The Best Reader [Search results for awesome] 

Last week I was awarded 'The Who Loves You Baby' award! This award is given to those bloggers whom you love and who have awarded you in the past! Pass it on!

A big thanks to Gofita's Page s for passing on this award to me! I love you too!

I am passing this on to:

Joanne from Slice of Life who awarded me with the "Zombies and Chickens Award". Joanne is a great commenter and blogger. So friendly!

Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews who awarded me with the "Zombies and Chickens Award". One of the most caring and sincere people I've met since beginning this blog.

Sheila from One Person's Journey Through a World of Books who awarded me with the "Zombies and Chickens Award" and "Kreativ Blogger" award. Shelia is such an awesome person — she's always doing something exciting. Plus, I love her "Morning Meandering" posts. They make my mornings.

Nicole at Books and Bards who awarded me with "The Lemonade Award". Nicole is such an awesome character! She's that person online who I wish I knew so much better but I feel like she's just a mysteriously awesome person.

Gofita's Pages who awarded me with the "I Rock"Award and the "Who Love's You Baby" Award. This girl is awesome. She always reading something exciting and her blog always has something new going on.

Fiona at A Reader's Random Ramblings who awarded me with "Let's Be Friends" Award. Fiona is so active in the blogosphere — whether she's commenting on blogs, writing, or reading. This girl is one of the most dedicated bloggers out there.

The Ladybug at The Ladybug Reads who awarded me with the "Zombies and Chickens" award. I can't wait to read her book about "an anthropologist vampire who uses the principles of quantum mechanics to definitively prove the existence of fairies" someday.

Thank you to everyone! You are all so awesome and I truly feel blessed to be a part of this awesome community.:)

What is your absolute favorite part of blogging?

I think its when you get that one comment that just makes everything you do all worth it. — Yara at Once Upon a Twilight
Getting to know other bloggers! Although I should also mention, getting book recommendations, then falling in love with the book. I can't be eternally grateful enough to the blogosphere for introducing me to a TON of amazing books. — Audrey at holes In My brain
The people, all the way. Both bloggers and authors. I've contemplated giving blogging up a few times, but in the end I never want to lose the community aspect of it all. So I keep going. — Amanda, Another Book Junkie
Reading others posts and reviewing books. — Kate at Ghost of the still
Honestly, it would have to be all the awesome people that I have met! The book blogging community is the BEST! — Missy at Two Readers Reviews
I love getting to know authors, many that I have met are fans like me and just enjoy reading and creating something for everyone to enjoy. I have had two major fan-girl moments and I know all have many more to come. One was meeting Laurell K Hamilton at comic con one year, she was super sweet and was so happy I enjoyed her writing. The other was Sherrilynn Kenyon, my goodness she was such an awesome person and we chatted a bit about those awesome Dark Hunters in her books.
- Kristen at Seeing Night Reviews

My favorite part of blogging is getting to network with a bunch of awesome people.
- Darla at DforDarla's Definite Reads
Easy! Sharing our passion for books! I love sharing my excitement with others, and I find most of my wish list reads through other bloggers. It's so amazing to be surrounded by other book lovers! — Tynga at Tynga's Review

I love everything about blogging, but mostly I love knowing that people share my same crazy interests & obsessions. The contests are fun too; -) — Jane at At Random

Finding new books and bloggers. I have added tons of new books to my TBR list because of blog memes, blogger recommendations or reading reviews from other bloggers. The reason I started blogging was, of course, because I had a huge love of reading. So gaining new book recommendations is one of the best parts. I also love meeting new bloggers. It's fantastic to be able to talk books with someone who shares that love of reading.
- Aimee at Coffee Table Press
My favorite part of blogging is when you get people excited about
something that they've never been excited about before, like getting a
non-book-lover to enjoy reading, or when mentioning a relatively
unknown book suddenly puts it on people's radar. — Alethea at Read Now Sleep Later

I put a lot of thought into my reviews, so I feel a strong sense of accomplishment when I post them for the world to see. — Jessica at Brief Book Reviews
Reading and writing and getting to know fellow bloggers!: ) — Shirley at My Bookshelf
Being able to share things I've learned about or been a part of with my students. When I share that an author dropped by the blog or the release date of a new book, they get excited and that's wonderful to me. — Jill at The O.W.L
It's a toss up between discovering new books that I never would have heard of otherwise, AND talking with this group of people who get my love of books in a way that no one else does. — Ashley at Book Labyrinth
The discovery. Before I started blogging, I was an avid reader, but in a very limited way. I stuck to the tried-and-true, the familiar authors I knew I'd like before I even picked up the book. After blogging, I realised that I ought to branch out more and give new things a try. I found free books online (legally free, mind you), and took chances on authors I might not have looked twice at before but because the price was right, I figured it couldn't hurt to give them a chance. I wasn't disappointed. I've discovered new and awesome authors this way, bought their books, and become a fan. I love discovering new and good things!
I also love that blogging gives me a chance to exercise my writing muscles, so to speak. I love writing, and here's a little excuse to do it regularly! — Ria at Bibliotropic
Oh, gosh. I can't choose my absolute favorite. I love getting to squeal over pretty, shiny new books (especially the ARCs), interviewing fabulous authors, giving away (and receiving) swag and new books, and just hanging out with bibliophiles like me. — Lucia at iLive, iLaugh, iLove Books
The interaction between the other bloggers. It's often hilarious, sometimes emotional, but always friendly. — Rie at Mission to Read
Argh, just one?! Um… the people and the community. While I (obviously) love books, reading and writing about books and reading, I don't think it would anywhere near as fun if I was doing it by myself. I also think it's amazing that people out there care what I think! I've found more fantastic books in the past 6 months from book bloggers than I would normally find in years. It's astounding how quickly my TBR list has grown… — Lisa at BaffledBooks
Coming across little known books I wouldn't have stumbled on otherwise and getting to sing their praises to all my readers. Also pet chatting with other bloggers is pretty funny. — Rhiannon at The Diary of a Bookworm
I love sharing my feelings about books that I love, and adding onto that, I absolutely love when I get comments about how my review or something I said about a book made someone else want to read it, or add it to their to-read pile. To me that feels amazing, it's the same feeling I get when I convince my friends to read a book. It feels good knowing that I'm spreading the love for a certain book, and that someone else will get to enjoy it just like I did. In the case of books, sharing is most definitely caring.: ) — Ambur at Burning.x.Impossibly.x. Bright
I love comments. I know it sounds weird and maybe stuck-up, but knowing that someone out there is actually reading your blog is the most amazing feeling. When someone says they want to check a book out because of a review I do, that is great too. — Katie at Books are Dreams
My favorite part of blogging so far has been the relationships I have built with other bloggers. I have definitely made some lifelong friends and I am extremely grateful. — Kate at I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read!
My absolute favorite part of blogging is getting to meet all the other bloggers and being able to talk with authors. I always knew there were people out there who loved books and reading as much as I did but I was never really able to connect with them like I do now. — Emilie at Emilie Book World
My favourite part of blogging, whether on my book review/author interview site, or on my personal blog, is making connections. Also, writing forces me to examine my opinions and subjects with a lot more depth than I would if I were just spouting off my opinions at a family dinner or at the staff room table. Blogging for the public forces me to be more accountable. — Kim at Fresh Fish and Foolishness
COMMENTS! They make me feel so special and can seriously make my day.: ) — Jackie at Teen Book Guide

*Part 2 of 3 will be posted soon.
USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.

