Never to Sleep (Soul Screamers 5.5) by Rachel Vincent (Harlequin 1/1/2012) Irises by Francisco X. Stork (Arthur a. Levine 1/1/2012) The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Janenifer E. Smith (Poppy 1/2/2012)
Darkness Falls (Immortal Beloved #2) by Cate Tiernan (Poppy 1/2/2012) Unraveling Isobel by Eileen Cook (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012) Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012)
Bloodrose (Nightshade #3) by Andrea Cremer (Philomel 1/3/2012) Don't Breathe a Word by Holly Cupala (HarperTeen 1/3/2012) Pretty Little Liars: A Pretty Little Liars Collection (HarperCollins 1/3/2012)
Dreaming Awake (Falling Under #2) by Gwen Hayes (NAL Trade 1/3/2012) Charmfall (Dark Elite #3) by Chloe Neill (NAL Trade 1/3/2012) Dragonswood by Janey Lee Carey (Penguin Young Readers 1/5/2012)
Love? Maybe by Heather Hepler (Dial 1/5/2012) The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (Dutton Juvenile 1/10/2012) A Million Suns (Across the Universe #2) by Beth Revis (Razorbill 1/10/2012)
Jessica Rules the Dark Side (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey (Harcourt Children's Books 1/10/2012)
Cracked by K.M. Walton (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012) Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi (HarperCollins 1/3/2012) The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams (Simon & Schuster 1/3/2012)
Cinder (Lunar Chronicles #1) by Marissa Meyer (Feiwel & Friends 1/3/2012) Switched (Trylle Trilogy #1) by Amanda Hocking (St. Martin's Griffin 1/3/2012) A Witch in Winter (Winter Trilogy #1) by Ruth Warburton (Hodder Children's Books 1/5/2012)
Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe (Omnific Publishing 1/10/2012) Ditched: A Love Story by Robin Mellom (Disney Hyperion 1/10/2012) The Gathering Storm (The Katerina Trilogy #1) by Robin Bridges (Delacorte Books for Young Readers 1/10/2012)
What books are you most excited to read?
If you know of any other new releases for January 1st-15th feel free to add them in the comments so others will know about them!
Today I have something super exciting for you! The wonderful Erin Bowman is releasing the first 8 chapters from her upcoming book, Taken! You can check out all the chapters (bloggers listed below) and I am showing you the last chapter… chapter 8!! You gotta check it out.
Taken by Erin Bowman Publisher: HarperTeen Release Date: April 16, 2013 Hardcover: 352 pages Add to Goodreads There are no men in Claysoot. There are boys—but every one of them vanishes at midnight on his eighteenth birthday. The ground shakes, the wind howls, a blinding light descends… and he’s gone.
They call it the Heist.
Gray Weathersby’s eighteenth birthday is mere months away, and he’s prepared to meet his fate–until he finds a strange note from his mother and starts to question everything he’s been raised to accept: the Council leaders and their obvious secrets. The Heist itself. And what lies beyond the Wall that surrounds Claysoot–a structure that no one can cross and survive.
Climbing the Wall is suicide, but what comes after the Heist could be worse. Should he sit back and wait to be taken–or risk everything on the hope of the other side?
USE GOOGLE TO READ TAKEN — CHAPTER 8
Want to read the previous chapters?
Monday, 3/25 – Chapter 1 Wendy Darling @ The Midnight Garden Tuesday, 3/26 – Chapter 2 Lena Ainsworth @ Addicted 2 Novels Wednesday, 3/27 – Chapter 3 Erica Haglund @ The Bookcellar Thursday, 3/28 – Chapter 4 Shane Morgan @ Itching for Books Friday, 3/29 – Chapter 5 Stephanie Ward @ A Dream Within A Dream Saturday, 3/30 – Chapter 6 Krystal Larson @ Live to Read Sunday, 3/31 – Chapter 7 Alicia Guerrero @ Shooting Stars Mag Monday, 4/1 – Chapter 8 Jessica Estep @ Confessions of a Bookaholic
Deity by Janenifer L. Armentrout Publisher: Spencer Hill Press (November 6th, 2012) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 360 pages Series: Covenant, #3 Rating: 5 of 5 stars " History is on repeat, and things didn't go so well the last time."
Alexandria isn't sure she's going to make it to her eighteenth birthday--to her Awakening. A long-forgotten, fanatical order is out to kill her, and if the Council ever discovers what she did in the Catskills, she's a goner… and so is Aiden.
If that's not freaky enough, whenever Alex and Seth spend time"training"--which really is just Seth's code word for some up-close and personal one-on-one time--she ends up with another mark of the Apollyon, which brings her one step closer to Awakening ahead of schedule. Awesome.
But as her birthday draws near, her entire world shatters with a startling revelation and she's caught between love and Fate. One will do anything to protect her. One has been lying to her since the beginning. Once the gods have revealed themselves, unleashing their wrath, lives will be irrevocably changed… and destroyed.
Those left standing will discover if love is truly greater than Fate…
Review:
Goodness! Just when you think that a series couldn't POSSIBLY get better, it does! Janenifer L. Armentrout has managed to create, not just a book, but an entire world that surrounds these characters where they grow, change, and deal with complex issues they must overcome in order to survive. The Covenant series draws in the reader immediately and I swear there could be a bright pink elephant danging in my house and I wouldn't have noticed.
Poor Alex. Yes, she has a lot to deal with but what better way than to have 2 hot guys to help you along the journey? Seth is infuriating but I love him. I can't help but swoon at his antics and enjoy the intense connection he shares with Alex. On the other hand, Aiden is super strong and devoted. He remains the"strong and silent" one but when Alex needs him there is nothing that can get in his way. It's seriously like having the best of both worlds!
I won't give too much away with the plot but I will say that I never know where one of Janenifer's books will lead me. This one seriously had me gasping by the end. I couldn't believe the turn of events (AT ALL!) and was screaming at the book. Yes, this may mean I'm nuts, but that's just what these books do to me! I actually have to make myself slow down and read them so I won't miss any small details.
Alex has grown leaps and bounds since the first book in this series and it was incredible to see her change as her powers and fate come into focus. Everything with the Council comes to a head and she is forced to deal with even more issues. This book had one of the most outstanding climaxes ever! But now I have to deal with the withdrawals till I can get my hands on Apollyon.
If you haven't started this series, ARE YOU LIVING UNDER A ROCK? DO IT! I promise you will love it and, lucky for you, you have 3 fabulous books in the series already available to read.
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Halflings by Heather Burch Publisher: Zonderkidz (January 10, 2012) Paperback: 288 pages Reading Level: Young Adult Source: NetGalley Series: Halflings #1 Rating: 5 of 5 stars After being inexplicably targeted by an evil intent on harming her at any cost, seventeen-year-old Nikki finds herself under the watchful guardianship of three mysterious young men who call themselves halflings. Sworn to defend her, misfits Mace, Raven, and Vine battle to keep Nikki safe while hiding their deepest secret—and the wings that come with.
