The Best Reader [Search results for purpose] 

Purpose by Kristie Cook Publisher: Ang'dora Productions (December 15th, 2010) Reading Level: 17 and up Paperback: 377 pages Series: Soul Savers, book #2 Source: Author Rating: 5 of 5 stars Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she’ll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she’s been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she’s forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself… but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose? Review: It's funny because I'm siting here trying to come up with adequate words for this review when really I feel like saying"hot… wow… amazing… yippy… ohh… nice… need to fan self… HOT"… You think that's good enough? For those of you who have read this book already I know you are shaking your head YES because you fully understand what I am referring to. For those of you who haven't read Purpose, please do yourself a favor and purchase a little of Tristan for Christmas. You won't be disappointed.
I'll try to get back on track and get the sexy pictures out of my head so I can write this review. I also don't want to spoil this book for people who may not have read Promise yet… (again, read it soon!). Purpose starts out in the present-day and we learn what Alexis has been forced to deal with over the years. She is in a dark place and her emotions jump off the page. It's easy to see how badly she is suffering and Kristie did an outstanding job at depicting this dark time.
We get a more complete look into the world of the Amadis and Daemoni. More questions are answered and the history is explained which opens up this series for what will come up next. I do have to say that I fell in love with Owen in this book and I am currently in talks with Kristie to try to have him for myself… I really am! I swear. But Owen would have to be one of my all-time favorite side characters and he came around at the perfect time.
Purpose started off with drastically different emotions than what we experience while reading Promise; with it's hope of new love and romance. We had to get through the clouds in order to see the sun and oh wow, did the sun come out! Parts of Purpose brought tears to my eyes and other parts … "rocked me like a hurricane"… (you will know what I mean after reading the book). It was like being on a rollercoaster until the very end.
I never thought that any other book could make my heart pound like Promise did but I was wrong. Purpose exceeded all expectations and presented a story that kept my emotions on high-alert. A true masterpiece that will appeal to all paranormal romance fans.

So are you wanting to read it yet? If so, Kristie announced some great news yesterday.
The Kindle edition of PROMISE is now only $4.99 and PURPOSE is only $5.99.
Trust me, you will not be disapointed in these books and if you want more proof, check out her awesome reviews on Goodreads.

Don't forget to check out the Re-Cover contest of Promise and Purpose. Entries must be in 12/18.

Find Kristie Cook Kristie Cook / Promise / Goodreads
Purchase Signed Copies of Purpose

1. What are the biggest differences now that you are promoting the second book, Purpose, from when you were promoting Promise?
Releasing Promise was one of the most exciting times of my life because it was my debut. My first in everything. That also made it a lot more stressful, because I was scared to death people would hate it. Fortunately, they didn’t. J And now they’re looking forward to Purpose. Combine that with my own feeling that Purpose is a better story and I’m not quite as worried about that part of the equation. Of course, I’m still anxious – maybe it’s not what readers are expecting, maybe the change in Alexis turns them off, maybe it takes a direction fans don’t like, etc. – but this is the book I started out writing, the one that grabbed my heart and soul. So whether people like it or not, I personally feel a lot better about it than I did Promise.

2. I do know that you have had a few major events and awards since you were last on here, would you like to share some of those?
Hehe Yes, Promise has exceeded my expectations in the big world. It won the 1^st Place Fantasy (Published) Royal Palm Literary Award for the Florida Writers Association. That is a huge honor that I don’t take lightly. It’s also received some great reviews, including a “highly recommended” by the prestigious Midwest Book Review. MBR may not mean a lot to the average reader, but it has a strong influence on booksellers and librarians. It’s a feather in the industry cap. Promise is also (finally!) available at all major and indie retailers (though you may have to request it), including for international delivery through The Book Depository. I’ve also done some appearances, like at the Miami Book Fair International, and have some signings and presentations coming up in January.

3. Can you share with us some of what we can expect for the continuation of this story?
In Promise, Alexis starts out as a young woman just barely getting started in this world she had no idea existed. Purpose really initiates her into the world, giving her (and the reader) a taste of what’s to come. She has many challenges ahead of her as she fulfills her destiny of being the fierce protector of human souls and, eventually, taking her leadership role of the Angels’ army on earth. She transforms from vulnerable, pretty naïve and nearly human in the first book to kickass warrior in the books to come. The love story of Promise evolves into stories about the various forms of love we all experience, from love of our soul-mates to our children to complete strangers and people we never thought we could love.

4. Will any other books be featuring these characters?
The rest of this part of the series – 5 or 6 books – is Alexis’s story, so, yeah, there’s a lot more coming. Some of the major-minor characters have been sharing more of their stories with me, too. I don’t know if they’ll be full series or even books, but at least some short stories or novellas.

5. Do you have any other books in the works? We NEED more from you!: )
I’ve started book three, but it’s been back-burnered for quite a while, so I don’t know where I’m really at with it. I’m really looking forward to getting back to it, however, I’m also excited to work on some of these other stories. So many ideas, so little time…

6. What is the main thing you have learned from the entire process of getting a book out to the public?
Patience. That goes for any writer, regardless of where you are in the process. You need patience to produce the best story possible; patience in seeking publication; patience with the publishing process; and patience on the other side, as well. The word has been spreading, but it takes time to build buzz and momentum. Just because someone wants to read a book doesn’t mean they go out and buy it right away. Or even if they do, they don’t necessarily read it right away. I’m the same way. My TBR pile is a mile high. And I know most readers are that way. So we just have to have patience while the snowball grows.

7. Did you have to take out any scenes that you wish you could have kept in the story? What were the biggest changes in the story from the time you first wrote it, to the finished version?
Promise and Purpose started out as one story. Now, ending up as two books, they are, in some ways, quite a bit different than when I wrote that first draft. There are many scenes that didn’t make it and many new ones that have been added. I’m happy with the final results, but there were some sweet scenes originally in Promise with Alexis and her mother Sophia and others with Alexis and Tristan that just didn’t do enough to move the story along so they had to be cut. Probably the biggest change from that very first draft, however… something I didn’t see at first while focused on just this one book… something that has added a whole new twist to the entire series… originally, Dorian wasn’t born alone.

8. You've had quite a roll in the promoting of Promise and Purpose and you have done a fabulous job! Is that part more stressful than the writing?
Marketing is my background and I mostly enjoy it, but writing is my passion. The most stressful part, really, is not having enough time to do everything.

9. Do you have any recent events planned that you would like to share?
Of course, there’s the virtual release party for Purpose going until 12/18. After the holidays, I’ll be doing some local signings and by spring, I should be expanding the tour into other states, including Virginia, Arizona and Minnesota.

10. Can you give us a little excerpt from Purpose?

A shadow shifted in the corner. Two small, red lights glowed from about two-thirds up the wall. I realized they were eyes. It can’t really be Daemoni—can it? We hadn’t been bothered for over seven years. Not a single visit or even a threat. Nothing at all. They had what they wanted.
“Don’t you know?”
The shadow moved forward, just enough for the light from my clock to slightly illuminate a face—pale, bluish-white in the clock’s glare, glowing eyes and… fangs. The light reflected off his glimmering teeth, bared in an evil grin, if that’s what you could call it, and I knew for sure those were fangs. And I knew immediately what he was. From what I could see, he favored some of my characters, as if he’d stepped out of the pages of the books I wrote.
Such a strange feeling—to feel as though I’d awakened in my usual way but know I was dreaming again. I had to be. Monsters were real, but vampires were not.
“C-Claudius?” My voice shook. I knew this dream was about to become a terrible nightmare. With his dark hair floating around the sides of his face, this visitor looked similar to my Claudius, leader of the evilest vampire nest in my make-believe world.
“Ha!” the shadow barked. “So you do see the resemblance.”

Purpose by Kristie Cook Publisher: Ang'dora Productions (December 15th, 2010) Reading Level: 17 and up Paperback: 377 pages Series: Soul Savers, book #2 Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she’ll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she’s been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she’s forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself… but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose?

Don't forget to check out the Re-Cover contest of Promise and Purpose. Entries must be in 12/18.

