Yes, today is the release day of much anticipated novel "The Bodyfinder." I am SO excited!

Today is also the release day of "The Young Samurai II: The Way of the Sword" by Chris Bradford. Hyperion-Disney were kind enough to send me a copy of both book (one and two!) and Chris has even been working on a guest post for Miss Remmers' Review! So stay tuned in the coming weeks for some Samurai Awesomeness (I just made that up... ).

From Amazon.com...

"After a vicious ninja attack left him orphaned and stranded in Japan, Jack Fletcher managed to complete his first year of samurai school. Still, his troubles are far from over. The prejudice of his Japanese classmates has gained him dangerous enemies within his school, and Dragon Eye – the ninja who killed his father – is still after him. Jack’s only hope of defeating them lies in surviving the Circle of Three: an ancient ritual that tests a samurai’s courage, skill, and spirit to the limit.
For most, gaining entry into the Circle means honor and glory, but for Jack it’s a matter of life or death. The winner will be trained in the Two Heavens—the formidable sword technique of the great samurai, Masamoto. Learning this secret is the only hope Jack has of protecting his father’s rutter — the invaluable navigation guide of the world’s uncharted oceans — from Dragon Eye.
Forced into a deadly battle, Jack’s going to have to master the Way of the Sword. And his time is running out."

I'm the second stop on the White Flame tour for Jordan Deen's upcoming book Half Moon. If you'd like to visit the first stop it was with Reading Teen.
First I have an interview with Jordan and later today my review of Half Moon will be up. This series ROCKS by the way: ) I highly suggest it.
There are 12 stops on this tour and it all ends at Jordan's blog on Half Moon's release day, 1-13-11. All of the blogs on the tour are listed below.
There is also a giveaway and you could win… 'Half Moon' swag
Signed ARC of 'Half Moon'
$25 Barnes and Noble gift card
Leather Bound Bracelet

1. What did you learn between writing The Crescent and then Half Moon? What were the biggest differences in how you tackled this project?

When I started working on 'The Crescent' I was so green in the world of writing. The difference between the two novels is night and day. I think readers will notice the difference in my writing style between the two novels. The story is deeper, more detailed and the plot is richer. I hope readers appreciate the transformation the characters (and I've) gone through in the past year.

2. Can you give us a teaser as to what is in store for Lacey in Half Moon?

Lacey will learn more about her parents and her history. She'll get to meet some new people, including a few that she never thought possible.

3. Are there any scenes you had to take out of the story that you wish could have stayed in?
Yes. There was one scene that I had to remove, but not because of publisher demands. I removed it myself. I know that sounds crazy, however, I had to take out a scene between Lacey's new best friend (Brea) and her mate, (Catch), that didn't make since to put in at this point of the overall story. But don't fear, that scene is going to be in 'Full Moon'. I've already got it planned out.: )

4. You have recently had book signings and that has to be exciting! Can you tell us a little about that experience and if you have any more events coming up soon?
My first signing was nerveracking. The store was not ready for me and several people walked right past me, asked me where the restrooms were, picked up the book and said werewolves suck… yup- true story. However, you take the good with the bad. I had one girl come back after buying the book and told me the book was amazing. It was a great feeling. Plus, I've met some amazing people. Currently, my signings are on hold in preperation for 'Half Moon's release. I'll be starting signings again in March (fingers crossed).

5. Full Moon is the third book in this series. Does the writing seem easier or more difficult as you go?
This story has gotten easier and more difficult in many ways. Easier because I'm growing into each of the characters skin and harder because I know that this great story is coming to an end and I want the readers to be comfortable in the ending of the story. The struggle is to write to that point-- write to the ending, knowing that it's coming.

6. If you could use 3 words to describe the relationship between Lacey and Brandon, what would they be? And, what words do you think Lacey would use?
Only three word?! I'm a writer! What are you trying to do to me? Only 3? Okay-- in my opinion: heartbreaking, fated and natural. From Lacey's opinion… I think her idea of her relationship changes throughout 'Half Moon', so, I'll give you three words from the beginning Lacey: crushing, convoluted, and stressful

Thank you so very much for participating in the 'White Flame Tour' for 'Half Moon's release. I'm looking forward to sharing this story and 'Full Moon' with all your followers!

Half Moon by Jordan Deen Publisher: Black Rose Writing (January 13th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback Series: The Crescent, book #2"I’d been a fool for coming here with them, and now… no one would come to save me. The world that hid in the shadows of humanity was full of enemies."

Faced with death, Lacey Quinn ran away from the only family she’d ever known.

That… was just the beginning.

As the decision she’s made sinks in, Lacey struggles to fit in with the pack and find the key to bonding with her werewolf soul mate, Brandon. But, lies can only be concealed for so long.

Adjusting to a powerful new best friend, a twelve-year-old roommate with a nauseating Barbie fetish, and a lost love that won’t stop haunting her dreams, she knows she has no hope of having a normal future—ever again.

After a long talk with the dead mother she never knew, and an almost deal-breaking night out with Brandon, Lacey starts spiraling into the underworld—a place where all things are possible and everyone is out to kill her.

With mysterious legends of witches and sorcery marring her past and clouding her future, she quickly learns—werewolves aren’t the only ones lurking in the woods… waiting to claim her powers for their own.

The Mares? Well, they are the least of her worries.

Tour Schedule
Reading Teen -12/10 Confessions of a Bookaholic -12/13 <-- You are here The Leo's Den -12/16 Bibliophilicbookblog -12/19 A Simple Love of Reading -12/22 Narratively Speaking -12/27 The Bookshelf Sophisticate -12/30 A Great Read -1/2 A Tale of Many Reviews -1/5 Murphy's Library -1/8 Mundie Mom's -1/11 Jordan Deen -1/13

Find out more about Jordan Deen Jordan Deen / Blog / Goodreads / Twitter

Purchase The Crescent Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository

Today is your day to go pick up "Wither" by Lauren DeStefano! Too busy? At work all day? Grab it for your Nook, your Kindle, order it from Barnes and Noble or Amazon to be delivered to your house! This is one of those books you need to get your hands on. Not only did I suffer extreme book mourning over this book but I have continued to gush about it on Twitter and at school after my review was posted! This will be the first eBook I've read that I've had to go out and buy two hard copies of! One for me and one for my students! I don't say this often, but if you're fan of dystopia you have to get a hold of this book.

To celebrate "Wither"'s release day I'd like to post a brief conversation with Lauren DeStefano (provided by Simon and Schuster).

Visit Lauren on the web via Twitter and Goodreads. If you haven't read this book, please pick it up. I don't normally gush this long about a single book and I'm never extremely adamant. But seriously readers, this book gave me an experience that all readers are looking for: that book you can't put down, the characters you can't forget, and the plot that leaves you pleading for more.