A growing attraction between Nikki and two of her protectors presents a whole other danger. While she risks a broken heart, Mace and Raven could lose everything, including their souls. As the mysteries behind the boys’ powers, as well as her role in a scientist’s dark plan, unfold, Nikki is faced with choices that will affect the future of an entire race of heavenly beings, as well as the precarious equilibrium of the earthly world. Review: I admit, it's hard for me to love angel books, typically. I'm not sure why but only rarely do they grab my attention. But, Halflings was incredible! Definitely in the top 3 angel books I've ever read and I can't wait to get the 2nd book in the series.
First, Nikki was an amazing female character. I love to see someone who can run with the boys and kick some butt. Nikki is smart, determined, and fierce! She does well tackling the things that come her way, until it's more than teenage drama she is forced to deal with. For reasons unknown to her, evil creatures want her dead. But she isn't alone in the fight. She has 3 fabulous halflings helping her with the battle. 3 fabulous … hot, male… halflings! I mean really, who wouldn't want them as bodyguards??
Mace, Raven, and Vine have missions to protect people and now that person is Nikki. She is thrown into their world and she immediately knows they are not normal guys. Mace saves her from an accident on her motorcycle, and while he tries to convince her that nothing strange happens, Nikki isn't buying it. After a while she learns what the guys really are.
Mace is the good-guy. He is strong but he follows along with the rules and tries to do what is right. He is the first to share a deep connection with Nikki. But something, or someone, throws a wrench into his plans. Raven is pretty much the total opposite of Mace. He is stubborn and has a bad attitude. He never wants to do what he is told and for some reason, Nikki loves that. But then again, he's totally hot, so I understand: ) But now Nikki has a nice love triangle on her hands.
I know some people hate love triangles but I am not one of them. It's difficult to make a love triangle realistic and genuine but Heather Burch did a fantastic job at this! I really believed the connections Nikki had with Mace and Raven. Nothing seemed forced and the chemistry was there. Loved it!
I don't want to forget mentioning Vine too because he was just adorable. He's the newbie, and usually the one who tries to keep the peace between Mace and Raven. I really liked his character a lot.
The plot of Halflings was incredibly gripping. It was unique and full of action, twists, and turns that I never expected. There were so many pulse-pounding moments that had me on the edge of my seat.
Heather Burch beautifully crafted this story and everything about it drew me in. I couldn't stop reading and I'm anxiously awaiting book 2!
Taking Chances by Molly McAdams Published: William Morrow (October 16th, 2013) Reading Level: New Adult Paperback: 432 pages Series: Taking Chances, #1 Rating: 5 of 5 stars Summary: Her first year away is turning out to be nearly perfect, but one weekend of giving in to heated passion will change everything.
Eighteen-year-old Harper has grown up under the thumb of her career marine father. Ready to live life her own way and to experience things she's only ever heard of from the jarheads in her father's unit, she's on her way to college at San Diego State University.
Thanks to her new roommate, Harper is introduced to a world of parties, gorgeous guys, family, and emotions. She finds herself being torn in two as she quickly falls in love with both her new boyfriend, Brandon, and her roommate's brother, Chase. Despite their dangerous looks and histories, both men adore Harper and would do anything for her, including taking a step back if it would mean she'd be happy.
Review:
*cries hysterically*… I can't even tell you how emotional this book is. By now, you all probably know what happens (I won't say it here, just in case) but OMG, it has to be one of the most heartbreaking stories EVER!
I'll start from the beginning. First we meet Harper. Harper has been pretty sheltered and her homelife was kind of strict because her dad is a marine. She often hung out with the young guys so she is looking forward to having some female friends and being a little wild in college. Her roommate introduces her to a life of parties and hot guys. Immediately she meets Chase. I love characters like Chase. He's the hot guy who is a bit of a bad boy but his personality is just so lovable! He was snarky and loved to push Harper's buttons. Their chemistry was great together.
But, alas, all isn't happy with the would-be couple. Harper actually starts going out with a nice guy named Brandon. I adored Brandon. He was so nice. Maybe a big too nice because sometimes it was frustrating.
Even though Harper is happy with Brandon she can't get Chase out of her mind. That begins this back and forth between the 3. This book isn't perfect. There are some flaws in the characters that drove me insane. However, this book is 5 stars for me because it gave me what a good book should… emotions!! Even when I was yelling at the book I just couldn't stop reading.
I won't go into detail of what happened but I will say that I'm not sure I have EVER cried as much reading a book as I did with this one. I couldn't believe what happened!! I read this book a long time ago, before everyone knew the outcome, so it was a huge surprise to me.
Nothing in this story was really predictable, IMO. It takes so many turns, even now, I can't believe so much happened in one story. I'm a huge fan of Molly's and I can't wait to see what she comes out with next. But, I will say that even though I know Chase has his own book (Stealing Harper) I cannot read it. Nope. No way!: )
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Janeny Han Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing (May 5th, 2009) Hardcover: 276 pages Reading Level: Young Adult Series: Summer, book #1 Rating: 4 of 5 stars Some summers are just destined to be pretty Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer — they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one wonderful and terrible summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along. Review: This is a really great summer read. It's quick but has some deeper aspects than what the title and cover hint to. Belly is the happiest during the summers she spends with her moms friend Suzanne and her family at the beach house. They spend their days swimming and soaking up the sun without a care in the world. But this summer is different for a few reasons. Belly has grown up and isn't the same little girl, and the boys (Jeremiah and Conrad) both notice. Plus there is a deeper secret that can't stay hidden beneath the glow of summer for long.
I really enjoyed this book. It made me long for the beach and a carefree summer. Belly takes us through her past summer experiences that brought her to get to know Jeremiah and Conrad. Her friendship with Jeremiah, her growing love for Conrad, and the way they each treated her like a little kid. Now she is more adventurous and they take notice.
As Belly enjoys the summer and tries to figure out why Conrad seems to be more distant and angry, she connects more with Jeremiah than she expected. But her mother and Suzanne are also keeping a secret, one that the boys are already aware of, and one that turns Belly's world upside down.
Character: Belly (I admit, the nickname drove me nuts!) is sweet and ready to take chances after crushing on Conrad after all these summers. Jeremiah is funny, sweet, and adorable. He is very easy to like. Conrad is the older brother so he is more"grown up" in this activities and he seems to be more reserved and hard to read. Belly's mother and Suzanne were quite the pair. I think that most people would love to have a mom as cool as they are.
Cover: This cover does fit in well with the story but it comes off a little more fluffy than what the moral of the story seems to be. Either way, the cover was what first made me really take notice of the book.
This is a book that makes you imagine being young and in the heat of summer. How relationships form and change over 3 months, and how the hard parts of life don't go away over summer break.
It's Not Summer Without You (Summer, book #2) Released April 5th, 2010
We'll Always Have Summer (Summer, book #3) To be released May 3rd, 2011
Find Janeny Han Janeny Han / Blog / Twitter Purchase The Summer I Turned Pretty Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble
Book Trailer
*If you purchase from Amazon or The Book Depository through the links provided a small percentage of the sales will go to me. Any money from this is used for shipping costs during giveaways.