Find Kristie Cook Kristie Cook / Promise / Goodreads
Purchase Signed Copies of Purpose

As you all know, I am a huge fan of Promise by Kristie Cook. Lucky for me, book 2, Purpose is out soon! To celebrate this occasion Lisa from A Life Bound By Books and I are going to host a re-create cover contest! I will be hosting the voting for re-covers of Promise and Lisa will be hosting them for Purpose but you will be signing up for both using the same Linky tool below.
You can decide to only enter for one cover, or both. They each have their own prize pack for the winners.

Prizes:

• The Promise cover winner with the most votes will receive…

• The Purpose cover winner with the most votes will receive…

Rules:

• You must be at least 17 to enter.
• You must sign up through the Linky tool below.
• You can have a PROMISE and PURPOSE cover in the contest. Only one of each.
• You can do a blog post with the cover(s) or just link the image below.
• Contest is US ONLY and sign ups end 12/18.
• Covers will be voted on starting 12/19 and the contest ends 12/31.
• Once contacted, the winners will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.

Details: You can re-create the Promise cover, Purpose cover, or both. Here are the covers and summary to give you ideas.

Summary:
Alexis Ames has a life full of promise… but not all promises can be kept.

When Alexis Ames is attacked by creatures that can’t be real, she decides it’s time she learns who she really is, with or without the help of her mother, who guards their family’s secrets closely. After meeting the inhumanly attractive, multi-talented Tristan Knight, however, Alexis retreats behind her façade of normalcy… until she discovers he’s not exactly normal either. Then their secrets begin to unravel.

Their union brings hope and promise to her family’s secret society, the Angels’ army, and to the future of mankind. But it also incites a dangerous pursuit by the enemy – Satan’s minions and Tristan’s creators. After all, Alexis and Tristan are a match made in Heaven and in Hell.

Summary:
Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she’ll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she’s been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she’s forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself… but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose?

Character Descriptions
Alexis: Petite; long, reddish-brown hair usually pulled into a ponytail; big brown eyes; olive skin; Mediterranean look (her heritage is mostly Greek and Italian); can usually be found wearing jeans and a T or shorts and a tank; shy and reserved and full of secrets; a writer.
Tristan: Tall; muscular build but not overly brawny (yes, think of your wildest fantasies); light brown hair; hazel eyes with gold sparkles (or flames – yes, real flames) around the pupils; square jaw; full lips; enjoys physical activity, especially aikido (martial arts) and basketball; usually rides a motorcycle – owns both a crotch rocket and a Harley; almost always in jeans, and, in my mind anyway, hardly ever wears a shirt LOL.

Sign up Click on"USE GOOGLE to enter" and put your name/alias
(This is the same Linky Tool that will be on Lisa blog)

Kristie Cook is here today to show us the brand new covers for her Soul Savers series, Promise and Purpose.

Leave a comment below telling us what you think about the new cover and enter for a chance to win some awesome swag!

Can you talk a little bit about the old covers vs. the new covers and how the change came about?

The old covers are pretty. The new ones are gorgeous. ‘nuff said. Haha! Okay, I’ll be serious. The old covers are symbolic, but no one gets the symbolism until I explain it, so it’s pretty much lost on everyone. And for some reason, the flowers seem to give the impression that the books are Young Adult, but they’re not. I also didn’t know how to carry the look out through the entire Soul Savers series. I’d hoped to find a professional cover artist by now who could take my vision and turn it into art and I did – author Brenda Pandos. She did an amazing job and we now have a theme to work with for the rest of the series.

What’s your favorite thing about the new covers?

Oh, so not fair. I love everything about them. One thing that’s important to me is not giving the reader a pre-conceived idea of what the main characters look like. I want the reader to take the basics I give them and make them their own. But I still wanted people on the covers, so I’m really happy with how the people are there, but not. The whole scene for each one just really encapsulates the stories. What’s your favorite thing?

It’s amazing that each book has some additional content; can you talk a bit about those changes and how it’ll impact anyone who’s already read the first two books in the series?

Promise – By the time PROMISE went to publication, it had been manipulated a lot, always in the best interest of the story. But in my heart, I always felt a little dissatisfied with it because, for me, it wasn’t “what really happened.” The order of events was changed up and scenes were altered or deleted when they shouldn’t have been. One scene has a change that isn’t huge but comes up in future books, the events have been returned to the order in which they really happened and a scene that had been deleted is now back in, providing some character insight that I think is much needed. There are some other minor changes, too—bringing back a sentence here or there that had been deleted and getting rid of others that shouldn’t have been added.

Purpose – The changes in PURPOSE are much less extensive than those in PROMISE. When I first wrote the books, they were actually one book and the middle section, the bridge between the two, was a series of letters Alexis had written Tristan on each of their anniversaries. Although she couldn’t send them, this was her way of keeping him updated on her and Dorian’s lives – and also bringing the reader up to speed. When I split the books, I took the letters out and tried to weave those things into the story. However, a lot of readers have the wrong impression of what Alexis had been like over the years and why she’s such a mess in the beginning of PURPOSE. The reason is not what everyone seems to think! I haven’t put the letters back in, but I’ve made some tweaks to the first few chapters to give the reader a better understanding of the past and the present. I may post the letters on my website or blog one of these days.

For the last year, I’d had a secret fantasy to go back and make all these changes. With the new covers and a few other additions – such as adding an excerpt of the next book – we had to obtain new ISBNs, which is basically the new bar code that says “this is a different book.” Since we have to go through all that anyway, we figured we may as well make it worth it. So my publisher let me fulfill my fantasy. Isn’t she awesome?

If you’ve already read PROMISE and PURPOSE, you don’t have to read the new releases to understand the future books. The one change in PROMISE that comes up in later books isn’t major enough to throw you into a big state of confusion if you haven’t read it. But if you’re up for reading them again, I think you’ll get a better grasp of Alexis and Tristan and what motivates their behavior in these two books. Also, PURPOSE has an excerpt of DEVOTION, Book 3, at the end.

When will we be able to purchase the books with the new covers and content? And for those of us with eReaders, when will they be available for download?

They’ll go live on Kindle hopefully by early next week and on Nook about the same time. It might take a week or two before they’re up on the other ereaders. They’ll be available in paperback format on my publisher’s store website ( http://www.readourwrites.com/ ) and Amazon in the next week or so and on other retailer sites in a month or two (sorry, but those guys just take longer to update their sites).

And lastly, can you go over some dates with us? For the novella, Genesis and the third book in the Soul Savers series – Devotion? When will we get a chance to see those covers and when will they be available for purchase?

GENESIS comes out October 28, 2011. The cover will be revealed later this month. I can’t wait!

DEVOTION comes out February 10, 2012. I expect the cover to be ready to share in September or October. I know it will be gorgeous, too.

Kristie, Thanks so much for stopping by both — A Life Bound By Books & Confessions of a Bookaholic — and for sharing the new covers with everyone. We can’t wait to re-read the first two books and the new content and to read Genesis & Devotion!

Thank you so much for having me! It’s always a pleasure to visit both of you and all your followers. I can’t wait to hear what you think. And seriously – what is your favorite thing about the new covers? Fill out the form and enter to win a Soul Savers Series swag pack. Two chances to win – one on each blog — here and at A Life Bound By Books!

Kristie has another giveaway going on over at her blog. Be sure to visit, check it out and enter to win some amazing prize packs! ~USE GOOGLE~

Kristie is giving a lucky winner a Soul Saver Series swag pack! Two chances to win — one here and one on Lisa's blog!! So enter here and over at
A Life Bound By Books!

Now, are you ready to see the new cover?!? Promise (Soul Savers #1)

OLD COVER

NEW COVER To see the cover of Purpose (Soul Savers #2) check out A Life Bound By Books.

Giveaway Prize:

• 1 winner will receive a Soul Savers swag pack.

