The Best Reader:
release

"I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: January 3rd, 2012
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Challenges: 100+ Challenge, eBook Challenge

"Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl... .
Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future. In this thrilling debut young adult novel, the first of a quartet, Marissa Meyer introduces readers to an unforgettable heroine and a masterfully crafted new world that’s enthralling."

"Cinder" entered my life at the worst possible moment — a week before my research papers were due. Needless to say, until today I had only read to page 28. The subsequent pages were read in one sitting while the husband played COD.

"Cinder" is more than a re-imagining of the classic Cinderella story but is more comparable to Star Wars meets "Across the Universe" with a little bit of Cinderella twisted in type of story. When I think of Cinderella, I think of foolish stepsisters, a wicked stepmother, a quiet and almost ridiculous Prince, and of course the few mice and pumpkins. "Cinder" on the other hand incorporates one evil, and I mean REALLY, evil stepsister (what a brat!), and WITCH of a stepmother!, a handsome, humorous, and chivalrous Prince, with a few androids sprinkled in.

Quick note: I had to ask Husband, but apparently a cyborg (if you didn't know) is part human part machine and an android is all machine.

First with the evil people — while reading this story I could feel myself flush with anger and my cheeks redden with indignation towards Adri and even Pearl. I've loved and cried for characters before (see Delirium and Pandemonium) but I don't think I've ever really hated a character so much in a book that I could feel the physical effects and drain on my body after reading.

The prince, much like the evilness of these two characters, goes away beyond the quiet dark haired prince from the Disney classic. While Cinder and Kai did fall rather quickly, I was rooting for them the entire time. I loved every page with Kai on it and waited for him to make an appearance (I just wish he would have made an appearance earlier in the novel). Kai is... I mean, just WOW! Definitely a vote over the "what's his face" from Cinderella. Does he even have a name or is he just Prince Charming? Dumb.

Anyway, I digress — I think my favorite part of this story falls to the android, Iko. As I mentioned on Twitter, I really wish I had an android that was an R2D2/Iko cross. My life would be an endless conversation full of cleverness. Do you think I could train my iPhone to be an android?

Anyway, "Cinder" is a definite must read the first week of January before school is in full swing. I absolutely adored it's plot and characters. I'd go so far to say that "Cinder" out-dirties, out-evils, out-swoons, and plain out-does the classic tale that we all grew up with.*

* You know, unless you were born after 2000
If you're interested, Barnes and Noble has the first five chapters available for a free download.

-Visit Marissa around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley from NetGalley

"This book has changed my life... [and] inspired me to depths that no other book has." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"The real secret to creating and sustaining an abundant, joyous, and fulfilled life has been hiding in plain sight — in the power of the prayer that unites two billion Christians worldwide, the prayer that each one of them knows by heart.
True happiness and success can't just be wished for. The real secret to fulfillment lies in using the Lord's Prayer as part of an ongoing spiritual practice that leads to real and lasting change in the soul — change that will manifest itself in earthly, tangible ways. Each chapter in The Source of Miracles is a guide to one of seven steps in that process, corresponding to a primary teaching of the prayer: faith, surrender, service, abundance, forgiveness, obstacles, and love. Each chapter also includes meditations, affirmations, and other activities designed to help readers work through life's challenges. In her bestselling fiction, Kathleen McGowan has popularized the world of Christian esoterica, a unique place where New Age and Christianity meet, making ancient teachings new and powerful. The Source of Miracles harnesses the wisdom of those traditions at a time of great material and spiritual uncertainty, when the need for signposts on the road to success has never been more acute." This book did take me an extremely long time to read — BUT that was because of finals and the hectic life I lead as student. I really read this book in two sittings, and these two sittings have changed my life. This book has changed my life. The book's message is one that seems so obvious, so generic, but Kathleen McGowan successfully explained the message in a way that made me, as a reader, want to change my life (not tomorrow, not next week, but now). This book inspired me to depths that no other book that I've read has. This book made me want to become a better person and try harder to do what was necessary.

At times the message was daunting and overwhelming. I felt as though there was so much I needed to do, so many lists to make, so many exercises to complete to make myself better. But in time, I realized that growth is growth, and growth is one step at a time. So I put made use of my "nerdy English major/teacher sticky tabs" (13!!) and strategically placed them throughout this book with every intention of returning to them and studying the pages more thoroughly.

I have made use (for the first time) of the Sticky Note application on my computer, writing down verses, phrases, and exercises found in this book and I know that I will definitely be rereading this book in the future to further instill it's awesome message. As a result, with this book, I may have went a LITTLE overboard with my favorite quotes — but its such an inspiring book!

Favorite Quotes:
"The Lord's Prayer is now, as it was when Jesus lived, the incorruptable formula for personal and global transformation" (2).
"With faith and love, all things are possible" (14).
"Don't edit yourself. Dare to dream, and dream big" (58).
"Not one minute of your life has been wasted because each experience you have had brings you to this very moment as the person you are today. All of it matters. Bless your past for the lessons you have learned so that you may seize your future" (58).
"It is human nature to wait for a safety net to appear before taking a death-defying leap" (61).
"When you encounter obstacles and everything seems to be an uphill battle, it is usually an indication that you are out of alignment with your spiritual purpose and need to do some adjusting" (70).
"He took the cow" (76).
"If you truly believe everything happens for a reason, you will never have a bad day" (76).
"Every good deed neutralizes a bad one.
Every act of service eliminate an act of oppression.
Every prayer for peace eradicates an impulse of war" (88).
"Lack is not your natural state; you feel it when you are spiritually unbalanced" (105).
"You must be prepared to release with love and forgiveness those who have hurt you" (150).
"Do all things with love and love will do all things" (175).

Because of the obvious "God/prayer" theme, this book would not be suitable for book shelves. And as much as I want everyone to read it, I cannot part with my book. I have a feeling that this book will sit on my bedside table for a very long time and will continually be reread and marked up with sticky notes and note cards. I am purchasing a copy for my Grandmother, my mom, and her five sisters for Christmas and I very much, from the bottom of my heart, recommend YOU purchasing this book: Give the Gift of Prayer, Faith, and Miracles. (And yes, I made that up)

HUGE thanks to Julie at FSB Associates for sending me this life changing book.