"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
The Book of Broken Hearts by Sarah Ockler Published: Simon Pulse (May 21st, 2013) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 352 pages Rating: 3 of 5 stars Summary: When all signs point to heartbreak, can love still be a rule of the road? A poignant and romantic novel from the author of Bittersweet and Twenty Boy Summer.
Jude has learned a lot from her older sisters, but the most important thing is this: The Vargas brothers are notorious heartbreakers. She’s seen the tears and disasters that dating a Vargas boy can cause, and she swore an oath—with candles and a contract and everything—to never have anything to do with one.
Now Jude is the only sister still living at home, and she’s spending the summer helping her ailing father restore his vintage motorcycle—which means hiring a mechanic to help out. Is it Jude’s fault he happens to be cute? And surprisingly sweet? And a Vargas?
Jude tells herself it’s strictly bike business with Emilio. Her sisters will never find out, and Jude can spot those flirty little Vargas tricks a mile away—no way would she fall for them. But Jude’s defenses are crumbling, and if history is destined to repeat itself, she’s speeding toward some serious heartbreak… unless her sisters were wrong?
Jude may have taken an oath, but she’s beginning to think that when it comes to love, some promises might be worth breaking.
Review:
This was a really cute book. Something that is an easy read and can be devoured quickly. Jude has 3 older sisters and she's the only one still at home. It's the beginning of summer and Jude should be enjoying it with her friends. Instead, she's stuck helping her mom take care of her dad, who was recently diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease.
Jude definitely portrays being the baby of the family well. She feels the burden of being left at home, alone, and being her parent's last hope, in many ways. She's all they have left and she's really amerced herself into this job. She has a difficult time realizing the severity of her father's diagnosis.
Soon she think that if they are able to fix his old bike that maybe it will help him cope, or even get better. She finds a guy to help and it sure doesn't hurt that he's so hot: ) But there's a catch, he's a Vargas. Jude's sisters have had some bad history with his family. They've gotten their hearts broken one too many times and they don't want her to go through the same fate.
This book is"cute" in many ways. Even though it has a deep meaning based around family and dealing with a disease, it's a nice romance too. I just couldn't fully get into it. I didn't buy the fact that this"oath" was such a big deal. I also didn't really enjoy all the flashbacks and found that I started skipping a few.
My favorite part was getting to know Emilio. He was such a great character and I felt he made Jude a better person. Someone who could deal with what was going on around her instead of being in denial.
I think I've read all of Sarah's books and while this one wasn't my favorite, it's still a good book to check out.
Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe Omnific Publishing (January 10th, 2012) Paperback: 159 pages Reading Level: Young Adult Source: Author/Publisher Rating: 5 of 5 stars It’s the year 2040, and sixteen-year-old Dez Harkly is one of the last of her kind—part of a nearly extinct race of shape-shifters descended from guardians to the Egyptian pharaohs. Her home and her secret are threatened when the Council lowers the barrier, allowing the enemy race to enter the Shythe haven.
As the Narcolym airships approach, Dez and her friends rebel against their Council and secretly train for battle. Not only is Dez wary of war and her growing affection for her best friend Jace, but she fears the change her birthday will bring. When Dez’s newfound power rockets out of control, it’s a Narcolym who could change her fate… if she can trust him.
Dez’s guarded world crumbles when she discovers why the Narcos have really come to Haven Falls, and she's forced to choose between the race who raised her and the enemy she's feared her whole life. Review: I must say that I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book. I knew I loved Trisha's writing from what I read in her short story Unveiled, but this was my first time reading a steampunk novel. But as soon as I started reading, all my worries flew away. Destiny's Fire grabbed me on page 1. Literally, and if you've read the book, you know why! Immediately in the story we meet Dez and the triplets — Jace, Lana, and Nick. We learn about their world in 2040 where the Narcolym are coming to start mingling with the Shythe. No one really likes this idea, especially Jace. Dez and the triplets train for a battle they feel will be inevitable.
As I mentioned, steampunk is new to me and I thought I would be completely confused by the terms. I should have factored in Trisha's fabulousness. She made it exciting! She completely described this foreign world to me in a way that helped me truly visualize it. It all made sense!
Dez was incredible. She was such a strong character and she really cared about her friends. This is all tested when Reese, a Narcolym, pushes his way into the picture. Jace and Reese do not get along, at all! Due to all of this conflict, Jace finally stars showing his feelings for Dez and she tries to see what is stronger, her feelings for her best friend or her best friend's new enemy. Drama! Reese is more than he seems though, and he shows Dez a part of her past that she didn't know existed.
Jace or Reese, Jace or Reese. It's like picking cake or ice cream. Trisha created the type of love triangle I adore. I could see the pull for each guy and they both did have a downside. No one was perfect and between Jace's temper and Reese's secrets, I could see the conflict Dez had between them.
The plot and action Trisha created in this story was also an unexpected turn. There was a great back-story, a lot of manipulation, and a powerful Council that both races had to deal with. I felt like I was thrown headfirst into this intense battle and I loved every minute of it! Dealing with all the craziness really helped Dez grow as a person. It was as if she was 3 years older by the end of the book.
I was very satisfied with how everything wrapped up but I gotta have book 2 soon!! Who can resist reading more of a wonderful story with a sizzling romantic love triangle? Not me!
Destiny's Fire gave me a taste of something new and I'm hooked! I can't wait to read more from Trisha Wolfe and see where she takes these characters next.
Recommended: Paranormal/steampunk readers or anyone who wants a taste of steampunk. Also, anyone who just loves a lot of drama, action, and hotness.
Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have) by Sarah Mlynowski Publisher: HaperTeen (June 7th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 368 pages Source: Publisher Rating: 5 of 5 stars
2 girls + 3 guys + 1 house – parents = 10 things April and her friends did that they (definitely, maybe, probably) shouldn't have. If given the opportunity, what sixteen-year-old wouldn't jump at the chance to move in with a friend and live parent-free? Although maybe"opportunity" isn't the right word, since April had to tell her dad a tiny little untruth to make it happen (see #1:"Lied to Our Parents"). But she and her housemate Vi are totally responsible and able to take care of themselves. How they ended up"Skipping School" (#3),"Throwing a Crazy Party" (#8),"Buying a Hot Tub" (#4), and, um,"Harboring a Fugitive" (#7) at all is kind of a mystery to them. Review: This is just the perfect summer read! It will have you laughing from the start and thinking that maybe living with a friend at age 16 is more complicated than first imagined. April learns that her dad and step-mom are moving and she panics. She doesn't want to leave her town, her friends, or her boyfriend. Her and her friend Vi come up with a plan that seems perfect.or… maybe not.
April begins living at Vi's house, even though her mom is away doing a play. April's dad doesn't know this, of course, and the entire time he thinks his daughter is being well cared for. Obviously, as we can imagine, April and Vi have a blast living together. They throw parties, buy a hot tub, skip school. Ya know, all the fun stuff! But all of this turns out to be a little too much for April to juggle at once.
April was a wonderful young character. She wasn't too extreme on any level --not too good, or too bad. She's what I picture as a very typical teenage girl. Vi is a little more adventurous and she brings out some of the wild side in April. They talk about everything possible and even the hard issues of love, sex, and family. In many ways they soon had a sisterly bond, which was exactly what they both needed.