• You must be at least 18 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is US Only and ends August 22nd.
• Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

Find Kristie Cook
Kristie Cook | Soul Savers Series | Goodreads | Twitter

I think the new covers fit the story perfectly! I can't wait to see what the next cover will be like. I think that now people can glance at the cover and get an idea of the story. Plus, it doesn't look YA anymore (especially Promise!). Great job Kristie and Brenda!! Now I'll have to add these to my collection!!

By: Kristie Cook

I’m a city girl. I married a country boy. After 10 years of living in various cities and suburbs, my husband had enough. Along with my brother-in-law, we bought 90 acres south of Kansas City and split it. He got the half with the old homestead (and a cemetery!). We built a house. Brand new. No reason it should be haunted. Right?
Eerie things happened in that house. We’d hear strange noises in the basement and, armed with various “weapons,” would check them out to find nothing. The microwave would turn itself on… even after we bought a new one. Just little things. But we lived out in the country, where dark is really dark, so it was easy to freak ourselves out.
One Halloween, I was traveling for business. My husband took the kids into town for trick-or-treating while he hung out with friends, no doubt watching scary movies, and then they went home and he watched Ghost Hunters. He finally went to bed by himself around 1 o’clock. He called me the next morning with the following story.
He had barely fallen asleep when something woke him. Kneeling by his side of the bed, down toward his feet, was a woman with white hair. She seemed to be crying. When she looked at him, her mouth moved, as if talking to him, but no sound came. He closed his eyes and when he opened them again, she was gone.
A little while later, after staring at the moon for a while (it was the country – no need to close the blinds), he started to drift off when something woke him again. The woman had returned and this time it looked like she yelled at him. Her face looked angry or frustrated, as if she tried to tell him something important. But he heard nothing. This happened a few more times and each time, she became more agitated.
Too terrified to sleep, he watched the moon move across the sky. Around 3 o’clock, she was there again, but really angry now, throwing her hands at him and, again, soundlessly yelling at him. Then she moved around the corner of the bed, to where he couldn’t see her anymore. He lay, frozen, hoping she’d gone away for good. No such luck.
He lay on his side, still facing out, when he said it felt like it does when I crawl into bed. He felt someone getting into my side of the bed and sliding under the covers. He squeezed his eyes shut, barely able to breathe and shaking like a leaf – a big, 6’2”, 225-lb leaf. Then he felt a hand on his shoulder, pulling on it, trying to roll him over.
After a string of profanities, he prayed furtively, “Please, God, make it go away.”
And it did. As the moon moved out of sight, he was finally able to fall asleep, not to be awoken again.
The next morning, as they’re preparing to leave for school and work, my husband told my oldest son, “I swear I saw a ghost in my room last night.” No other details.
My son asked, matter-of-factly, “Was she blond?”
We moved to Florida not too long after that, but still hadn’t sold the acreage. When my husband had to go back to do some renovations before selling, he stayed at the nearest hotel, 30 miles away, refusing to spend the night in that house.

Purpose by Kristie Cook Publisher: Ang'dora Productions (December 15th, 2010) Reading Level: 17 and up Paperback: 377 pages Series: Soul Savers, book #2 Lost in despair, Alexis teeters on the edge of an abyss, her lifeline of hope fraying into a thin thread. If it snaps, she’ll plunge into complete darkness. With the help of her son and her writing, she’s been able to hold on. Until now. Erratic impulses, disturbing delusions and her own demonic blood threaten her sanity. When she’s forced to choose between hanging onto hope or letting go to serve her Amadis purposes, she faces a decision with inconceivable sacrifices.

Alexis runs to the one place she thinks will provide answers, only to find herself at the center of another battle of good versus evil, not only with the Daemoni, not only within herself… but also against the worst opponent imaginable. But even if she wins, what will she lose?

Prize:

• 1 winner will receive a signed copy of Purpose and bookmarks.

• You must be at least 17 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is US ONLY and ends November 14th.
• Once contacted the winner will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

- *Hugs* Thanks Kristie for the spooky story and book donation of Purpose, which I can not WAIT to read!

USE GOOGLE to read my review of Promise.

Find Kristie Cook Kristie Cook / Promise / Purpose / Goodreads / Twitter

Purchase Promise (Soul Savers, Book #1) Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Smashwords

Pre-Order Purpose (Soul Savers, Book #2)
Pre-Orders now available HERE!

* Check out Lisa's Haunted Halloween post.

*Reminder: If you are interested in the COMMENT CONTEST, remember to include your email address with your comment for an extra entry! Please read full entry rules here.

For years, I was attracted to men with a bit of an “edge,” men who were nice enough but had that mysterious, almost dangerous element lurking right below the surface. To be involved with someone like this was very exciting to me — the thrill was a rush!
I think it is these same tendencies that make so many of us gravitate toward darker books, the kind that makes up most paranormal reading out today. We like to “be good” in our own lives, while getting a momentary rush from being in a darker, more mysterious, more exciting world.
And that is certainly ok! We should go wherever we resonate — “like attracts like” is not just a catchy line; it’s an actual physics concept that determines our entire reality! But, in my experience, the constant stream of “personal growth” that came about because of my inclinations made me first, recognize my inner light, and secondly, choose to honor it.
I asked myself some hard questions: Why do I need someone else to generate my excitement? If I’m not excited with my life, then that is something *I* need to change. Secondly, if I want to be truly happy, not just tanked-up off exhilaration, I need to find people who resonate with me and I need to find activities that resonate with me. We are constantly evolving, and I made a conscious choice to evolve to the light rather than to the dark.
I explain all this because, while my book, “Adventures of a Lightworker: Dead End Date,” would be considered paranormal by many, it is different than what you’ve read before. It is about goodness; it is about sharing love; it is about understanding ourselves and fully developing our highest and greatest potential. This will be more and more obvious as the series progresses — we will see Faith, the main character, learn how to discover her true self and how to help the world!
Much of my book involves angels and, of course, the lightworker angle. What is a lightworker, you ask? Lightworkers are a type of individual whose purpose is to help humanity, and humanity, like all in the universe, is composed of energy. Lightworkers raise the vibration of the planet simply by being here and also by performing acts of love and kindness. When we think about all that is good within our reality and bring it down to one word, that word is love, and lightworkers are here to teach the world about love. This is where Faith develops. She learns she is a lightworker, but one who hasn’t been fulfilling her life purpose. And in the “real world,” this certainly can and does happen. Many lightworkers are not doing all they can to bring love and light to the world, and as a result, often feel a sensation in their solar plexus that doesn’t go away until they begin to do so. Compounding this is to be a lightworker, one doesn’t even have to be aware of the term!
Beyond this element, Faith is told she has one year to fulfill her lightworker “duties,” or she will be pulled from her assignment! This adds a level of intensity to the story because Faith has to figure out in one year (of book time) how she can help millions of people. If you’ve ever wondered how you can make an impact on the world, this will be your series to read!
Faith also has a special relationship with angels, and along the way, she is assisted by them. Studies consistently show the vast majority of people believe in angels, and one doesn’t have to look far to find examples of people who believe they have been helped in some way by an angel. Many will even say angels have saved their lives! I know that I have been helped by angels – many, many times – and you’ll see their influence in the story.
Whichever way you resonate, you are exactly where your soul needs to be in this moment! I honor you on your journey and bless your presence in reading this guest post. For those who choose to read “Adventures of a Lightworker: Dead End Date,” it is available on Kindle (which can be downloaded to your computer if you don’t have a Kindle!) and paperback via Amazon and other sites. It is a fun and eye-opening mystery – I hope you love it!

Adventures of a Lightworker: Dead End Date by Caroline A. Shearer Publisher: Absolute Love (December 9th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 244 pages
In a Stephanie Plum meets New Age-style,"Dead End Date" introduces readers to Faith, a young woman whose dating disasters and personal angst have separated her from the reason she's on Earth. When she receives the shocking news that she is a lightworker and has one year to fulfill her life purpose, Faith embarks on her mission with zeal, tackling problems big and small — including the death of her blind date. Working with angels and psychic abilities and even the murder victim himself, Faith dives headfirst into a personal journey that will transform all those around her and, eventually, all those around the world.

A fun, fast-paced metaphysical mystery!