So much thanks to Gofita's Pages for awarding me with this 'rocking' award — that's a pun, get it? I am so excited, especially since it's my birthday! So happy birthday to me and thank you, again, to Gofita's Pages. I'm new to the blogosphere and my experience has been awesome. I've met so many new people, found out about some amazing books, and I've aquired some awesome reads. I'm so excited to have been giving this 'rocking' award — is the pun getting old yet? Okay, I'll stop.

I'd like to pass on this award to everybody — but in order to keep this post from reaching a crazy length — I've sort of narrowed it down. Sort of.

Cassie from Happy Book Lovers Blog. She's so enthusiastic to help me! Thank you for your support.

Nicole from Books and Bards. I also look forward to reading her posts and I love it when she comments on mine — she always has something exciting to say. And she's this week's Guest Reviewer!

Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews. Thank you so much for taking such an interest in my mission. I can't thank you enough.

Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books. Probably one of my best friends in the blogosphere. I know I say this ALL the time — but I really love the Coffee Cup posts.

Megan at writemeg. I love her posts — always something intriguing at worthwhile going on at her blog.

Fiona at a reader's random ramblings. So friendly! I love it!

Joanne from Slice of Life. She has an awesome contest going on for a copy of Vision in White by Nora Roberts (hurry up, contest ends today!) But besides that — she's the most faithful commenter I have and I love it and really appreciate it!

And to all those who I missed — so very very sorry! You know I think you rock anyway! Thanks again to Gofita's Pages for this awesome award!

If you could share any thoughts or feelings with authors, what would you like to tell them?

That we truly appreciate them and everything they do. Authors are people too, and they work so hard on their books, they deserve some praise for a job well done (especially since the work they did is giving thousands of people joy when they read it). — Kayla at Midnight Twilight's Book Blog
Don't get pissed at a bad review, and sure as hell don't pick a fight with the reviewer. I've seen it happen a few times — it's rare, but it's happened. Relax. One person hating your book won't kill you. If they bash it, they bash it. Take the higher ground. — Nicole at WORD for Teens
I hope the authors of YA lit know just how incredibly important they are. The dedication they put in to their books literally changes lives. Teens need books that they can connect with. Not only does it get them reading but it helps them to see that they are not alone. During a time of life that can be so confusing YA authors help their readers to find acceptance. — Heidi at YA Bibliophile
Responding to your readers is one of the greatest things you can ever do. That little bit of interaction not only inspires me to bring others into the worlds you have created but just may make me a fan for life. The five minutes spent on one email could equal 20+ new readers through my word of mouth. Debbie Macomber is one of those amazing writers and the first I ever wrote to 15 years ago now. While I haven't read anything by her lately, I would recommend her in a heart beat,,, and speaking of, I think I'll go pick up her latest! — Kelli at Scarlett's Scraps
Just keep writing- there are lots of people out there desperate to read your work. I'd also like to tell them about bookcrossing and encourage them to think about how it can increase their number of potential readers. — Abigailann at The Story Factory Reading Zone
That they are fantastic, inspiring, and they make my life so much better by writing these amazing creative fictional worlds that I can escape to from my normal life. — Cynthia at A Blog about Nothing
I would just tell them how awesome they are. I would love to have the imaganation to write wonderful stories that draw you in. Without great authors writing wonderful books life would be very dull. — Megan at Reading Away the Days
I would thank them for the opportunity of sharing there stories, and lives with us through there books, and social media. Reagan at Star Shadow Blog
I would love to tell authors"thanks for following your dreams and for sharing them with us." Honestly, authors are inspiring whether their books are good or bad, they have put themselves out there. There share their thoughts and ideas with us through the power of the printed word. Anyone who puts themselves out there to be praised or criticized is pretty dang awesome in my book. — Lisa at Bookworm Lisa
I would love to just be in ultimate fan-mode with them. I want to let those authors out there how much I love them! They are so clever and awesome. All authors need more love! — Gina at The Bucket List
As an overall comment I'd tell authors it really is cool that they are so involved in social networking. It really gives the whole blogging and reading experience something extra fabulous. — Stacey at Flippin' Fabulous — A Reader's Record
I have such a deep admiration for writers, and wish I had that kind of talent and determiniation. Thank you for continually providing us new worlds to explore, and new characters to connect with! -Christi at Christi the Teen Librarian I admire authors with perseverance. I enjoy seeing success stories and I would like to thank all those wonderful authors who have inspired me to keep writing. — J.L. at J.L. Jackson
I started blogging about books, simply because it looked like fun. I was already doing reviews for stuff I got on Amazon, so I decided to make my own spot for my thoughts and share them with others. — Ellen at Silver Tabby Books
Tough question! I think the one overarching theme I would like to share with any author is my sense of gratitude. Through their words, I have been able to explore worlds, visit times and places that I would have never dreamed possible. At the same time, I have discovered more about myself — my likes, my dislikes, my values, and so forth — that most people struggle to discover because their books and words afford me the opportunity to learn. I am who I am because of their words, for which I am forever in their debt. — Michelle at That's What She Read
Keep writing! I'm sooooo thankful to all the authors writing books, because without them I wouldn't be able to read. I love discovering new favorite books that stick with my and that I lie in bed thinking about at night. — Thia at Through the Book Vine
Keep writing. I love a good movie, but there is nothing like making a cup of tea and curling up with a good book – preferably a cozy mystery. — Ann at Cozy in Texas
I don't think anyone has an obligation to like what you've written, just because it's published. Personally, I do think there's an obligation to be respectful, but that's a two way street.
-Don't turn down free publicity! — Cat at Cat's Thoughts
That I am absolutely amazed at the time and energy that they put into their books (and interacting with the online community), and just how unbelievably nice the mass majority of the are. — Orchid at The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia
"Thank you." That about sums it all up for me."Thank you for getting up every day, sitting down at the keyboard and spending hours upon hours, pouring yourself onto the page, tapping deep into your imagination, all with no promise of reward or compensation, but fueled by the belief that telling a story is the most important thing in the world. It is, and for that we're grateful for what you do." That's what I would tell every author I meet. — David at Quivering Pen Blog
THANK YOU! Also, I swear I’m not really as dumb as my tongue-tied babbling fangirly state makes me seem! — Small at Small Reviews
Give the book blogger community more credit — most of us take this as seriously as any high-paying job should be, and we operate with a veracity that can be hard to find in many paying jobs. Our work can and does impact book sales, even if those numbers are difficult to track. — Rachel at Jacob's Beloved's Books
Thank you for sharing your gift of storytelling and writing to us. Know that you are changing or have changed someone's life. — Len at Musings of a Reader Happy
I would share with any author that when they travel and take time to visit with their readers, it makes a reader even more excited to go out and read their previous works or future works for that matter too. — Kristin at Kritters Ramblings
I just want to let you know that you are awesome! Though some of your more obscure books may be hard to locate, you have fans! Also, many bloggers, myself included, love a simple recognition. So, shout-outs or even"likes" go a long way in the fan-girl screaming categories! Mainly, I commend you for having the guts to write down what you feel and for having the courage to hand it over to a publisher to be ripped apart and criticized. It takes a lot of bravery, but you succeeded. — Nora at The Bookery
First, I'd thank them for taking their thoughts and using words on a page to create these works of arts. Then I'd want to know about their specific processes and/ or inspiration. A bit of a bland response, but I'm a simple person looking for the answers to simple questions. — Kim at Book Munchies
I would probably say thank you. They take me to another world that can't be compared to TV and movies. The way you play with words truly amazes me each time I read a book. Therefore, thank you so much for writing. — Lindsay at Just Another Book Addict
I hope that you never run across a blogger who treats you unkindly or unfairly. If you do, please do not let one bad experience ruin your opinion of us all. I have met some amazing bloggers who wish nothing but success to authors and their books. — Shannon at Books Devoured

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

Wow! BBRAW has officially come and gone! Thanks to everyone who participated or stopped by! I've had a great time getting to know some new bloggers and reconnecting with old friends.