Noah was April's first love and they had been together for 2 years. Noah isn't thrilled with April's living arrangements and they eventually start having issues in their relationship. But, there is much more to Noah than meets the eye. I was pretty surprised by some of the revelations that took place throughout the book. But, I could see why April fell for him and how it would seem they were the perfect pair.
Which then brings me to Mr. Awesome-- Hudson. Ahh, he was like a breath of fresh air. Hudson has to be one of the sweetest male characters I've ever seen in a book. His maturity and kind nature helped April see another side of things.
When I picked up this book I was looking for a light read with great characters and a funny plot. This fit that perfectly! Although it does contain some very serious issues and lessons, I was laughing out loud many times during the book and wishing I could go back to high school just to have fun like that again. Not that I did the 10 things they did.but, ya know.: )
If you are looking for a book that has teen drama, romance, and hilarious situations, pick up Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have). You won't regret it!
Find Sarah Mlynowski Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook
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Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins Publisher: Scholastic Press (August 24th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 390 pages Series: The Hunger Games book #3 Rating: 4 of 5 stars Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what’s worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Not Katniss’s family, not her friends, not the people of District 12. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins’s groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year. Review: This is late but I did want to share my thoughts on the last book of The Hunger Games trilogy. I normally try to stay away from spoilers in reviews but with this one it was pretty difficult to do that. Suzanne Collins created a world that many could have never imagined, but through her words she painted a picture of Panem, its districts, and the characters that live there. This series captured so many who fell in love with Katniss, Peeta, Gale and the others who make up this incredible story.
The way Suzanne Collins tells a story blows me away. She isn't afraid to talk about difficult topics or show the hard facts of violence. The depth and heartache of her characters can be felt on each page. Mockingjay continued with the pattern we saw in the previous books and carried on with the story of Katniss as she struggles with everything going on around her.
* Spoilers * Mockingjay, like the other books in The Hunger Games series, deals with war, violence, and loss. These difficult topics are handled in a way that I can only describe as"real". I did completely enjoy this book and it kept me gripped to the pages but I don't feel totally satisfied after reading it. Even with that, I gave it 4 stars because it goes so far beyond typical books and the story is still one of the best I have ever read.
First, the characters seemed more"disconnected" to me. They had very little interaction, and when they did, it was awkward or seemed forced. I missed the love Katniss had for Peeta and Gale. I didn't see the passion, the commitment, the fire that was in the previous books. I think the main reason for that was Katniss. She seemed depressed (which was completely understandable after all she had been through); however, I thought it made things a little more difficult to follow. At times the book skipped entire parts because she was gone or unconscious. She just seemed on autopilot.
The only spark of enjoyment I saw was with her interaction with Finnick. I truly enjoyed Finnick's character and the life he gave to the story. Mockingjay was so focused on the war and violence, I felt it lacked in personal enjoyment. I do understand that in Katniss's case little can be enjoyed, but for me, I needed something to hope for throughout the book.
Now, for the ending. I didn't mind the story of the Epilogue and thought it ended nicely, however, where was Gale? It was like they said"oh, he works somewhere else now." and POOF he was forgotten. I am Team Peeta all the way but c'mon, Gale was Katniss's best friend for years! He can't just be forgotten like that. Where's the Gale love?
Now, don't get me wrong, I truly loved the book! I just felt that The Hunger Games and Catching Fire created a story that just didn't seem to go as well with this one. Plus, final books carry a certain expectation and it can be difficult to find closure at the end of any series. I'm still a total Hunger Games fan and would read anything Suzanne Collins wrote. This story portrays many harsh realities that are not seen in other YA books and she did this with an incredible grace. Katniss is one of my favorite characters of all time and her fire and courage is beyond comparison.
USE GOOGLE to read a guest post by Leah Cypess on the Mockingjay Epilogue.
Find out more on Suzanne Collins and her books Suzanne Collins / Scholastic The Hunger Games
Buy from: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble
2011 is off to a great start at Miss Remmers' Review! I read nine books this month and wrote over 30 posts. I not only took on all forms of bullying, but also admitted to being a stuck up snob and to being addicted to technology. I found out that I will making an appearance in Denise Jaden's next novel (author of "Losing Faith "), and that I was expecting! Soon after that particular discovery — I delivered! Talk about an exciting month! Books Read:
How to Say Goodbye in Robot
When the Stars Go Blue
Cryer's Cross
Nocturne
Outside In
Inside Out
Beasts and BFF's
Change of Heart
Wake
Delirium
Challenge Updates Dystopian Challen ge — 3 of 15 Audiobook Challenge -.5 of 12 iChallenge — 1 of 10 Off the Shelf Challenge — 5 of 76 100+ Reading Challenge — 9 of 100 eBook Challenge — 2 of 12 Top YA Challenge — 3 of 25+ Debut Author Challenge — 0 of 12
January 2011 Stats 6,579 Page Views 150+ New Followers
Favorite January 2011 Read
My favorite January read was hands down DELIRIUM by Lauren Oliver (released TODAY!) — but close behind were WAKE by Lisa McMann, CRYER'S CROSS by Lisa McMann, and NOCTURNE by Syrie James. If you haven't read Oliver, McMann, or James yet you definitely need to make a goal of it for February! Fantastic reads!
The Last Echo by Kimberly Derting Publisher: HarperCollins (April 17th, 2012) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 358 pages Source: ARC from Publisher Series: The Body Finder #3 Rating: 5 of 5 stars In the end, all that's left is an echo… Violet kept her morbid ability to sense dead bodies a secret from everyone except her family and her childhood-best-friend-turned-boyfriend, Jay Heaton. That is until forensic psychologist Sara Priest discovered Violet's talent and invited her to use her gift to track down murderers. Now, as she works with an eclectic group of individuals—including mysterious and dangerously attractive Rafe—it's Violet's job to help those who have been murdered by bringing their killers to justice. When Violet discovers the body of a college girl killed by"the girlfriend collector" she is determined to solve the case. But now the serial killer is on the lookout for a new"relationship" and Violet may have caught his eye…
Review:
I have adored Kimberly Derting for years and her Body Finder series was one of my first paranormal loves. I remember finishing Desires of the Dead and desperately wanting to read the next book just to see what would be in store for Violet and her new job with the mysterious Rafe and the rest of the psychic team led by Sara Priest. Not that I would ever want Violet to forget about Jay (impossible as that would be), but it's always nice to throw something new in there and see what happens.
We all know Violet can see imprints of the dead and it helps her to find out who committed the murder. Now Violet has found others with unique abilities as well. Finally, Violet is able to get to know others who know what she is going through. She doesn't have to keep the big secret all bottled up as she had in the past. She spends more and more time with this group and it takes her a while to feel part of it. She worries about the purpose of her ability, but soon finds her place and appreciates the fact that these individuals know what she has been going through.
I did miss Jay a lot in this story. It seems that as the series progresses, we can really see Violet mature and notice how her situations mature as well. She is no longer a girl worried about high school issues, she has an important job to do. Her situations are much more dark and scary.
