradley Sanguini, the seductive vampire-chef who "blessed" her; and keep her dead parents’ restaurant up and running. She hires a more homespun chef and adds the preternaturally beautiful Zachary to her wait staff. But with hundreds of new vampires on the rise and Bradley off assuming the powers of Dracula Prime, Zachary soon reveals his true nature -- and a flaming sword -- and they hit the road to staunch the bloodshed before it’s too late. Even if they save the world, will there be time left to salvage Quincie’s soul?
With a wink and a nod to Bram Stoker, New York Times best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith unites the casts of Tantalize and Eternal in a delicious dark fantasy her fans will devour.
Quincie P. Morris, teen restaurateuse and neophyte vampire, is in the fight of her life -- or undeath. Even as she adjusts to her new appetites, she must clear her best friend and true love, the hybrid werewolf Kieren, of murder charges; thwart the apocalyptic ambitions of Bradley Sanguini, the seductive vampire-chef who "blessed" her; and keep her dead parents’ restaurant up and running. She hires a more homespun chef and adds the preternaturally beautiful Zachary to her wait staff. But with hundreds of new vampires on the rise and Bradley off assuming the powers of Dracula Prime, Zachary soon reveals his true nature -- and a flaming sword -- and they hit the road to staunch the bloodshed before it’s too late. Even if they save the world, will there be time left to salvage Quincie’s soul?
I loved Quincie in Tantalize. In Blessed, I saw Quincie struggle with being a vampire, while still running Sanguini's: A Very Rare Restaurant. I also liked that she finally realized how strong her feeling were for Kieren finally at the surface. I loved Zachary. You could definitely feel the regret that he had from what happened in Eternal. I loved the plot. It was really intense. I also loved that the plot referenced Dracula a lot. I also liked that the story blended all of the previous books characters together. Several parts of this book were really original and had me surprised about what would come up next. Smith was an exordinary writer and I enjoyed the plot that she twisted. The cast of characters were all very unique and made this series amazing. I can't wait to see what she write next. I recommend this book to fans of the previous books and paranormal readers.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
In My Mailbox (Week of March 6th)
Bought:
The Iron Thorn by Catlin Kittredge
Bloody Valentine by Melissa De La Cruz
Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
The Lying Game by Sara Shepard
Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr
Angelfire by Courtney Allison Molton
The Keys to the Repository by Melissa De La Cruz
For Review:
Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
Unnatural by Michael Griffo
Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton
Shadow Walker by Brent Hartinger
Dreadfully Ever After by Steve Hockensmith
Love Ya Like a Sister by Tom Kelper
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia Galante
Source: Publisher
Julia just graduated as her high school valedictorian, has a full ride to college in the fall and a coveted summer internship clerking for a federal judge. But when her older sister, Sophie, shows up at the graduation determined to reveal some long buried secrets, Julia's carefully constructed plans come to a halt. Instead of the summer she had painstakingly laid out, Julia follows Sophie back to Vermont, where Sophie is opening a bakery—and struggling with some secrets of her own. What follows is a summer of revelations—some heartwarming, some heartbreaking, and all slowly pointing Julia toward a new understanding of both herself and of the sister she never really knew.
I could relate to Julia really well. I have always been the overachieving sister that tends to be less dramatic and always wondered about who exactly my sisters are. Also, if what she was doing was right. Sophie was also amazing and I loved her story and the strength that she had. I could feel their emotions and fears about what was happening. The plot of this book was really entertaining and exciting. I liked that their were a ton of secret within the book that kept me engrossed in the book. I found this contemporary book to be very enjoyable. I also liked the redoing of the house and how much Sophie loved it. Galante's writing was spectacular and I can't wait to read more from her. I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a book that is focused on sisters and their secrets.
Julia just graduated as her high school valedictorian, has a full ride to college in the fall and a coveted summer internship clerking for a federal judge. But when her older sister, Sophie, shows up at the graduation determined to reveal some long buried secrets, Julia's carefully constructed plans come to a halt. Instead of the summer she had painstakingly laid out, Julia follows Sophie back to Vermont, where Sophie is opening a bakery—and struggling with some secrets of her own. What follows is a summer of revelations—some heartwarming, some heartbreaking, and all slowly pointing Julia toward a new understanding of both herself and of the sister she never really knew.
I could relate to Julia really well. I have always been the overachieving sister that tends to be less dramatic and always wondered about who exactly my sisters are. Also, if what she was doing was right. Sophie was also amazing and I loved her story and the strength that she had. I could feel their emotions and fears about what was happening. The plot of this book was really entertaining and exciting. I liked that their were a ton of secret within the book that kept me engrossed in the book. I found this contemporary book to be very enjoyable. I also liked the redoing of the house and how much Sophie loved it. Galante's writing was spectacular and I can't wait to read more from her. I would recommend this book to anyone that wants a book that is focused on sisters and their secrets.
