First, the winner of the giveaway hop is… Marsie S.
News
Yesterday I went to my first ever book signing. It was in Knoxville at Union Ave Books and was part of the Ash to Nash tour. It was truly a blast! Beth Revis, Myra McEntire, Victoria Schwab, and Alan Gratz were hilarious!
They told stories about their publishing journeys, shared writing tips, and mentioned what is coming up next for them.
Beth Revis even showed off book 2 ARC in the Across the Universe series, A Million Suns. Hot off the presses! (pictured below)
After the questions the authors signed books. I was amazed that they knew of my blog!
It's easy to see that they are all having a blast on this tour and I was so excited that they could come to my area. I wish more authors would stop by!
Thanks to these fabulous authors for taking time to stop by and answer questions! If you missed the previous stops, don't worry! They have one more stop left and it is in Nashville, TN TODAY from 6:30-8:30pm! If you are in the area be sure to stop by the Barnes & Noble in Brentwood.
Here is the author list for tonight.
Rachel Hawkins, author of Hex Hall and Demonglass
Julie Kagawa, author of The Iron King, The Iron Daughter, and The Iron Queen
"'Across the Universe' was woven so intricately and beautifully that this plot driven novel is definitely on my 'OMG! I need the next book!' list." — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"Amy is a cryogenically frozen passenger aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed. She expects to wake up on a new planet, 300 years in the future. But fifty years before Godspeed's scheduled landing, Amy's cryo chamber is unplugged, and she is nearly killed.Now, Amy is caught inside an enclosed world where nothing makes sense. Godspeed's passengers have forfeited all control to Eldest, a tyrannical and frightening leader, and Elder, his rebellious and brilliant teenage heir.Amy desperately wants to trust Elder. But should she? All she knows is that she must race to unlock Godspeed's hidden secrets before whoever woke her tries to kill again."
True Story: Before reading "Across the Universe," I was a complete stuck up snob towards the book — find out why and read my apology to Beth Revis. Book Trailer Besides me being snobby, once I got into this book I couldn't put it down. The concept at first reminded me of Battlestar Gallactica (LOVE) but once you get past the whole "space station" thing and the substitution of "frex" for that other four letter f-word and "chutz" for... well, you'll just have to read the book to get that allusion.
"Across the Universe" begins a bit slow and confusing; I did struggle with grasping the concept of the plot at first. But once the exposition was laid out and the complication was introduced (Amy waking up), I couldn't put this book down. The plot became fast-paced with endless twists; the last couple of chapters... let me just say, I never saw THAT coming. Yes I had my predications, but nothing came even close.
Revis created this multi-dimensional and multi-faceted world with layers of character and plot that all came together in the end. Besides the metaphorical dimensions of character and plot, she created such a ship, Godspeed, that even without the map it was real and "touch-able" that I felt like I was the one exploring. I highly suggest checking out the official website to check out a 3D map of the ship.
Revis wrote with such raw emotion and feeling that throughout much of the book, when describing the Season, I couldn't help but be horrified for Amy. I can't imagine as an outsider seeing everyone going at it like bunnies without reservation or intelligence. The scene with Amy in the cornfield — I won't lie, I cried. As I read I saw everything that transpired and couldn't help but feel the emotion and shudder away from it.
I did struggle with the alternating perspectives. I feel like at the end of the novel, while I was extremely attached to the plot, I didn't know either of the characters particularly well. Their personalities became blurred due to the alternating chapters and a result I feel like I missed out on two great characters. Often times I would forget half way through a chapter whose perspective it was written in because neither of the characters, I thought, were very strong. Yes, I loved Elder and Amy — but do I feel like I know them as characters, as people? No.
Besides characterization, the only thing I would have liked to see more of was some romance. From Elder's POV I saw how much he was in love with Amy, but with Amy's POV she didn't even seem attracted to Elder. But this, I'm glad, will hopefully be explored more in the next book.
Overall, "Across the Universe" was woven so intricately and beautifully that this plot driven novel is definitely on my "OMG! I need the next book!" list.
I just gotta say: Harley (LOVE him) reminded me so much so of Hurley (LOST). Also, I came across this line — "I never thought about how important the sky was until I didn't have one" (125) and couldn't help but grab my copy of "To Kill a Mockingbird " and find my favorite quote: "Until I feared I would lose it, I never loved to read. One does not love breathing" (23).
Originality: 10/10 Ending: 10/10 Characters: 8/10 Plot: 10/10 My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10 Cover: 8/10 Overall: 55/60 A
To find out more about this author, visit the following links: -Visit Beth around the web: Website | Blog | Twitter -BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Nook | Kindle
In case you live under a rock or have severely neglected your Google Reader, you are aware that Beth Revis' "Across the Universe" was released yesterday. If you need to jolt your memory, take a look at any one of these fantastic posts:
Frenetic Reader The Compulsive Reader Books with Bite Book Soulmates Hooked To Books Chick Loves Lit Overflowing Shelf Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf
I've heard talk about this novel for the past couple weeks and everyone sounded really excited. Here's the kicker and my confession: I ignored every single post in my Google Reader about this book. I ignored every review and every mention of it on Twitter. Yes, world — I stuck up my nose whenever I came across this book's title or cover.
Why?! You ask me WHY?
Because I hated the move "Across the Universe." Gasp. I know. Everybody supposedly loved that movie. Yes, I can appreciate the artistry and I love the Beatles music — but the movie did not float my boat. So immediately upon seeing the cover for Revis' "Across the Universe" and looking at the title — I became a book snob. I assumed it was book with the plot of the movie. I, for the life of me, couldn't figure out why everybody in the blogosphere was so excited for the release of "Across the Universe."
Then, on Monday I was pursuing Flippin' Fabulous and saw this review. I'm not sure why I didn't immediately scroll down or exit out like I had been for so many weeks, but I heaved a huge "here we go" sigh and actually read the synopsis and the review.