You've made it through the week! Thank people for stopping by, thank new readers and old readers, wrap up your giveaway (if you had one), tell who you nominated for as MVR and why (if you feel comfortable), wrap up the first BBRAW experience, and basically celebrate your readers in any way that you like!

Kimberly @ Kimba the Caffeinated Book Reviewer

Kimberly always stops by my blog and checks out my facebook posts. She is so sweet and always takes time to read basically anything I post. She always puts a smile on my face. She is probably the biggest supporter of my site and I really appreciate it. She is so awesome and kind.

I enjoy her comments, we share in many cases very alike reading tastes, she has recommended wonderful books and audio to me — and probably most influential is that her Check Point meme she started this year inspired me to start Team Kickin It. Her advice and encouragement is valued.

She is the very best commenter ever... and I pretty much think of just talking to her when I'm writing my blog posts.

Ryan has become a blogging buddy of mine who not only leaves me thoughtful comments, but also encourages me to try new authors with his great reviews! He's been a longtime follower/reader/friend and the blogging world is a better place because he's in it!

She is one of the most faithful readers of my blog, nearly since the beginning. I'm proud to call her a friend as well, even though we've never met! Her book preferences are so insync with mine, we often joke that we are sisters from different mothers. She's a wonderful lady!

Mindy is always leaving thoughtful and wonderful comments on my reviews and posts. Her comments never fail to make me smile. We all know that when you run your own blog you can get bogged down and not find time to visit other people's blogs and comment, but she is always taking time to connect and comment on other peoples reviews and to reach out positively on twitter.

She always stops by my reviews and leaves thoughtful comments. I see her around at tons of blogs even though she has her own awesome blog to run! She is full of pure awesome!

Giselle is everywhere, leaving comments. Her name caught my eye because of how many times she commented on my blog especially when I didn't have many Followers. As I do my best to comment in the blogiverse, I see her name and cute smile everywhere. She makes socializing a goal and really shares the warm fuzzies of Comments!!!

Winners, look for an email from me before Wednesday (things are a bit busy right now with the trip we're going on tomorrow and picking up Prim on Monday).

Do you like to establish relationships with authors? Do you ever have"fan-girl/boy" moments?

Yes, I think its very important to build some kind of relationship with them. Its even nicer when you actually become friends. Oh yes I have had those fan-girl moments and plan to have more soon. — Yara at Once Upon a Twilight
Not really, I do tweet reviews and occasionally I've sent fangirl (like they were FANGIRLY) emails to a few: ) I guess I'm just not cool enough to build up author rapport: P On the fangirl moments. they occur… too often: P — Audrey at holes In My brain
I love to! I actually have the"fan-girl" moments often. Any time an author I love replies on Twitter, or comments on a blog post or Facebook status, I get deliriously happy. — Amanda, Another Book Junkie
I've emailed authors with questions and chatted with them but I wouldn't nessarly call it any thing else. lol yes all the time I end up rambling to these authors before asking the question its so embarrassing. — Kate at Ghost of the still
I love talking to authors! I still totally fangirl when they reply to me on Twitter. Janenifer Echols responded to a couple of my tweets once and I about DIED!: ) I have had a few comment on blog posts and that is just as thrilling! — Missy at Two Readers Reviews

I love getting to know authors, many that I have met are fans like me and just enjoy reading and creating something for everyone to enjoy. I have had two major fan-girl moments and I know all have many more to come. One was meeting Laurell K Hamilton at comic con one year, she was super sweet and was so happy I enjoyed her writing. The other was Sherrilynn Kenyon, my goodness she was such an awesome person and we chatted a bit about those awesome Dark Hunters in her books.
- Kristen at Seeing Night Reviews
I kind of like to establish a relationship with authors. I always feel like a fan-girl. — Darla at DforDarla's Definite Reads
I like to host all kinds of events on the blog, and feature new authors, so with time I build a relationship with a couple of authors. Living so far away, I can't attend signings which really saddens me, but at least my favorite authors are easily reachable through internet =) I'm a complete fan girl for Richelle Mead, Jeaniene Frost, Cassandra Clare & Rachel Vincent, to name only these, but I try to tone it down when talking to them haha. — Tynga at Tynga's Review

I’ve really only met one author. Maria V. Snyder just happened to have a book signing for her first book (Poison Study) at the gift shop where I was working. She was super nice and so down to earth and I thought it would be neat to have a signed book so I bought one without ever having heard of her. I’ve been hooked ever since. I have all of her books (signed) as do my mom, grandma and quite a few friends. I guess you could say if I have one on one contact with an author (and if I like their writing) I have more loyalty to them and I’m more likely to read/buy all of their books rather than just a book here and there. I think I’m also more likely to encourage my family/friends to check them out. My fan-girl moment happened a couple weeks ago at one of Maria’s book signings. I hadn’t been to one of her signings for a while so I had a backlog of books to get signed for me and my family. I walked into the signing with a bag full of books… literally a grocery bag FULL, haha. She was awesome and was totally fine with signing them all! — Jane at At Random

I do! But I also fear that I might be viewed as a pest trying to establish a relationship (not for free goodies purposes) so I tend to get really shy even when trying to write an email. But I have established relationships with a few indie authors and I love talking to them! Oh, have I ever had a fan-girl moment! Everytime I get a tweet/comment/email from an author about my blog or review or responding to a tweet I get those moments. I can't help but feel overjoyed.
- Aimee at Coffee Table Press
I love getting to know authors. My favorite of all is Maria V. Snyder--I feel like I've known her my whole life! My weakest-kneed fan-girl moments are definitely elicited by Neil Gaiman--whom I've never actually met because whenever he's around I get a totally irrational fear response and run the other way. Someday I will actually be in the same place with him at the same time, and retain my composure long enough not to embarrass myself… yeah. Someday. — Alethea at Read Now Sleep Later