"More and more people are reaching within for their innate spirituality, and, in that search, are beginning to bring harmony to their inner and outer worlds," says Shearer."However, as thought patterns and unconscious habits and negative actions crumble, life can feel like a tumultuous journey. The main character of Faith exemplifies this progression. She takes a step forward in one area, only to stumble backwards in another, but through her wit and charm and ability to laugh at herself, we discover how we, also, may be gentle with ourselves and learn to love the ride."

"Adventures of a Lightworker: Dead End Date" is a mystery novel, as will be each book in the Lightworker series. The spiritual theme and Faith's life purpose as a lightworker are larger elements that come into play over the course of the series. Look for much growth in Faith's character — and have fun along with her as she stumbles to her highest and greatest good!

Find Caroline A. Shearer Absolute Love Publishing / Blog / Goodreads
Purchase Adventures of a Lightworker: Dead End Date Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository
Audio Intro. read by Caroline

Hello again! It's time for another post for this months Blogger Talk! Lisa (A Life Bound By Books) and I, along with Dan have put together some of our favorite quotes from the book. Check them out and see what you guys think. We'd love to hear your comments!

Title: Partials (Partials, #1)
Author: Dan Wells
Publisher: Balzer + Bray, 472 Pages (February 28th, 2012)
Add Partials to: Goodreads
Order Here: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository

Synopsis: Humanity is all but extinguished after a war with partialsóengineered organic beings identical to humansóhas decimated the worldís population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island. The threat of the partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to the disease in over a decade. Humanityís time is running out.

When sixteen-year-old Kira learns of her best friendís pregnancy, sheís determined to find a solution. Then one rash decision forces Kira to flee her community with the unlikeliest of allies. As she tries desperately to save what is left of her race, she discovers that the survival of both humans and partials rests in her attempts to answer questions of the warís origin that she never knew to ask.
Quotes from Partials:

Top 5 Favorite Quotes of Dan's -
Owen Tovar: "War, see, is when two sides fight, maybe not evenly, but at least they both get a few swings in. What we call the Partial War was mankind getting mugged in an alley."

Duna Mkele: "Let us assume, just for the moment, that whatever the Partials are planning is larger in scope than the murder of one teenage girl."

Nandita Merchant: "Each life has a different purpose, and some people can find their purpose more easily than others. The key, the most important thing you can ever know, is that whatever your purpose is, that's not your only choice."

Kira: "I don't know if 'we're stupider than they think we are' is a really great attack strategy."

Isolde: "If you can't know the truth, live the most awesome lie you can think of."

A Couple of My Favorite Quotes -
"No matter how they spun it, no matter how much they tried to focus on the positives, the ugly truth was that there simply weren't any children anymore. They were closing the school because they had run out of students. The teachers had done their job, but the doctors hadn't. -- page 12 (Kira)

"I've never been this wet in my entire life," said Kira."Even immersed in a bathtub I swear I was dryer than I am now."
"Look on the bright side," said Marcus.
Kira waited.
"This is the point," she said,"at which you would traditionally suggest a bright side."
"I've never been a real traditional guy," said Marcus."Besides, I'm not saying I know a bright side, I just think this would be a great time to look at one." -- page 45 (Kira and Marcus)

"Wake up sleepyhead," said Kira, bumping Marcus's ear with her shoulder."We're almost home."
"I didn't order sushi."
"What?"
Marcus opened his eyes warily."What did I say?"
"Nothing I have to smack you for. You're lucky you were dreaming about food instead of girls."
"I'm male," said Marcus, rubbing his eyes."It was a fifty-fifty shot." -- page 73 (Kira and Marcus)

A Couple of Lisa's Favorite Quotes -
"So tell us about yourself," said Marcus, settling into a couch."If I'm going to spend the while night waiting for you guys to stop flirting and shoot each other, I want to at least be entertained." -- page 54 (Marcus)

"Just bring something to share this time," sad Kira, turning back to Marcus and tapping him pointedly in the chest."I'm not covering for you like last time."
"That was a one-time thing," said Marcus, laughing,"and it wasn't last time, it was four times ago, and I've covered your share way more than that."
"I'm just saying," said Kira, picking him again in the chest,"I don't want my food-for-nothing, freeloader boyfriend to make me look bad in front of everybody. Again." She poked him one last time, glared at him playfully, then poked him again for good measure.
"Do you poke all the boys, or I am Special?"
She leaned closer."It's just you." She kissing him on the cheek."Until somebody better comes along." -- page 76 (Kira and Marcus)

"Wake up sleepyhead," said Kira, bumping Marcus's ear with her shoulder."We're almost home."
"I didn't order sushi."
"What?"
Marcus opened his eyes warily."What did I say?"
"Nothing I have to smack you for. You're lucky you were dreaming about food instead of girls."
"I'm male," said Marcus, rubbing his eyes."It was a fifty-fifty shot." -- page 73 (Kira and Marcus)

"Well, thanks for not shooting anyone, I guess" said Marcus."My contribution was to somehow refrain from peeing myself. You can thank me later." -- page 347 (Marcus)

It looks like this month Lisa and I managed to have one of our favorite quotes be the same. And I think it's telling that most of our quotes have Marcus in them. He was very entertaining to say the least. Also, the quote of Dan's from Isolde was one I almost used as well. That scene was a good one.
*Note: The quotes from Lisa were taken from an ARC copy of Partials.

Don't forget to check out the Interview with Dan >>>CLICKING HERE<<<
Again, we can't say thank you enough for taking the time out of your busy touring schedule to stop by a few days this week and be part of this months Blogger Talk.
Thanks for everything!

Find Dan Online:

Website/Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Check out my review of Partials HERE!

Book Trailer:

Be sure to stop by again later this week for our Partials discussion post. We hope you'll join in on to help us celebrate this FANTASTIC book and author.

It is that time of year again when the BEA buzz is filling up my Twitter and Blogger feed. BEA 2010 was absolutely fantastic and I am getting more and more excited for BEA 2011 (and it has nothing to do with my wedding being a week and a half later). One thing that I wish I would have done differently last year was getting to know other bloggers that were attending.

While I was there I was so busy and overwhelmed with everything that was going on that if Jill Blogger from Jill's Book Blog came up to me and handed me a business card I completely forgot about her because I didn't have any prior knowledge of her blog. Yes, the "big" blogs I recognized, but for the most part it was embarrassing when Jill Blogger would introduce herself and I had never even heard of her blog before.

(Is it just me or is that paragraph a complete hot mess?)

This year, in attempt to have a better foundation of knowledge in regards to the bloggers attending, I am creating a BEA 2011 Blog Feed.

What is a BEA 2011 Blog Feed? I'll tell you.

By filling out your information below and submitting the form you'll be added to an RSS Feed. This feed's sole purpose is to host posts by bloggers who are attending BEA 2011. My hope is that by beginning to read the blogs of those bloggers attending BEA in April that come the end of May when I meet Hannah Blogger from Hannah Blogs About Books that I can say, "Oh! I love your blog/the look of your blog/your content/insert this feature here."

Now, I know that is unrealistic to know everyone there — and that's not my purpose. I simply want to begin reading your posts now so that when we DO meet and are introducing ourselves that you aren't thrown together with the lot of everyone I don't know.

Am I explaining this well?

The purpose of filling out this form and subscribing to this feed is to get to know the bloggers who are attending BEA 2011 before hand so that the time in NYC can be spent talking books, blogs, and all things BEA rather than worrying about the awkward "so my name's Reagan... "

Better?

Oh, and the best part: You TOO can subscribe to the BEA 2011 Blog Feed and get to know the bloggers that are attending as well! Check it out and subscribe! Simply take the url and go into your Google Reader and click on Add Subscription and paste the url!

Note: Because I have to do this manually it will hopefully be updated on a nightly basis. Don't expect an immediate update. I asked for the Twitter Name for completely selfish reasons — so I can create a Twitter List as well of all the people attending BEA. Stay tuned for another post on the details of that.