If there is one thing I know about Kimberly, she can sure come up with some creepy characters! In The Last Echo we meet"The Girlfriend Collector" and wow, he is very sinister and disturbing. One very unique factor in this series is that we get the point-of-view of the killers. We may not know who they are exactly, but we get a glimpse into their minds and see how they pick out and treat their victims. This particular character wishes for someone to love him and when they don't, he gets rid of them.
If I was Kimberly, I wouldn't be able to sleep at night after writing this stuff, eek! Definitely a book that kept my heart racing and my eyes darting around making sure no one is lurking in the dark. I think Kimberly must really enjoy knowing her readers are absolutely terrified and sleeping with a night light after reading her stories.
If you have been lucky enough to get your hands on the first 2 books in this series, you will devour this one as well. Kimberly Derting never fails to rise to the occasion and bring us heart pounding action, unique plot twists, and a brilliant romance. Delightfully chilling! I can't wait to get my hands on the next installment!
Recommended: Anyone looking for a YA that is truly terrifying! Be sure to start by reading The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead so you don't miss a second of the action!
Today is the official kick-off of the 4th leg of the Dark Days tour! Kimberly Derting will be visiting my blog next Tuesday, the 10th, with an interview and giveaway so please stop back by!
Schedule for leg 4
4/3 — Kimberly Derting at Confessions of a Bookaholic 4/5 — Jill Hathaway at Down the Rabbit Hole 4/10 — Kimberly Derting at Confessions of a Bookaholic 4/12 — Jill Hathaway at Down the Rabbit Hole 4/17 — Dan Wells at Bookalicious
See the authors in person
Kimberly Derting (THE LAST ECHO), Jill Hathaway (SLIDE), and Dan Wells (PARTIALS) April 18th @ 7pm | Books & Co | Dayton, OH | Supernatural Snark April 19th @ 7pm | Anderson’s Bookshop | Naperville, IL | Live to Read April 20th @ 7pm | Barnes & Noble | Burlington, MA | Books Complete Me
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Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers (August 16th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardback: 336 pages Source: Publisher Series: Perfect Chemistry #3 Rating: 5 of 5 stars Luis Fuentes has always been sheltered from the gang violence that nearly destroyed his brothers’ lives. But that didn’t stop him from taking risks—whether he’s scaling a mountain in the Rockies or dreaming of a future as an astronaut, Luis can’t stop looking for the next thrill.
Nikki Cruz lives her life by three rules—boys lie to get their way, don’t trust a boy who says “I love you,” and never date a boy from the south side of Fairfield. Her parents may be from Mexico, but as a doctor’s daughter, she has more in common with her north-side neighbors than the Latino Blood at her school. Then she meets Luis at Alex’s wedding, and suddenly, she’s tempted to break all her rules.
Getting Nikki to take a chance on a southsider is Luis’s biggest challenge, until he finds himself targeted by Chuy Soto, the new head of the Latino Blood. When Chuy reveals a disturbing secret about Luis’s family, the youngest Fuentes finds himself questioning everything he’s ever believed to be true. Will his feelings for Nikki be enough to stop Luis from entering a dark and violent world and permanently living on the edge?
Review: What can I really say about this series when I'm sure you have all heard how epically awesome it is? If you haven't picked up Perfect Chemistry, do it! This series is one of my all-time favorites and I'm amazed at how Simone Elkeles tells a story. Chain Reaction is packed with passion, danger, and characters you will quickly grow to love.
Chain Reaction introduces us to the youngest of the Fuentes boys, Luis. Aww, Luis is just such a heartwarming character. One of the best things about this series is that we never have to say goodbye to the previous characters. Their stories carry onto the next books flawlessly even though the focus is on a different character. So if you are a fan of Alex and Carlos, don't worry, they are in here as well.
Luis was always the good Fuentes boy. He's smart, determined, and hopeful when it comes to his future. To Luis, nothing is more important than his family and we can easily see the love he has for his mother and brothers. The chapters alternate from Luis's point of view to Nikki's. This is something I really enjoyed throughout the series because sometimes books add too many POV's and it all gets confusing. Simone keeps readers' attention right where it should be.
Nikki has been hurt badly in the past by a boy from the wrong side of town. She has closed herself off from boys in an attempt to keep from getting hurt again. If there is one thing she knows, it's to never date a gang member. But Luis comes in with his unique personality and changes her way of thinking about guys in general. Maybe things are more complicated than they seem when it comes to the gangs. On one hand Luis seems like a typical teenage boy, and on the other he comes off as much more mature and level-headed. For Nikki, it is the first time someone gets through the walls she has built around herself and it scares her.
Of course, like Simone's previous books in this series, the gang is never far away and it seemed that even though Luis wants nothing to do with them, they are after him. The way Simone is able to represent the life of a gang member never fails to amaze me. You can feel the danger and the fear of the characters. The conflict and drama seems so real that it's impossible to not have your heart racing as you read.
As Luis and Nikki try to build their relationship, it seems that danger is always lurking nearby and Luis can't let Nikki get hurt. He is all too familiar with what the gang can do when they don't get their way.
Chain Reaction couldn't have presented a better conclusion for this heartpounding, fiercely romantic series. Simone Elkeles delivers a forbidden romance story in a way I have never witnessed before. Full of intriguing characters, action-packed drama, and alluring romance, the Perfect Chemistry series should not be passed up! You will have no choice but to fall in love with the Fuentes boys.
This woman <---- is outstanding… but also cruel.; ) She caused me to have a huge reading slump because nothing I've read since reading her books Beyond and Two Suns have compared. *sigh*.
If you are looking for a book totally different, you have to check out this series. I read them in just a few days and now I can't wait till book 3 comes out!
Maureen was kind enough to stop by and tell us a little about the series and you can read an excerpt from Beyond.
1. BEYOND shows readers such a complex"world". How did you first get inspired to write this story?
When I was a little girl I watched all the 'space' shows, and I had a crush on every hero. I dreamed that one of them would come take me from my back yard, away on a wild adventure in space, and that we would fall madly in love. When this never actually occurred and I learned that I was stuck on Earth for the rest of my life, the 'dream' started to turn into a story.
2. What's the hardest part of working on a book where different planets have various elements (like time changes, atmospheres, creatures)? Your imagination is your greatest asset or your greatest foe. The concept of"time" was tricky. I was more than willing to do the actual research and fly into space to see exactly how long five years would take, but NASA shut their space program down and Richard Branson said his Virgin Galactic plane was sold out for two years. So, I was left with my imagination.: ) One of my favorite creatures is the Sumpum. It has big squashy paws that sound like wet sponges slapping against a car when it walks. It was hard not to laugh at myself as I was writing this book. I'd say,"Come on, Maureen, seriously?" But it was so much fun.
3. For those who haven't read the book yet, can you share some characteristics about Aimee and Zak?
Aimee played the clarinet in marching band. She liked photography, vanilla-scented candles, and she had a copy of Engineering for Dummies on her desk. Maybe on Earth--in high school--those characteristics might have labeled her as a geek, or a loner. But when she is accidentally taken from this planet on board a spaceship that is bound for faraway galaxies, she is starting with a clean slate. No one knows her. Heck, vanilla-scented candles and engineering students might be considered awesome in a foreign world. Not that Aimee really cares what they think. In this new world, there is so much for her to learn, and that is what truly motivates her… a thirst for knowledge.