My blog is fairly new, so I don't have any relationships with authors, but I have fan-girl moments all the time. If an author re-tweets my review or responds to a comment I made on their blog, I nearly faint with excitement. — Jessica at Brief Book Reviews
I would like to and I think I have while preparing book tours for some of them. I admire their strengths and individuality. They are all an inspiration to me as they have followed their dreams and made them come true. A lot of the authors I do reviews for are self-published, which seems to be a growing trend. — Shirley at My Bookshelf
got a note from Kathi Appelt thanking me for highlighting her book and hosting a giveaway. I was soooooo excited! — Jill at The O.W.L
This hasn't been one of my main objectives, though when it happens, it's amazing. The first time an author replied to me on Twitter I think my heart nearly beat out of my chest. I'm totally a fangirl, but my ultimate freak out would be if I ever got to talk to Sarah Dessen. — Ashley at Book Labyrinth
I want to, but I'm always afraid that I'll come across as being stupid or boring or just say things that they've heard a thousand times before. I do like talking to authors, though, when I get the guts to. It's fun to have a little bit of a brush with greatness. And yes, I fangirl, but not to the authors themselves. I fangirl on the inside, though! — Ria at Bibliotropic
Oh, definitely! If you can't tell already, I love authors. I have extreme fan-girl moments, especially when they talk about upcoming books. — Lucia at iLive, iLaugh, iLove Books
My twitter stream often has authors talking back and forth with me. This week I @'ed with Kiersten White of the Paranormalcy series, anytime I talk to her I go all fan girl. — Rie at Mission to Read
To be honest, I'm still a bit scared to talk to authors. I've spoken to some on twitter though and once Julie Kagawa responded to a tweet I sent to her which promoted a small freak out dance… on my wheeley chair… yep, that ended well, but I was happy! The few I've actually worked up the guts to talk to are crazy nice though! I love how easy twitter makes approaching authors, it really slams home the idea that they are actually people too (which I sometimes forget in my giddiness). — Lisa at BaffledBooks
I never thought I would, and then it was happening accidentally. Now it's one of my favourite things about the blogging experience. So far my most embarrassing fan-girl moment was when I met Suzanne Collins. I was nearly incoherent and I'm not even positive what I said, but I think it was something like"I can't believe you're here, I love these books". Hahahahah! — Rhiannon at The Diary of a Bookworm
I follow authors on Twitter mostly, but I've never really tried to talk to them too much, I think I'm still a little overwhelmed with the fact that I 'can' talk to them at all. I've totally had fan-girl moments, every time an author follows me or replies to me on Twitter I totally freak out, and I have a smile that last for at least half an hour.; ) I'm also friends with some authors on Facebook.: ) — Ambur at Burning.x.Impossibly.x. Bright
I haven't actually established any relationships with authors, I email from time to time asking some questions but I'm not close to any of them. Sad I know. I definitely have fan-girl moments when someone like Lauren Oliver (Delirium) emails me back! — Katie at Books are Dreams
At this point I like having a professional relationship with authors. I do have the"fan girl" moments. Last year I met James Patterson and I think I blacked out during it because I was so nervous. LOL. — Kate at I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read!
Before I started blogging I didn't really think that it was possible to establish relationships with authors. To me, authors were these people who wrote the amazing books I read but weren't necessarily people I had a chance to talk to or connect with. I always find it amazing when an author comments on my review of their book and I basically start squealing in front of my computer screen. And if I get the chance to meet them in person it's even better. Unfortunately there aren't that many authors who come to my area though. — Emilie at Emilie Book World
I have had more opportunities to connect with writers on a writing level than as a reader, however, I did have a squealy fan-girl moment with Miriam Toews. She is so cool. She seemed so young, all jean-jacket and sunglasses on her head, then she mentioned she just dropped her daughter of at university. I also had a lovely correspondence with Steve Heighton for a while.He was very encouraging of my work, really kind to a newbie. When I finally did meet him, I was pretty nervous."I'm just a regular guy," he said. Yeah, sure, a regular guy who can write poetry and short stories like no other. — Kim at Fresh Fish and Foolishness

I haven't established too many author relationships. I'd love to do more and I'm working towards having interviews and such on my blog. I may not act like a 'fan-girl' to their face, but when I have a signed copy of their book, my friends and family must definitely consider it a fan-girl moment. — Jackie at Teen Book Guide

*Part 2 of 3 will be posted soon.
USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.

A huge thank you to Fiona at A Reader's Random Ramblings! She's awarded me with this awesome Let's be Friends Award!

"I am now going to pass on this award to eight other friendly blogging type people, who comment, host challenges, and follow my blog. Congratulations, and display your award with pride! Please pass on the award to eight other bloggers and share the bloggy love!"

Took that from Fiona! Haha thanks again Fiona! I'd totally send this back to you if you hadn't already sent it to me!

1. Sheila at One Person's Journey Through A World of Books — I love your Morning Meandering Books!

2. Laura at Laura's Review — Thanks for all the amazing comments!

3. Megan at Write Meg — She always has some fun post going on!

4. Gofita's Pages — One of the best commenters ever! I always look forward to seeing what you have to say and love that you check my blog so often! You're awesome!

5. JoAnn at Lakeside Musings — I love JoAnn's posts like Wordless Wednesdays and all of her reviews!

6. Monique at The Little Reading Nook — Always something interesting going on at her blog!

7. Joanne at Slice of Life — I always love hearing about what she is reading — probably attributes to a huge chunk of my TBR list!

8. Marilyn at Brant Flakes — I love finding out about all the Jane Austen (ish) books she's reading!

Thanks again to Fiona at A Reader's Random Ramblings for this great award! You're awesome! Definitely check out all of these blogs — they are the first places I check out everyday (even before Facebook — gasp!)

If you could share any thoughts or feelings with authors, what would you like to tell them?

ISALYS: How much I admire them!! As a matter of fact, I had this conversation with my hubby the other day. I know a lot of hard work goes into being a actor or athlete or musician, but none of that compares to the hard work, dedication and talent that it takes to put together a great book that is enjoyed by so many all around the world. And above all that, authors are still so real! They tour the country taking the time to meet their fans, sign books, take pictures. They tweet us and tell us about their goals, their frustrations or what traffic was like that day. I love that they are not unreachable!

VANESSA: Again, I'd have to agree. I'd tell them how much I admire them! It takes real talent to be able to tell a story and captivate a reader. Especially when it's one of those books that just stays in your heart forever. ♥ — Isalys & Vanessa at Book Soulmates
I would first have to say Thank You. Thank you for working with, hanging out and talking to everyone in the blogging community. Without you, being a book blogger would be a tad on the quiet side. We do what we do because of what you do. I’ve had such a great… wow, almost 2 years now working on my blog and every author I’ve talked to and worked with has always been great to me. I know I’m excited and eager to get to know more of you and I hope to host you on my blog sometime soon. — Lisa at A Life Bound by Books
Keep writing! — Chris at Chrisbookaram
Keep writing amazing stories. YA is certainly the place to be and so many great books are coming out! It's an exciting time. — Janenifer at YA Book Nerd
That they are awesome and amazing for supporting bloggers the way they do. I know some don't like bloggers, and that's fine, but the ones that do are always so great about talking to us on twitter, or doing interviews, and all that other good stuff. They don't have to do any of that, but they do, and it never ceases to amaze me. So, thank you!: D — Jessica at The Firefly Book Loft I would like to tell them how much what they do means, and how appreciative I am of the time they put not only into their books, but also into connecting with their audience. Also, thank you for all the support you've shown to all of us bloggers and fans! — Andye from Reading Teen For the authors I would say: 1) Thank you! I don’t think you hear it enough, but I so appreciate the time, effort, work, heart, and soul that you put into your work. Whether I like your book or not, it takes a lot of guts and determination to put your work out there for the public. 2) You are all awesome! So far throughout this blogging journey, I have not “met” one negative author. I appreciate the time they take to read my reviews & comment as well as @replying to me on twitter. It is all so very sweet of them. — Katelyn at Kayelyn’s Blog
Keep writing!!!!! — Emma at Emma Michaels
Please understand that most book bloggers are swamped with review requests, so don't take it personally if we have to turn you down. Also, never give up on your dream! Keep writing! — Theresa at Fade Into Fantasy
Hmm… that they're in inspiration for aspiring authors like me. I like reading their"how I got published" stories because I read and think,"It happened for
them… it can happen for me." It's awesome to know that I'm not the only
one trudging along this road to publication. I keep going because I see that
others have succeeded.
- Raenice at Life, Love, and the Pursuit of Publication