There are several things I wish I would have known going into BEA 2010 that I want to share with you before BEA 2011. This is the first: get to know other bloggers who are going before hand. Know their blogs and build a connection now so that you can walk into BEA or BBC with friends and relationships. The best way to do this, that I can think of, is to have one place (or feed) where you can subscribe to other bloggers who are attending BEA 2011 — thus the BEA 2011 Blog Feed.

But, of course, it only works if people actually put their urls in.:)

I'm so happy to have 2 of my favorite characters, Alexis and Tristan, from Purpose here with me today. Thank you both for being on my blog.
I have some questions for you.

What was the first word that popped into your minds when you first saw each other?
Alexis: Beautiful. Tristan (raises an eyebrow): I don’t think it’s appropriate to say. What’s the rating on this blog? Alexis (blushes): And you say I’m incorrigible?

What are some of your favorite memories from when you were dating? Alexis: Cooking together. Tristan: Cooking? Really? Alexis: Yeah. What’s wrong with that? Tristan: It’s just so… domestic. Alexis (with a slight smile and a shrug): I think it’s sexy. Especially with you. Tristan: Hmm… I’ll have to rethink my favorite memories then. (Pauses) Nah. Still on the beach… on the boat… pretty much any time you were in a bikini. Maybe you can cook in a bikini… Alexis: Can you be serious? Tristan: I am. Alexis: (glares) Tristan: Okay, if you really want to know… darts. Alexis (blushes again): Next question, please.

You've had some hard times together as well, what advice would you give couples for ways to overcome that? Tristan: I’m not exactly the right person to be giving relationship advice. I certainly don’t deserve what I have because of anything I’ve done right or well. Alexis: Yeah, me either. It’s not like either of us have much experience. We’re still learning what works for us. But, I think, trust is a big thing for every relationship. You have to be able to trust each other. Of course, that’s easier said than done, but I think it’s necessary.

Tristan, when you first met Alexis when she was young, did you ever think you'd be where you are now? Tristan: Not at all, but not because of her age or anything else so irrelevant. For me to have a relationship with anyone was at one time unbelievable, but with someone like her… with Alexis, who she is and who she’ll become… I never expected it would come to this between us. I never knew happiness before, let alone love. And now look at us.

Alexis, you are an amazing writer. Can you explain to us what writing does for you personally? Alexis: It’s always been an escape for me, really. I’ve never felt like I belonged in this world. In my writing, I get to be someone else, feel like I’m living a different life. It’s like reading a really good book with a story that’s exactly what you want to read… but no one else has written it, so you get to.

Tristan, what did you think when Alexis finally allowed you to read one of her stories? Tristan: Well, I knew when she would finally let me read one, it would mean she really trusts me. That’s what I care about, more than anything. Alexis: You care about more than that. You read it. And admit it… you liked it. Tristan: Yeah, I did, but I’ve always known you were talented. Of course I’d like it. Alexis: Even though it’s about witches and werewolves? Tristan: You are, obviously, weirdly infatuated with the monsters. But, it’s your thing and I’ve come to accept that.

Alexis, how difficult was it to learn the truth from your mother after all these years? Alexis: I still don’t know everything. In fact, I feel like I hardly know anything at all. But what I do know… it was pretty shocking at first. To the point that I had a hard time really grasping it all as real. I mean, Tristan showed me some of his abilities and told me what he was he able to, what he’s not bound to keep secret, but it still didn’t feel real… not until Ian showed his disgusting self, anyway… and then Edmund and that… thing. I guess that’s when it really hit home that not all things in this world are as they seem.
Do you still worry that she may be hiding important things from you about your history? Alexis: Ha. Of course, she’s still hiding things. I know there’s much more to everything about us. But as I’ve been told repeatedly, I have to wait until the Ang’dora. It’s frustrating and annoying, but even Tristan won’t tell me, though I know he would if he could. They’re bound too tightly and nothing I do can break that bond, apparently. Besides, right now, I’m just concerned about us… being safe… staying together… maybe living a somewhat normal life while we can.

Tristan, what was the worst part about keeping secrets from Alexis early on? Tristan: I was trying to earn her trust. It’s kind of difficult to do when you know yourself that you’re untrustworthy. The only thing I had going for me was that she kept secrets, too. I hoped she’d understand.

Did you expect to feel so connected to Alexis immediately or did it come as a shock to you? Tristan: She definitely shocked me. Alexis (with an embarrassed giggle): I did shock you! Or you shocked me. Tristan (chuckles): Yes, that is the right word… in so many ways. I really didn’t expect anything at all, especially anything so strong, except maybe immediate abhorrence. If you look at it the way some of the others do, it all makes sense. But I, personally, don’t understand it. Our connection doesn’t make sense. Alexis: Of course it does! We’re meant to be together. That’s just how it is.
Be honest, what bugs you the most about each other? Any pet peeves? Alexis: Actually, Tristan’s so dang beautiful, it can be annoying. We can’t go anywhere without all the females gawking, like animals in heat. Between him and my mother… I don’t know who’s worse, men or women. And then everyone looks at me and you can tell by the look on their faces that they’re wondering how the heck I’m with him. Tristan: Because you deserve better. Alexis: And then there’s that. It’s like he doesn’t even notice. Sometimes I feel like he puts me on this pedestal and I’m the last person who deserves to be there. One day he’ll open his eyes and see exactly how wrong he is – about me and himself. Tristan: Oh, my eyes are open. I know what I see. But you don’t see yourself clearly, either. You have no idea what you do to people, especially to me. And your potential… I guess you’ll just have to wait and see for yourself. Alexis: And that’s another thing. How he knows things I can’t know yet. That bugs the crap out of me. Tristan: You’re talking about me like I’m not here. Alexis: Huh? Tristan: That’s one of the things about Alexis that can get to me. She can go on such a rampage sometimes, words spilling out of her mouth without realizing how absurd she’s being. It makes me laugh, though. Alexis: I’m not being absurd! How can you— Tristan: And defensive. She can be quite defensive. Alexis: (crosses her arms, opens her mouth, then closes it again) Tristan: See, she doesn’t know what to say because she knows I’m right. I like how she does that, though. It’s kind of cute. So is this. (winks) Alexis (eyes glaze over for a moment and rendered speechless) Well, this has been such a fun interview! I am so glad you could be here today Tristan *wink* … oh… and you too Alexis *clears throat* … anyways, I have a friend over at A Life Bound By Books and I know she would love to get a chance to talk to you too.
Think you can pay her a visit soon?

Alexis: Of course.

Tristan: Anything for you. *wink*

(Okay, okay… so maybe Tristan didn't actually say that last part)

Don't forget to check out the Re-Cover contest of Promise and Purpose. Entries must be in 12/18.

Find Kristie Cook Kristie Cook / Promise / Goodreads
Purchase Signed Copies of Purpose

By: Tammar Stein

The first time, the only time, I ever saw an angel I was five years old. I know that sounds amazing but it wasn’t some big, miraculous event. It was actually pretty ordinary. We were living in Israel at the time, in a tall apartment building. It had just finished storming and as the rain eased, I saw a rainbow. I had a perfect view of it from my window and I remember resting my elbows on the windowsill, watching it and the dark gray clouds.
There was a particularly odd shaped cloud drifting closer to the rainbow and I watched, curious, wondering why it seemed to be moving with purpose. So I had a perfect view of a hand emerging from that oddly shaped cloud. It reached over, touched the rainbow and just like that, the rainbow and the hand dissipated like mist and the cloud drifted off, all innocent and normal.
I jumped up and raced to my mother. I had seen an angel! It made such sense. I’d read the story of Noah’s ark. I knew the rainbow was a sign from God. It made sense angels kept track of them. Yet my mother, smiling fondly, insisted that all rainbows fade and that clouds often have shapes. Even five-year-olds know condescension when they hear it. I returned to my window, scanning the clouds, looking for proof. There was nothing to show, of course, nothing to point out. But I knew. And to this day, I can still see that hand, can still remember the unnatural way the rainbow simply vanished.
I used to feel disappointed that my one experience with the supernatural was so mundane. There were no fireworks, no goosebumps, no lasting repercussions that I know of. Just a little girl catching a glimpse of something amazing. As I grow older, though, I don’t mind the lack of fireworks, or the unexciting nature of my sighting. It’s kind of nice to think there might be wonders happening all around our oblivious selves. That miracles and marvels don’t need a drum roll to precede them, don’t need life altering meaning to follow. They’re just there, on a rainy afternoon, keeping us company.