Labels:
Cecilia Galante,
Review,
The Sweetness of Salt
Friday, March 4, 2011
I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore
Source: Publisher
In the beginning they were a group of nine. Nine aliens who left their home planet of Lorien when it fell under attack by the evil Mogadorian. Nine aliens who scattered on Earth. Nine aliens who look like ordinary teenagers living ordinary lives, but who have extraordinary, paranormal skills. Nine aliens who might be sitting next to you now.
The Nine had to separate and go into hiding. The Mogadorian caught Number One in Malaysia, Number Two in England, and Number Three in Kenya. All of them were killed. John Smith, of Paradise, Ohio, is Number Four. He knows that he is next.
I AM NUMBER FOUR is the thrilling launch of a series about an exceptional group of teens as they struggle to outrun their past, discover their future—and live a normal life on Earth.
I AM NUMBER FOUR.
I AM NEXT.
In the beginning they were a group of nine. Nine aliens who left their home planet of Lorien when it fell under attack by the evil Mogadorian. Nine aliens who scattered on Earth. Nine aliens who look like ordinary teenagers living ordinary lives, but who have extraordinary, paranormal skills. Nine aliens who might be sitting next to you now.
The Nine had to separate and go into hiding. The Mogadorian caught Number One in Malaysia, Number Two in England, and Number Three in Kenya. All of them were killed. John Smith, of Paradise, Ohio, is Number Four. He knows that he is next.
I AM NUMBER FOUR is the thrilling launch of a series about an exceptional group of teens as they struggle to outrun their past, discover their future—and live a normal life on Earth.
I AM NUMBER FOUR.
I AM NEXT.
I didn't hate or love these main character. John was a likable character, but I never connected to him. Sarah was a sweet character, but I didn't feel that I really know her at all, other then the fact that she loved him. Their romance was cute, but I didn't really see anything between them. Sam was a great sidekick and I loved how nerdy he was. I wish that there had been my character development. The plot was very slow to begin with, but the climax was rather awesome. I think that the pacing could have been more smooth. I am not a huge fan of Sci-fi, but I am Number Four was rather original. Lore's writing could have been more detailed and several of the scenes could be cut out, since they didn't have much importance. I think that this book was okay, but I would only recommend it, if you love Sci-fi.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Delirium by Lauren Oliver
Source: Publisher
Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.
But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love
Delirium reminded me of several dystopian books that I loved, such as The Hunger Games, Uglies, and Matched. The fact that love is looked as a disease makes it seem even more daunting and important, because people hate it and it is forbidden. I can't imagine not being able to show that I care for my family, friends, and many other people in my life. I can't imagine someone wanting to get rid of the most amazing emotion possible. This premise of this story
was just so amazing.
Lena was a pretty sweet character that was trying to follow society, that is until she meets Alex. I really liked Alex, he was sweet, strong, and motivated. I liked that the romance took time to develop and that it wasn't instantaneous. The book has a few slow parts that felt like the pacing of the book was a bit off. The ending was also rather sudden and definitely left Oliver with somewhere to go in the series. This is definitely not the first book to have love be a disease, but the way that it developed was more enjoyable and gorgeous.
Oliver's writing was gorgeous and enchanting that left me wanting more. She entwined two characters that want the simplicity of love. I would recommend Delirium to anyone that loves Dystopian novels or enjoyed her first book, Before I Fall.
Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.
But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love
Delirium reminded me of several dystopian books that I loved, such as The Hunger Games, Uglies, and Matched. The fact that love is looked as a disease makes it seem even more daunting and important, because people hate it and it is forbidden. I can't imagine not being able to show that I care for my family, friends, and many other people in my life. I can't imagine someone wanting to get rid of the most amazing emotion possible. This premise of this story
was just so amazing.
Lena was a pretty sweet character that was trying to follow society, that is until she meets Alex. I really liked Alex, he was sweet, strong, and motivated. I liked that the romance took time to develop and that it wasn't instantaneous. The book has a few slow parts that felt like the pacing of the book was a bit off. The ending was also rather sudden and definitely left Oliver with somewhere to go in the series. This is definitely not the first book to have love be a disease, but the way that it developed was more enjoyable and gorgeous.