"The audiobook didn't work for me. Everything else is dystopian greatness!" — Miss Remmers

Release Date: October 2009 Publisher: Random House Challenges: Dystopia Challenge, Audiobook Challenge, Top YA Challenge, 100+ Reading Challenge
"Imagine waking up one day in total darkness, unsure of where you are and unable to remember anything about yourself except your first name. You're in a bizarre place devoid of adults called the Glade. The Glade is an enclosed structure with a jail, a graveyard, a slaughterhouse, living quarters, and gardens. And no way out. Outside the Glade is the Maze, and every day some of the kids — the Runners — venture into the labyrinth, trying to map the ever-changing pattern of walls in an attempt to find an exit from this hellish place. So far, no one has figured it out. And not all of the Runners return from their daily exertions, victims of the maniacal Grievers, part animal, part mechanical killing machines. Thomas is the newest arrival to the Glade in this Truman -meets-Lord of the Flies tale. A motley crew of half a dozen kids is all he has to guide him in this strange world. As soon as he arrives, unusual things begin to happen, and the others grow suspicious of him. Though the Maze seems somehow familiar to Thomas, he's unable to make sense of the place, despite his extraordinary abilities as a Runner. What is this place, and does Thomas hold the key to finding a way out?"
Subsequent Books: "The Scorch Trials" — October 2010 "The Death Cure" — October 11, 2011
I began "The Maze Runner" completely confused — I mean, calling my mom and saying, "Did I miss something?" I listened to this book while walking the dog and as I complete more and more audiobooks I realize that sometimes beginnings are so ambiguous that I need to call or text someone who I know has read the book to make sure that I'm on the right "disc" (although the best word is track as I upload it to my iPhone). "The Maze Runner" was like that — I was just sure I had accidentally pressed "shuffle."

Once I realized that "No, this is really how it starts," I let go of my confusion and attempted to acclimate to the story. It didn't really work for me. It's a longer audiobook and with three walks a day (about an hour a day) it still took me weeks to finish. This may be the first instance of my audiobook adventure that the audiobook didn't work in the books favor. I just didn't connect with the plot, the characters, or the setting.

I know, you're thinking right now that you've heard TONS of great things about this book and that you are so disappointed. I am too. But I'm not blaming the book at all and I'm not disagreeing with all of those fantastic reviews. I'm just saying that the audiobook (for me) didn't work. Everything else is dystopian greatness!

Two things that I can think of that hindered me were that the narrator was sounded like a thirty or forty year old and the boys were teenagers at best and that I had a hard time visualizing the setting. Again, this may not be the books fault but my own. My mind wanders when I listen and walk (and pick up Pip's business all at the same time). This, with the longer audiobook, could be a catalyst in my inability to connect. I'm not sure.

With all the series out today, I'm not sure if I'll continue this journey with Thomas in "The Scorch Trials." If I decide to, I'll definitely be reading and not listening. Have you read the second novel? Do you recommend it? Why?

Did I make a reference to my dog's feces in this post? That's a first!
-Visit James around the web here: Blog | Goodreads | Twitter -BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook
To the FTC, with love: Audiobook from Library

Today is the release day of Suzanne Young's newest book A Need So Beautiful . I can tell you that I have read this book and it blew me away! It is unique, captivating, addicting, and more! In order to celebrate this epic release, a few lovely people came up with a great idea of how we can all"pay it forward" and show some kindness to others. If you are wondering why that is important to the book, here is the book summary.

We all want to be remembered. Charlotte's destiny is to be Forgotten…

Charlotte’s best friend thinks Charlotte might be psychic. Her boyfriend thinks she’s cheating on him. But Charlotte knows what’s really wrong: She is one of the Forgotten, a kind of angel on earth, who feels the Need—a powerful, uncontrollable draw to help someone, usually a stranger.

But Charlotte never wanted this responsibility. What she wants is to help her best friend, whose life is spiraling out of control. She wants to lie in her boyfriend's arms forever. But as the Need grows stronger, it begins to take a dangerous toll on Charlotte. And who she was, is, and will become--her mark on this earth, her very existence--is in jeopardy of disappearing completely.

Charlotte will be forced to choose: Should she embrace her fate as a Forgotten, a fate that promises to rip her from the lives of those she loves forever? Or is she willing to fight against her destiny--no matter how dark the consequences.
Authors have provided several Random Acts of Kindness to me that have helped me stay positive and enjoy my passion of books. When my blog first started it was those initial conversations with my favorite authors that inspired me to keep going and share my love of books with others. I will never forget the people who helped me along the way. It's important to always pass on kindness in any way you can.

Giveaway
We have several giveaways to tell you about, with lots of ways to get extra entries!

Extra Entries:

Earn one extra entry for each of the following: -Take a picture of an author's book in the wild and tweet it to us and the author
-Post a positive Amazon review for a book you loved
-Donate a book to a library or classroom
-Tweet a good deed you plan to do this week, using the #ANeedSoBeautiful hashtag

Earn 10 extra entries for each of the following: -Take a picture of A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL in the wild and tweet it to us and Suzanne Young -Post an Amazon review for A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL -Donate a copy of A NEED SO BEAUTIFUL to a library or classroom

Prize List:
First 3 chapter critique (Jessica at Confessions of a Bookaholic ) YA Lit Swag Bag (Sara at N ovel Novice )
Hourglass Order from TBD – Int (Corrine at Lost for Words )
Random Books (Jessi at The Elliott Review )
2 Header/Button Packs (Jessica at Hopelessly Devoted Bibliophile )
First 3 chapters Critique (Cindy at Books Complete Me )
First 15 pages Critique (Kari at A Good Addiction )
Signed ARC of Hereafter (Kari at A Good Addiction )
Query Letter Critique (S hannon Messenger )
Signed copy of Invincible Summer – US/Can ( Hannah Moskowitz )
First Chapter Critique and a Skype Chat ( Keri Mikulski )
Signed copy of Tell Me a Secret with signed TMAS art print — US ( Holly Cupala )
Signed copy of Chasing Brooklyn – US ( Lisa Schroeder )
The Pledge Swag Pack including ARC ( Kimberly Derting )

Daisy Whitney's Blog: 5 copies up for grabs by going to her facebook page or blog.

Rules:
Contest ends June 28th
Open Internationally but some giveaways are US only.
Fill out the form below to enter.

*NOTE- This is the same form on ALL of the participating blogs. Please only enter once!

I am also giving everyone a chance to win a copy of A Need So Beautiful in the Midsummer's Eve Giveaway Hop. It is open Internationally.