From Goodreads
A love out of time. A spaceship built of secrets and murder. Seventeen-year-old Amy joins her parents as frozen cargo aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed and expects to awaken on a new planet, three hundred years in the future. Never could she have known that her frozen slumber would come to an end fifty years too soon and that she would be thrust into the brave new world of a spaceship that lives by its own rules.Amy quickly realizes that her awakening was no mere computer malfunction. Someone-one of the few thousand inhabitants of the spaceship-tried to kill her. And if Amy doesn't do something soon, her parents will be next.Now Amy must race to unlock Godspeed's hidden secrets. But out of her list of murder suspects, there's only one who matters: Elder, the future leader of the ship and the love she could never have seen coming.
After reading this I thought of one thing — my love for Battlestar Galactica.
Yes, I admit it. I love Battlestar Galactica. What do "Across the Universe" and Battlestar Galactica have in common (that I know of)? Basically this: "A spaceship built of secrets and murder." But it's enough to peak my interest!
I always knew I was a cover snob; I pick books up because they look pretty. But I never realized that I am an actual SNOB! That I would let the cover and title deter me from even being open minded about a book because I hated a movie just blows my mind (although, you have to admit, both covers do look similar). I feel bad as a reader that I would be so stuck up. So close-minded! It's something I definitely need to work on — to think, I almost would have never even looked at this book! It has a great synopsis and, I'll admit, the more I look at the cover the more I like it.
Beth, please take this post as the most sincere apology I could come up with. I can't wait to read your book in the very near future.
Godspeed.
Buy "Across the Universe": Amazon | Barnes and Noble Visit Beth Revis: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
"If you enjoyed 'Across the Universe,' you'll hands down devour 'A Million Suns.'" — Miss Remmers
Release Date: January 10th, 2012 Publisher: Penguin Challenges: 75+ Challenge
"Godspeed was fueled by lies. Now it is ruled by chaos.It's been three months since Amy was unplugged. The life she always knew is over. And everywhere she looks, she sees the walls of the spaceship Godspeed. But there may just be hope: Elder has assumed leadership of the ship. He's finally free to enact his vision — no more Phydus, no more lies.But when Elder discovers shocking news about the ship, he and Amy race to discover the truth behind life on Godspeed. They must work together to unlock a puzzle that was set in motion hundreds of years earlier, unable to fight the romance that's growing between them and the chaos that threatens to tear them apart. "
After the whirl wind that was my experience with "Across the Universe, " I was super excited to receive a copy of "A Million Suns" from Beth Revis' publisher. Beth also sent me some awesome bookmarks and cool bracelets to hand out to students. The students are LOVING the swag and it really helped promote the novel — more so than my constant plugging.:)
While it took me a while to remember all the twists that were revealed in "Across the Universe, " once I caught on (with a bit of help from Michelle Ball — Hooked to Books) I found myself enveloped in the story and characters once again. I read the first four chapters and then had to put the book down to focus on school but this weekend, as the semester ended, I read the rest of the book in one sitting snuggled up in a blanket with hot chocolate into the wee hours of the night. It's been such a long time since I've been able to do that and I enjoyed every minute of it.
This time around Amy is on a journey to find clues left behind for her while Elder struggles to maintain order on Godspeed. I loved the intricate levels of the ship descriptions and enjoyed the alternating perspectives. I felt like "A Million Suns" and so many more levels (no pun intended) and much more revelations than before. If you enjoyed "Across the Universe," you'll hands down devour "A Million Suns."
-Visit Beth around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter -BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook
To the FTC, with love: ARC received from Publisher
Beth Revis, author of the upcoming book Across the Universe is having an unbelievable contest! It's EPIC! If you'd like a chance to win this prize pack or many many others, USE GOOGLE. Contest ends December 20th.
This entire year I will refer to February as my month of epic failure. In January I read nine books — this month I BARELY read four books this month and wrote 23 posts. I don't understand how this could have happened! I'm all by myself (engagement pictures!) and thought that now I'd get everything accomplished and the reverse effect happened! I did start a new weekly feature called "Back to the Basics " — but besides that I feel like I've been a very bad blogger this month! Books Read:
If I Stay
Across the Universe
Definitely Dead
The Iron King
Challenge Updates
Dystopian Challen ge — 4 of 15 (+1 from January) Audiobook Challenge -1 of 12 (+.5) iChallenge — 4 of 10 (+3) Off the Shelf Challenge — 7 of 76 (+2) 100+ Reading Challenge — 14 of 100 (+5) eBook Challenge — 2 of 12 (-) Top YA Challenge — 5 of 25+ (+2) Debut Author Challenge — 1 of 12 (+1)
February 2011 Stats 6,523 Page Views 100+ New Followers Favorite February 2011 Read
My favorite February read was hands down ACROSS THE UNIVERSE by Beth Revis. There's a funny story behind me and this book — read my public apology to Beth Revis.
Never to Sleep (Soul Screamers 5.5) by Rachel Vincent (Harlequin 1/1/2012) Irises by Francisco X. Stork (Arthur a. Levine 1/1/2012) The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Janenifer E. Smith (Poppy 1/2/2012)
Darkness Falls (Immortal Beloved #2) by Cate Tiernan (Poppy 1/2/2012) Unraveling Isobel by Eileen Cook (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012) Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012)
Bloodrose (Nightshade #3) by Andrea Cremer (Philomel 1/3/2012) Don't Breathe a Word by Holly Cupala (HarperTeen 1/3/2012) Pretty Little Liars: A Pretty Little Liars Collection (HarperCollins 1/3/2012)
Dreaming Awake (Falling Under #2) by Gwen Hayes (NAL Trade 1/3/2012) Charmfall (Dark Elite #3) by Chloe Neill (NAL Trade 1/3/2012) Dragonswood by Janey Lee Carey (Penguin Young Readers 1/5/2012)
Love? Maybe by Heather Hepler (Dial 1/5/2012) The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (Dutton Juvenile 1/10/2012) A Million Suns (Across the Universe #2) by Beth Revis (Razorbill 1/10/2012)
Jessica Rules the Dark Side (Jessica #2) by Beth Fantaskey (Harcourt Children's Books 1/10/2012)
Cracked by K.M. Walton (Simon Pulse 1/3/2012) Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi (HarperCollins 1/3/2012) The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams (Simon & Schuster 1/3/2012)
Cinder (Lunar Chronicles #1) by Marissa Meyer (Feiwel & Friends 1/3/2012) Switched (Trylle Trilogy #1) by Amanda Hocking (St. Martin's Griffin 1/3/2012) A Witch in Winter (Winter Trilogy #1) by Ruth Warburton (Hodder Children's Books 1/5/2012)
Destiny's Fire by Trisha Wolfe (Omnific Publishing 1/10/2012) Ditched: A Love Story by Robin Mellom (Disney Hyperion 1/10/2012) The Gathering Storm (The Katerina Trilogy #1) by Robin Bridges (Delacorte Books for Young Readers 1/10/2012)
What books are you most excited to read?