Well recently I've noticed allot of conflict, I guess you could call it, going on about Negative reviews written by bloggers. But to be honest if I was going to tell an author anything I would tell them truly what I thought out their book, as nicely as possible. I believe that if i was an author I would fully accept negative reviews, jus as long as they have been done tastefully, i would see it as constructive critizm and I believe many authors would agree with me. — Kayleigh at OnceUponABookNerd
A great big THANK YOU! Also, just to let them know that it does mean a lot to bloggers when authors correspond with us in a personal way. — Danya at A Tapestry of Words
Well that's kind of a hard question when I think about it. Especially with all the heated discussions that have been going on this year between authors and bloggers. I'm not sure really. Lame answer I know, but I'm one of those people who can't write speeches. I wait till the last moment when I'm standing in front of the crowd before I realize what it is I have to say. I share my thoughts and feelings with some authors all the time, the ones that I talk to every day (even about silly things), but when I read that question it seems like you mean authors on a bigger scale. And I don't really know. *shrugs* — Khadija at Black Fingernail Reviews
I would just like to thank them for putting their work out there and for writing books for me to read and review. — Grace at Books Like Breathing
I wish I had more time to read your stories and to write my own. — Kirsty from Kirstyes
I admire greatly what they do. I've learned that it's a lot for an author to put the heart and soul into something and then send out in the world. You never know how it's going to be received. — Page at One Book at a Time
Keep writing and I'll keep reading! — Bridgid at Inky Fresh Press
Thank you for being you! I seriously wouldn't even be blogging if there were no books in the world. I admire their creativity and even if I don't particularly like a book, I still appreciate it. I am completely envious of how authors can create brand new worlds in their heads. It's genius. — Kaitlyn at Kaitlyn in Bookland
To every single author who has written any book I ever read (and will read in the future): Thank you, you have offered me an escape from any bad day, bad test grade, argument, flu/allergy, and boring school lecture. Your books offer me a glimpse of worlds I would have not be able to see otherwise. They inspired me, made me cry, made me laugh, and just about any other emotion in between. Thank you for sharing your story with us! — Alex at More Than Just a Book
I like when authors are accessible through social media. I'm not saying you have to be on Twitter or post on your blog everyday, but it's nice for authors to have some kind of forum where people can ask questions or learn about their upcoming projects, etc.
-JL at An Avid Reader's Musings
Thisis a tough one for me because I don't really give it much thought. If I think about it though I would like to say this. Sometimes a blogger will not like your book and that might hurt you; especially if you are on friendly terms with them. So maybe you start to keep your distance. It's not really the best thing to do. I can't stress enough that a blogger not loving your book doesn't mean they have crossed off all of your work altogether, or that they don’t like you. I have had times where I have given a mixed review and it's obvious the author has read it because even though we didn’t talk much, — we would tweet each other from time to time. When they stop replying back you get the message. It doesn't really bother me because like I said I don't really go out of my way to be friends with authors and I don’t have a relationship with any where I can call it a friendship. But it does leave me disappointed because I had planned on getting the sequel or your latest book. After all that I'm not so eager anymore. — Aly at Fantasy4eva

Thank you ALL for helping me celebrate my blogoversary and filling out these questions. You are all amazing!

USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.

Thanks to Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews, I received another award! Wow — I am on fire. It feel so good not to be forgotten — granted I've had scheduled posts everyday, but I have over 1000 posts to read in Reader soon because of RA Training. Thank you so much Sharon for this award!

I'm focusing on bloggers who are new to Miss Remmers' review — I really appreciate you! (All of you are awesome!)

Sharry from Always Dreaming — This girl always has something awesome to say! I love reading her comments.
Leslie from That Chick That Reads — Again, awesome commenter! Plus she's a fellow English Major!
Jasmyn from Jasmyn's Stuff — A relatively new blogger who is so considerate and thoughtful.
Myckyee from BookBound — A very thoughtful blogger who deserves some recognition.

This week I'd like to welcome back Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews as this weeks Guest Reviewer!

******************** The Time It Snowed in Puerto Rico — Sarah McCoy Shaye Areheart Books (Random House); $19.99 From Amazon.com...
"Maria Flores Ortiz-Santiago, known to her family and friends as Verdita, has spent 11 happy years in her peaceful Puerto Rico neighborhood. One night, she witnesses her parents making love, and her world irrevocably changes. She cannot look her mother in the eye after seeing her in such an exposed position. It takes months, a botched bleached-blond hairdo, and her mother's near death in childbirth before Verdita begins to understand her parents' love for one another and for her. The book is ripe with the lush island's landscape, culture, and foods, as well as the political upheaval of the 1960s. Verdita's experience, though, is universal, as she must reconcile both the passion she witnesses and the changes in her own body with a child's perspective of the world."

Coming of age is difficult in any culture. But for 11-year old Verdita, life in the slow-paced Puerto Rican mountain village where she grew up is deadly dull. As Puerto Rico struggled internally with independence and statehood issues, Verdita struggles with her own disappointments and heartaches. She dreams of excitement, glamour and absolutely anything American, but in the turbulent year of 1961, dreams could not always come true easily.
In Sarah McCoy’s debut novel, “The Time It Snowed In Puerto Rico,” she takes her readers on a journey to the verdant tropical island where attitudes and conditions are as turbulent as the oceans that surround it. Through McCoy’s magical use of words you can almost feel the humidity, taste the sweet coconut milk and hear the call of the native birds.
Verdita’s story is fraught with the emotional ups and downs of a pre-teenaged girl. After accidentally witnessing her parents making love on the living room couch, Verdita is dismayed to learn her mother is pregnant. She fervently prays that the baby is not a boy who would take her father’s attention away, but she also doesn’t want a sister, who might be prettier than she is.
Verdita adores Elvis Presley, desperately wants her hair to be blond, experiences a romantic crush, and feels the thrill of disobeying her parents for the first time. Typical teenage rebellion, yet there lies a gentleness in Verdita that cherishes her family, wants to be a good girl, and loves her country. But there is something more out there that she wants, she just doesn’t know what it is yet. Sarah McCoy delivers a brilliant coming-of-age novel that will appeal to both adults and young adult readers. Being part Puerto-Rican herself, McCoy drenched herself in the atmosphere and culture of her mother’s homeland, and the result is a rich, satisfying novel that is fascinating to read.
********************
Thank you so much Sharon for such an awesome review! Sounds like an AWESOME book! Check out Sharon's original review. Make sure to stop by and share some Book Love with Sharon too! What an awesome lady she is!

I'm finally beginning to make some progress (right before finals, ironic?).

It is your LAST CHANCE to win "Thanksgiving at the Inn." This is is the perfect book to read before the Holiday. I loved it! The deadline is TONIGHT at MIDNIGHT!

This week I reviewed Lighting Their Fires — it's an absolutely phenomenal book and I highly recommend it. Okay — so maybe I didn't accomplish as much as I thought, but I am halfway through "Prince Harming!"I am also taking part in an awesome Thanksgiving Challenge. So if you've noticed a "What I am Thankful for... " introduction before my posts — that's why. I highly suggest everyone trying this, it does get harder as you go on. But I think a valid point is raised, what if you wake up one morning and what you weren't thankful for yesterday isn't there today? Crazy! So today, I am thankful for my love of literature. Without it — I'm not sure who I'd be.

Leslie was also this week's Guest Reviewer — donating her review of Bloodroot. Please share some book love and visit her at That Chick That Reads. This is her second week in a row! Thank you Leslie for your amazing support.