Zak, (sigh). Zak is a loner for a completely different reason. He is aboard the guardian ship, Horus, but he is not one of them. He was also picked up from another planet. He is a warrior, possessing amazing piloting skills in his craft, the terra angel. Combine his hero and orphan status and you get a man that people feel awkward to approach. Yes, they idolize him, but in doing so, they never actually get to know him.
Oh, and he's hot too.: )
4. This book isn't just about Aimee and Zak. There are so many outstanding characters. I know it's hard to pick, but who do you really love writing about the most?
Without a doubt, it would have to be JOH. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't wish he actually existed, because I sure could use him around the house. JOH is brilliant, and yet remarkably like an eager puppy. He sees life from a very literal perspective. For example, when Aimee says,"JOH, thank God I found you." He responds,"I know of 9022 gods. Which one should I thank?"
5. Can you share a teaser with us?
This is a scene where Aimee has stowed away on Zak's ship…
"Gayat!" Aimee didn't know what the word was, but it had to be one doozy of a curse from Zak’s native tongue. "Who is back there?" The English translation kicked in. She hesitated and then cleared her throat."It's Aimee." There was another muttered curse, followed by a smack against one of the boards. The craft jumped under each of Zak's jerky motions. Aimee knew he was mad, but she refused to cower. She just wanted to go home. A deeply drawn breath sounded and then he managed a composed voice."What are you doing on my ship?" Yeah, he was not happy. The notion nearly made her smile. "I didn't intend to stay on it," she defended."But I climbed in, and then the hatch closed, and then next thing I knew you were on board, and before I even had a chance to say, Zak, I'm here, whooosh, we were off into the cosmos. And then I thought—I thought that maybe I could convince you to fly this thing to Earth." A heavy silence loomed from the front seat. Aimee opened her mouth to add more, but snapped it shut when she heard him say,"Stop." "Stop what?" "Stop talking." She opened her mouth again, but snapped it shut as Zak swiped his hand on the side panel and she tumbled onto her side. "Dammit, you could give me some warning before you do that," she admonished. "If you were an approved passenger you would be secured in place, and I would not have to give you any warning." She hated it when people were right. "I have to concentrate," Zak continued."We're in the approach to Bordran and it is a tricky one. In this atmosphere, I'm unable to rely on the TA's automatic landing references. I have to do this manually—and I need quiet." Aimee held her tongue… for a second."Am I going to go flying through the windshield when you land this thing?" "Possibly," he grated. She thought she detected a grin in his response. It aggravated her because it was at her expense. She climbed up onto her knees and spread her hands out, laying her palms flat on each side of the craft for leverage. No longer concerned about being detected, she could now inch her chin up and look out the panoramic window. She gasped, startled to find that the green planet which had appeared so minuscule on the Horus, now dominated the right side of the craft and seemed only miles away. "It looks peaceful enough." Oh my God, she was about to land on a foreign planet! "What you are seeing is a thick cloud of gas. The planet is far beneath that ring, and the voyage through that vapor is not an easy one. So yes, you could quite possibly end up going through the windshield. Fortunately, the windshield is made of a composite strong enough to withstand tremendous air pressure, as well significant fluctuations in temperature." He hesitated while maneuvering the craft, and then added,"And catapulting young women." "Is there anything I can do?" she cried, oblivious to his sarcasm. "In front of you there should be a symbol that looks like a—" "A circle with a line through it?" "Yes. That one. Run your finger along the line, and back up a bit." "Run my finger along the line and then back up?" she asked."Or back up and reach forward and run my finger along the line?" The sigh was unmistakable from the front seat. "Either. If something hits you, then move."
Beyond by Maureen A. Miller Published: October 2012 Paperback: 302 pages Series: Beyond series, #1 Summary: It is the day after Aimee Patterson’s high school graduation. College beckons, as does her dream of becoming an engineer. On an early evening walk, her cocker spaniel charges into the woods on the other side of the pond. Aimee trails after him, and in the stillness of that forest the unthinkable happens. She becomes paralyzed and watches in horror as her hands vanish before her eyes.
Waking to the sound of voices, Aimee realizes that she has been kidnapped. Little does she know how far away from home she is, though. In an attempt to flee her captors, she launches from their confines only to freeze at the view outside the window. The sky is black and filled with stars, and in the distance is a familiar blue globe. The planet Earth.
A group of humans forced to flee their planet after an epidemic destroyed their civilization now travel the galaxies in search of an antidote. Retrieving samples of plant life from every solar system, on this occasion Aimee was accidentally seized instead.
Aimee must learn to avoid the advances of an awkward young scientist who seems intent on dissecting her, as her own fascination turns to the exotic young warrior, Zak. Having fallen in love with Zak, she is now torn with the decision to return to Earth or live beyond the stars.
1. You have written about characters ranging from psychics, aliens, and ghosts to clones. Where did you first get your interest in the paranormal? When I was little I loved to watch any TV shows with magical characters; witches, ghosts, superheroes. I’ve always felt like there was more to life than what we see and was intrigued by psychics who claimed to know about the Otherside. I like to hear lots of different opinions so I can decide for myself what is possible. 2. In the Dead Girl trilogy, Amber finds herself jumping into other bodies, what would you do if you had that ability? Tough questions because I’m basically a nice person who wouldn’t want to cause trouble for anyone else. But I also would love to live a lot of different experiences; to really understand other people and lifestyles. So I might jump into different bodies for quick trips, like getting in a car and taking a weekend vacation. But I’d always return to my real life and self because I like who I am.
3. The Dead Girl trilogy has now been optioned for TV. What did it feel like when you heard the news? If it were completely up to you, who would you cast in the show?
I was thrilled that a small production company bought the option and I hope they’ll go to the next step and make a pilot. That would be amazing! I have to be realistic, though, and accept that most options don’t go very far. Still if I could choose, I’d love for the producers to cast all unknowns (except maybe for the adult parts – it would be cool to have some major stars as parents, teachers, etc.). But when I create characters, they don’t look like anyone on TV to me. The images in my head are of unique people that I’ve created. Like Amber has curly dark hair, a pretty smile but otherwise average shape and looks, maybe a little hippy. I’d love to see who the producers would cast.
4. The Magician’s Muse is book
6 in The Seer series but it is out three years after book. Was there a reason for the longer wait for this book? Yeah, the reason was the editor and publisher felt that five books are enough. They hired me to write the DEAD GIRL trilogy and I worked on that for 2 years. I really wanted to write another SEER, though, and when I had the chance to propose one more book, I was thrilled when they agreed. So I did my best to put in mystery, murder, romance, danger, and an ending that ties up lots of plots. It’s out Oct. 1st. Then in 2011 there’s a spin-off with Thorn as a main character solving a murder mystery. 5. What projects do you have in the works right now? I’m finished rewrites for a middle-grade novel then I hope to write another Thorn book. No word yet, though, if Flux will ask for another one. If they don’t, there’s a futurist book I’d like to write. I always have at least one book churning in my brain. And next year I have two essays in YA anthologies coming out, which excites me. One is a Harper non-profit book about bullying where YA authors share stories, poems, experiences, etc. The other is GIRL ON FIRE, an anthology about HUNGER GAMES with 13 YA authors writing essays on the trilogy. I’m so honored to be included in these books and can’t wait for them to come out.