If you know of any other new releases for January 1st-15th feel free to add them in the comments so others will know about them!
Okay, I SWEAR I have a review ("Passion" by Lauren Kate) ready to go for today. However, I'll be posting that tomorrow as I have an interruption. I don't mean this as a "Look what I got because I'm so much better than you" post because, really, if you know me at all you know that's not my style.
I just love when things work out. In 2011 I read some amazing novels but most notably: "Delirium," "Across the Universe," "Goddess Test," and "Wither." Since then I've had this list on my desk of books I neededto get a hold of — that I couldn't possibly wait for!
But as a "small town" blogger like myself, I figured unless NetGalley was overly generous, most of these books would be in my hands on their release date. But, after some coaxing from a fellow blogger, I decided to at least email some authors to see what they could do and these authors totally came through!
First, "Pandemonium" was sent my way from the Harper Collins.
Next, after speaking to Beth Revis, her publisher sent me a copy of "A Million Suns." Beth also sent me some great swag for students as well!
Then, yesterday I was approved from NetGalley for "Goddess Interrupted." And today, when checking my mail at school, I received a large package from Simon and Schuster containing "Fever" (among other titles I'll mention this week).
Again, this post isn't a "look what I got" post but much more of a "how good is life" post. I think it's amazing that four years ago I never knew that this community and professional relationship could exist and now I'm feeling like I'm on cloud nine and having "squee out loud moments" like today. I'm amazed at how generous the industry is and am so thankful for the opportunities that blogging has given me. Plus, I just really love when things work out this way.
This page will be updated each day when a new post or giveaway is added. Bookmark this page and check back each day for more chances to win amazing books and swag!
USE GOOGLE for details. ROUND 2 VOTING- ENDED
USE GOOGLE for details. ROUND 2 VOTING- ENDED
Comment contest through 10/31. USE GOOGLE for details.
2 winners. 5 book each. (ENDED) USE GOOGLE for details.
2 winners — 12 books each! Ends 10/31 — US only. USE GOOGLE for details.
Posts and Giveaways
Giveaways will be marked with a * (L) = Lisa's blog at A Life Bound By Books October 1st * Andrea Cremer and a giveaway for Nightshade. (ENDED) *(L) — Janenifer Archer and a giveaway for an ARC of Through Her Eyes. (ENDED)
October 2nd Amy Brecount White *(L) — Wayne Josephson and a giveaway for Emma and the Vampires (ENDED)
October 3rd Andrew Jacobson * Book Feature- Alyson Noel & Leah Cypess and a giveaway for a signed copy of Radiance and bookmarks (ENDED) (L) — Tricia Rayburn October 4th * Nancy Holder and a giveaway for a signed copy of Possessions and The Evil Within (ENDED) *(L) — Kathy Charles and a giveaway for John Belushi is Dead (ENDED)
October 5th * Shannon Delany and a giveaway for a signed copy of 13 to Life and swag (ENDED) Julie Chibbaro *(L) — Shaun David Hutchinson and a giveaway for a signed copy of The Deathday Letter and swag (ENDED)
October 6th * Denise Jaden and a giveaway for a signed copy of Losing Faith (ENDED) *(L) — Lee Nichols and a giveaway for a signed copy of Deception (ENDED)
October 7th Jennifer Hubbard @The_Omega_(Black Dagger Brotherhood) *(L) — Sara Bennett Whealer and a giveaway for a signed copy of Rivals (ENDED)
October 8th *Tammar Stein and a giveaway for a signed copy of Light Years (ENDED) Emma Michaels *(L) — Ty Roth and a giveaway for a signed copy of So Shelly (ENDED)
October 9th *Elizabeth Rudnick and a giveaway for a signed copy of Tweet Heart and a water bottle (ENDED) Linda Joy Singleton *(L) — Leah Clifford and a giveaway for a $20 gift card (ENDED)
October 10th Adult Giveaway post - 2 winners get 5 books each (ENDED) *(L) — @Wrath_BDB (Black Dagger Brotherhood)
October 11th *Kimberly Derting and a giveaway for a swag pack from The Body Finder (ENDED) Desires of the Dead Prologue *(L) — Kelly Keaton and a giveaway for an ARC of Darkness Becomes Her (ENDED)
October 12th @Vishous_BDB (Black Dagger Brotherhood) (L) Amanda Hocking *(L) — Sean Ferrell and a giveaway for a signed copy of Numb (ENDED)
October 13th *Joy Preble and a giveaway for a signed copy of Dreaming Anastasia and swag (ENDED) *Jordan Deen and a giveaway for a signed ARC of The Crescent and swag (ENDED) (L) Beth Revis
October 14th * YA Giveaway post — 2 winners get 12 books each (ENDED) *(L) — Gwen Hayes and a giveaway for a $10 gift card (ENDED)
October 15th Alyxandra Harvey *Judith Graves and a giveaway for Under My Skin swag (ENDED) *(L) — Janenifer DeLucy and a giveaway for a signed copy of Seers of Light & Whisper of Light (ENDED)
October 16th * Melinda Metz & Laura Burns and a giveaway for Crave -2 winners (ENDED) @Tohrment_BDB (Black Dagger Brotherhood)
October 17th * Jeff W. Crawford and a giveaway for a copy of Dreamshaper (ENDED) *(L) — Christine Johnson and a giveaway for Claire de Lune swag (ENDED) October 18th * Holly Cupala (L) — Brenda Yovanoff *(L) — Book Feature — Lauren Oliver and a giveaway for swag (ENDED)
October 19th Anastasia Hopcus * Book Feature — Kelley Armstrong and a giveaway for a signed copy of Industrial Magic & Personal Demon (ENDED) *(L) — Lish McBride and a giveaway for an ARC of Hold Me Closer, Necromancer (ENDED)
October 20th * Brenda Pandos and a giveaway for a signed copy of The Emerald Talisman & bookmarks (ENDED) * (L) — Lesley Livingston and a giveaway for a signed copy of Wondrous Strange (ENDED)
October 21st Jennifer Murgia * (L) — Rebecca Maizel and a giveaway for a signed copy of Infinite Days & swag (ENDED)