Suzanne Young: Website | Twitter

A Need So Beautiful: Balzer & Bray (6/21/11)
Add to Goodreads

This year we wanted to add to the excitement of Top 10 lists by making it an event! Lisa from A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun & Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books and and I are hosting a top 10 week where everyone can join the fun! You can check out this post for more information. Each day you add your top 10 list to the linky (below), you get an extra entry into the giveaway for a $50 amazon gift card! Just remember, each day will have a linky for THAT Top 10 topic and your list has to be for that top 10.

First, we wanted to do a little wrap-up for the year! 117 Books Read! 36,776 pages read! 435 posts this year!

My goal for this year was 100 books so next year I'm bringing that up to 110!

Today is Top 10 Books I'm Looking Forward to in 2012!

Insurgent by Veronica Roth
HarperTeen (May 1st, 2012)
Series: Divergent #2

Why: I've had Divergent on every single list this week so it's obvious that I'm dying to get my hands on this book! Can't.wait!!
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

Onyx by Janenifer L. Armentrout Entangled Publishing (May 2012) Series: Lux #2
Why: Does anything by Janenifer even need an explanation anymore? Hot guys, wonderful plots, kick-butt heroines, it's all there! And look at that *points to cover*.yeah… who can resist him?! Add it to Goodreads Summary: No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies…

Spell Bound by Rachel Hawkins
Hyperion Books (March 13th, 2012)
Series: Hex Hall #3

Why: I adored the first 2 books in this series and I can't wait to find out what happens next. Sophie is one of my favorite female characters of all time!
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: Hailed as “impossible to put down,” the Hex Hall series has both critics and teens cheering. With a winning combination of romance, action, magic and humor, this third volume will leave readers enchanted.

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

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

Shine by Jeri Smith-Ready Simon Pulse (May 1st, 2012) Series: Shade #3
Why: This series has a special place in my heart! I'm so sad to see it end but I know Jeri will not disappoint. Add it to Goodreads Summary: No other love has burned so bright

Life can change in an instant, and no one understands that better than Aura. It’s been almost a year since her boyfriend tragically died. She’s finally letting go of Logan’s violet-hued ghost, but not her search to uncover the truth about her past.As the first in a generation that can see ghosts, Aura is convinced that she has a connection to the Shift. She’s trusted Zachary, ever patient and ever by her side, with all that she knows. But when the government threatens his life in an attempt to learn Aura’s secrets, she will stop at nothing to protect herself and the one she loves… even if that means betraying her own heart.

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini
HarperTeen (May 29th, 2012)
Series: Starcrossed #2

Why: Starcrossed was awesome and I really need to read this book! There were so many questions that have to be answered and I can't wait to see how it all plays out!
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: As the only Scion that can enter Hades at will, Helen descends to the Underworld in search of a way to overcome the Furies and end the cycle of revenge that has cursed the Scions. But she’s running out of time. Each descent weakens her both in mind and spirit. A mysterious stranger might be her only salvation, but the price may be her love for Lucas Delos.

As an unforgettable love triangle emerges, Josephine Angelini’s compelling saga becomes ever more intricate and spellbinding. The eagerly awaited sequel to the internationally bestselling Starcrossed, Dreamless delivers with a huge emotional impact that will leave readers satisfied—and longing for more.

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore Dial (May 1st, 2012) Series: The Seven Kingdoms #3
Why: I read Graceling and Fire a long time ago and have been checking on this book for over a year! I was so excited to see the cover and a release date, YAY! Add it to Goodreads Summary: Eight years after Graceling, Bitterblue is now queen of Monsea. But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisors, who have run things since Leck died, believe in a forward-thinking plan: Pardon all who committed terrible acts under Leck’s reign, and forget anything bad ever happened. But when Bitterblue begins sneaking
outside the castle—disguised and alone—to walk the streets of her own city, she starts realizing that the kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year spell of a madman, and the only way to move forward is to revisit the past.
Two thieves, who only steal what has already been stolen, change her life forever. They hold a key to the truth of Leck’s reign. And one of them, with an extreme skill called a Grace that he hasn’t yet identified, holds a key to her heart.

Timepiece by Myra McEntire
Egmont (June 12th, 2012)
Series: Hourglass #2

Why: Hourglass was a whole book of greatness and I know this one will be just as good. And, I do <3 me some Kaleb!!
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: A threat from the past could destroy the future. And the clock is ticking…

Kaleb Ballard's relentless flirting is interrupted when Jack Landers, the man who tried to murder his father, timeslips in and attacks before disappearing just as quickly. But Kaleb has never before been able to see time travelers, unlike many of his friends associated with the mysterious Hourglass organization. Are Kaleb's powers expanding, or is something very wrong?

Then the Hourglass is issued an ultimatum. Either they find Jack and the research he's stolen on the time gene, or time will be altered with devestating results.

Now Kaleb, Emerson, Michael, and the other Hourglass recruits have no choice but to use their unusual powers to find Jack. But where do they even start? And when? And even if they succeed, it may not be enough…

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver HarperTeen (February 28th, 2012) Series: Delirium #2
Why: Love the storyline that goes along with this series and Delirium really left me needing more! I plan to read this one very very soon! Add it to Goodreads Summary: I’m pushing aside the memory of my nightmare,
pushing aside thoughts of Alex,
pushing aside thoughts of Hana and my old school,
push,
push,
push,
like Raven taught me to do.
The old life is dead.
But the old Lena is dead too.
I buried her.
I left her beyond a fence,
behind a wall of smoke and flame.

Fever by Lauren DeStefano
Simon & Schuster (February 21st, 2012)
Series: The Chemical Gardens #2

Why: Another very unique dystopian and I really want to get my hands on this book to find out what happens to Rhine and Gabriel!
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: Rhine and Gabriel have escaped the mansion. But danger is never far behind.

Running away brings Rhine and Gabriel right into a trap, in the form of a twisted carnival whose ringmistress keeps watch over a menagerie of girls. Just as Rhine uncovers what plans await her, her fortune turns again. With Gabriel at her side, Rhine travels through an environment as grim as the one she left a year ago―surroundings that mirror her own feelings of fear and hopelessness.

The Two are determined to get to Manhattan, to relative safety with Rhine's twin brother, Rowan. But the road there is long and perilous―and in a world where young woman only live to age twenty and young men die at twenty-five, time is precious. Worse still, they can't seem to elude Rhine's father-in-law, Vaughn, who is determined to bring Rhine back to the mansion… by any means necessary.

Deity by Janenifer L. Armentrout Spencer Hill Press (November 8th, 2012) Series: Covenant #3
Why: *see answer above*: ) Actually, there is another book, Pure, coming out before this one, but I read it as soon as it entered my door so now I must have Deity.like.NOW! Add it to Goodreads Summary: (Not available yet)

A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young
Balzer + Bray (June 26th, 2012)
Series: A Need So Beautiful #2

Why: Really loved A Need So Beautiful and the interesting plot in this series. It was another book that left me with a ton of questions that I gotta know the answers to! Plus, Harlin *swoon*.
Add it to Goodreads
Summary: Elise is a normal seventeen-year-old girl until the day she wakes up in a desert park, with no idea who she is.