As most of you know, this year I have discovered my love of the audiobook. I listen to audiobooks primarily when walking our very stubborn dog (who refuses to go outside and play in our huge fenced in backyard by himself to do his 'business') several times a day. Our walk takes about 15-20 minutes and audiobooks have really helped pass the time and make this chore seem like, well, less than a chore. However, because I read faster than I can listen, one huge downside to the audiobook is that it takes longer to get into — literally. This isn't because the book isn't any good it's just that without a strong narrator and a captivating start — audiobooks can fall flat.

Tomorrow, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is released in theaters. After seeing the trailer a few months ago I figured I should read the book before I saw the movie. I received the audio via Interlibrary Loan from my library and downloaded it to my phone and began my walk. It's not unusual (for me) to be a bit bored with an audiobook for the first couple walks, but after three days I was still bored! So I started listening to Pandora's "Swingin' Christmas."

I'm not sure if it's just because I love Christmas music or what, but I'm having a really hard time getting into this audiobook! I know the book must be fantastic and I really do want to read it — but I'm just frustrated that it's taking so long for the audiobook to "get good." I think I'll give it two more days (roughly two hours) but after that, I'm going to have to go to something else.

Do you ever struggle with audiobooks for this reason? Any suggestions of great audiobooks that have a fantastic start?

The purpose of this blog is to inform reluctant readers of great literature that will get them passionate about reading.

I accept review copies from authors and publishers and I love to participate in blog tours, host contests and interview authors. As a first year teacher, my time is limited; because of this, I am not able to accept every book offered.

All my reviews are original and honest. I have never been compensated and all of my thoughts are my own.

Types of Genres I enjoy: While Young Adult and Adult literature is my main focus, I do accept and review some middle grade and children's titles. I am partial to fantasy, paranormal, chick-lit, romance, historical fiction, literary fiction, anything that addresses social issues, mysteries and thrillers.

I do not prefer to read a series out of sequence. If you have a review request that is part of a series that I have not read, I will ask that you provide a copy of each of it’s predecessors. This will allow for a more effective review, all reviews of the series will be posted as well.

Genres I don't usually pick up: I normally do not read non-fiction, memoirs/biographies or science-fiction. But, if you feel that a particular book would be beneficial and interesting towards reluctant readers — I'd be willing to consider it. Currently I do not accepting e-books or pdfs for review. I do occasionally accept self-published books.

When I accept a novel to review: It does not guarantee that I will write a review. While I strive to complete each book, if I find myself unable or unwilling to finish it, I will not force myself to read. I truly believe that reading should be enjoyable — if the book I am attempting to read becomes a "chore," I will put it down. I do promise to read 100 pages of each book accepted for review before putting it down. If I do not finish a book, I always pass it on (unless the provider of the review book asks me not to) in, what I call, a "Quick Giveaway." I simply give the book to the first responder with a Guest Review. An example of a Quick Giveaway. If you do not want a book to be passed on, please tell me before hand or I can make no guarantee that it won't be handed off to another reader.

While I try to only accept review books I think I will like, I cannot guarantee that the review will be positive, but it will be fair. I don't take pleasure in negating someone's work, but my reviews will be my honest opinion. My reviews include a synopsis of the novel (generally provided by Amazon or the publisher's website) and my personal thoughts about the book.
How long will it take for a review: I try to read the review titles that I receive in a timely manner but I do have time constraints. If the book is an ARC, I will try to review the book in the month surrounding its release date, in most cases before the book is released or shortly after. If the book is already released then it may take me anywhere from 2-4 months to read and review it.

Note of Clarification: Review if I do not plan on keeping the book in my classroom. If this is not something you want, please tell me before hand — just in case. Also, I love hosting giveaways or Author Interviews — if this is something you'd be interested in, please let me know.

Traffic Details: According to Google Analytics, I receive about 200 visitors a day and generally have 10 to 15 comments a day. This blog is not particularly meant to generate huge amounts of outside traffic. This blog is meant to introduce reluctant young readers to different novels. During the school year my students visit this blog daily and will contribute to the reviews listed. My students will use this blog as a reference when looking for a "good book to read for fun."

If you're interested in knowing a bit more about me — please visit my About Me page.

Disclosure: All of the books I receive for review are provided by the publisher or the author. I do not expect, accept, or receive monetary compensation for my reviews.

"This book was beautifully executed and wonderfully imaginative." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: Sept 2011
Publisher: Doubleday
Challenges: Audiobook Challenge, DAC 2011, 100+ Reading Challenge

"The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.

True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus per­formers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead."

Like many others, I picked up "The Night Circus" because someone related it to Harry Potter and "the next big thing." As the first couple chapters progressed, I reminded myself that this would be "like" Harry Potter and I don't think I stopped that comparison until two thirds of the way through the book. In my opinion, "The Night Circus" is very little like Harry Potter. The narrator is fantastic and with his accent it sort of sounds like Harry Potter. The language is beautifully descriptive and the story is flawlessly wound like Harry Potter. But other than that, I'd say this book is in a category of it's own.

"The Night Circus" was a fantastic audiobook but because I didn't know anything about the plot other than it was Harry Potter-esque, I really didn't know where this story was headed. It was hard to hear the changes in perspective and the different plot lines and smaller pre-chapters.

This audio made walking the dog go by so much faster, even in the -15 degree weather! I never really craved caramel like other readers (and I eventually noticed how the caramel smell was almost continually brought up) but I could see the colors (or lack there of) and I could imagine the whole plot playing out.

Overall, this book was beautifully executed and wonderfully imaginative.