October 22nd * Adele Griffin and a giveaway for a signed copy of The Julian Game & a Picture the Dead t-shirt (ENDED) Jocelyn Davies
October 23rd * Kate Kaynak and a giveaway for a signed copy of Minder (ENDED) * (L) — Jeri Smith-Ready and a giveaway for a signed copy of Shade (ENDED)
October 24th * Michelle Zink and a giveaway for a signed copy of Prophecy & Guardian, plus a CD (ENDED) * (L) — @Rehvenge_BDB (Black Dagger Brotherhood)
October 25th Marley Gibson Jessica Souders * (L) — Beth Fantaskey and a giveaway for a signed copy of Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side (ENDED)
October 26th * Daniel Waters and a giveaway for a signed copy of Passing Strange (ENDED) * Ghost and the Goth Character Interview and a giveaway for a signed copy of Ghost and the Goth (ENDED)
October 27th * Lauren Hammond and a giveaway for a Love Sucks ebook (ENDED) Black Dagger Brotherhood Interview- Role Play Group — Part 1
October 28th Black Dagger Brotherhood Interview- Role Play Group — Part 2 (L) — Cyn Balog
October 29th * Lisa Desrochers and a giveaway for a signed copy of Personal Demons and swag (Ends 11/12 — US only) * Black Dagger Brotherhood Interview- Role Play Group — Part 3 and a giveaway for the first 6 books- Box Set (Ends 11/15 — International) * (L) — Claudia Gray and a giveaway for 4 signed Evernight books (Ends 11/12 — International)
October 30th * Sarah Ockler and a giveaway for a signed copy of Fixing Delilah or Twenty Boy Summer (Ends 11/13 — US only) * Simone Elkeles and a giveaway for a signed copy of Perfect Chemistry (Ends 11/13 — US only) (L) — Lisa Cach
October 31st * Kristie Cook and a giveaway for a signed copy of Purpose and swag (Ends 11/14 — US only)
It has been a crazy month since we moved so I am extremely behind on IMM. This isn't everything from the past month but it's most of the books/swag. Hopefully soon I can get back on track and do them each week again: ) Sorry for the picture overload in this post!
Special thanks to HarperTeen, Penguin, Bloomsbury, Little Brown, Random House, and Sourcebooks. And, big hugs to Deb Caletti for taking the time to sign my books, Jeri Smith-Ready for sending me a signed copy of Bad to the Bone, Nancy Holder and Erin (love you both!), Angeline Kace, Michelle Zink, and Sophie Jordan for the other goodies this week!
Signed Books
Review Audition (ARC) by Stasia Ward Kehoe Circle of Fire by Michelle Zink The Power of Six (ARC) by Pittacus Lore Supernaturally (ARC) by Kiersten White Love Story by Janenifer Echols The Carrier of the Mark (ARC) by Leigh Fallon Don't Breathe a Word (ARC) by Holly Cupala The Fox Chronicles by Mary E. Pearson Vanish (ARC) by Sophie Jordan Sweet Venom (ARC) by Tera Lynn Childs The Dream Catchers by The Predicteds by Christine Seifert Glow (ARC +2 HB copies) by Amy Kathleen Ryan Michael Vey by Richard Paul Evens Hades by Alexandra Adornetto Sweetly by Jackson Pearce Melody Burning (ARC) by Whitley Strieber The Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor The Shattering by Karen Healey … and adorable towel from Little, Brown!
Purchased A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford The Summer of Skinny Dipping by Amanda Howells Birthmarked by Caragh M O'Brien The Fledgling Handbook 101 by P.C. Cast
Purchased (Signed)
Bloodlines by Richelle Mead Wings by Aprilynne Pike Spells by Aprilynne Pike
Gifted (Signed) Bad to the Bone by Jeri Smith-Ready Crusade by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie (and signed bookplate)
From Ash to Nash Tour (got signed) Across the Universe by Beth Revis Hourglass by Myra McEntire The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
Swag Firelight and Vanish cards and stickers from Sophie Jordan Descended by Blood bookmarks (signed) by Angeline Kace Card from Deb Caletti
Deb Caletti (Signed) When I worked with Deb Caletti on the Stand Up Against Abuse feature she was kind enough to sign all of the books I had by her! The Fortunes of Indigo Sky Honey, Baby, Sweetheart The Six Rules of Maybe Stay The Secret Life of Prince Charming The Nature of Jade
Something that didn't come IMM!
I got a new car!! It's a 2011 Kia Soul (Alien color!) and I absolutely love it. Technically this is my very first car that's just for me (okay.me and my 3 year old, ha!) But if you are thinking"ya know, this car makes me think of a hamster" you would be correct! It is the car that was featured on the VMAs and I adore their commercial!
What did you get in your mailbox this week?
*IMM is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren and it was inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.
Some of my FAVORITE authors are stopping my my neck of the woods and I am so excited! Authors rarely stop in my area so I was thrilled to see that Myra McEntire, Beth Revis, and Victoria Schwab will be here, in Knoxville! If you are not close to Knoxville, no worries, there are several other stops. The other stops are: Asheville Forest City Morganton Spartanburg Sylva Kingsport Knoxville Nashville For dates and more information, just USE GOOGLE to go to their tour blog. Hope to see you there!!
3. Do you have your own blog or plan to start one? (If you have one, do you find blogging to be fun? If you don't have one, why the heck not??)
I’ve had a blog (http://blog.jerismithready.com) since September 2004. When I first started blogging, it was this magical way to interact instantaneously with my friends (and eventually readers) and spout off about whatever weird thing I was thinking about. It was more fun, inclusive, and substantive than e-mail and chats. But now, Twitter and Facebook satisfy my urge to socialize much better than blogging does. I can have an actual conversation instead of me putting out this essay and people responding.