After that episode, her life takes a bizarre turn. She’s experiencing unexpected flashes of insight into people’s lives—people she’s never met before. Strangers frighten her with warnings about the approaching Shadows. And although Elise has never had a boyfriend, she suddenly finds herself torn between two handsome but very different young men: Abe, the charming bad boy whose affect on her both seduces and frightens her, and the mysterious Harlin, who’s new to town but with whom Elise feels an urgent, elemental connection—almost as if they are soul mates.

Now Elise begins to question everything about her life. Why do these guys both want her so desperately? What are the Shadows? Why does the name Charlotte inspire a terrifying familiarity? And who is Elise, really?
Yes, I know that was 11: ) There are so many more books too! I tried to highlight books in a series here but below are a few stand-alone books I can't wait for…

If I Lie by Corrine Jackson
Simon Pulse (August 28th, 2012)
Add it to Goodreads

Breaking Beautiful by Janenifer Shaw Wolf Walker & Company (April 24th, 2012) Add it to Goodreads

Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry
Harlequin Teen (August 2012)
Add it to Goodreads

Something Like Normal by Trish Doller Bloomsbury (June 19th, 2012) Add it to Goodreads

The Thing About the Truth by Lauren Barnholdt Simon Pulse (July 10h, 2012) Add it to Goodreads

Don't forget to link each day! Signing up & then linking your Top 10 posts early you EXTRA entries into the $50.00 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway. The last day to share your posts is January 8th, 2012. The winner will be picked using Random.org and announced during the week of the 9th, 2012. Good Luck!
NOTE: this is the SAME Linky on each of the Co-Hosts Blogs, so please only enter your Name, Blog Name and URL once. Thanks!

"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

Today is the release day of Starcrossed, and I have the wonderful author, Josephine Angelini, here today to tell us a little about her debut novel.

She has also offered up a beautiful signed copy for one lucky reader!

1. Starcrossed explores ancestry, myths, powers, and more. Can you tell us how you first began forming this story?

I started with the idea of taking Homer's characters and (loosely) retelling the story of the Iliad in a modern-day setting. But unlike Homer's characters, I always knew that mine would know what was in
store for them if they made the same choices as their famous predecessors. After all, they've all read The Iliad so they knew what's coming. The next thing I decided was that when my characters tried to choose differently, they would get the Oedipus work-over the old"you meet your fate on the road you take to escape it" chestnut. Once I got those two general themes set in my head, I realized I had enough material to write at least three books.

2. What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?

Fantasy, sci-fi, romance. I read everything from Jane Austin to Douglas Adams, Herman Melville to Marion Zimmer Bradley. I read whatever was on the bookshelves at home, anything with a cool cover. And if one of my sisters said I was too much of a baby to understand something, I read it whether I liked it or not!

3. I read that you have a lot of sisters. What was it like to have so many women who could give you feedback on your book? Did you often turn to them for advice?

Here's the thing about having 6 big sisters. You get advice whether you ask for it or not. Lucky for me, my sisters are insanely intelligent and insightful women (if a bit outspoken) and they usually have something brilliant to say about pretty much anything. But, strangely, they don't give me feedback on my books. I think the
reason for this is that my big sisters and my lone big brother all love me (the baby of the family) with such blind devotion and pride that they gush whenever they talk about my book. Gushing isn't feedback. I do, however, know exactly what 2 thirds of my family thinks about putting kale in chicken soup, and exactly how much is acceptable to each. Like I said. I get a lot of advice.
4. If you had to describe Helen and Lucas in one word, what would it be?

Starcrossed. I'm serious. That really sums them up!

5. If you could have one special power, what would you pick?

I usually say flying, but right now I'm leaning toward pre-cognition.
I really can't wait for May 31st!

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini
Publisher: HarperTeen (May 31st, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 496 pages
Series: Starcrossed, book #1

How do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood.. and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.
As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

Prize:

• 1 winner will receive a SIGNED copy of Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini.

• You must be at least 13 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is US Only and ends June 21st.
• Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

Find Josephine Angelini Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
Purchase Starcrossed Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

I love Tiffany King. My love for her started when I stumbled upon Unlikely Allies on amazon one day and was blown away by the story. Since then I have stalked her, waiting for her ne west books to release. Jordyn was exactly the type of book I had been craving — kick-butt heroine, unique story-line, fabulous cast of characters — it really has it all!
Today Tiffany is here, as part of her blog tour, to share with us a n excerpt found in Jordyn. Be sure to check out the giveaway below!

Excerpt:"Finished," Anthony said several minutes later, shutting off the tattoo gun.
"Wow, you're quick," I said, sitting up."I've heard that before," Anthony said, laughing."I bet you have, old man," Emrys said, clapping him on the back."At least I'm not forgettable," Anthony retorted, making me laugh. Emrys mockingly glared at us as he threw a slow punch Anthony's way."You want to see your new beauty mark?" he asked, swatting Emrys's fist aside before it could reach his bicep."Absolutely," I said, hopping up off the chair."It's the prettiest succubus I've ever seen," Emrys teased, grinning at me. My fist shot out and hit him in his own bicep before he could even get the words fully out. The force of the blow made him stagger as he tried to keep his footing."Damn girl, you are a freaking beast," Anthony said, studying me with open admiration."Either that or your buddy E here is a lightweight pansy," I quipped, following Anthony out of the room.

Jordyn by Tiffany King
Published: February 10th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
Summary:
Hand to hand combat training: Check
Cardio and strength training: Check
Daemon hunting: Check
Anomaly: Check

Check, check, check, check… That's all my life is. There's nothing ordinary about me. I'm"special." I know this because I'm reminded of it every stinking day. I can kick a Daemon's ass with both hands tied behind my back. I can run up a mountain without breaking a sweat. Know what I can't do? Get guys to notice me, or hang out with friends like normal people do. I can't just be ordinary because I have an Arch Angel for a mentor who is always breathing down my neck, and a family of angelic Guides and Protectors who scrutinize every little thing I do. Just for a day I want a life where I'm no longer some anomaly, where I don't have to feel like a lab rat.

And then I met Emrys. Okay, so my mentor and family hate him, but probably for good reason. After-all, he is a Soul Trader, and they aren't the most trust worthy beings. But, he is sooo hot with his green eyes, leather jacket and the sexiest tattoo you've ever seen running down his back. And-he doesn't treat me like a project.

I've got myself in quite a little quandary here. Choosing between my responsibilities and the Trader that holds my heart is something I didn't sign up for. Torn between two different worlds, I must now decide who to trust and who to walk away from. What's a girl to do? See what I mean? I am an anomaly. I am Jordyn.