Kindred by Tammar Stein Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (February 8th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 272 pages The first time I meet an angel, it is Raphael and I am eighteen.

Miriam is an unassuming college freshman stuck on campus after her spring break plans fall through. She's not a religious girl--when pressed she admits reluctantly to believing in a higher power. Truth be told, she's about as comfortable speaking about her faith as she is about her love life, which is to say, not at all. And then the archangel Raphael pays Miriam a visit, and she finds herself on a desperate mission to save two of her contemporaries. To top it all off, her twin brother, Mo, has also had a visitation, but from the opposite end of the good-evil spectrum, which leaves Miriam to wonder--has she been blessed and her brother cursed or vice versa? And what is the real purpose behind her mission?

Prize:

• 1 winner will receive a signed copy of Light Years by Tammar Stein.

• You must be at least 13 to enter.
• Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
• Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
• Contest is US ONLY and ends October 22nd.
• Once contacted the winner will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address.
• The form must be filled out to enter.

- Thank you so much Tammar for the story and the book donation!
Find out more about Tammar Stein Tammar Stein / Blog
Pre-Order Kindred
Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Borders

* Check out Lisa's Haunted Halloween post.

*Reminder: If you are interested in the COMMENT CONTEST, remember to include your email address with your comment for an extra entry! Please read full entry rules here.

As many of you know, I am a huge fan of Kristie Cook and her crazy-HOT book Promise. Tristan (the reason for crazy-HOT) happens to have a birthday today, on Halloween! So happy birthday Tristan *mmwwah!* I can't wait to snuggle up with you and jump into your … new book.; ) ha! But before that, you all need to check out the two giveaways Kristie has going on right now. One gives you the chance at winning a KINDLE 3!

Kristie is having a Mr. Beautiful's Halloween Hop & Birthday Bash contest. And here is what you can win just for helping spread the word.

1st Prize Purpose (#2 in the Soul Savers series) by Kristie Cook (ARC) Promise Bookmark Plus your choice of 2 of the following: Falling Under by Gwen Hayes (ARC) The Haunted (#2 in The Hollow trilogy) by Jessica Verday Where She Went (sequel to If I Stay) by Gayle Forman (ARC) Beyonders: A World Without Heroes by Brandon Mull (ARC) After the Kiss by Terra Elan McVoy Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon Dreaming in English (sequel to Veil of Roses) by Laura Fitzgerald (ARC) Learning to Breathe by Karen White The Wrong Mother by Sophie Hannah
2nd Prize Purpose (#2 in the Soul Savers series) by Kristie Cook (ARC) Promise Bookmark Dark Days and Wicked Nights (Free sampler featuring various authors)

Complete the form below to enter as many times as you'd like. You can return and enter to win every day, between now and 11/5, by tweeting and posting. Get up to 50 BONUS ENTRIES for taking a picture of you and Promise in the wild… or your home or whatever.

. Don't have Promise yet? Buy it here or here. Have the ebook? Just make sure the first page shows up on your ereader in the picture. Email the picture to kristie(at)kristiecook(dot)com for 25 extra entries or post it on your blog for 50 extra entries!

The form below is the one found on Kristie's blog.
For the question"Do you follow this blog?" it is referring to Kristie's blog HERE.

BUT that's not all. The other part of the giveaway allows you to borrow Tristan for a while. Sounds great, right??
What you could win

$25 Barnes & Noble Gift Card iPod Shuffle Kindle 3 or Nook!
How can you win?? Take the picture below and be creative!

How it works:
Take the picture above (or email kristie(at)kristiecook(dot)com for a higher resolution pic) and get creative with it. You can blow the picture up, cut it out and paste it to foam-board, then take Tristan on some outings in your corner of the world — just be sure to take pictures. Or create a video with him. Or, if you're an artist, give him a face (hint: sandy-brown hair, hazel eyes with green around the outside and gold flecks around the pupil, square jaw, full kissable lips). The sky's the limit and the more creative, the more likely you'll win.

Whatever it is, you MUST include the above picture in some form (so the judges can recognize Tristan!) and post your photo(s), image(s) or video on your blog, anytime till November 5th. (If you don't have a blog, you can post it on your Facebook page.) Give Tristan an actual post so we can find it the following week for judging.

I'm entering this contest myself and plan to post my entry early this week.

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).

So, you may have noticed (or not), but none of my reviews have ratings. No five out of five stars, books, kisses, hearts, smiley faces ect.

There is a deliberate reason for this.

I'll admit it, when I read other people's reviews I definitely look at how they rated it. My eyes are just drawn towards the bottom. But my blog is a little different in it's purpose, as a result, I feel like rating books would do more harm than good.

For instance, most people have very different degrees of ratings.

Stay with me. It gets good, I promise.

Personally, I would rate very VERY few books as a 5/5. Pride and Prejudice, Frankenstein, and Romeo and Juliet would about cover it. Then everything I absolutely adored but couldn't rate quite up there would go to a 4/5, like Mr. Darcy's Diary, the Harry Potter books, the Twilight Saga, Jane Austen Ruined My Life, etc. To me, a five is a spot that a book must earn, and really earn.

When I think about this and about the purpose of this blog, I think that ratings will only deter (rather than inspire) readers. Many students may only look for fives or fours — and if I were personally rating them, there just wouldn't be a whole lot to chose from. I think I need to leave it up to my students to decide how they would rate the book. To each his own — so that's why in my reviews, I tell what I liked and didn't like... but it's still my opinion.

I don't think I'm explaining this well — but I thought it was worth attempting to explain.

So what do you think? Am I completely off base in my reasoning? Should I be rating books?

"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." — Miss Remmers

"What if you knew exactly when you would die?

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left. "

I've read some awesome books already this year -"Delirium, " "Across the Universe, " "The Iron Queen, " and many others — but none of touched me like Lauren DeStefano's debut, "Wither."

This was one of those "surprise" reads that I had been putting off and putting off for two reasons: I hate the cover and I wasn't sure of the whole "brother" angle. Why do I hate the cover? I have no idea. I feel like I should like it, but I just don't. With the above premise I assumed that the brother was going to play a more pivotal role in this book but he didn't. I'm not sure why I was bothered by the brother bit; I think I assumed that the brother and sister would be the protagonists instead of a love interest. Boy was I wrong.

DeStefano drew me in with the first chapter and before I knew it I was racing through the pages not on purpose but by complete accident. When I finally looked at the lower status bar on my Nook I discovered that hundred pages had been covered. And worse, when I hit that last page I was at a complete stand still. That couldn't be it — could it? I want more. I need more! But we'll return to this later.

I won't lie — I'm still in shock of loving this book so entirely that I am just praying this review makes sense and does the book justice.

Despite not really knowing what was going on in the beginning chapters, I was enthralled with "Wither" and couldn't put it down. Once Rhine met Governor Linden her hatred and my hatred combined for the man could have started any number of metaphorical wars. But somehow, as his character was developed, I found myself looking for him in the novel and seeking his company out for Rhine. Why? He's supposed to be a complete polygamous misogynist! (Nothing against polygamy... it's just how I've been raised I guess.) And despite his need to "consummate" his marriages and the rest of the whole sketchy concept of this society — I like him. It's completely nonsensical and illogical — but I rooted for him and Rhine, I willed their romance to blossom. If we choose "Teams" with this novel (you know, Team Edward, Team Jacob, Team Ash, Team Puck, etc)... oddly enough I'll be the first to join Team Linden.

The setting of this novel, in a huge beautiful mansion, while creepy and imprisoning, was written so eloquently I feel like I've been there. As I feel like I know the characters. There's a saying: "You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend." by Paul Sweeney. "Wither" is one such book; when I came to the last page (even on my Nook) I felt like I was saying good bye to a female protagonist that I loved and even a half ways antagonist that I had somehow fell in love with as well!