I gained two followers and now have 32 amazing followers.:)

Crazy enough, I don't have anything DUE this coming week. I have a few final papers to begin working on that will be due during Finals week, but I can put those off a LITTLE bit more.:) One paper is a linguistics paper — my chosen topic is the Northern Minnesota Dialect. My senior thesis paper (that must coincide somehow with Milton's "Paradise Lost") is going to be about how J.K. Rowling makes 'good' attractive. If you've read "Paradise Lost," you're aware of how Milton struggles to make Christ/good seem appealing. So I'm going to parallel "Paradise Lost" with the Harry Potter series. Then, for my actual Harry Potter class, I'm going to do a character analysis of Draco Malfoy. Thesis is TBA. On Wednesday I take my Exit Exam — not too excited about that. Wish me luck! Where was I going with that mini-rant — oh yea, because I don't have anything immediate to do, I hope to spend a lot of time reading, visiting blogs, and working on my own.

Tomorrow I will announce the winner's of "Thanksgiving at the Inn" and by the end of the week I hope to have TWO reviews up!

On going bit of fun: Register to win a Kindle!

(Again, for the third week in a row...) Also, each week I'm going to start making a "To Do" list for blog related things — not just reading. It's soon to be the time of year when I'll be sending the HTML address for Miss Remmers' Review out to prospective school districts and I want to make sure it is "spot on". if you have any ideas as to how to make this blog more awesome — please let me know.

• Rewrite/hone my Guest Reviewer 's post.
• Rewrite/hone my Mission post.
• Update Layout
  
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "A Circle of Souls "
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "A Vengeful Spirit "
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "Audrey, Wait "
  

Happy Sunday everyone!

What did you finish this week?

Yay Toast! Okay — so that's the kind of mood I'm in! But there's good reason. This week I received FOUR awards! Three of them are the same — but still that's VERY very awesome!:)

Big thanks to Joanne from Slice of Life, Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews, and Sheila from One Person's Journey Through a World of Books for giving me the Zombies and Chickens Award!

"The blogger who receives this award believes in the Tao of the Zombie Chicken — excellence, grace, and persistence, in all situations even in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. These amazing bloggers regularly produce content so remarkable that their readers would brave a raving pack of zombie chickens just to be able to read their inspiring words. As a recipient of this world-renowned award, you now have the task of passing it on to at least 5 worthy bloggers. Do not risk the wrath of the zombie chickens by choosing unwisely or not choosing at all."

Wow — that is a super intense description that I stole from Joanne. Big shoes (and expectations) to fill. I feel very honored to receive this award (twice!). Thanks SO much to Joanne, Sheila, and Sharon! You three are awesome! As for who I'd like to pass this award on to...

Gofita's Pages — Always has something fun and interesting going on there. Very friendly blogger — I always look forward to reading her comments.

Reader's Random Ramblings — Very thoughtful posts and reviews. Mostly to blame for my ridiculously long TBR pile.:)

Laura's Reviews — Very friendly blogger who reads both 'mainstream' and 'new find' books. I appreciate her eclectic taste.:)

Thanks again to Joanne, Sheila, and Sharon for this awesome award!:)

If you could share any thoughts or feelings with authors, what would you like to tell them?

I think its wonderful how they authors have opened up through social networks such as twitter or facebook to their fans. It shows us they care and we know they are listening. — Yara at Once Upon a Twilight
Uhmm… something along the lines of"OMGiloveyourbooksiloveyourbooksiloveyouiloveyoupleasedon'tcallthepolice" — Audrey at holes In My brain
I love you. Even if I didn't like your book(s), I still admire you in ways you couldn't imagine. As a struggling writer, I understand the work that goes into it, and I applaud you for it. — Amanda, Another Book Junkie

Other then there should be a balance of action and detail and not to much or to little of one thing I'd want to say thank you for making unbelievable stories and thanks to all those who wrote books after harry potter was over you saved some bookworms there lol (right? I mean where would we be with out say the hunger games or twilight?)
- Kate at Ghost of the still
To keep interacting with the fans. There is nothing better than feeling like an author is easy to talk to or approachable. Knowing that authors talk to fans on Twitter and blogs just makes me love them even more! — Missy at Two Readers Reviews
Thank you! Thank you for writing such wonderful stories and creating characters and worlds that are unforgettable. As a Graphic Designer I am always inspired by words and writing, which help me continue to love what I do. — Kristen at Seeing Night Reviews
I'd like to thank them for being amazing and writing some amazing books. — Darla at DforDarla's Definite Reads
I would like thank them for writing such amazing books. I honestly don't know what I'd be doing if I wasn't spending so much time reading. A book is the perfect escape from the daily life, and I couldn't thank 'em enough =) — Tynga at Tynga's Review
Come to Central PA more often, haha. — Jane at At Random
Books inspire. What you do is wonderful! I have an overactive imagination and I love how books can feed that. I love to put those feelings into words when I review a book and it really makes a blogger feel fantastic when an author comments on a review when they love it and how it makes the author feel. — Aimee at Coffee Table Press
Never ever take your book and reposition it in a bookstore display. If you really want a bookseller to display your book more prominently, all you need to do is be pleasant and polite to them. Talk about other people's books that you love. Speak to them as a fellow book-lover and defer to their expertise. Hand-selling and displaying your book is a good bookseller's reflex reaction to being treated respectfully by an author, and developing that trust organically rather than asking or forcing it will ensure a long-lasting loyalty! — Alethea at Read Now Sleep Later

Not only am I thankful for the immense enjoyment that their stories bring me, and envy their ability to write such wonderful books, but I have a strong appreciation for the level of interaction with fans that most of my favorite authors maintain thanks to blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and the like. — Jessica at Brief Book Reviews
Cut the profanity, vulgarity and graphic sex. — Shirley at My Bookshelf
If you can ever drop by a blog and say hello it makes our day!
- Jill at The O.W.L
There are a few authors who have produced some of the most amazing collections of words that have moved me so deeply, and I'd just like to tell them thank you. I'd like to thank every author for having the courage to share their work with readers, and for providing a common ground that has allowed this incredible book blogging community to come together. — Ashley at Book Labyrinth
It depends on the author. But mostly, if I like them, I want to tell them that I like them, and that I hope they keep writing awesome things so that I can keep reading awesome things. I want to tell them that I want to be like them someday, creating something that brings joy to others. I want to tell them that what they're doing is amazing, and that they're amazing for doing it. I also want to tell Mercedes Lackey that I want to follow in her footsteps, but I'm not sure if that counts as creepy or not! — Ria at Bibliotropic
Hahaha. Please excuse my sometimes immature, squealing, obsessed moments when I type in all CAPS and get all excited over your books. Oh, and no matter how well you end your books (even if everything is solved and complete and perfect), I always love sequels, no matter what. Hint hint, J.K. Rowling! — Lucia at iLive, iLaugh, iLove Books
Thank you for being so helpful in our efforts to spread the word about great books. — Rie at Mission to Read
THANK YOU!!!! Thank you for all the hard work and sweat and tears and hours of love you pour into your books! You give us a piece of you and there is no way to really ever show our appreciation properly. Just know that we love you all!: D — Lisa at BaffledBooks
Thank you for all the wonderful places you've taken me. I can't wait for our next adventure together. — Rhiannon at The Diary of a Bookworm
Hmmm, I think I mostly would just tell an author how much I loved their book, or just gush to them about their characters. If I were to actually be face to face with an author though I might just freeze up, it's like meeting a celebrity!: D — Ambur at Burning.x.Impossibly.x. Bright
Authors are the best. Seriously. Authors don't just write books that I enjoy, they help me and prepare me for situations, they entertain me, they make a bad day better. Just being able to"leave" for awhile and explore another persons life and even new worlds is so relaxing and absolutely incredible. — Katie at Books are Dreams
I appreciate the awesome support of bloggers from (most) authors. And with social media, I feel so close to the authors that I aspire to be like. — Kate at I Just Wanna Sit Here and Read!
If I could share thoughts and feelings with authors I would tell them how grateful I am for what they do. They do something that I would never be able to do in a million years and just that is pretty amazing. I also don't know what I would do if authors weren't there. It would mean I would have no way to loose myself in a story like I love doing so much. Basically, I want to say a BIG thank you for what they do. — Emilie at Emilie Book World
I think the main thing would be that, as an aspiring writer, I appreciate what they do. When an author nails a scene or a character, or a turn of phrase, it is incredibly satisfying to read. I often say"I want to be able to do THAT when I grow up" meaning"I hope I can pull that off one day." I also wish I could be blunt with some authors and tell them when they missed the mark. — Kim at Fresh Fish and Foolishness
I love reading your books and I love when you are so outgoing and supportive of book blogs! Thanks for all of the hard work! — Jackie at Teen Book Guide