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Today is the release day for The Near Witch and I have the wonderful Victoria Schwab here today to talk about the book.

I am super excited to talk to her because I will be meeting her on August 7th in Knoxville as part of the Ash to Nash tour!

1. You have explored quite a few college majors and careers. Can you tell us a little about what you learned from your experiences?
--I learned that physics wasn't for me, drama had too much drama, art history was too quiet to be a morning class, every religion has its own gorgeous stories, the majority of creative writing students are not very creative when it comes to writing (and goodness help you if you want to be a PUBLISHED one *cough*sellout*cough*), film doesn't give you credit for enjoying the films too much to take notes, and art students have perfected a method of staying up all night using only a bag of skittles.

2. How did you first get into writing?
--By writing really, really bad poetry. And then by writing slightly better poetry. By the time I decided to try writing a book, I had NO idea what I was doing, but I knew I could assemble words in lovely ways. Next I had to learn structure. That took a little while and a good deal of rejection. Thankfully.

3. What has been the most surprising thing to happen to you since The Near Witch started grabbing everyone's attention?
--I have two favorites. One is authors I adore/admire knowing that I even exist, let alone several of them having read (and enjoyed!!) NW. That's just beyond surreal and surprising. The second was hearing from a friend that their non-reader friend suggested my book to her, after the non-reader's mother, a high-school teacher, had mentioned it to her, after having overheard students in her hall talking about books they wanted to read that summer. That was pretty dang cool.

4. If you could tell people one thing about The Near Witch, what would it be?
--It's a fairy tale. And it's written that way. It's meant to be airy, and sparse, a bit blurred at the edges, a window into a world, rather than a door. Go in knowing that.

5. You will be going on tour with Beth Revis and Myra McEntire soon. What crazy things do you all have planned?
--OH THE ANTICS. There are planned ones, and ones that we couldn't plan if we tried. But rest assured, there will be lots of laughing.We are three loud and largely inappropriate people.

The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
Publisher: Hyperion Books (August 2nd, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardback: 288 pages
The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.
If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.
And there are no strangers in the town of Near.These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life.
But when an actual stranger—a boy who seems to fade like smoke—appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true.
The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion. Still, he insists on helping Lexi search for them. Something tells her she can trust him.
As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi’s need to know—about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy.

Find Victoria Schwab
Victoria Schwab | Goodreads | Blog | Twitter

Purchase The Near Witch
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

Today is the release day for 2 amazing books -- Sweet Venom and Vanish.
To celebrate this, Tera Lynn Childs and Sophie Jordan are here today to share some of their favorite romantic novels.

Favorite Romantic Novels Favorite Romantic Books by Tera Lynn Childs

Romantic books have been such a big part of my life and my career, it’s hard to narrow this down to a manageable list. I have about fifty romances on my forever keepers shelves. But if I have to pick some favorites, here goes:

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I first read this in my freshman Lit Hum class at Columbia and it turned my world upside-down. Here was a book I loved—swoon, Darcy, swoon—and it was considered important enough to be studied in an Ivy League literature class. This is the moment that I realized a book can be both popular and important. And a romance novel, to boot.

The Magic of You by Johanna Lindsey. When I first decided to try this whole writing thing, I literally devoured the romance section at my local bookstore. Johanna Lindsey was my first auto-buy author. She is the master of The Moment, that line that just takes your breath away. In this book, it’s Warren (after Amy’s been chasing him the entire book) saying, “You can’t give up on me!”

The Duke and I by Julia Quinn. I cannot begin to describe in a few sentences how much I love this book. It is just one of the most powerful romances I’ve ever read. Julia Quinn is genius at creating characters who absolutely cannot possibly make it work, and then making it work. Simon and Daphne are a close second to Darcy and Elizabeth for my favorite romantic couple of all time. I dare anyone to read this book and not cry a dozen times. I always do.

Favorite Romantic Books by Sophie Jordan

What’s my favorite romantic book!?!?! Wow – that’s like asking a food junkie to pick her fav dish (which would be tough for me, too)! There are just so many choices – especially since romance has been my favorite genre for so long. Okay, here’s my list: The Magic of You by Johanna Lindsey. It’s a historical romance featuring one of the strongest, take-charge heroines ever! It’s really a stand-out historical romance. When I first read it years ago it felt so new and fresh. And when I reread it now, I can still say the same thing. It has that universal, timeless appeal.

Second choice would probably be … Gentle Rogue by Johanna Lindsey. Another historical romance. The books are connected, too. I just love the tension of a girl disguising herself as a boy. Oh, the fireworks when the truth is revealed! Hm, contemporary romance would have to go to Susan Elizabeth Phillips’s Nobody’s Baby But Mine. It features an outrageous premise … but is an amazingly emotional and very “real” story. My favorite romantic suspense novel is Linda Howard’s Open Season – it has the perfect balance of suspense and romance, but at its core it’s an ugly duckling story. I know these qualify as my favorites because they’re all books I’ve read multiple times. That’s always my gauge.

As for young adult novels … hm, there are so many where the romance is really strong and at the core. They might as well be called a young adult romance. I’ll choose The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting and Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins. Both books have some hot boys and empathetic, likeable heroines. But it’s no easy road to a happily ever after for these characters. Just like in the adult romance books I listed above, you get tons of agonizing conflict. And in the meantime tons of tension and steamy chemistry that sizzles on every page. These are the titles that pop in my head right off the bat … but ask me a year from now and I’m sure I’ll have new titles to add.

Vanish by Sophie Jordan
Publisher: HarperTeen (September 6th, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardback: 304 pages
Series: Firelight #2
To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.

Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?

In bestselling author Sophie Jordan’s dramatic follow-up to Firelight, forbidden love burns brighter than ever.

Sweet Venom by Tera Lynn Childs Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (September 6th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 352 pages Series: Sweet #1 Grace just moved to San Francisco and is excited to start over at a new school. The change is full of fresh possibilities, but it’s also a tiny bit scary. It gets scarier when a minotaur walks in the door. And even more shocking when a girl who looks just like her shows up to fight the monster.

Gretchen is tired of monsters pulling her out into the wee hours, especially on a school night, but what can she do? Sending the minotaur back to his bleak home is just another notch on her combat belt. She never expected to run into this girl who could be her double, though.

Greer has her life pretty well put together, thank you very much. But that all tilts sideways when two girls who look eerily like her appear on her doorstep and claim they're triplets, supernatural descendants of some hideous creature from Greek myth, destined to spend their lives hunting monsters.

These three teenage descendants of Medusa, the once-beautiful gorgon maligned by myth, must reunite and embrace their fates in this unique paranormal world where monsters lurk in plain sight.