Magician's Muse by Linda Joy Singleton Publisher: Flux (October 1st, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Series: The Seer, book #6 The Final Book in Linda Joy Singleton's Popular Paranormal Series, The Seer
A whisper, too soft to swirl wispy candle smoke, carried across time, beyond life and death—and was heard."Our bargain is sealed. My secrets will be yours-when the girl dies."
In the thrilling climax to The Seer series, Sabine's psychic abilities, sleuthing skills, and courage are pushed to a dangerous edge as she deals with the mysterious disappearance of her ex-boyfriend Josh, a new threat against her boyfriend Dominic, evil magicians (both living and dead)—and a coldblooded murder.
To find out more about Linda Joy Singleton Linda Joy Singleton / Blog / Goodreads / Twitter
Purchase Magician's Muse Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository
I will be giving away a signed copy of Magician's Muse during the tour!
The Dark Divine by Bree Despain Publisher: EgmontUSA (December 22nd, 2009) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardback: 372 pages Source: Won from author Series: The Dark Divine #1 Rating: 5 of 5 stars Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared--the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in his own blood--but she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night held.
The memories her family has tried to bury resurface when Daniel returns, three years later, and enrolls in Grace and Jude's high school. Despite promising Jude she'll stay away, Grace cannot deny her attraction to Daniel's shocking artistic abilities, his way of getting her to look at the world from new angles, and the strange, hungry glint in his eyes.
The closer Grace gets to Daniel, the more she jeopardizes her life, as her actions stir resentment in Jude and drive him to embrace the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind the boy's dark secret… and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it--her soul. Review: I don't know why I waited so long to read this. I'm a big werewolf fan and this is a book I have wanted to read for a long time. The Dark Divine is from Grace's POV. She is a"good girl" with a loving family and her father happens to be a pastor. But, there is a lot going on behind the scenes.
Grace recalls the odd events that happened around the time her childhood friend Daniel disappeared. Suddenly, Daniel is back and he isn't exactly the same person who left 3 years before. Grace's family is desperate for her to stay away from him but she can't. She is determined to have him in her life and to find out why he went away.
I will say that nothing in particular about this book blew me away; however, it was a very well-rounded story. I enjoyed the characters. I never wanted to put the book down and I had no idea where the plot would take me. Grace was a good girl but she took a lot of risks. Daniel was just fascinating. I was curious to find out more about him because he started off as being very closed off and sad.
Another aspect of the story I really enjoyed was the fact that Grace's family was a critical part of the plot. That is often rare to find in YA books so I liked the fact that we get to know her father, mother, and older brother on a deeper level. It also allows the readers to see why Grace is who she is.
With Daniel's arrival, a lot of bad things start happening around town and people are blaming Daniel. Grace knows something evil is out there but she just can't believe Daniel would be the one causing the problems. The plot in this story was very creative and mysterious. I honestly didn't know what would happen and I was completely surprised many times.
Bree Despain is a fabulous author and The Dark Divine series is one that easily hooked me. Everything about this novel helped to bring the story to life and Bree's writing made me an immediate fan.
Recommended: In case anyone hasn't read this so far — paranormal/werewolf fans who like a good mystery.
Devotion by Kristie Cook Publisher: Ang'dora Publishing (February 10th, 2012) Paperback: 374 pages Reading Level: 17+ Adult Source: Author (Thank You!) Series: Soul Savers #3 Rating: 5 of 5 stars With powerful abilities gained from the Ang’dora and Tristan back by her side, Alexis thinks she’s ready for the next challenge—protecting her son from what appears to be the inevitable. But she has so much to learn about her powers, her new world and the people in it. Nothing is what it seems to be on the surface, including the Amadis. Having believed the secret society to be definitively good and righteous, she discovers she couldn’t have been more wrong.
Power-hungry politicians comprise the council and make impossible demands. A traitor lurks among them all, inciting trouble that could destroy the Amadis and, ultimately, humanity. The Daemoni wreak havoc in the human world, with the ultimatum that they’ll continue attacking innocents until Alexis and Tristan are expelled from the Amadis’ protection. The couple’s own society begins to shut them out. But that’s not all.
There’s a secret. A big one. And faith and hope in Alexis and Tristan will be restored if she can uncover the truth in time.
But the search for answers leads only to the discovery of more betrayals by those closest to Alexis. Her devotion is put to the test—devotion to her husband, to her family, to her people and to her beliefs—leaving her to question whom she’s fighting for and why she should even bother. But if she won’t fight … who will? Review: Ah, and the epicness continues! If you haven't read the first 2 books in this series, run and do that! Then come back and read this review.: ) This series continues to amaze me. I'm not sure how Kristie keeps up with it all because this series creates such a complex world. The characters, the history, the action — all written with amazing clarity and creativity.
In Devotion, Tristan returns to us! Er, I mean Alexis. They have a moment to be a family and to be happy at last. But that time is brief. Alexis is going through a wide range of emotions. She is dealing with a new power that she isn't able to completely control, and there is a possibility that someone close to her could be betraying her. As she struggles to deal with the person she is now, and the good and bad of having her husband by her side, she discovers more about the Amadis and what could happen to her family. The last thing she wants is for them to be ripped apart again so she fights with everything she can in order to stop what most see as inevitable.
Devotion brings in a lot more characters (I'M ONE OF THEM!). Most of them are political-types who are not open to change within their rules. Then there are a few that are just insanely hot and awesome (ME! Or, at least the fictional me that is insanely hot and awesome). There is a lot of back and forth struggle and Alexis is in the middle of it all. One thing I love about this series is that Alexis truly takes the lead. Tristan is there, but he's more of a support for her. Alexis is the one with the power (as it should be!) and she is the glue holding everything together. Another great thing about this book was that it isn't all sunshine and roses for Alexis and Tristan once they are together. They argue and struggle with how to settle into married life.
And I can't review this book without mentioning Owen. (Did I mention that I get to interact with Owen.yes, me, the character, in the book, with my friend Lisa… ). Poor Owen has a lot to deal with in Devotion. I'm begging Kristie for a spin-off with him and his favorite faeries (me and Lisa!).
The Soul Savers series grabs you and refuses to let go! I guarantee a few sleepless nights, racing hearts, and inappropriate fantasies while reading these books. This is the perfect series for paranormal fans who want to plunge into a world featuring a struggle between good and evil, an insanely strong heroine, and a plot that will keep you guessing.
Recommended: Adult readers. Anyone who loves paranormal and a really smokin' hot romance.