*Part 2 of 3 will be posted soon.
USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.

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.

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.

Website | Book Site | Twitter | Goodreads

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

As part of Wedding Week (I'M MARRIED), today we are featuring Shanyn from Chick Loves Lit! Shanyn basically saved me during the planning process. She helped with invitations, save the dates, wedding music, and overall wedding moral. Shanyn, I can't express enough how much your support, excitement, and enthusiasm literally made this process for me. Thank you!!
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I'm not going to lie to you guys — I was not a girl who had all of her wedding details picked out by age ten. It's not that I hated weddings, but I hadn't been to many and didn't really understand why some girls were obsessed with planning something that had no future date in sight. So when I went to college, I went in with a major that would require me to work quite a bit right out of college — I hadn't met anyone and just figured I'd get married after I had done all of that. You can guess what happened next, I'm sure — I met my future husband at college, and kind of changed that whole willing to work eighty hours a week thing (and, looking back, I'm really thankful that it happened this way — I have worked forty hour work weeks and even that was tiring)!

Shanyn, this picture is literally to die for! I love it!
I met Steve my second year of college while playing frisbee. It was a casual meeting — we both hung out with lots of the same friends, as many relationships start — and a few months later we were 'official.' He proposed at a Coldplay concert a few years later (it was awesome and I was totally surprised), and about five years after we started dating we got married. Even through all of this I hadn't started fantasizing about any details — I'm pretty easy going in general. This didn't change much throughout our engagement or any of the planning stages — my biggest concern was that I was marrying Steve, so as long as we got that all sorted I was okay with everything else.

PS: Shanyn, I am also SO jealous of this picture! It's perfect!
This doesn't mean we just signed the documents in a backyard (and I didn't want to do that). Steve's sisters and mom loved the wedding process, and we did lots of crafts and shopping and trips. I found my wedding dress in one try (I love that dress so much I wish there were another occasion I could wear it!), my flowers were done by a friend (my only request was that they included lilies), and we laid decorations out on their kitchen table to play around with table decorations. Since I had a degree in graphic design, I made our save the dates and invitations, and our church happened to change the scenery in the sanctuary to something perfect right before our wedding day.

Thanks to a little luck and my and Steve's easy going attitudes, I think our wedding day went perfectly. The weather outside didn't help with travel (it was very icy, as we had a January wedding), but we had a very small list of friends and family that couldn't make it because of that — and the snow outside made for beautiful pictures. Everything from flowers to decorations to food was excellent. Most importantly, I was able to marry my love Steve, which was my goal in the first place:)

My attitude about weddings has changed a little now — I can't wait until Steve's sisters get married because I can't wait to be on the 'other side' of things to help with food, cake, crafts, dresses. I love to hear about my friend's weddings, and am always willing to offer my opinion or experience on wedding related things now that I've gone through it all (though I'm careful to not inject my opinion when it's not wanted, I know some brides are very particular:) ) .

I am very excited for Miss Remmers and I can't wait to hear all about her wedding when it's over. I've been able to hear a few things about it during the planning process, but hearing about the actual day will be awesome. Congratulations, Miss Remmers:) I hope that your day goes exactly (or at least pretty close) to how you want, and that you'll be able to share a picture or two with us afterwards:)

********************** Shanyn, I'm the same way. The theory to my wedding was "let's wing it" because I didn't really know what I wanted. I figured I wouldn't get married until I was in my fifties! I love all of your pictures and how everything came together! Congratulations!

Something awesome has happened!!

In October 2010, I realized that I had been quoted at the official website for "The Ivy." I won't lie, I was pretty stoked. But a few days ago, when asking Twitter what I should do with my upcoming name change, I got this reply from "Losing Faith " author, Denise Jaden:

Oh, but wait, while I was searching around Denise's website, I found this:

Yep, I've been quoted again AND I'll hopefully be making an appearance in her next book! Squeeeee! I know I'm on cloud nine!

If you haven't already, make sure to read "Losing Faith" and say "hey" to Denise on Twitter (@denisejaden)!

Buy "Losing Faith": Barnes and Noble | Amazon
Visit Denise: Official Website | Twitter

Last week was a doozy, I didn't get anything accomplished that I had set out to do. But in my defense, on Monday I woke up with a 104.5 temperature, went to the doctor and tested positive for Influenza A and was suspected to have H1N1. So you can about imagine how fun my week was. I was so delirious I couldn't even spend those days at home with a book! But... now I'm back. I can't promise I'll get a whole lot accomplished this week either though. My professors were pretty lenient when it came to extensions — but now I have last week's homework and this week's homework to do before Monday. Oh boy.

I am still hosting a contest — "Thanksgiving at the Inn" is the perfect book to come out of the Halloween season with. I loved it! AND I decided to extend the deadline until November 15th! I reviewed a GREAT book — really, it is phenomenal -" A Duty to the Dead." And to make the week complete, I received an award from Laura at Laura's Reviews.

Sharon was also this week's Guest Reviewer — donating her review of The Time it Snowed in Puerto Rico. Please share some book love and visit her at Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews.

I have decided to give up "Mr. Darcy's Dream." I just cannot force myself to finish it. I will think about doing another contest or perhaps a quick — someone send me a review and I'll give you the book — type of thing. Stay tuned this week.

Still at 30 amazing followers.:)

My goal for this week is to get 100% better and do my homework — sorry guys, this week is going to be a bit boring.

(This if from last week — I'll try to do this) Also, each week I'm going to start making a "To Do" list for blog related things — not just reading. It's soon to be the time of year when I'll be sending the HTML address for Miss Remmers' Review out to prospective school districts and I want to make sure it is "spot on". if you have any ideas as to how to make this blog more awesome — please let me know.

• Rewrite/hone my Guest Reviewer 's post.
• Rewrite/hone my Mission post.
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "A Circle of Souls "
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "A Vengeful Spirit "
• Proofread/Professionalize Review: "Audrey, Wait "
  

Don't forget about my awesome giveaway!

Happy Sunday everyone!

What did you finish this week?