Sophie and Tera Lynn’s upcoming tour stops:
September 7 @ 7 PM Blue Willow Bookshop Houston, TX September 8 @ 7 PM Books & Co Dayton, OH September 9 @ 7 PM Magic Tree Bookstore Chicago, IL October 1 Austin Teen Book Festival Austin, TX
The next blog tour stop: Thursday, September 8 – The Bookish Brunette About the authors:
Tera Lynn Childs (Authora neo) is a newly discovered species of author fish who always dreamed of being a mermaid, but never got closer than a career as a competitive swimmer. She loves to spend as much time as possible in and around water (right up until her fingertips turn all pruney) in the vain hope that one day her legs will magically turn into fins. When stuck on land, Authora neo can be found writing in coffee shops across the country, prowling for cool mermaid gear on Etsy, and spending way too much time online. Visit her at http://teralynnchilds.com. Sophie Jordan grew up in the Texas hill country where she wove fantasies of dragons, warriors, and princesses. A former high school English teacher, she's also the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Avon historical romances. She now lives in Houston with her family. When she's not writing, she spends her time overloading on caffeine (lattes and Diet cherry Coke preferred), talking plotlines with anyone who will listen (including her kids), and cramming her DVR with true-crime and reality-TV shows. Sophie also writes paranormal romances under the name Sharie Kohler. Visit her at www.sophiejordan.net.

What is your absolute favorite part of blogging?

I love checking out other people's blogs and reviews. Waiting on Wednesday is where I get most of my new books to read, and if a blogger says a book is a must read I usually go out and buy it.
- Kayla at Midnight Twilight's Book Blog
Surprisingly, actually writing posts. I like feeling productive and like I'm accomplishing something. Next to that? Just talking with everybody! I really love just gossiping about books. Some people talk about celebrities; I talk about authors. Some people talk about television; I. also talk about television, but more than not I talk about books. — Nicole at WORD for Teens
My favorite part about blogging is getting to introduce people to books or authors they're not familiar with. It's so fun to spread the bookish love: ) — Heidi at YA Bibliophile
The writing. I have wanted to be a writer/author for a very long time but have lacked the follow through. Blogging is my first test to myself. I figure if I can start and maintain a blog consistently, I can spend the money on a class for writing too. So once I hit the 1 year mark, I'm going to sign up for a writing course to hopefully get the world I've thought up over the last ten years out of my head and onto the page, even if it is only for me! — Kelli at Scarlett's Scraps
Getting comments from my readers, its really interesting to know what they think about the books I've read and what I've written. — Abigailann at The Story Factory Reading Zone
I love the blogging community, I love sharing my love of books with others and when someone finds out about a book that they hadn't heard about, that's always very nice to see. — Cynthia at A Blog about Nothing
My absolute favourtie part about blogging is hearing back from my followers and other bloggers about my posts. All the hard work I put into them is appreciated and for someone to say they enjoyed my review and for them to go and read that book is an awesome feeling. — Megan at Reading Away the Days
The wonderful authors and bloggers, you get the opportunity to work with. Reagan at Star Shadow Blog
My favorite part of blogging is when someone comments on my posts. I love it when they like what I have to say, or the way that I wrote a review, or just if they agree/disagree with me. I guess the interaction with other people is my favorite part of blogging. — Lisa at Bookworm Lisa
My favorite part of blogging is writing everyday. I love to write and I even used to write a few stories when I was younger. Now I get to write everyday and even after a few years, I'm still loving it! — Gina at The Bucket List
Beyond the bookish friends and working on my blog it would have to be being able to help others find great books to read. I love getting an email or DM from someone telling me they picked up the book I've recommended to them and that they loved it. — Stacey at Flippin' Fabulous — A Reader's Record
I love sharing my thoughts with others and getting their opinions in return. I also enjoy reading other reviews and getting different takes on books--I love when a blogger shares my feelings on a book! I also really, really love learning about new books--I have learned to always have paper and pen nearby when I'm going through my Google Reader, to jot down new titles. My to-read list is ever-growing! -Christi at Christi the Teen Librarian Meeting people from all over the world. It's amazing to talk with people you may never meet in person. (Of course, I hope to meet them all in person one day!) — J.L. at J.L. Jackson
Sharing what I think with others and seeing if they share the same thoughts or think differently. A discussion about a book or characters in a book is always fun. — Ellen at Silver Tabby Books
Honestly, I love blogging because it provides me a forum to write and share my thoughts. It may be about something as silly as my infatuation with the Twilight series or raving about my favorite band, having a proud-mama moment about one of my children or even sharing something tremendously personal. I have never felt such liberty to be so free, and it has made me more self-aware and more forthcoming in my job and in my personal life. I feel a sense of independence that I have never felt before. This freedom and liberation is my absolute favorite part of blogging. In a close second is the community because without their support, I wouldn't feel as comfortable expressing myself as I am. — Michelle at That's What She Read
My favorite part of blogging is when I get new followers and comments, and I realize people are reading what I write on my blog. — Thia at Through the Book Vine
I love the connection with so many people in different areas and hearing about what was special to them that day. The days when I come across a new author in a genre that I enjoy is an added bonus. — Ann at Cozy in Texas
Knowing that someone out there is reading my stuff, and maybe will pick up a good book because of something I said and enjoy it. Most of my friends are not readers, so this is a great way to share all my bookish thoughts without boring them to tears. — Cat at Cat's Thoughts
Aside from the awesome bloggers and authors that one can interact with, it would have to be all the new books I have been introduced to. Since I started blogging I have read a lot of books that in the past I wouldn't have even bothered to pick up. — Orchid at The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia
When I blog about an under-appreciated, little-read book and then have a reader write to tell me they purchased that book based on my recommendation. I love nothing more than putting good books in the hands of readers. — David at Quivering Pen Blog
Meeting people who share my passion for books and sharing recommendations. I love it when readers come back and tell me how much they loved a book I recommended or found a post of mine helpful. That makes my day. — Small at Small Reviews
Ugh, I have to pick? Honestly, I love most of what is involved in book blogging. If I didn't love it, I wouldn't do it. My time is too precious to waste on doing things I hate. But even if the internet crashed tomorrow (knock on wood), I would still be as much of a bookworm as I am now, talking about and recommending books to whomever will listen. That is probably the most exciting part — when I discover (from comments) that someone is actually reading my blog! — Rachel at Jacob's Beloved's Books
Writing reviews! I always love to share my thoughts on books that i've read. Then getting some comments/feedbacks. I also enjoy reading others' reviews of books I've read before so I'll get another person's view on it. — Len at Musings of a Reader Happy
My favorite part of blogging is seeing how my reading has changed, now I have a much broader spectrum that I read instead of the very small nitch that I was reading. — Kristin at Kritters Ramblings
My absolute favorite part of blogging? Hmm.there's so much that I love about it! I really do enjoy getting to voice my opinion about books in reviews and comments. It's such a sense of freedom and not to mention so awesome when someone answers you back whose on your mental wave.
- Nora at The Bookery
The community. Books are great, but I'd be reading them with or without the blog. What I like is how many people are out there who enjoy the books I do, and that through our blogs I'm able to discover/ get in contact with them. The next best thing to reading a book is talking about it with someone. — Kim at Book Munchies
Hm. My absolute favorite part of blogging is hearing from someone that my thoughts on a book has encouraged them to give it a try. That or knowing there are other people out there just as excited as you are about a release date. — Lindsay at Just Another Book Addict
The Community! I feel like I have made great friends even if I never will meet them in real life. — Shannon at Books Devoured

*Part 3 of 3 will be posted soon.
USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.