Poughkeepsie by Debra Anastasia Publisher: Omnific Publishing (November 22nd, 2011) Adult: 17+ Paperback: 384 pages Source: Author/Publisher Rating: 4 of 5 stars He counts her smiles every day and night at the train station. And morning and evening, the beautiful commuter acknowledges him—just like she does everyone else on the platform. But Blake Hartt is not like the others.. he’s homeless. Memories of a broken childhood have robbed him of peace and twisted delusions into his soul. He stays secluded from the sun, sure the world would run from him in the harsh light of day.
Each day, Livia McHugh smiles politely and acknowledges her fellow commuters as she waits for the train to the city. She dismisses this kindness as nothing special, just like her. She’s the same as a million other girls—certainly no one to be cherished. But special or not, she smiles every day, never imagining that someone would rely on the simple gesture as if it were air to breathe.
When the moment comes that Livia must do more than smile, without hesitation she steps into the fray to defend the homeless man. And she's surprised to discover an inexplicable connection with her new friend. After danger subsides, their smiles become conversation. Their words usher in a friendship, which awakens something in each of them. But it’s not long before their bond must prove its strength. Entanglements from the past challenge both their love and their lives.
Blake’s heart beats for Livia’s, even if her hands have to keep its rhythm. Love is patient. Love is kind. Love never fails. Love never fails, right? Review: First, I'll say that this is, for sure, an adult novel! It is very raw, emotional, and heartbreaking in so many ways. I wasn't sure what to expect with this book but wow, I was blown away. Honestly, I think it could have easily been 3 different books. It was very complex with a ton of amazing characters and plot-lines going on at once.
I assumed from the summary that this book was mostly about Blake and Livia — I was wrong. It was so much more than that. Blake and Livia are only 1/10th of what's in this story. Poughkeepsie does start with the focus on Blake and Livia. Livia is so kind-hearted and she tries to care for Blake (who is homeless) in any way that he will let her. Their connection was simple but deep.
Through their relationship, we are introduced to several other main characters and that is when the story goes in a bunch of different directions. My favorite character was Beckett. Beckett is Blake's brother (through adoption) and he is incredibly protective. He is not the most moral person in the world but he does what he feels necessary in order to protect the people around him. He is dangerous, intimidating, and hot!
Although we meet a ton of characters in this story, I was easily able to keep up. Each character and POV held my attention. They were not"throw away" people that you forget about after the book is finished. I still remember each one and loved what they brought to the story.
My only tiny complaint with this book was just that I think it may have been better as a series. I wanted MORE. Maybe each brother should have had their own book? Mostly just so it could have been more drawn out and developed. Poughkeepsie is non-stop action and drama but maybe having a few books could have let each relationship shine a little more on their own.
Poughkeepsie is emotional and realistic. Each character has had their own struggles and they turned into their own version of a family. I highly enjoyed reading this story and I can't wait to read more from Debra Anastasia!
Recommended: ADULTS looking for a fabulous contemporary novel with a lot of grit and honesty.
1. I read that you grew up in California and your grandfather had a vineyard. What was a typical day like for you as a child hanging out in the vineyard?
I played a lot amongst the vines. They were planted in rows and it was fun to run through them. I would sit in the little ditches under the vines and snack off the grapes. There weren’t any kids my age, so I made up stories to keep me busy. The vineyard was sold when my grandfather died, now houses are in its spot. Sorta sad. But nothing last forever. 2. You wrote a lot as a child. Can you share one of those story ideas and would you ever bring one of them back for a “possible book” idea? I have a story with a girl with a photographic memory. I wrote it in High School. It’s took place in the near future then 2000. Not sure, if I’d write it or edit it. I have so many projects swirling around in my head; it’s a matter of finding the time to work on them. Ideas were never my problem. It’s time that’s my enemy.
3. I saw that you are a fan of Janesen Ackles (me too, since his time on Days of our Lives), but if you could choose what stars could play the Freakvilles characters Kasey and Josh, who would you choose? Oh, yes he was great as Eric Brady. I liked him on Dark Angel, too. Big fan girl, never met him though. Hum, casting FREAKSVILLE is hard. Would need someone who is 16 and can do a British Accent for Josh. No clue there… Not Pattison, he’s too well known as Edward. Kasey would be harder. Maybe Emma Stone? It would have to be someone with a quirky spunk. 4. What is your favourite thing to do to relax after a hard day of writing?
Relax what’s that? Since selling FREAKSVILLE my life has been pretty crazy.
5. Can you share with us what you are working on right now?
Really rough unedited teaser? This isn’t final but it’s a scene taken from FURRY & FREAKED, book two. I really like Ruby and Kasey. They play off each other in a fun way. They are complete opposites but common goals bring them together as friends. Ruby is blunt, she’ll tell you how it is, and everyone needs somebody like that. I think this is somewhere in chapter five… Kasey is alone at her new school. Valkyrie is Ruby’s pet name for her. You’ll have to read the series to find out what it means. **** Chairs screeched signalling the mass exodus of the final bell and end of the school day. I hung back pretending to dig through my backpack waiting for the last student to leave the classroom. I didn’t want to run into Clay and his gang. I’m not one to hightail it from ghosts or teenage werewolves but, heckling was something I was never good at swallowing. “You’re going to miss the bus, Valkyrie.” I nearly jumped out of my skin as Ruby materialized next to me. Her jet black hair was pulled into two short pigtails streaked with navy blue. She ran her hands down her black and navy plaid pegged leg pants studded with massive amounts of safety pins, until, she came to a zipper and proceeded to remove a mint, not before blowing a piece of lint off it first. “Here,” She said thrusting it my way. “I don’t want it. No telling how long it’s been there. You died in the seventies, right?” I replied hoisting the backpack over my shoulder as I ignored my personal poltergeist. As I weaved in and out of the desks until I was out of the classroom and in the hall. Ruby followed with her blue combat boots hovering an inch or so above the floor. “As if, 1988. Take it or I’ll cram it down your throat! Don’t think I won’t do it. Your breath smells like something died.” She took a step closer and sniffed, curling her upper lip in disgust."I stand corrected you reek. What’s in the backpack? A body?” “Could be, if you keep it up.” Ruby and I had this little verbal wits match. I really liked that about her. *** Furry & Freaked, Kitty Keswick
Freaksville by Kitty Keswick Publisher: Leap Books (January 8th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 328 pages Series: Freaksville, book #1 High school is hard enough when you’re normal. There’s peer pressure, book reports, the in crowd and the enormous zit that has a life of its own. Having a family whose skeletons in the closet lean toward the paranormal is not a topper on anyone’s list. Sophomore Kasey Maxwell is busy juggling the typical teen angst. Add visions, ghosts and hairy four-legged monsters into the mix and you get FREAKSVILLE. It’s a wonder Kasey has survived.
Every woman in the Maxwell family has the gift of sight. A talent sixteen-year-old Kasey would gladly give up. All she wants is a normal life. Shopping and talking about boys with her best friend and long-time sidekick Gillie Godshall consume her days. Until Kasey has a vision about Josh Johnstone, the foreign exchange student from England. The vision leads her into new waters, a lead in a play, a haunted theater… and into the arms of the Josh. Yet, both Kasey and Josh have secrets lurking in dark corners. Can Kasey’s new romance survive FREAKSVILLE?
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