-Visit Erin around the web here: Website | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Library Loan Audio and Bought as Gift

"I'd consider this book one of the best-kept-secret new releases of the month." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: December 27th, 2011
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Challenges: 100+ Reading Challenge, eBook Challenge

"Martyr---otherwise known as Jason 3:3---is one of hundreds of clones kept in a remote facility called Jason Farms. Told that he has been created to save humanity, Martyr has just one wish before he is scheduled to 'expire' in less than a month. To see the sky. Abby Goyer may have just moved to Alaska, but she has a feeling something strange is going on at the farm where her father works. But even this smart, confident girl could never have imagined what lies beneath a simple barn. Or what would happen when a mysterious boy shows up at her door, asking about the stars. As the reality of the Jason Experiment comes to light, Martyr is caught between two futures---the one for which he was produced and the one Abby believes God created him to have. Time is running out, and Martyr must decide if a life with Abby is worth leaving everything he's ever known."

Beginning to read "Replication," I had no idea what what I was getting myself into. I hardly knew the plot line and I hadn't seen it in the blogosphere at all; needless to say, I was a bit hesitant. But soon after starting this book, I couldn't put it down.

I was surprised at how well it was written and how fast I became enveloped and committed to the plot and characters. I finished this book in one day and couldn't wait to tell you all about it because it is so different from anything else I've recently read. Written in a "present day" society where cloning is an underground illegal operation, Williamson did a fantastic job of creating multi-faceted characters and a multi-dimensional plot. While a few of the characters were "similar," they were so perfectly different at the same time!

If I had to say one less than brilliant comment about this book — it would be "the God references." While cloning is definitely an issue of ethics and we couldn't really have ethics without some sense of religion, I sort of felt like that at points "God" and his ethics were sort of just dropped in the dialogue. It reminded me of "Beowulf" and how down the line when this oral tale was being written some monks inserted some religion lines throughout the story. It just didn't always flow well.

That being said, the first time God was mentioned in this book I couldn't help but roll my eyes and think, "Oh no, what's this?" I don't know why that's my first reaction to God being mentioned in a YA novel. I'm Christian, I enjoy Christian music, I attend church, and overall consider myself a "faithful believer." But in YA books so often it comes off as overly pious and apparently I have issues with the overtly pious. In this book, however, the mention of God and God's way was not read as arrogantly pious rather as genuine concern and an honest need of guidance — which was refreshing.

Overall, I'd consider this book one of the best-kept-secret new releases of the month.

What are your thoughts on religion in YA? I think I'm going to blame society for this particular quirk of mine (in regards to my involuntary flinch). I grew up in a "quiet Catholic" community so we didn't talk about our faith and we hardly ever said the word "God" outside of church, Sunday school, and prayers. I think society may have trained me to shun away from the word. Even at work, obviously as a teacher, I am very careful not to bring "the G-Word" up. Whether that's right or wrong, I'm not sure. But I think this "quiet Catholic" attitude has made its way into my reading habits as well. Speaking (or reading) about God is almost taboo it seems. Why is that? Do we train our children for that? Or have things changed?

Also, in case you were wondering:

My fingers are crossed as well, Jill!

-Visit Jill around the web here: Website | Goodreads
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley received from NetGalley

"Be prepared when picking up this addicting novel: it is the most honest and utterly raw novel I have ever read." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"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?"

Why I read this: After adoring "Cracked Up to Be " and "Some Girls Are " and interviewing Courtney Summers, I knew I had to read "Fall for Anything."

Plot: The plot of this novel, like all Summers' novels, is fast moving and completely addicting. I couldn't put this book down. I found myself crying throughout the novel at it's realness (yes, I cried during 6th period). Even though you know the outcome, he's dead (right?), you will it to not be true — to have an alternate ending (much like "Before I Fall "). I kept willing the book to go faster in order to find the next nonsensical clue.

Characters: I think all of the characters in this novel, even the father, are extremely strong and real. Eddie and her mother's pain are honest and excruciatingly sad. I couldn't help but become curious about Culler Evans and found myself in love with his image — that sympathy card was so... perfect and honest. I adored Milo, Eddie's best friend, and couldn't help but want to date him myself (shh, don't tell Dan). But not everyone is who they seem in "Fall for Anything."

Cover: This cover is amazing! It's so dark and completely captures the tone/mood of the story.

Random Thoughts: The ending of this book was so honest and almost anticlimactic — it was perfect.

Final Thoughts: This book did not disappoint — it was absolutely perfect. I was surprised at the ending, almost foolishly so. After reading this book my school librarian and the student who begged me to email Courtney about an interview wrestled over the book to see who got to read it first (no student was harmed prior to reading this novel) and the librarian won (after promising to have it to the student in 24 hours). This teacher didn't like it because it was so heartbreakingly honest; the student adored it because of it's honesty. Be prepared when picking up this addicting novel: it is the most honest and utterly raw novel, fiction or non, I have ever read. With a topic like this, I would expect nothing less from Courtney Summers.

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Overall: 98/100 A

To the FTC, with love: Received from the Author

"Fall for Anything" will be released on December 21st, 2010

"When I think of 'Silence' this is what I remember: a grown woman hiding out in closet-sized Study Room with a book about Fallen Angels and not being able to put it down." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: October 2011
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Challenges: 100+ Challenge

"The noise between Patch and Nora is gone. They've overcome the secrets riddled in Patch's dark past... bridged two irreconcilable worlds... faced heart-wrenching tests of betrayal, loyalty and trust... and all for a love that will transcend the boundary between heaven and earth. Armed with nothing but their absolute faith in one another, Patch and Nora enter a desperate fight to stop a villain who holds the power to shatter everything they've worked for—and their love—forever."

I read "Hush Hush " two summers ago and "Crescendo " less than a month ago. Between "Hush Hush" and "Crescendo " I lost my enthusiasm for this series. After reading "Hush Hush " I was just amazed and astounded — wanting more! Do to all the other books that needed reading, I didn't get to "Crescendo " until recently. As I opened "Crescendo " for the first time I wasn't really sure how I felt about it. I didn't remember the characters. I didn't remember the plot. I didn't remember Fitzpatrick's created reality. In retrospect, I think that's why I didn't really care for "Crescendo " — I was spending most of my time trying to figure out what was going on.