I read this book almost in its entirety in one day — Friday's Recreational Reading in my English classroom; but it feels like I've known these characters for months, years even! The journey I just got back from 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.

The ending of this book, I will say, was very abrupt. Not just because it was so good that I didn't realize so many pages had been read, but the entire climax, falling action, and resolution (if you can call it that) took place during the last chapter. It seemed almost too easy of an... let's just say... ending. Too out of nowhere. Too without problems. Too... flawless. But despite that, I am LONGING for the second book to come out like I haven't longed for a book in a very long time. Many times I struggle with the second book simply because by the time it does come out I'm reading something different. I can tell that as soon as DeStefano's second book is available for pre-order it will be the first book I'll have pre-ordered since "HP 7."

"Wither" is a fantastically brilliant book that I recommend to any lover of dystopia or even romance!

Originality: 10/10
Ending: 5/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Cover: 5/10
Overall: 50/60 B

Release Date: March 22nd, 2011

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Challenges: Dystopia Challenge, Debut Author Challenge, EBook Challenge, 100+ Reading Challenge
-Visit Lauren around the web here: Website | Blog | Goodreads | Twitter
-BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Kindle | Barnes and Noble | Nook

To the FTC, with love: Review eBook from NetGalley

"This will be a novel that I will insist my students read and a novel that I continue to rave about online, in school, and with friends and family." — Miss Remmers

From Amazon.com...

"What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.
Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing."

This is a book I'd been debating over purchasing since it came out. Every time I'd go into a bookstore I would see it and it would call to me in stereotypical fashion: "Reagan, buy me! Buy me!" Then I would think to myself, "Self, you came in here with a direct purpose to purchase to buy "X" book. If you walk out of here with "Before I Fall" you are a complete failure." Failure at what? I'm not really sure... it was my self conscious speaking to me and it has a tendency to be crazy.

So anyway, you can imagine how utterly surprised and excited I was first to MEET Lauren Oliver and then to find out that along with signing copies of "Delirium" Lauren was also signing copies of "Before I Fall." If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I have more than once claimed that my "pride and joy" of BEA was getting a signed copy of "Before I Fall." This is also the only novel I had signed directly to me and not to my students.

Here's the kicker: I hadn't even read the novel yet.

Have my feeling changed at all towards this book?

Absolutely. Before I was just able to rave about how great Lauren is and how much I love the premise, now I can tell absolutely everyone I know how much I love this book — and I have. I started out with Twitter:

Tweets via @Miss Remmers:

I'm in the mall reading Before I Fall and I may burst into tears at any moment

"You're worse than the hot lunch." This is the most amazing book! @oliverbooks

@mindfulmusings oh my goodness it's amazing! I can't put it down but I so have to use the restroom!

Before I Fall is one of the most amazing books ever. I will definitely be purchasing more copies for my classroom. Review soon @OliverBooks

Then I of course called Travis, Dan, my mom, my dad, and I even called my best friend and left a message since she's out of the country on her honeymoon! And now I'll tell all of you.

This book, if you can't already tell, was amazing. When Lauren was talking about her book at TAC she mentioned that it was hard to write a character she didn't like. Lauren succeeded in this endeavor. I hated Sam, not at first but towards the middle when I realized how mean she really was. In the end she won me over (obviously), but it was so refreshing to meet a protagonist that I did not like.

Each of the characters had their own story and voice — another amazing aspect of the novel. Each character was different and I liked and disliked them each for their own purpose and reason. Kent, however, was by far my most favorite character of the week (and that's saying a lot as that week I read "Dead Until Dark," "Sea," and "Hush Hush.") And quite possibly of the entire summer! My heart ached and broke for Kent throughout this novel. I was rooting for him the entire time. The descriptions of all of the characters were fantastic, but it was Kent (in my opinion) whose description was so fantastically pure and lovable. In the end, it was Kent that made this story (for me).

The plot, along with characterization, was another amazing part of this novel. The premise of this story was so strong and real — my ninth graders are going to devour this book. I loved the theme of love, friendship, suicide, and death. The theme of suicide is something very near and dear to my heart, as an RA for three years I dealt with at least eleven severely depressed young college students who either attempted suicide or who were talking about suicide (thankfully, they all have began counseling and are moving in the right direction). But that doesn't mean everyone at that college is safe, or at any college. It takes a powerful novel, much like "Thirteen Reasons Why," to bring up the tender issue of suicide so emotionally correct.

This will be a novel that I purchase a couple more copies for my classroom (this beloved copy will stay at home on my beloved bookshelf). A novel that I will insist my students read and a novel that I continue to rave about online, in school, and with friends and family.

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

To the FTC, with love: Received from BEA10

I've been thinking about blogging a lot lately, you know... rather than actually doing it.

I have some confessions to make. I've been a "bad" blogger the last couple months. I got frustrated with the lack of progress my blog had made in two years and I compromised my integrity to get higher numbers.

Yes. I did.

What exactly did I do to get the numbers I wanted? Are you prepared? It's pretty awful.

I hosted several contests where you had to be a GFC follower to enter. I participated in Giveaway Hops, again, where you had to follow in order to enter. I became obsessed with Follow Friday and the Book Blogger Hop — where you follow and comment for the purpose of numbers. Yes, I did find a few (I can think of three off the top of my head) bloggers who I've actually built a relationship with.

Now, this is not a slam on those memes, but the basic purpose (as far as I can tell) is to gain followers. And... I won't lie, my blog has grown exponentially. The thought behind these memes is to meet other bloggers etc and visit new blogs, but the truth is (for me) it was about numbers, about putting forth as little effort as possible (posting a simple response to a question) and watch my follower number increase.

As part of my confession, I want to illustrate just how much participating in these particular blogging extracurriculars boosted my "numbers"; I actively began participating in January. (Note: Blogger began keeping track of stats in the middle of June).

There's no doubt about it — if you want numbers it works. I thought I wanted numbers (and I still kind of do — I won't lie).

But the fact is, if I'm going to stress about blogging (never a good thing) I'd rather stress about my content than numbers. I'm being completely honest — I blog for me and my students, I blog because I love the community, I blog because I love books, I blog because I love blogging. But honestly, I just don't think it's as fun blogging if no one reads it. There will always be those people who say "I don't care about numbers" etc (and I mean no disrespect) but generally, it seems, like the people saying that HAVE the numbers and have the niche.

It'd be easy to lie. It'd be easy to say: "No, I don't care about numbers or followers or a larger readership. I don't care about my blog being successful. I blog for me and me alone." But I'm not going to do that. Yes, I blog for me and because I enjoy it, but I do care about the success of my blog. If I didn't, I would read books and form opinions and move on without a review. If I didn't care about the success of my blog I wouldn't have taken all the steps I have to market and promote my blog. I wouldn't be spending countless hours reading other blogs, commenting, tweeting, and working on the look of my own blog. I wouldn't be so engrossed in the social media of the book blogging community.

So, what do I do? I feel like I've lost my blogging integrity and I've lost focus. I don't want my blog to be about numbers. I don't want to post memes to "fill space" and "gain numbers."
In order to gain back a bit of my blogging integrity I vow to all of you faithful (and amazing) readers:

• Never to host a contest where you must be a follower. I want my online space to be content driven, not numbers driven.
• Instead of posting mindless, contentless meme posts in hopes of adding followers, to instead visit three other blogs a week and attempt to build a real content-based relationship with them. Rather than leaving a quick comment: "New follower here stopping by for the Hop/Follow Friday/etc"
• To never (or hardly ever) feel stressed or obligated to post

I apologize for the use of parentheses.

Edit: I forgot to mention this. Thank you to all of the "content-driven" readers that I have. Besides my love of students and books, you are the reason I keep blogging. You're the reason I love hearing that little Blackberry email chime on my phone when you comment. Thanks for all you do.