Oliver's writing was gorgeous and enchanting that left me wanting more. She entwined two characters that want the simplicity of love. I would recommend Delirium to anyone that loves Dystopian novels or enjoyed her first book, Before I Fall.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The House of Six Doors by Patricia Selbert
Source: Publisher
Mama takes thirteen-year-old Serena and her sister to the US in search of fortune, leaving behind their multicultural family, stability, and the colors of the Caribbean. After driving from Miami to Hollywood, their money and luck run out and a 1963 Ford Galaxie becomes their first American home. Guided by the memory of her native Curaçao and the words of her wise grandmother, Serena confronts unimagined challenges and grows up quickly. What gifts will this new country bring, and at what price?
I really enjoyed the setting in House of Six Doors. It seemed like it own character at times. I could feel all of the fond memories in Curaçao and the beauty of California. I couldn't really relate to Mama in the beginning, but I slowly understood her. I loved Serena. She had issues that both teens and immigrants have. I could really relate to her desire to fit in, because who hasn't felt left out. The plot was a little slow at the beginning and some of the middle, but other then that I really enjoyed The House of Six Doors. I am excited to see what Selbert will come up with next. Her characters and settings were so rich and detailed that I couldn't help enjoying it.
Labels:
Patricia Selbert,
Review,
The House of Six Doors
Waiting on Wednesday (92)
Title: Possess
Author: Gretchen McNeil
Publisher: Harperteen
Date: August 23rd 2011
Fifteen-year-old Bridget Liu just wants to be left alone: by her overprotective mom, by the hunky son of the police officer who got her father killed, and by the eerie voices which she can suddenly and inexplicably hear. Turns out the voices are demons--the Biblical kind, not the Buffy kind--and Bridget possesses the rare ability to banish them.
San Francisco's senior exorcist and his newly assigned partner from the Vatican enlist Bridget's help with increasingly bizarre and dangerous cases of demonic possession. But when one of Bridget's oldest friends turns up dead in a ritualistic sacrifice that mirrors her father's murder, Bridget realizes she can't trust anyone. An interview with her father's murderer reveals a link between Bridget and the Emim: a race of part-demons intent on raising their forefathers to the earth in human form. Now Bridget must unlock the secret to the Emim's plan before someone else close to her winds up dead, or worse--the human vessel for a Demon King.
Author: Gretchen McNeil
Publisher: Harperteen
Date: August 23rd 2011
Fifteen-year-old Bridget Liu just wants to be left alone: by her overprotective mom, by the hunky son of the police officer who got her father killed, and by the eerie voices which she can suddenly and inexplicably hear. Turns out the voices are demons--the Biblical kind, not the Buffy kind--and Bridget possesses the rare ability to banish them.
San Francisco's senior exorcist and his newly assigned partner from the Vatican enlist Bridget's help with increasingly bizarre and dangerous cases of demonic possession. But when one of Bridget's oldest friends turns up dead in a ritualistic sacrifice that mirrors her father's murder, Bridget realizes she can't trust anyone. An interview with her father's murderer reveals a link between Bridget and the Emim: a race of part-demons intent on raising their forefathers to the earth in human form. Now Bridget must unlock the secret to the Emim's plan before someone else close to her winds up dead, or worse--the human vessel for a Demon King.
The Exorcist is one of my favorite movies, so I am so excited to read this book. It sounds amazing. The cover is also gorgeous.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Books read in February 2011
15. Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance by Emily Franklin and Brendan Haplin
16. The Candidates by Inara Scott
17. The Watchers by Inara Scott
18. Vixen by Jillian Larkin
19. Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
20. Drought by Pam Bachorz
21. Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting
22. The Kid Table by Andrea Siegel
23. Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott
24. What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen
25. Betrayal by Lee Nichols
26. The Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia Galante
Reviews posted from these books: 4 of these books so far, a few are planned to be posted later.
Books from Library: 0
Books for Review: 8
Books borrowed: 0
My Favorite: Between Here and Forever, which is my new favorite Elizabeth Scott and What Happened to Goodbye is my second favorite Sarah Dessen book.
My Least Favorite: Jenna and Jonah
Debut Authors '11: 4 read 46 books left
16. The Candidates by Inara Scott
17. The Watchers by Inara Scott
18. Vixen by Jillian Larkin
19. Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
20. Drought by Pam Bachorz
21. Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting
22. The Kid Table by Andrea Siegel
23. Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott
24. What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen
25. Betrayal by Lee Nichols
26. The Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia Galante
Reviews posted from these books: 4 of these books so far, a few are planned to be posted later.
Books from Library: 0
Books for Review: 8
Books borrowed: 0
My Favorite: Between Here and Forever, which is my new favorite Elizabeth Scott and What Happened to Goodbye is my second favorite Sarah Dessen book.
My Least Favorite: Jenna and Jonah
Debut Authors '11: 4 read 46 books left
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)