"Silence," on the other hand, reminded me what I love about this series. While I wasn't as lost as Nora, I loved rediscovering this reality along with her. As her memory returned in fragments and flashes — so did mine! "Silence" is exactly what I needed to rekindle my love of Nora, Patch, and even Scott!

This book was a complete page turner. While at school during my plan period and lunch I kept sneaking away to find a quiet place to read. I felt like I was back (actually attending) at high school again! I found a little study room that was nice, but it's between two classrooms and I was so nervous about being caught! I may (or may not) have even hid out in the staff bathroom during passing time between classes waiting for the other teachers to clear out. Finally, my nerves were spent and I couldn't take feeling like a rebel anymore so I settled for the school library (which isn't nearly as relaxing or quiet). I can't explain it, but I felt as if I were breaking the rules or doing something I shouldn't be when all I was doing was reading! It was the most peculiar thing! It's not as if I didn't get my work done but I didn't want to be chastised either.

Anyway, when I think of "Silence" that is what I will think of: a grown woman hiding out in closet-sized Study Room with a book about Fallen Angels. Like the other novels, "Silence" is fast paced and a book that, right when I had it all figured out, the plot twisted. It was fantastic! I ended up reading it in two days and cannot wait for the fourth installment (I hope my memory holds).

-Visit Becca around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Library Loan

"Whenever I was going to put this book down to do something productive, I found the chapter that I was about put down too seductive to release indefinitely." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: November 1st, 2011
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Challenges: Off the Shelf, 100+ Reading Challenge, Dystopia Challenge

"In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky — taken by the Society to his certain death — only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.
Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander — who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart — change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever."
It feels like this review has been a long time coming. As many of you know, last year at BEA 2011 this was the prize book that was stolen — the one book I was really upset about. I'm over it and have moved — but it was still bitter sweet opening this book again for the first time. You see, after receiving this book I went to stand in line somewhere else and I began to read it while in line. But when I realized I was behind a blogger I knew, I put it in my bag of books instead of my purse. That movement still haunts me — if only I had put the book in my purse (to be read later)! But anyway, the past is the past and I've finally completed this book.

Sorry for the poor quality — Blackberry photo

I couldn't contain my excitement!
Lately, "Matched" and "Crossed" have been on my mind for other reasons (you know, rather than their awesomeness). Last month I talked about Cursive: The Lost Art Form and how I connected the loss of creativity to a not-so distant dystopia. And now, as I've finished "Crossed," I have so many more thoughts and questions.

First of all, it took me a long time to get into this book but I think it's mostly because I didn't really remember what went on at the end of "Matched." I read "Matched" in September 2010, that's a long time to remember something. I trudged through the murky remembrance of details (on my part) and slowly the story came back to me. A few times I had to rely on the help of Twitter friends to sift through the details (such as: what did the three pills stand for?). This didn't completely put me off this book (as it was more my fault than fault of the book's) but I wish (unrealistically) I could have remembered more prior to starting "Crossed."

Once the details came back to me, I couldn't put this book down. I finished it in a day while my students had meetings with the counselors in regards to college preparation (talk about a great day!). I will mention that the last chapter of this book did completely baffle me — I'm assuming the ambiguity was purposeful. But I still felt like I was missing something and that it didn't necessary flow well with the rest of the novel.

As for the characters and plot, there were enough surprises and twists to keep each chapter exciting. Whenever I was going to put this book down to do something productive, I found the chapter that I was about put down too seductive to release indefinitely. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I can't wait for the final installment of this novel.

Also, anyone but me hoping the final novel cover will be red to continue the theme? But if it is, what can that mean!?!?!

-Visit Ally around the web here: Website | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Loved and Bought

I'd like to, yes ONCE AGAIN, welcome this week's Guest Reviewer, Leslie from That Chick That Reads! This is Leslie's third week in a row as a Guest Reviewer. Leslie, sincerely from the bottom of my heart, thank you for helping me in my mission of spreading the love of literacy. You are an inspiration.

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From Amazon.com...
"How far will Rose go to keep her promise?
The recent Strigoi attack at St. Vladimir’s Academy was the deadliest ever in the school’s history, claiming the lives of Moroi students, teachers, and guardians alike. Even worse, the Strigoi took some of their victims with them... including Dimitri. He’d rather die than be one of them, and now Rose must abandon her best friend, Lissa—the one she has sworn to protect no matter what—and keep the promise Dimitri begged her to make long ago. But with everything at stake, how can she possibly destroy the person she loves most? "

Everyone that knows me knows that Richelle Mead is my favorite author of all time and Vampire Academy is my favorite series ever! So I have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of this novel! I mean it had me so on edge that I couldn’t sleep the night before! So when the release morning came, I was pretty much first in line at the book store.

The cover of the book is breath taking beautiful and best of all it’s a hardcover! Although it does annoy me a little that the other 3 aren’t hardcover but I think I could get over it.

Anyway so this book is set in Russia, which was amazing! The people she meets, and of coarse the glimpses of the old Dimitri we get throughout the entire novel were very hard to read, well at least for me anyway. He is and will always continue to be one of my favorite characters in the novels, as well as Rose, Lissa and Adrian.

This wasn’t my favorite book of the series but it does come in second. I didn’t want to read it fast as I wanted to be like Georgina Kincaid (reference to her other character in the Succubus series) who read only 5 pages a day because she wanted to savor the characters and events in the books, but after like chapter 10 or so I couldn’t put it down and I ended up just reading the book in like 2 days.

A lot and I mean a lot of the stuff that you end up finding out about you are like whoa! Didn’t see that coming! Now I’m waiting yet again another 8 months for the next installment which is set for May 18th, 2009! Anyway, I don’t want to get into all of the certain events without giving anything away just because I nearly died when I read a spoiler on goodreads before it was even set to release so I’ll just stick with that. Anyway, I’ll rate this book 4.5 out of 5 paws (or should I say fangs;) )

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Thank you so much Leslie for such an AWESOME review! I've been meaning to read this! But I should start at the beginning of the series I think.:)

Make sure to visit Leslie at That Chick That Reads. Check out her original review. Thank you so much!