I really admire authors who can blog well and do it consistently, but good blogging for me comes from the same well of creative energy as writing books does. So you can always tell when my writing is going well, because that’s when my blog gets really quiet.
I think authors (or anyone) should only do the stuff online that they enjoy, because that — Jeri Smith-Ready
I do have three blogs. One is on my website--nancyholder.com. Another is my live journal blog (Nancy Holder) and I am a member of the Simon and Schuster Pulse It! Community for teen readers. I wish I had more time to just sit and blog. I read a number of other people's blogs to wind down late at night, and I thoroughly enjoy catching up on their experiences. — Nancy Holder
I have blogs, but not a book blog. My author blog is at www.KristieCook.com and my writer blog (yes, there’s a difference, this one is for other writers) is at http://a-musedwriter.blogspot.com/ I would love to have a book blog but I would want to give it the time and love needed to make it as great as this one. If I did that, I’d never get another book written, which could upset a few people, including myself. — Kristie Cook
I have had a blog since 2004. I’ve chronicled my writing career, my books, my trips to England and other far-flung places. Now I currently maintain two blogs – one for the main JanaOliver.com website and one for the UK DemonTrappers.co.uk site. Sometimes the main website content is mirrored on the UK blog, but most time the UK has a different bent. It’s quite a challenge to come up with interesting articles to post. I’m not as polished as some, but I do enjoy it. — Jana Oliver
I tried blogging, but it doesn’t come naturally to me. While I can lose myself in writing fiction, writing a blog is, in a way, baring my soul (without the shield of fiction!) I used to write book reviews for newspapers, and when my first book came out, I found I couldn’t do it anymore. — Julie Chibbaro
I totally have an author's blog and I love it. There's so much more to blogging than just"dear diary." A lot of work goes into it, and the potential for fun is endless. — Janenifer DeLucy
I do indeed, at www.hollycupala.com. I blog about beloved books, events, and of course lots of secrets about Tell Me a Secret and Don’t Breathe a Word. One of my favorite series ever was when a bunch of YA bloggers guest posted for me on What YA Bloggers Want. It was a lot of fun to see what they said—and helpful for me as an author. Thank you for participating, Jessica! — Holly Cupala
I blog! At http://bethrevis.blogspot.com. I blogged for years before I got my book deal and I adore the blogging community. — Beth Revis
Yes, I do have a blog on my website, and blogging is definitely fun! I enjoy writing about different topics that will hopefully be of interest to readers. — Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
I do have a blog as part of my webpage, and I usually use it to make announcements and share reviews of the books that I'm reading. I'll admit that I'm not that active with it, but it's a great way to keep in contact with people and respond to news and stuff. Having it linked to Goodreads is really great because I've been lucky enough to find a lot of readers over there. — Jason Letts
I have a blog, but it's for my shameless promoting. lol. I wish I had more time to review books on there and write other stuff. Maybe one day when my preschoolers are older. — Brenda Pandos
* The fourth question for the bloggers will be posted tomorrow in 3 parts. USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.
January 2012 was the busiest month (traffic wise) at Miss Remmers Review EVER! Thanks everybody! The top fou posts read from January were Nonfiction for High School Students, Announcing BBRAW 2012, Fallen in Love, and Across the Universe, respectively. The search term most used to find my blog was "nonfiction." If direct numbers floats your boat — we're going steady at 702 GFC followers!
January brought seven reviews (consequently, seven books read) and 31 posts; this month I think I did a really good job of staying on top of everything and keeping the content constant. My top three favorite books of the month were "Fever" by Lauren DeStefano, "A Million Suns" by Beth Revis, and "Dead to You" by Lisa McMann. For my overall favorite book of the month (although it's SO hard to choose) — I'm going to have to go with "Fever." Even though it wasn't everything I had wanted it to be, I really missed the world that Lauren created; reading "Fever"'s pages was like returning home after a year away. Even though that home is an awful dystopian society plagued by a virus and polygamy.
The big news this month was the announcement of BBRAW (Book Blogger Reader Appreciation Week). It's coming soon — so make sure to check into it!
For BBRAW to be a complete success!:)
Read at least 5 NetGalley Books
Post seven reviews
Switch to WordPress
Continue being awesome? I really just wanted a fifth goal here.
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
It's that time again! I'm really excited to get an earlier start on next year's debut challenge. There are so many amazing books coming out and I can't wait to start reading them all! For 2010 I'll probably hit around 20 debut books read. That isn't too bad considering I signed up in June: ) My 2011 Debut Author Challenge Goal: 40 books!
The objective of the DAC is to read at least twelve novels from Young Adult or Middle Grade Authors. While twelve is the minimum there is no maximum limit! I encourage readers who can read more than twelve to do so!
Anyone can join. You don't have to be a blogger, and you don't have to live in the United States.
You do not have to have an blog written in English to participate.
You can join at anytime. The challenge runs from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.
Qualifying books:
Books must be a Young Adult or Middle Grade novel.
DO NOTE: Just because a book has a teen character or is about a teen, does not mean that it is necessarily a Young Adult novel.
This must be the authors debut with a release date in 2011. They cannot have a prior middle grade or young adult title released.
If an author has a previous novel published under adult fiction/nonfiction or children's fiction/nonfiction, they can still qualify for the challenge if they are releasing their YA or MG debut.
More challenge guidelines:
Novels must be read between January 1, 2011- December 31, 2011. That means, those of you that have read arc forms of the titles early will not be able to count those toward your challenge totals.
You can use debuts from other countries, but the novel cannot be previously released in your county. (I explain this a little bit more in the FAQ section, if you want to check that out!)
For more information the challenge is hosted by The Story Siren and you can USE GOOGLE for details.