Hello brave Dauntless team! If you missed last week's street team post you can USE GOOGLE. We will be sharing more answers soon from members telling us why they are Dauntless, and picking a winner from last week's challenge.

We are at the final stretch before the big Insurgent release and because of all the amazing fans, we were able to FREE FOUR! Veronica Roth posted the link to where you can read the exclusive scene from Four's POV.

Now for an update on your assignments and challenges.

Assignments

2. Keep spreading the word about the Dauntless links.
- Make sure you visit them yourself. There are new things added to the Dauntless tumblr site each day.
- Use the hashtags #TeamDauntless, #DauntlessFaction, and #DivergentNation with the links http://bit.ly/dauntlessfaction and http://bit.ly/choose_dauntless

3. There are some huge giveaways going on now.
- You can still enter to win a NOOK with an ebook of INSURGENT.
- Our big giveaway from a few weeks ago was for a Breaking Dawn poster SIGNED by Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner and a Mockingjay pin from Comic Con!
- Last week's giveaway was for a I Am Number Four poster signed by Alex Pettyfer and Dianna Agron with an ARC of The Power of Six!
— Remember: You can enter these 3 giveaways each day.

Challenge

Here are your 5 choices:

• Tell us WHY you are Dauntless. If you need inspiration, check out Kimberly Derting's answer.
• Show us pictures that remind you of Dauntless.
• Show some Dauntless tattoo ideas.
• Skills needed to be a good Dauntless member.
• What would be part of a Dauntless workout.

This challenge will be open until April 30th. Make sure you put your link in the linky tool below!

"It's worth it to read two equally fantastic love stories that will have you gasping for surprise and blushing with excitement" — Miss Remmers

Release Date: March 27th, 2012
Publisher: Open Road Media
Challenges: NetGalley, 75+, eBook

"Elizabeth Farr never wanted to return to America. During her family’s vacation abroad, she has fallen in love with England, and is despondent when her father refuses to let her stay. Returning to New York means having her debut into society, and that means a swiftly arranged marriage. Elizabeth will never go to college, never learn to be a reporter—as she sees it, her life is over as soon as the Titanic reaches port. Of course, if she’s unlucky, her life will be over far sooner than that.

As Elizabeth and her family settle into their first-class cabins, Katie Hanrahan, a young Irish girl with dreams of finding fortune in America, makes her way to a steerage berth. Both girls have plans for the future, but love and death are about to intervene."

On Friday (Recreational Reading day) I was all prepared to read "Kill Me Softly" — except when I started up my Nook it wasn't there! Rather than waste a good day of reading by, oh I don't know, grading, I decided to read the galley of "Titanic: The Long Night." Folks, it's literally been forever since I've reread a book — probably since I started blogging! I was wary of dipping back into these pages after all of these years because I didn't want to lose the magic. I was afraid that while reading this novel as an adult I'd pick up on the shallow characters/plot where I didn't as a young reader. I'm happy to say that that didn't happen. As an adult I'm still in love with Elizabeth and Max and (more importantly) I was able to fall in love again with Katie and Paddy. Yes, somehow throughout the years I forgot about this parallel story line (which, actually, happens to be JUST as good as the first — how often does that happen?). When I got to the first switch in narrative it all came back to me and I was immediately excited.

While much of the narration and description came back to me as if I had just read it a week ago, the feelings of excitement, embarrassment (for the characters), surprise, hurt, and love were still there as if I were reading this book for the very first time. Even though I knew what was coming, I found myself anticipating my reaction but each time the feelings somehow felt new and unexperienced. It was amazing.

Overall, this book was just as great as an adult as it was when I was a child. Really, folks — I had my mom (a librarian) make my book a hardcover (via laminating and somehow taking it apart — I don't know, she's apparently a genius) so that it would never "go bad." I loved it that much!

I know this is more of a review of my feelings and experiences rather than the book itself, but I definitely recommend taking advantage of the rerelease and getting your hands on a copy of this book. It's worth it to read two equally fantastic love stories that will have you gasping for surprise and blushing with excitement (no, not that kind of excitement!).

Below is the 1998 cover that I fell in love with and definitely still prefer. Even though Elizabeth is animated — I like her look more than the newer cover. But perhaps that's because of my emotional stake in the novel.:)

PS: This would be a great read for the Titanic Challenge (starting this weekend!).

-Connect with the author: Goodreads
-BUY THE BOOK: Kindle | Barnes and Noble

To the FTC, with love: Galley received from NetGalley (and personal owned copy from 1998)

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

Release Date: 2007
Publisher: Ace Trade
Challenges: Audiobook Challenge, iChallenge, Off the Shelf, 100+ Reading Challenge

"Louisiana cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse has her hands full dealing with every sort of undead and paranormal creature imaginable. And after being betrayed by her longtime vampire love, Sookie must not only deal with a new man in her life-the shapeshifter Quinn-but also contend with the long-planned vampire summit.
The summit is a tense situation. The vampire queen of Louisiana is in a precarious position, her power base weakened by hurricane damage to New Orleans. And there are some vamps who would like to finish what nature started. Soon, Sookie must decide what side she'll stand with. And her choice may mean the difference between survival and all-out catastrophe."

For anyone who hasn't read the first six books or actually has an interest in starting to read these books — this review may not be for you. I apologize and urge you to look elsewhere for an informative and helpful review.

Alright, let's be honest: I am seven books in and I'm still waiting for this book to "get good." My BFF Button swears that it does. She loves these novels and together we both agree Eric is definitely swoon-worthy. But as for the writing? It kind of nauseates me. I hate hearing about the stupid Word of the Day calendar and her money problems and etc etc etc.

But (yes, there is a but) despite the (in my opinion) poor writing, I enjoyed this novel for what it was: a light, fluffy novel. I listened to it in the car to and from work and other errands and while I never felt the need to go sit in my car or take a road trip to finish this audiobook, I wasn't exactly super annoyed whenever I strapped the seat belt in either.