"I think sometimes that society has become hardened to the atrocity that was Nazi/Jew WWII, but the reality is that there were other victims of WWII as well. This is their story." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: March 22nd, 2011
Publisher: Philomel Books
Challenges: 100+ Challenge, Audiobook Challenge, DAC 2011

"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."

Forgive me, but I can't exactly remember who raved about this book on Twitter about a month ago, but THANK YOU! I remember this person just exclaiming how amazing this audio was and as a result I interlibrary loaned it without even looking up the synopsis. When I played the first tape I was surprised to see that it was a WWII novel and even more baffled that it wasn't portraying the Nazi/Jew version. No, this book illustrates life from the perspective of a young Lithuanian girl who has been imprisoned by the Soviets with her mother and young brother.

I was at first a bit weary of this plot, as (again) I'm not a big historical fiction person. But I was on a road trip to visit my mother and "had no other choice." A few tracks later I was completely enveloped and by the second disk I knew without a doubt that this audiobook would be one of my favorites. I cried several times throughout my road trip and when I wasn't in my car I was thinking of Lina and her family.

Parts of this book made my insides hurt with hunger, exhaustion, and complete despair (it was that good). It seems like the past couple of audios have really brought me down with annoyances and frustrations (mostly to do with the narrator) but this book (and narrator) did such a fantastic job of bringing me into the story and making it intensely real and horrifying.

The end, I will say, brought me to tears in the classroom. I finished another novel on reading day and still had a period to go so I went to the library and got the book (and felt like I was cheating on the audio). As the last page ended the bell rang, and I didn't even say goodbye or "have a good weekend" to my kids. As the next class trickled in I was still wrapped in the feeling of immense sorrow and elation (at the same time). There were even a few questions (spoilers): how did they get out? what happened next? What about the young Pole who help them? How did Andruis find her? Was her father really alive? But I see now that those things aren't really that important to the story.

This audiobook was phenomenal, almost life changing. If you've been struggling to find a good story or a good audiobook, no matter what your preference of genre is, this book is spectacularly honest and unique. I've never read such characters with such a real plot. I think sometimes that society has become hardened to the atrocity that was Nazi/Jew WWII (until you visit the Holocaust Museum in DC) because of all the movies and the matter-of-factness of history books, but the reality is that there were other victims of WWII as well. This is their story.

-Visit Ruta around the web here: Website | Goodreads
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Library Loan

With the release of New Moon, so many young adult (and adult) readers are getting excited and having a great time. Unfortunately, the "nay-sayers" (as I like to call them) are being more negative than ever. I recently wrote an article about it for the University's newspaper and I thought now would be the ideal time to share it with you.

Literary Snobs Beware

On November 20^th, thousands of ‘tweens’ will flood the cinemas to see New Moon, the highly anticipated sequel to Twilight. The Twilight franchise, both the books and the movies, is the newest fad – even Walmart would agree. But with any new fad, there are always the nay-sayers; as easy as it is to find someone reading one of the four Twilight books, it seems it is even easier to find someone bashing these books. Personally, I’ve read the books and have seen the first movie. I don’t own any stickers, shirts, or other Robert Pattinson merchandise, but I did enjoy reading the books. And while I am not in complete support of Twilight’s Walmart domination, I can’t argue with it.

The Twilight phenomenon has put good books in students’ hands (by choice), much like what Harry Potter accomplished while I was in high school. You can argue that the writing is less than perfect, the heroine is slightly ridiculous, and that Edward Cullen is a little “too” brooding and may, in fact, be a stalker. You can’t, however, argue with the fact that both young adults and adults are reading recreationally. Those who have read the books, generally speaking, like them. It is the people who haven’t read the books that are making all the ruckus.

With the release of the new movie, ‘Twilighters’ are glowing with excitement – and why shouldn’t they be? I’ll be the first to point out the flaws of the novels (and the movie), but who am I to judge someone else’s reading preferences? It is extremely detrimental to society to have all these Anti-Twilight people laughing at, humiliating, and pointing fingers at those who have read, liked, and even became obsessed with the novels. To publically criticize another’s choice of literature instills in the recreational reader the idea that reading a particular book, Twilight in this case, is “uncool.” Then the reader begins to question what else they’ve read, and liked, that was, according to society, ridiculous. At this point, the reader is humiliated and ready to give up recreational reading entirely. This, of course, applies to other genres that are labeled as less than ‘popular’ or acceptable by literary snobs such as graphic novels, comic books, the Harlequin Romance novels (and others as such), chick-lit, fantasy, or sci-fi. I have personally witnessed on several occasions, as have most people, the verbal abuse that occurs once the Twilight topic is raised amongst peers. Ironically, these abusive nay-sayers, stereotypically, don’t read their homework assignments, much less for recreation.

To those who publicly humiliate anyone who has read and enjoyed the Twilight series or any of the other ‘unpopular’ genres: who do you think you are? What gives you the right to judge what others read to the point of embarrassing them? Who gives you the authority to say such hurtful things? Yes, Twilight has seemingly taken over the world, but at least people are reading. Please think twice before you even joke about how ridiculous Twilight is, reading has already become an almost taboo subject. Those who read recreationally are, occasionally, ashamed of this behavior (why, I don’t know) – but they definitely don’t need your discouragement.

To those who are self-proclaimed Twilight (obsessed) fans or book lovers in general, do not be afraid of reading recreationally and displaying your love of literature. If anything else, come up with a witty comeback using big words, after all, you are the literate one. Either way, I'll see you in the theaters.

According to this article from the beginning of November, cursive is becoming a lost art form and I completely agree. When I write on the board in cursive I always have one of my students say "I can't read cursive." My friend Button (an elementary teacher) and I have had numerous discussions on the importance of cursive in the classroom and much of this discussion stemmed from reading "Matched" by Ally Condie. So I thought it was only fitting that the article be printed a week before "Crossed" released.