Bolded entries mean I currently own the book. Striked entries mean I have read the book (reviews will be linked)
1. Other Words for Love by Lorraine Zago Rosenthal 2. Unearthy byCynthia Hand 3. XVI by Julia Karr 4. Across the Universe by Beth Revis 5. Vesper: A Deviants Novel by Jeff Sampsen 6. Choker by Elizabeth Woods 7. Angelfire byCourtney Allison Moulton 8. Rival by Sara Bennett-Wealer 9. A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford 10. Haven by Kristi Cook 11. Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton 12. The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney 13. Exposed by Kimberly Marcus 14. So Shelly by Ty Roth 15. Wake Unto Me by Lisa Cach 16. Wither by Lauren DeStefano 17. Entwined by Heather Dixon 18. Clarity by Kim Harrington 19. Falling Under by Gwen Hayes 20. Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard 21. Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter 22. The Water Wars by Cameron Stracher 23. The Year We Were Famous by Carole Estby Dagg 24. Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton 25. The Lipstick Laws by Amy Holder 26. Bumped by Megan McCafferty 27. Future Imperfect by K. Ryer Breese 28. Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini 29. Hourglass by Myra McEntire 30. Die For Me by Amy Plum 31. Divergent by Veronica Roth 32. Hereafter by Tara Hudson 33. Bad Taste in Boys by Carrie Harris 34. A Beautiful Dark by Joceyln Davies 35. Where I Belong by Gwendolyn Heasley 36. The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver 37. In the Arms of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane 38. Through Her Eyes by Janenifer Archer 39. Flawless by Lara Chapman 40. Moonglass by Jessi Kirby 41. Girl Wonder by Alexa Martin 42. Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky 43. Possession by Elena Johnson 44. Wildefire by Karsten Knight 45. The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab 46. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin 47. Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsay More will be added soon…
I know, I know. It's already the 18th of November. But I thought, it's better late than never! Right?:)
This month I am participating in the RAK in a do or die fashion.:) I have sent a box of books to Michelle (Hooked to Books) from BEA this year and last, "Rules of Attraction" to Megan (Amethyst Day Dreams) , and "Beautiful Darkness" to Katie (Sophistikatied) but I still have a stack of books that need to be sent out soon! I'm in the giving mood — and Dan and I compromised: I can bring more books into the house but I can't have any more book shelves. So I need to give in order to receive — that sounds more selfish written out...
Anyway my wishlist for the RAK are as follows:
Fever by Lauren DeStefano
A Million Suns by Beth Revis Thanks Megan (Amethyst Day Dreams) !!!
Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter
Human 4.0
Ashfall by Mike Mullin
People, at this point I would just like to BORROW "Fever" from someone! I promise whole heartedly I won't crack the spine and I will treat it better than (insert something you love here). I don't have anything to offer in return but my extreme and eternal gratitude! Any takers?
Last year in what seemed like a span of weeks I read five fantastic novels that just happened to be the first of a series: "Across the Universe, " "Delirium, " "The Goddess Test, " "Wither, " and "Matched. " These five novels absolutely changed my reading life. With each of these books I was positively awe-struck.
"I read this book almost in its entirety in one day... but it feels like I've known these characters for months, years even! The journey I just got back from after reading "Wither" was an experience that every bibliophile looks forward to with every book they open. "Wither" may not fulfill this experience for everyone — but it sure did for me."
"I hurt with the emotion I felt, I hurt because I couldn't stop willing the plot on, my heart hurt out of love for the characters, and my adrenaline never slowed the last 100 pages. This book caused me physical pain I loved it so much."
"Fantastically timed writing along with perfectly developed characters and a seamlessly exciting plot makes "Delirium" an instant favorite and a story not likely forgotten anytime soon."
"'Across the Universe' was woven so intricately and beautifully that this plot driven novel is definitely on my 'OMG! I need the next book!' list."
"I don't know about you, but during the duration of reading this book I wrote entirely in cursive. What an inspiring concept!" So you can only imagine how excited I am for their sequels to be released. "Crossed" (out last week) was in my fingertips at BEA and I had actually started reading while in line for other books but unfortunately it was not to be finished. I pre-ordered it through Amazon about a month ago (and I won't make that mistake again); it arrived on Friday and I am so excited to continue the story.
Today I received in the mail at school a copy of "A Million Suns" by Beth Revis (Jan 2012) from the publisher and am completely stoked! Last week I received a copy "Pandemonium" by Lauren Oliver (March 2012) from the publisher and am currently only about 100 pages in — but this four day weekend will completely change the game around.
Please ignore my yellow bookmark. And to finish things off I just found out that "Goddess Interrupted" will be released on NetGalley a few months before the release (March 2012). If you're getting the impression that I am on a book high — you'd be completely underestimating my excitement. My "in my mailbox" has never EVER been so exciting before! I'm a relatively small-town blogger and probably only receive one book a month from publishers (if that). But this post is not an "IMM" (expect a vlog!!), there is a reason these books in particular are crossing my doorstep. At school I have put together a group of ten students, a very cool name is yet to be decided on, who meet, read, suggest, and promote YA books to my other students during Friday's Recreational Reading time. Basically we meet during lunch and talk books — much like a book club. Then we decided which books of the week are our absolute favorites and each student volunteers to book talk a book to my English classes on Friday before reading. It started out with "older" books and ironically my five favorites were all chosen to be book talked. Then my students started to talk about the sequels and how they were dying to get their hands on them (much like myself) and so I figured I'd attempt to receive one of these coveted ARCS and become the coolest and most awesome teacher ever. So I sent out a few emails to authors (as I have no legitimate "contacts") and low and behold (who ever thought of that term?) two books found their way to my doorstep. I'll be presenting these books to my students on Monday when we meet and I can't WAIT to see their eyes light up. The idea that publishers would send ME (of all people — according to the students) books before they even came out is a completely foreign idea to these students and I'm just exploding with excitement. I sort of feel like a cave man bringing home fire (or a wheel) for the first time.