1. Can you share with us something people would be surprised to find out about you?

Through Twitter and blogs, I'm such a chatterbox online that most people would be surprised to know that I'm pretty shy in real life. It takes me a while to warm up to a crowd and most social activities leave me a bit overwhelmed — I'd much rather hang out with a close friend one-on-one. Maybe it would be different if everyone in real life was as fun and awesome as book bloggers, but I think you guys are a rare breed.: -)

2. You share a lot of"high school memories" on your blog. Can you tell us your most embarrassing high school moment?

Um, that would be the time I decided to tell my crush how much I loved him. In writing. In a four-page letter. I think I may have casually thrown in the word"soulmate." His"I'm really flattered" response was mortifying enough, but when his whole football team got hold of the letter… let's just say I had to feign the flu so I could miss a week of school until the drama died down. Fortunately we didn't have texting or the Internet back then, otherwise I think my faux pas would've gone viral!

3. Twenty Boy Summer involves a secret first love and a horrible tragedy that follows. Where did you get the inspiration for this book?

I was inspired to write Twenty Boy Summer by the teens I met through my work with the National Donor Family Council, and organization that supports families whose loved ones have died and donated organs or tissues. I wanted to share a little bit of their stories, their fears, their hopes, and their courage. But as I was writing about the tragedy, I was also thinking about how life goes on, even when we don't want it to. So even though Anna and Frankie are reeling from Matt's death, they're also still dealing with everyday life stuff like clothes and makeup, boys, best friend drama. It's all part of life, and that's what I wanted to write about.

4. What advice would you give teens who are currently struggling with high school and first love?

This sums it up right here: you're not alone. And it gets better. Just like with bullying or any other struggle in high school, things do get better. Whether you're suffering from a broken heart, dealing with harassment, stressed about grades or family stuff, or just trying to figure out where you belong in this world, you *have* to struggle with that stuff — it's part of being alive and coming into your own. When you give up, that's it, it's over. But if you fight, struggle, question things, wrestle with the issues, if you can get through it, you'll come away stronger, wiser, and ready for things to get better. I don't mean to go all"After School Special," but I truly believe that. And besides, crappy high school experiences make for awesome YA books later in life!: -)

5. Fixing Delilah deals with complicated issues between a mother and daughter. What do you hope teen girls take from reading this book?

There is something important I hope both teen girls *and* their mothers take away from Fixing Delilah, and it's this: there is an entire world inside each of us — our secrets, our hopes and fears, our dreams and wishes, our mistakes and shame, our life experiences. We can never know everything about another person, but we can assume that we have this in common: we're all capable of screwing up, and we're all capable of immense love. I hope that moms and daughters remember that and come away from Delilah's story with a new appreciation for one another, even when things aren't perfect.

6. Your books focus on new discoveries and secrets revealed over the summer. Why do you think summer is such a time of change and new beginnings?

Because most teens have summers off in between school years, it's naturally a time to reflect on the previous year and think about how things might be different in the coming year. On summer break, we're away from a lot of the people and pressures we're faced with every day at school, and having that distance often gives us a new perspective on how things are and how we want them to be. Returning to school each fall is like a forced fresh start — new classes, new classmates, new challenges — and we face it with the knowledge and experience we gained over the summer. We've all seen some of our classmates come back from a summer break completely transformed, often as if they're entirely new people. Summer just does that, I think.

7. Can you share with us any projects you are currently working on?

I'm currently working on a new young adult contemporary, but I'm not ready to share too much about it yet! I will tell you that unlike my first two novels, this one is set in the winter, and it features such things as cupcakes, ice skating, a pet hamster, and very adorable hockey boys.: -) I'll be chatting more about it soon, so you can visit my web site for updates in the next few weeks!

Thanks again for hosting me today, Jessica! I hope readers enjoy Fixing Delilah!

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ockler Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (December 1st, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 320 pages Things in Delilah Hannaford's life have a tendency to fall apart.

She used to be a good student, but she can't seem to keep it together anymore. Her"boyfriend" isn't much of a boyfriend. And her mother refuses to discuss the fight that divided their family eight years ago. Falling apart, it seems, is a Hannaford tradition.

Over a summer of new friendships, unexpected romance, and moments that test the complex bonds between mothers and daughters, Delilah must face her family's painful past. Can even her most shattered relationships be pieced together again?

Find Sarah Ockler Sarah Ockler / Twitter / Blog / Goodreads

Pre-Order Fixing Delilah Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / IndieBound

Thanks to the amazing Sarah Ockler for the interview and The Teen {Book} Scene for the tour opportunity!
USE GOOGLE to follow the other blogs on the tour and stop back by Tuesday, December 14th for my review of Fixing Delilah.

Today is the day when thousands of people flood the stores for the cheapest deals in order for the Holidays. Christmas gifts will be bought, wrapped, and placed under trees.

Throughout the blogosphere many people have dedicated themselves to buying books for the Holidays — I love this idea and have also decided to partake in the bookish festivities. It was at this point, that I thought, "More books in more people's hands means more book reviews!"

So thus, I've decided to begin a challenge, or campaign, this holiday season to collect Guest Reviews! (I thought I was pretty clever.) If you haven't, please stop by and read my mission and (especially) my plea for Guest Reviewers. This holiday season I'd like to collect as many book reviews as possible.

Not sure what a guest review is? Last week, Sheila (from One Person's Journey Through a World of Books) donated a review of Viola in REEL Life. This week, Leslie from That Chick That Reads donated a review of Blood Promise. Every Wednesday I highlight a different Guest Review. The purpose of this is for students to have a different person's perspective on books — someone other me. Also, by having other reviewers donate reviews, students are exposed to books that I may not have ever picked up. As with this entire blog, my goal by collecting guest reviews is to create in struggling reluctant readers a passion for recreational reading — something that comes easy to you and I.

So, by now are you thinking of a book that you want to recommend? The book should be one of your favorites, one that would get a struggling student excited about reading another book. A book that I can place in their hands and have them say to me, "Give me more."

Got one? Two? THREE?

Awesome! Now all you have to do is...

• Look in the left sidebar to make sure I don't already have a review of it posted (if I do, comment on the review with the link to your review and I'll post it as well). Not there?
• Look below, to make sure I don't have a review of it scheduled. Not there?
• Now check Mr. Linky and make sure someone hasn't just sent a review of the same book? Not there?
• AWESOME! At this point, email me your review [missremmeres at gmail dot com]. Include the link to your blog (if you have one) and a link to your original review. Oh, and sign Mr. Linky! The purpose of this is so everyone can see what you have sent in. Where it asks for your name, please put the title of the book. Then your blog's URL.

• City of Bones
• Hush Hush
• The Help

Want to spread the word? On Monday, look for a generic Guest Post (provided by me) that you can copy and paste (I thought this was also a clever idea). If you look in the right side bar you'll see my "Guest Reviewers" Button with the html code, feel free to add that to your blog. I am also working on doing the same sort of thing with the button above.

Please make sure that the book is suitable for high school students — if it's questionable, either email me or choose another book.

At this point, I can't offer anything to each and every Guest Reviewer. I am giving away $25 gift card to Barnes and Noble to one of the guest reviewers.

This doesn't take a lot of your time, a link to your blog will be posted in the review at least twice (along with a link to your original post), and you will forever have a link back to your blog in the right sidebar (see "Guest Reviewers"). You can simply copy and paste from your blog. And, most importantly, you will be putting books in struggling readers' hands. After all... 'Tis the season.

Campaign will end January 4th and because I can send the gift card via email — this is open World Wide! NOTE: Please note that PAST guest reviews do not count towards this. In order to be eligible to win you need to email me and link to Mr. Linky a new review(s).