In "Matched" cursive writing was one of the first things "done away with" or "outlawed" because of the creativity (I assume, it's been a while since I read it). Printing very formalized and standard (unless you have some of the students I do) whereas cursive is very much an individual's creativity in letters. I remember as a child learning cursive experimenting with all of the different curves and hoops and to this day I experiment with my signature and new last name.

The article states that the controversy lies in where our time is better spent — teaching cursive (a creative art form) to students or on the more "important" core material. As an English teacher (albeit a high school teacher) I see a great importance in cursive writing. It allows students to write as an individual rather than as a human sized type writer. I think it gives the students time to think for themselves and create for themselves rather than memorize and trace what has been done for them — much like in the society of Matched.

What about art classes? If the almighty "they" think cursive is a waste of our instructional time and we are all aware that art classes have been in jeopardy for a while, what will "they" take away from us next? Art and cursive are ambiguous, creative, and completely subjective. Well, can't the same be said for poetry?

Is losing the creative art form that is cursive the first step toward a dystopian society where everything is formalized and the concept of art and poetry is lost? I don't know, it just scares me to see parts of a favorite dystopian novel coming true.

"I don't know about you, but during the duration of reading this book I wrote entirely in cursive. What an inspiring concept!" — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"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."

Why I read this: The cover and premise really intrigued me.

Plot: The plot was very similar to "The Hunger Games" in regards to the society and its' people. I love the whole idea of a Society that runs everything, it was different with "Matched" because the Society does such a great job of "taking care" of their citizens. It was so fun to follow the journey that Cassia was on as she discovered the truth about her Society. The Society was so intricately weaved, I was never bored.

Characters: I did struggle a bit with Cassia at first, simply because of the betrayal. But as the relationship between Ky and Cassia developed I found myself captivated. By the end of the novel, I was as upset and enraged as Cassia. When I turned that last page I felt as though friends were waiting for me and book #2 couldn't come any faster.

Cover: What an ABSOLUTELY beautiful cover.

Random Thoughts: I loved how important writing had become to those who don't write. I also loved that, like "The Hunger Games," it was set in a futuristic society where the government controlled the people. I have found that this is a theme that really draws readers in. The technology component was also extremely interesting; past generations had been so overwhelmed by all the technology at their every fingertip has now "de-whelmed" their people by only having the basic technologies available. They have also found that society is too materialistic, so they have rid themselves of all personal objects and purged through its histories and arts. It was absolutely FANTASTIC!

I know I keep mentioning "The Hunger Games," I don't want anyone to misinterpret this as "Matching" being a knock-off of "THG." But it's important to realize that "THG" is a story that every student in my class is talking about and I want them to know that because of the the societal similarities "Matched" and "THG" students will devour this book.

Final Thoughts: WOW! I can't stop talking about this books. On November 30th, I will be bringing a copy of this book into my classroom. I can't recommend it enough.

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 9/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Overall: 99/100 A

To the FTC, with love: Review Book

This book will be released on November 30th, 2010

Last year in what seemed like a span of weeks I read five fantastic novels that just happened to be the first of a series: "Across the Universe, " "Delirium, " "The Goddess Test, " "Wither, " and "Matched. " These five novels absolutely changed my reading life. With each of these books I was positively awe-struck.

"I read this book almost in its entirety in one day... but it feels like I've known these characters for months, years even! The journey I just got back from after reading "Wither" was an experience that every bibliophile looks forward to with every book they open. "Wither" may not fulfill this experience for everyone — but it sure did for me."

"I hurt with the emotion I felt, I hurt because I couldn't stop willing the plot on, my heart hurt out of love for the characters, and my adrenaline never slowed the last 100 pages. This book caused me physical pain I loved it so much."

"Fantastically timed writing along with perfectly developed characters and a seamlessly exciting plot makes "Delirium" an instant favorite and a story not likely forgotten anytime soon."

"'Across the Universe' was woven so intricately and beautifully that this plot driven novel is definitely on my 'OMG! I need the next book!' list."

"I don't know about you, but during the duration of reading this book I wrote entirely in cursive. What an inspiring concept!"
So you can only imagine how excited I am for their sequels to be released. "Crossed" (out last week) was in my fingertips at BEA and I had actually started reading while in line for other books but unfortunately it was not to be finished. I pre-ordered it through Amazon about a month ago (and I won't make that mistake again); it arrived on Friday and I am so excited to continue the story.

Today I received in the mail at school a copy of "A Million Suns" by Beth Revis (Jan 2012) from the publisher and am completely stoked! Last week I received a copy "Pandemonium" by Lauren Oliver (March 2012) from the publisher and am currently only about 100 pages in — but this four day weekend will completely change the game around.

Please ignore my yellow bookmark.
And to finish things off I just found out that "Goddess Interrupted" will be released on NetGalley a few months before the release (March 2012).
If you're getting the impression that I am on a book high — you'd be completely underestimating my excitement. My "in my mailbox" has never EVER been so exciting before! I'm a relatively small-town blogger and probably only receive one book a month from publishers (if that). But this post is not an "IMM" (expect a vlog!!), there is a reason these books in particular are crossing my doorstep.
At school I have put together a group of ten students, a very cool name is yet to be decided on, who meet, read, suggest, and promote YA books to my other students during Friday's Recreational Reading time. Basically we meet during lunch and talk books — much like a book club. Then we decided which books of the week are our absolute favorites and each student volunteers to book talk a book to my English classes on Friday before reading. It started out with "older" books and ironically my five favorites were all chosen to be book talked. Then my students started to talk about the sequels and how they were dying to get their hands on them (much like myself) and so I figured I'd attempt to receive one of these coveted ARCS and become the coolest and most awesome teacher ever. So I sent out a few emails to authors (as I have no legitimate "contacts") and low and behold (who ever thought of that term?) two books found their way to my doorstep.
I'll be presenting these books to my students on Monday when we meet and I can't WAIT to see their eyes light up. The idea that publishers would send ME (of all people — according to the students) books before they even came out is a completely foreign idea to these students and I'm just exploding with excitement. I sort of feel like a cave man bringing home fire (or a wheel) for the first time.