2. What are some of the favorite features you see bloggers do?
I really enjoy a chance to interact with book people. I was even invited to do a live chat in Spanish! Another thing I've been grateful for is the chance to donate books to charity auctions and literacy campaigns. We all love books, stories, movies, and talking about the arts. I like hearing about new books to read, which I get from bloggers. — Nancy Holder
Contests and giveaways are great, of course, especially when I get the opportunity to share my books. I’ll often peek at the IMM’s and WoWs just to see what bloggers are getting and what they’re looking forward to. I really enjoy discussions, though. Whether it’s about covers or characters or whatever, it’s fun to see two or more bloggers go back and forth on a particular topic. It doesn’t matter if they agree or disagree with each other, I just enjoy the conversation. It’s like being a fly on the wall of a kitchen where two reader friends talk about what they just read, a character they hate or love, a plot twist that really threw them, comparing books, etc. I would love to be able to sit in on these conversations that go on all over the world at any given time. They’re fun and I learn a lot as a writer. I’d love to see these done more often on the blogs. — Kristie Cook
As an author I do interviews for a lot of blogs. It can be difficult to come up with new and interesting answers. I adore those bloggers who ask me off-the-wall ones, they make me work for it (LOL). I also like blogging as one of my characters. Again, it’s something different and fun. And my characters get to chance to “show off.” — Jana Oliver
The Challenges are cool. Of course, I love the Historical Fiction Challenge. The In My Mailbox meme is exciting – it has that ‘new car’ feel to it. I love when a great idea catches fire, and you see — Julie Chibbaro
Oh, wow, that is so hard. I would have to say that I love character interviews. I also love traditional reviews, though. There's nothing more satisfying than reading how a book emotionally impacts a reader in his or her own words. — Janenifer DeLucy
What especially impresses me is when bloggers do something off the beaten track, or generate deeper discussions about books and other YA topics. Creative and interactive posts are always fun, and I’ll confess… it never fails to make my day when I see someone’s “Waiting on Wednesday” featuring one of my books.: ) — Holly Cupala
I love interviews, especially the ones that really go in depth about writing or books, something more than just"Where did you get the idea for this novel?" I also am rather fond of the"Waiting on Wednesday" meme--I've found several new books that way. — Beth Revis
Bloggers do so many wonderful features. “Waiting on Wednesday” and similar features are great, because they spread the word about upcoming titles. Interviews and guest posts are also fantastic, as they give authors an opportunity to discuss their novels and to share their thoughts with readers. I have seen so many other fun and informative features that I have enjoyed, too. I’m quite impressed with bloggers’ insightfulness and creativity! — Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
There are so many fun aspects of books that bloggers have picked up on, making it difficult for me to choose. I love cover art, and I love the mailbag segments that you do where you show off what's come in the mail. As much as I like reviews of specific books, I like to hear from bloggers about how how they feel about common elements in many of today's popular books. Reading thoughts on what makes a good love triangle, villain, or fantasy world would be fun. One thing I would like that I don't think I've ever seen anyone do would be to choose a short excerpt from a book and describe why you like it. Doing some close reading in the way would be a nice way to think deeply about a book. — Jason Letts
The blog hops, waiting on wednesday, in my mailbox come to mind. — Brenda Pandos
* The third question for the bloggers will be posted tomorrow in 3 parts. USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.
1. Can you tell us a little about your experiences with bloggers?
It’s been great! I’ve been overwhelmed at the “blogosphere’s” response to SHADE in particular. *blushes* A writer friend of mine compared YA book blogdom to science fiction/fantasy fandom, because they’ve formed a friendly, passionate community around the thing they love most—books! — Jeri Smith-Ready
I love bloggers! They have really helped me get the word out about my new books. I've made a lot of friends all over the world--Spain, France, New Zealand--and we stay in touch. They've helped run contests, review my books, and connect me with other bloggers and fellow bookophiles. — Nancy Holder
In one word, bloggers ROCK! My experience has been almost 100% positive. As a debut author without the backing of a major publisher, I’m responsible for all of my marketing. One of the first things I did was look for bloggers who might want to review my book. I contacted 10 at first and received 9 yes’s. One or two didn’t get the reviews done, but I really was overwhelmed with the kindness and excitement everyone else had about reading my story. Then others contacted me, asking me to please, please, please send them a copy. No book that’s been read by a decent amount of people is going to get all glowing reviews – there’s just no way everyone is going to love our books – and I’ve had a few that were not so stellar. But they’re usually written well and make great points, whether the reviewer liked the book or not. There have been a couple that seemed to be written just to hurt the author and these just make me sad for both the author (me or someone else) and the reviewer because they’re not helpful at all and only create bad feelings. Most bloggers, though, give so much heart and soul to their reviews and to their blogs that you know they’ve really considered what they’re writing and how it will affect both writers and readers. — Kristie Cook
I’ve had really good experiences with bloggers. Even if I don’t fully agree with a review, I respect the fact that someone took the time to read my book and write about it. Sometimes a blogger will pose a question, and I’ll follow up in the comments section. I seem to startle bloggers when I do that, which leads me to believe there are some that don’t have the time to post. I hope I will continue to be able to follow and contribute to the blogs. I figure if you took the time to write the article or a review I will take the time to thank you. Even if you spelled my heroine’s name wrong (wink). — Jana Oliver
When my first book, Redemption, came out in 2004, I wasn’t aware of bloggers. This time around, for Deadly, I realized that bloggers were really, in essence, rabid book lovers. Being a book lover myself, I could identify. Actually communicating with bloggers to ask for reviews and interviews was a bit scary for me (I feel a little funny promoting my self/book.) Some bloggers were highly receptive and communicative, and some less so. It was important to pair my book not just with the bloggers who’d be receptive, but also with bloggers who were interested in my kind of work, this historical medical mystery type thing. It took me awhile to understand how important that was. — Julie Chibbaro
I count bloggers as some of the best experiences I've had since being published. I had no idea such a community of women existed before. Some of my most joyful moments came from reading their reviews, because they are the real reader. These are true representatives of the people buying and reading my books. — Janenifer DeLucy
I went to my first kidlit blogger conference a few years ago, but honestly I had no idea the YA blogger community was so vast until Kristi at The Story Siren chose Tell Me a Secret for her 2010 Debut Author Challenge. Since then I’ve met some of you in person at events, had coffee with others, and have happily visited your blogs as a guest and on tour. You are celebrities to me! — Holly Cupala
I love bloggers! They have been so wonderful--they care about books and about spreading the word on good books. They're like the librarians of the online world. — Beth Revis
My experience with bloggers has been absolutely amazing! I first learned about book bloggers when I joined Twitter last year. I was very flattered by the warm welcome they gave me, and I continue to be so grateful for their excitement and enthusiasm about Other Words for Love. — Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
The funny thing about bloggers is that most of the time they are indistinguishable from readers. I can be talking to someone about books on twitter, goodreads, or wherever, and I'll be completely surprised to hear that person's a blogger. It just goes to show that anyone can develop strong opinions about literature and present them in a convincing way via a blog. As a result, I've come into contact with such a wide variety of opinions about different books that it's really helped broaden my sense of what readers are looking for. Because we're all a little different, I have a theory that no two people ever really read the same book, and so it's wonderful to read reviews on a number of blogs to see the variety of ideas and perceptions. — Jason Letts
Bloggers in general have been nothing but ah-maz-ing to me! Without their undying promotion and love of books, getting word out about great novels would be harder to come by. Many of these bloggers (including you) are now my closer online friends and they warm my heart with their kindness. — Brenda Pandos
* The second question for the bloggers will be posted tomorrow in 3 parts. USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.
