"In the spring of 1813, Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy agree to sponsor Elizabeth's sister Kitty for a season in London along with Darcy's 17-year-old sister, Georgiana. In the course of their social rounds, Kitty meets Harry Dashwood — a younger cousin of the Sense and Sensibility Dashwoods — and the courtship begins. Mr. Darcy makes inquiries into Harry's character, fortune and expectations, but no sooner does he receive favorable answers than the suitor begins to behave most strangely. Harry gives a friend the "cut direct" outside Boodle's Club, and there are rumors of gambling and worse excesses. It's up to Darcy and Elizabeth to discover the cause of these aberrations, and, if at all possible, see Kitty happily established."
I have gotten lucky – the last two books I’ve read have been amazing reads. Today I started, and six hours later finished, “Suspense and Sensibility” by Carrie Bebris. Fast paced and captivating, I couldn’t put this down. And when I did put it down in order to eat dinner, I found my mind wandering to the plot and characters.
I’ll be upfront and honest – this is probably the worst adaptation or spin off of the Pride and Prejudice characters and Regency language I’ve read. Carrie Bebris writes a whole new Elizabeth, Mr. Darcy, Kitty, etc. The language is unrecognizable as anything that Austen would have written. While this bothered me for all of two pages, once I accepted the characters and the book as a whole new and separate entity – I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I was immediately drawn into the characters and the plot. When I wasn’t reading I found myself wondering what would happen next and how the mystery would play itself out.
Unlike most other ‘spin offs’, I will definitely purchase this book and the first book for my classroom. The problem with spin offs is that they are almost ‘too’ good – the language and characters are so similar that people who read Pride and Prejudice just delve into it. But with struggling readers, it is often impossible to get them to read classical literature such as Pride and Prejudice. But if a student had only seen the movie, they would be up to speed enough to really get into this book. The language is extremely modernized so students wouldn’t be afraid of that. And it’s a riveting read! The suspense is perfect for struggling readers. But for those readers who, like me, are in love with the original characters and language that is Austen – keep an open mind. I’d still recommend this book, but go into it knowing that this book is best if viewed as a separate entity than Pride and Prejudice (as always, in my opinion). I will warn you, it is weird reading about how Elizabeth and Darcy would deal with the paranormal – I think, realistically, living in the Regency era, they wouldn’t be so nonchalant about the supernatural (but that’s just me).
Over all, I loved it. Go into it with an open mind and expect something different than the beloved novel. But still, great read. I’m definitely going to interlibrary loan the first book – Pride and Prescience – I didn’t realize it was a series — and all the subsequent novels.
Today is the release day for 2 amazing books -- Sweet Venom and Vanish. To celebrate this, Tera Lynn Childs and Sophie Jordan are here today to share some of their favorite romantic novels.
Favorite Romantic Novels Favorite Romantic Books by Tera Lynn Childs
Romantic books have been such a big part of my life and my career, it’s hard to narrow this down to a manageable list. I have about fifty romances on my forever keepers shelves. But if I have to pick some favorites, here goes:
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I first read this in my freshman Lit Hum class at Columbia and it turned my world upside-down. Here was a book I loved—swoon, Darcy, swoon—and it was considered important enough to be studied in an Ivy League literature class. This is the moment that I realized a book can be both popular and important. And a romance novel, to boot.
The Magic of You by Johanna Lindsey. When I first decided to try this whole writing thing, I literally devoured the romance section at my local bookstore. Johanna Lindsey was my first auto-buy author. She is the master of The Moment, that line that just takes your breath away. In this book, it’s Warren (after Amy’s been chasing him the entire book) saying, “You can’t give up on me!”
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn. I cannot begin to describe in a few sentences how much I love this book. It is just one of the most powerful romances I’ve ever read. Julia Quinn is genius at creating characters who absolutely cannot possibly make it work, and then making it work. Simon and Daphne are a close second to Darcy and Elizabeth for my favorite romantic couple of all time. I dare anyone to read this book and not cry a dozen times. I always do.
Favorite Romantic Books by Sophie Jordan
What’s my favorite romantic book!?!?! Wow – that’s like asking a food junkie to pick her fav dish (which would be tough for me, too)! There are just so many choices – especially since romance has been my favorite genre for so long. Okay, here’s my list: The Magic of You by Johanna Lindsey. It’s a historical romance featuring one of the strongest, take-charge heroines ever! It’s really a stand-out historical romance. When I first read it years ago it felt so new and fresh. And when I reread it now, I can still say the same thing. It has that universal, timeless appeal.
Second choice would probably be … Gentle Rogue by Johanna Lindsey. Another historical romance. The books are connected, too. I just love the tension of a girl disguising herself as a boy. Oh, the fireworks when the truth is revealed! Hm, contemporary romance would have to go to Susan Elizabeth Phillips’s Nobody’s Baby But Mine. It features an outrageous premise … but is an amazingly emotional and very “real” story. My favorite romantic suspense novel is Linda Howard’s Open Season – it has the perfect balance of suspense and romance, but at its core it’s an ugly duckling story. I know these qualify as my favorites because they’re all books I’ve read multiple times. That’s always my gauge.
As for young adult novels … hm, there are so many where the romance is really strong and at the core. They might as well be called a young adult romance. I’ll choose The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting and Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins. Both books have some hot boys and empathetic, likeable heroines. But it’s no easy road to a happily ever after for these characters. Just like in the adult romance books I listed above, you get tons of agonizing conflict. And in the meantime tons of tension and steamy chemistry that sizzles on every page. These are the titles that pop in my head right off the bat … but ask me a year from now and I’m sure I’ll have new titles to add.