I solemnly swear I will post a review this week.:)

No, this post is NOT about bloggers who are afraid of writing negative reviews due to their writing aspirations; I feel that topic has been whole-heartedly covered. This post stems from something entirely different and quite personal.

Last year I attended BEA, as I was only there Monday through Wednesday evening (my best friend got married on Friday) I missed out on meeting many different bloggers. But of the ones I did have the pleasure of meeting I feel that I built some great relationships. Pam (Bookalicio.us) , Kristi (The Story Siren) , Cat (Beyond Books) , and Amanda (The Zen Leaf) — just to name a quick few — have since BEA continuously provided support and advice in regards to topics ranging from (obviously) blogging and books to love and life (true story — thanks ladies!)

In just those few days I met dozens of bloggers and obtained (only) 14 business cards* — I promise to do much better this year. And of those 14 bloggers who I exchanged cards only SIX!! of them were still "in business." Which leads me to the purpose of this post: How high is the turn over rate of book blogging?

When I think of the term "turn over rate" I am reminded of waitressing in high school. Waitressing is a tough job and as an extremely high turn over rate. In high school I waitressed at a small town family diner and after three months I was the most senior waitress. In college I waitressed at Chili's in Mira Mesa and, again, after about six months I was one of the senior servers. High turn over rate — get it?

Now, we all know book bloggers who have been blogging for years and other bloggers who have blogging for weeks or months. Book Blogging (at least to me) is ever-changing with varied amounts of dedication. Some people blog for followers and free books and have a high follower count while others blog for themselves and aren't all that concerned with numbers and free books (and of course everyone in between). Some people blog for a few months while others blog until it is no longer fun. My point is, that of the owners of those 14 cards I accumulated were all "serious" bloggers — serious enough to travel to NYC and stay with "complete" strangers for the sake of blogging. Now, there is always the chance that bloggers could go to BEA for the sole purpose of free books and then quit blogging. But I met these women and I can vouch for every single one of them: they loved blogging and they loved reading.

So what happened? Why are only SIX still blogging?

Yes, it could be due to the recent controversy of blogging versus aspirations of writing, the "pressure" of reviews, or (God-forbid) "real life." I hope you detected my sarcasm there. Real life does happen and people can choose to quit blogging. I've even thought about it; what with my first year teaching and planning a wedding — there have been plenty of times I've felt that pressure to post push me further and further down into wireless oblivion.

No one will ever know (well, okay... not "no one") what happened to the other eight bloggers between last May and now. A feeling of sadness envelops me with the thought that some people I have "met" through blogging I may never see/speak to again. But I guess that the "business."

Now that the post is written I can't really put my thumb on it's "point." I do know it wasn't to elaborate on the "pressure" of blogging or to make bloggers feel obligated to "stick with it." This post wasn't meant to talk about the overly mentioned controversy that I've already touched on. It wasn't meant to over analyze why these eight bloggers no longer blog.

I simply found this information interesting and wanted to share it with you:

During my short stay at BEA 2010, I met 14 book bloggers. Eight have disappeared. Where will you be next year? Still blogging? Still tweeting? Still reading?

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*I know this is a very small number in comparison. But remember, I wasn't there Thursday or Friday for BBC. Be nice.

I very much apologize for my use of quotes. It's a bit excessive.

So I'm a month into my final 'real' semester. In the spring I'll be student teaching, so I don't really count that. But anyway, one of the classes that senior education majors are required to take is about technology in the classroom. For my first technology project I decided to create a Wiki (confused? I was too!) and relate it back to a book that my class could potentially read. I decided to use Mary Ann MacAfee's "Frozen Tears" because I can foresee myself actually teaching that book in a sophomore class. But I wanted to share my Wiki with you.

You are all a very important of my life — you constantly remind me that I have a mission, a purpose. When I find myself getting caught up in Memes, ARCs, or giveaways, it the readers of Miss Remmers' Review that remind me of my purpose. Thank you.

I wanted to show you a little of what I have been doing to prepare for the classroom — and I'm pretty proud of this. It's not as intricate as it will be if I use it in the future. But I think it effectively gets my point and my vision across.

Check out my Wiki for "Frozen Tears"!

Quite the opposite from my last Sunday Salon — this week I did nothing but read and do nothing (confusing isn't it). My parents were gone for the week so it was Pippin, me, and a stack of books — really, what more could you ask for?

This week I finished Jane Austen Ruined My Life, Twilight, Prada and Prejudice, and New Moon. I also watched and reviewed the movie Twilight — it seems as though I've caught the bug. And, brace yourselves — very exciting news, I'm hosting my first giveaway for My Name is Will by Jess Winfield!

I am caught up with my Reader and now have only to reread and comment on the hundred posts that I starred. On a less bookish note, I am officially done with Summer School — Yay! I've also recieved four new guest reviews — I'm so excited. Sometimes I get caught up in the blogosphere and books that I forget the purpose of my mission and the purpose of this blog. I love hearing the enthusiasm for reading from other bloggers who donate their reviews (and time) to help my cause. I can never thank you enough... but not for lack of trying — Thank You! If you'd like to help reluctant readers and share your love of reading — please find out how.

Happy Sunday everyone!

What did you finish this week?

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand
Publisher: HarperCollins (January 17th, 2011)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Hardcover: 416 pages
Source: ARC from publisher
Series: Unearthly, book #2
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
For months part-angel Clara Gardner trained to face the raging forest fire from her visions and rescue the alluring and mysterious Christian Prescott from the blaze. But nothing could prepare her for the fateful decisions she would be forced to make that day, or the startling revelation that her purpose—the task she was put on earth to accomplish—is not as straightforward as she thought. Now, torn between her increasingly complicated feelings for Christian and her love for her boyfriend, Tucker, Clara struggles to make sense of what she was supposed to do the day of the fire. And, as she is drawn further into the world of part angels and the growing conflict between White Wings and Black Wings, Clara learns of the terrifying new reality that she must face: Someone close to her will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.
Review: For the first time, I feel the need to start my review with a letter.

My letter to Christian:

Dear Christian,
How can you do this to me? I have always liked you but my heart belonged to Tucker. Then there you go, flapping your beautiful wings in front of my face and POOF, you fly away with my heart. It's not fair to play with my emotions like this Christian! Maybe it's your eyes, or your protective nature that makes you so irresistible. Either way, you have me flustered and questioning my feelings for Tucker. Tucker, who's rugged hotness and farm-boy ways made me swoon. Don't give me that look! You know exactly what you're doing. You haven't made this easy for me.

Sincerely,
Jessica

What can I really say about Hallowed that will do it justice (besides my heartfelt letter to Christian). Hallowed picks up where Unearthly leaves off and if you are worried that it won't live up to Unearthly's awesomeness, don't be! In Hallowed, Clara is struggling to figure out her purpose after the fire. There are still big mysteries surrounding what really happened and what it could mean to Clara.

Hallowed brings even more obstacles for Clara when she is faced with something devastating. I felt this was a turning point for her. She seemed to grow and mature in a way I didn't expect. During this time she wants to depend on Tucker but sometimes it's hard for him to understand her world. For this reason, it seemed inevitable that she will be linked to Christian. I must say that the tension this brings was strong for all characters involved. I admit, I enjoyed the.friction. between Tucker and Christian. It brought a lot of"typical teenage drama" to the story, which was a nice touch and helped ease some of the paranormal drama. If that makes sense: )

Christian grew on me during Hallowed. He has complicated my feelings! I have been 100% Team Tucker since the first time he annoyed Clara but now, I just don't know. If you are a fan of love triangles (raises hand!) then you will love this book!

Another thing I liked about Hallowed is that we get a chance to meet the community Clara is now part of. She learns a lot about her past and what could be ahead of her. I think this was another thing that really made her change and mature. She is getting a better grasp of what she may have to deal with later on.

While Unearthly may have introduced us to a world of White Wings and Black Wings, Hallowed explores more of the connection between the characters and the conflicts that come from a battle that may be impossible to win. Cynthia Hand has created a magical world with intriguing characters you can't help but love.

Recommended: For freakin' EVERYONE!

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