"For some reason I am able to forgive the one dimensional characters and "too fast" of pace because of the end result: a book I couldn't put down." — Miss Remmers

Release Date: November 15th, 2011
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Challenges: Dystopia Challenge, 100+ Reading Challenge, eBook Challenge

"In the violent country of Ludania, the language you speak determines what class you are, and there are harsh punishments if you forget your place—looking a member of a higher class in the eye can result in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina (Charlie for short) can understand all languages, a dangerous ability she’s been hiding her whole life. Her only place of release is the drug-filled underground club scene, where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. There, she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy who speaks a language she’s never heard, and her secret is almost exposed. Through a series of violent upheavals, it becomes clear that Charlie herself is the key to forcing out the oppressive power structure of her kingdom…."

I began "The Pledge" with knowing nothing more than the synopsis and that it was a "pretty big deal" on Twitter when it was released via the Galley Grab; this was basically a "blind read" for me. Let me start with my initial reaction: complete and pure love. I read almost the entirety of this novel on Sunday when my husband was watching football and after our Sunday night family dinner with the in-laws we went to see "Real Steel" in theaters and I was still thinking about this book. As an exhausted new teacher, there are very few books that I "stay up for" (because, seriously, I'm usually in bed by 9:30) so when I told Dan that I wanted to stay up and read while he watched the days football highlights, he was completely shocked. An hour and a half later I finished "The Pledge" and couldn't wait to tell everyone about it.

I loved the pacing, I loved the plot, I loved the entire concept! I absolutely loved all the parallels to society today and loved analyzing the book in comparison to immigration and language barriers; I found several wonderful quotes that I have written down below to tease you. I mean, the power of words is unmistakable but Derting does such a fantastic job of highlighting and illustrating that power. I loved the twits and I loved how I never really knew which characters to trust. My initial reaction to this book was pure and complete adoration.

But within a days time I was online and reading reviews and one particular review (compliments of April from Good Books and Wine) has kept me thinking. This review brought up tons of different points that I realized I agree with but had just never thought about. I realized, after reading this thorough and fair review, that the characters aren't multidimensional — I can't tell you why I like Max or what makes Charlie so special (besides for being "plain" — which I guess has become synonymous with "the girl next door" that every protagonist lately has become). I don't understand why Max is "intrigued" by Charlie and I don't understand Charlie and Aron's relationship.

April's points about pacing also rang true for me. I couldn't put this book down because I was never bored but that probably has a lot to do with the fact that the entirety of this story really takes place in a very small time frame. Now that I think about it, I'm a bit flabbergasted that the entire plot took place in the span of a few days and that one girl's life could change so completely. But while I was reading, none of this bothered me or even occurred to me.

I think the power of the review is astonishing. April's review of this book has kept me thinking and comparing my thoughts to hers and how we agree on so much but our feelings at the end were so different. Even with all of these points, this book was still amazing for me. For some reason I am able to forgive the one dimensional characters and "too fast" of pace because of the end result: a book I couldn't put down.

Favorite Quotes:
"That was when the class system was first imposed. It was designed to discourage future uprisings, to keep people living apart so ideas of rebellion could not be co-mingled. Language became a tool, a way to complete that division... words had become the ultimate barrier" (144 — according to my Nook in the Galley).
"These Outcasts who spoke only one shared language, seemed happier than those... who were segregated by words and ruled by fear" (225 — again, my Nook in the Galley).

-Visit Lisa around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eGalley from NetGalley

"I can't recommend this book enough. I loved absolutely everything about it and can't wait for the second book!" — Miss Remmers

Release Date: October 14th, 2011
Publisher: Tanglewood Press
Challenges: Dystopian Challenge, 2011 DAC, 100+ Challenge,

"Many visitors to Yellowstone National Park don’t realize that the boiling hot springs and spraying geysers are caused by an underlying supervolcano, so large that the caldera can only be seen by plane or satellite. And by some scientific measurements, it could be overdue for an eruption.
For Alex, being left alone for the weekend means having the freedom to play computer games and hang out with his friends without hassle from his mother. Then the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts, plunging his hometown into a nightmare of darkness, ash, and violence. Alex begins a harrowing trek to seach for his family and finds help in Darla, a travel partner he meets along the way. Together they must find the strength and skills to survive and outlast an epic disaster."

Wow. Can I just start by saying this book rocked my socks off! I mean, WOW! Captivating from the very first chapter, this book is unlike any other I've read. While it's dystopian, it has nothing to do with a dystopian government (until the corruption begins) and centers around the environment. The pacing of the novel is complete perfection; whenever a scene track would become dull or lose it's intenseness there was twist or surprise. The character growth was fantastic and believable and the plot progression was completely realistic and heartbreaking. It's crazy how quick society can turn against each other isn't it!
And Darla! Oh, how I loved Darla! Plus, you can tell Mike Mullin is a complete romantic. The book is dedicated to his own "Darla" and in the acknowledgements there is a very sweet and heartwarming note as well. I love real-life love stories!
Anyway, back on track — this book was absolutely fantastic. I will be purchasing a copy for the husband as he will just devour it and I've already emailed the school librarian to get copies on hand as this book will be featured during my classes today during Recreational Reading. I mean, I can't recommend this book enough and it seems I can't stop talking about it to anyone who will listen. I loved absolutely everything about it and can't wait for the second book!
If you loved "The Day After Tomorrow" — this is your book!:)
-Visit Mike around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: eARC from Netgalley

"'Crescendo' was a decent sophomore novel and if you didn't really "connect" with the exposition or rising action, that climax will definitely bring you back for more!" — Miss Remmers

Release Date: October 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Challenges: Audiobook Challenge, Off the Shelf, 100+ Reading Challenge

"Nora should have know her life was far from perfect. Despite starting a relationship with her guardian angel, Patch (who, title aside, can be described anything but angelic), and surviving an attempt on her life, things are not looking up. Patch is starting to pull away and Nora can't figure out if it's for her best interest or if his interest has shifted to her arch-enemy Marcie Millar. Not to mention that Nora is haunted by images of her father and she becomes obsessed with finding out what really happened to him that night he left for Portland and never came home.
The farther Nora delves into the mystery of her father's death, the more she comes to question if her Nephilim blood line has something to do with it as well as why she seems to be in danger more than the average girl. Since Patch isn't answering her questions and seems to be standing in her way, she has to start finding the answers on her own. Relying too heavily on the fact that she has a guardian angel puts Nora at risk again and again. But can she really count on Patch or is he hiding secrets darker than she can even imagine?"