Although, funny story, so there's loads of construction in my neighborhood right now and while I was on my way home from summer school one day I was stopped at one of those construction stop signs (I'm not explaining this well), you know — where the person does really nothing but stand in the hot sun, smoking a cigarette, and twisting the sign from SLOW to STOP (generally at the most inopportune moment for me)... anyway, so I was stopped and the story all of a sudden got a bit "steamy" and the construction worker just kept staring me down. Then I started to get nervous that the stereo was too loud and he could hear what I was listening to! I pretty much blushed the last six blocks home.

So yea, that's my review. It's probably the worst one I've ever written, but it's hard to review the seventh book in a series that you aren't particularly liking. I will continue reading this series, perhaps if only to see what Button sees in it. So maybe I'm the crazy one? Admitting to not really liking a series but reading it anyway? Who knows. But I'm definitely hoping for some more Eric in the next novel.

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

To the FTC, with love: Audiobook via Library Loan and Bought (used paperback)

Today I'd like to welcome Nicole Barker, author of "Dancing with Ana".

"Beth is a lucky girl... she comes from a loving family, she has three best friends. She loves to surf and lives five minutes from the beach. She also recently discovered that the boy she's grown up with has the most amazing green eyes... Beth has every reason to smile. Every reason to be happy. Every reason to feel blessed.

Then why is she sticking her fingers down her throat?"

I loved "Dancing with Ana" — check out my review if you haven't read it yet!

What was it like writing this book?
It was simply amazing. There were days when I would write for three or four hours straight, not stopping to answer the phone, do laundry... eat. When I'm writing, I'm a bit compulsive and obsessed. I'm not quite sure my husband and kids would call the experience amazing... but they were incredibly supportive.

How long did it take you to write "Dancing with Ana"?
I wrote the first words at the end of August 2008 shortly after my kids started school and my final words right around Thanksgiving. Of course, I use the word “final” very loosely, because I rewrote and edited the book for another six months, finally letting it go at the beginning of June. There is no doubt I could pick up Dancing With Ana any day of the week and still find things I would change, but I had to release it. I was starting to embody Jack Torrance from The Shining.

Where did the idea for this book come from?
Well, it kind of came out of the blue. I've always had a desire to write a book for young adults. I have an incredible amount of respect for this age group, as I can remember my own issues and struggles during this time. It was important to be able to write about a subject that is very common in their lives, whether it affects them personally, a friend, a family member, etc., but still create an entertaining story that involves friendship and love. I didn't want it to be clinical.

Where did the title come from?
When most people think of anorexia, they picture a young woman very thin, bones protruding, starving to death. They picture the extreme of the disease. There are many stages of anorexia, just as there are many reasons why a person would choose this way to cope with an issue. Most victims start off merely dancing with ana, which is still an intensely painful and isolating experience. It's when they stay too long at the dance, or can't leave, that ana becomes a living, breathing entity they both fear and need.

What or Who inspires you to write?
I have two sisters who are severely mentally and physically disabled. Not a day goes by when I don't think of them. To say there is so much they aren't able to do is such an understatement it's almost laughable. They inspire me to live my life to the fullest, not be afraid of failure, be courageous.
My children are also a huge inspiration. I want them to reach for their dreams, so I need to be an example of that. There is a quote from a Blues Traveler song that I always tell them, “There's no such thing as a failure who keeps trying, coasting to the bottom is the only disgrace.”

What do you like on your pizza?
Plain old cheese, NY style

What is in your CD player/iPOD right now?
I have to laugh, because I could spend the next hour writing what is in my Ipod. Music is everything to me. If I could sing or play an instrument, I would try to start a band. To name a few... The Grateful Dead, Neil Young, Blind Melon, Gwen Stafani, Janis Joplin...

And finally, if you could say anything to your young readers — what would it be?
Try to keep a journal, write whatever pops into your head. You'll look back and realize that this part of your journey is very profound. Oh, and I love hearing from you!
Thank you so much Nicole for stopping by! I was really wondering where the title came from — but now that mystery's put to rest.:)

Really — make sure to read this book. It's one of the best and most honest I've read all summer. Tomorrow stop by because I'll be giving away two copies of Nicole's book — "Dancing with Ana". Visit Nicole online at Nicole's website.

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.

"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

The Space Between by Kristie Cook
Published: April 5th, 2013
Reading Level: New Adult
eBook edition
Series: The Book of Phoenix, book #1
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Summary:
When Life Falls to Pieces, Answers Lie in the Space Between

After a month-long dance tour through Italy, 20-year-old Leni Drago returns to Georgia to care for her great-uncle, only to find him gone, the home they shared empty and any evidence he ever existed wiped out. All that’s left is a journal she can’t open.

Jeric Winters has been searching for a piece of his past for over a year, only to reach a dead-end in Georgia. When an urgent and magnetic pull draws him out of his hotel room, he comes face-to-face with the beautiful dancer who’s been haunting his dreams day and night.

Jeric’s one to stay away from—a bad-boy, hit-it-and-quit-it type—but Leni can’t escape the fervent feelings between them. As their own existences begin to crumble around them and shadowy forms that are more monsters than men attack, they realize there’s more to the connection between them than physical fascination.

To solve the riddle their lives have become, they must embark on a journey that requires them to face their pasts and release their true souls. And they must do it fast—dark ones from another world are closing in, intent on killing them. Permanently.

Review:

Leni and Jeric were outstanding! I truly believed their chemistry and the pull they felt towards one another. There was no doubt that they were connected. But these characters were far from perfect. They both had their flaws which made their personalities much more believable. The circumstances surrounding their meeting was so complex but it truly kept me intrigued and wanting more.

I've honestly never read a story even close to this one, plot-wise. I had no idea where the story was going or what the characters would find out. They are able to delve into the past and see how it would alter their present, and future. Although a lot of this story does help us grasp that idea, there is no lack of action and adventure for the characters. I was scared for them on multiple occasions! Darn you Kristie for making my heart race like that: )

The entire idea behind this was so intense and … romantic. Another perk is that we get the chance to hear from several POVs. That was critical to this story because it allowed me to truly understand the past of each character.

If you are looking for a story with a unique plot and fantastic characters, pick this one up. I am thrilled Kristie ventured into the NA area and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!

Prize:
1 winner will receive a $5 G ift Card to Amazon or B&N.

Rules:

• You must be at least 13 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is International and ends May 6th.
• Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

Kristie will be hosting a major giveaway on her site at the end of the tour for a $200 gift card or a swag bag full of goodies!
To enter, readers can head over to http://www.kristiecook.com/2013/04/the-space-between-release-tour.html and enter via Rafflecopter.
Rafflecopter form can be found HERE.

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