5. If you could share your thoughts or feelings with bloggers, what would you tell them?
I would give them a giant HUG! (You know, if they were okay with that. If not, then a hearty handshake or at least an appreciative nod.) Reviewing books and doing it well is hard. I am in awe.
Thanks again for inviting me to your big party! — Jeri Smith-Ready
THANK YOU!!!! — Nancy Holder
I guess what I just said – bloggers shouldn’t ignore or take for granted their role in the book community. If you have a decent following, you’re affecting the lives of others, including both authors and readers… as well as editors, publicists and anyone else who has worked or somehow invested in the book you’re discussing. Even if you’re just getting started and your followers are currently only real-life friends and family, what you put on your blog can be found by the world. I preach to writers about being careful what they say on their blogs and in other social media because once it’s out there, it’s there forever and for anyone to see. And it’s all a representation of them. The same goes for book bloggers. Even if you’re small and unknown now, you never know what might happen in the future and what you say now will still be there then. Think about what you’re doing and how it could affect other people, including yourself. Remember that an author’s book, especially their debut, is their baby. They’ve put their heart and soul, along with blood, sweat and tears into it. They may have worked years on it and they have put their last ounce of energy and self-worth into this book. And all of that can feel like it’s destroyed with a single negative comment. If you don’t like the book, you can say, “This book was horrible, the author is a fraud and should go back to their day-job” or you can say “This book wasn’t for me.” Which kind of image do you want to project? Do you want to be the person who says, “Hey, your baby is fat and ugly. You should never reproduce again”? I’d hope you’d never say that to someone’s face. If you’re going to say it on your blog, you’re building a certain reputation for yourself, just like you would in the real world. If that’s the reputation you want, then go for it, but remember, that’s the reputation you’ll get and keep. Think about what kind of image you want to project to readers, authors, the publishing community and the world at large and then be genuine to that image. And most of all, stay true to your passion – your love of reading and sharing the stories you love with others. — Kristie Cook
Thanks! You guys rock. You provide so much value to our Internet community and ask for very little in return. A bit of postage here and there, an ARC or some swag, most of which you unselfishly send back to your loyal followers with your contests and giveaways. All of our lives are richer for you being there. Please continue to keep us informed on what is going on, what you like and don’t like and why, what you’re reading, watching on TV and at the movies. As an author, I am keenly aware of the hours that you dedicate to your blogs. You are a mirror to our readers and that’s so very cool. So thanks and please keep writing! — Jana Oliver
I went through a lot of emotions talking to bloggers – and I’ve finally come to this conclusion: The reviews on blogs are for readers. It’s nice if bloggers love my book; if they don’t, it’s not my business. I want to say also that I appreciate the amount of work bloggers face: a mountain of books, readers expecting reviews, authors and publishers hounding. Blogs are a great way to make friends, to share your opinion, to express yourself in a wonderfully creative way. I think bloggers should continue with their awesome labor of love. A big round of applause for all of you! And Happy Anniversary to you, Jessica. — Julie Chibbaro
Oh, this is easy! Keep on doing what you're doing, because not only is it a beautiful support for emerging authors, it's also doing a wonderful service, spreading your passion for reading to all generations… keeping books in people's hands and on their e-readers! — Janenifer DeLucy
You know what I like best about you? Your commitment to great books. Even if we don’t have the same opinions, and even if we don’t love the same books, we have a common bond. I’m glad the conversation continues and that you are right there at the forefront. — Holly Cupala
Thank you!!! You all rock! — Beth Revis
I want to tell bloggers that I truly appreciate them and everything they do. — Lorraine Zago Rosenthal
I'd tell bloggers to keep going what they love. Even if you don't have the biggest blog out there, the time you spend on it still makes a difference. Hearing that you enjoyed a book can really make an author's day, which is one of the major reasons why I even started writing in the first place. Books are supposed to be about enjoyment and entertainment, and we do our best to come up with something clever and unique for you. It's nice when it works out the way we intend it. So keep up the great work! I'll close with a huge congratulations to Jessica for a fabulous year of blogging! Between her schoolwork and her family, I'm surprised she's not forced to eat in the shower to conserve time, but she manages to put together an amazing blog showcasing lots of up-and-coming authors. I hope your next year is just as incredible! Thank you, Jessica! — Jason Letts
Most bloggers are so professional, thankful, polite and follow-through with what they say they'll do. I've only found a handful of those who have a chip on their shoulder and write snarky reviews or get so unindated with books, they forget to do as they promised. One thing that irks me is review policies that say"I will do my best to review books, but I might be able to get to them all" especially if they ASKED for the book. That is just plan ridiculous and unacceptable. If you agree to receive a free book in exchange for a review, review it (timely), especially if the author is sending a copy they paid for. It's just polite. If you can't finish it, then say so and pass it along. Don't waste their investment.Also, provide spoiler free or warnings that your review will have spoilers, please. Don't get me wrong, though. Overall, bloggers are awesome, thoughtful and I appreciate all they do! — Brenda Pandos
*I'd like to thank all of the authors for participating. You are all amazing and I enjoyed seeing your outlook on the blogging community. USE GOOGLE if you want to know more about the blogoversary celebration.