Because it had been over a year since I read, it took me a few chapters to rediscover the plot and characters. I'm not sure if it's due to the time difference or the place I'm in currently, but this book just didn't hit me the same way "Hush, Hush" did. It's not that I disliked the book, it's just that I wasn't in a hurry to finish. Maybe I'm having a case of the Audio Blues — does this happen to anyone else?

Anyway, Vi, the best friend, annoyed me during the audio because I felt like the narrator was out of voices. But the actual character really impressed me — what an awesome friend! If I had to pick any recent book BFF for my real life friend I think it would be her. What she would do for Nora was absolutely endless and the girl definitely has spunk.

Patch was a bit more predictable and right from the get-go I was like, "Oh no," in regards to Nora's actions and reactions in love. I mean, this girl just needs to stop, let the hormones relax, think, and then act. There was a bit of a surprise at the end, and despite the predictability throughout the novel there were the moments (especially towards the end) where I was like "WHAAAAT!?" That alone was enough to get me excited for "Silence."

All in all, "Crescendo" was a decent sophomore novel and if you didn't really "connect" with the exposition or rising action, that climax will definitely bring you back for more!
-Visit Becca around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Library Loan Audiobook

Release Date: September 2010
Publisher: Ember
Challenges: Audiobook Challenge, Off the Shelf, 100+ Challenge

"There's something achingly familiar about Daniel Grigori.
Mysterious and aloof, he captures Luce Price's attention from the moment she sees him on her first day at the Sword & Cross boarding school in sultry Savannah, Georgia. He's the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are all screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move. Even though Daniel wants nothing to do with Luce—and goes out of his way to make that very clear—she can't let it go. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame, she has to find out what Daniel is so desperate to keep secret... even if it kills her."
"Fallen" has been on my TBR list since before it's release. I received the ARC from someone and then my mom bought me a finished copy — but it wasn't until I interlibrary loaned the audiobook that I finally got around to completing this book.

It's been so long since I've finished this book that I've kind of forgotten the specifics and my exact reactions. Does that happen to anyone else? So I'm not going to pretend to analyze this book, plot, or characters, because (honestly) I can't remember.

I do remember not being completely in love with it and being really annoyed with Daniel and Luce. There were parts that were extremely predictable but then there were twists that kept me guessing. However, the ending was worth me interlibrary loaning "Torment" so hopefully when I begin listening to that hopefully I'll remember the exact gist of things.:)

-Visit Lauren around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: ARC from Publisher, Bought finished copy, Library Loan Audiobook

Welcome to the Harry Potter Extravaganza! If you’ve been following along, I hope you’ve been having fun. If you’re new to the tour, welcome! Check out the full tour details here at Bibliophic Book Blog.

While I'm a few years older than the HP crew, I feel like I've grown up with them. I started reading the HP novels right after the "Prisoner of Azkaban" was released and the craze had already started. I don't really remember a time of my life before HP existed. Like any HP fan, I've read the books, I own the books, I've waited in line for the movies, I've bought the movies, and I even took a Harry Potter class last year in college (although it was absolutely horrific — that's another story completely). But there is one way Harry Potter aspect of my life that I think few people share.

Right after we met (MONTHS before we started dating), my now fiance wrote a Harry Potter song for me. I had just started dating someone when Dan asked me out, so it was actually very awkward. The story, according to Dan, is that in an effort to impress me, he finished writing his first song "The Harry Potter Romance." He had started it years ago but never finished. His friends have told me that he was in a frenzy, that he kept repeating that he had to finish this so he could "win" me over.

One night he called me and told me he needed my opinion on something; we were still friends and I agreed. He picked me up and played the song. This sounds petty, but I remember being jealous of whoever he wrote the song for. He dropped me off at home, gave me the first copy made (he went to a small studio to make CDs), he signed it, I thanked him for thinking of me, I left, and then we didn't talk for several months.

This summer when we finally reconnected, I was "living" in Northern Minnesota but going on all my travels and he was in Bismarck, ND (about a five hour drive). We met up every weekend and he accompanied me to a few of my many weddings. When we were apart I found myself listening to "The Harry Potter Romance" (often on repeat). I somehow felt closer to him just by hearing his voice on my iPod.

Recently, because of all the HP activities, I told him that I was extremely jealous of whoever he wrote the song for and that for most of the summer I pretended it was for me. He looked at me in astonishment and told me that I didn't have to pretend... that I was the girl he was singing to. It was the most romantic thing ever. On July 4th, he serenaded me in front of a crowd of vacationers, but I had assumed he had just decided that the song was now for me. After doing some detective work (asking his friends), I realized that he DID write it for me!

Now we laugh about it; I tease him that he should write a second song for the wedding (but I don't think it will happen). Regardless, I attribute much my of relationship, and future marriage, to Harry Potter. If he wouldn't have written that song and let me listen, I wouldn't have been jealous and therefore wouldn't have detected a deeper attachment (although it did take me months to realize it).

If you're interested in listening to "The Harry Potter Romance" go to Myspace and search "Piggy's Renditions" and you'll see "Harry Potter Romance."

Tomorrow look for a Harry Potter Giveaway!!