Vanish by Sophie Jordan Publisher: HarperTeen (September 6th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardback: 304 pages Series: Firelight #2 To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.
Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?
In bestselling author Sophie Jordan’s dramatic follow-up to Firelight, forbidden love burns brighter than ever.
Sweet Venom by Tera Lynn Childs Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books (September 6th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 352 pages Series: Sweet #1 Grace just moved to San Francisco and is excited to start over at a new school. The change is full of fresh possibilities, but it’s also a tiny bit scary. It gets scarier when a minotaur walks in the door. And even more shocking when a girl who looks just like her shows up to fight the monster.
Gretchen is tired of monsters pulling her out into the wee hours, especially on a school night, but what can she do? Sending the minotaur back to his bleak home is just another notch on her combat belt. She never expected to run into this girl who could be her double, though.
Greer has her life pretty well put together, thank you very much. But that all tilts sideways when two girls who look eerily like her appear on her doorstep and claim they're triplets, supernatural descendants of some hideous creature from Greek myth, destined to spend their lives hunting monsters.
These three teenage descendants of Medusa, the once-beautiful gorgon maligned by myth, must reunite and embrace their fates in this unique paranormal world where monsters lurk in plain sight.
Sophie and Tera Lynn’s upcoming tour stops: September 7 @ 7 PM Blue Willow Bookshop Houston, TX September 8 @ 7 PM Books & Co Dayton, OH September 9 @ 7 PM Magic Tree Bookstore Chicago, IL October 1 Austin Teen Book Festival Austin, TX The next blog tour stop: Thursday, September 8 – The Bookish Brunette About the authors: Tera Lynn Childs (Authora neo) is a newly discovered species of author fish who always dreamed of being a mermaid, but never got closer than a career as a competitive swimmer. She loves to spend as much time as possible in and around water (right up until her fingertips turn all pruney) in the vain hope that one day her legs will magically turn into fins. When stuck on land, Authora neo can be found writing in coffee shops across the country, prowling for cool mermaid gear on Etsy, and spending way too much time online. Visit her at http://teralynnchilds.com. Sophie Jordan grew up in the Texas hill country where she wove fantasies of dragons, warriors, and princesses. A former high school English teacher, she's also the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Avon historical romances. She now lives in Houston with her family. When she's not writing, she spends her time overloading on caffeine (lattes and Diet cherry Coke preferred), talking plotlines with anyone who will listen (including her kids), and cramming her DVR with true-crime and reality-TV shows. Sophie also writes paranormal romances under the name Sharie Kohler. Visit her at www.sophiejordan.net.
Yesterday Lisa (A Life Bound By Books) and I shared with you our interview with Everneath author Brodi Ashton and some of our favorite quotes from the book. Today we are doing an open discussion of the book where we share some of our thoughts and give readers a chance to join in and link up their review of Everneath.
Discussion for Everneath
I really enjoyed how Everneath starts off with the characters being directly in the action. I admit, I'm not very knowledgeable about myths but it was great to start out by getting a lot of information from the beginning
I agree with you, however it was pretty confusing to me. I mean I was 73 pages into the story and I was totally confused as to exactly what had happened. There were terms in the book surrounding the events that the main character had gone through, but I had no clue until way later on in the book as to what really had happened.
I agree, especially when Nikki came back and was attempting to get back to her new life. That's when I really had to slow down and try to soak in each detail she gave about what happened while she was away. What did you think of Cole?
Ah, that's a question I was actually going to ask you… but you beat me to it! To be honest, he rubbed me the wrong way from the beginning. I found him more than frustrating and somewhat an ass. Most of the time, I can find something to endear me to a character that makes me feel as he did, but I have no idea why so many people are falling all over him. So, my turn, what did you think of Cole?
Very true, but I did find that by the end I did really feel bad for Cole. I think that there is a lot to his story that we will, hopefully, find out in book 2. It did take me a while to like anything about him but I think he may prove to be more than meets the eye.
As you were typing that, I was thinking about Cole and I am looking forward to more about him because I do think he has something to offer, I just don't see it yet. I wanted to feel sorry for him, but I couldn't really because I know he can't feel. Or maybe that's what the clever author is trying to make us believe?
You could be right. Sneaky, sneaky! I try to have hope and I am really excited to see what happens with him. What did you think of the way Nikki handled her situation?
She was so disconnected from the Feed, so the beginning of the book showed just how detached she really was and as the book progressed a black cloud was somewhat lifted from around her that you finally get a chance to see and feel things again just as she did.
Exactly, at first I wondered why she had fought so hard to go back to her past life. Then, as time went on, I felt I saw her more clearly and could get the emotion that had been hiding. Overall, I was really happy with this story, the story of Nikki and Jack, and the suspense Brodi brought to the plot. I will definitely be checking out the next book to see where this story goes.
Since you mentioned Jack, I think I need to say that I loved him and how he never gave up, yet he had his own scars from Nikki's disapperance he still never gave up. The ending was epic and I totally agree with you… Brodi knows how to write the suspense. I'm also looking forward to the next book to find out what happens after that cliffhanger ending. What did you guys think? Please leave us (spoiler-free) comments and we invite others to reply and join in.
Prize:
1 winner will receive a copy of EVERNEATH and swag.
Rules:
You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is US Only and ends March 14th.
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The form must be filled out to enter.
You will find this form on A Life Bound By Books as well. PLEASE only fill it out ONCE!
We wanted to do this feature as a way to promote a new release and get people involved in discussing the book. One of the best ways to find out about a book is to read the reviews. Please feel free to link your review of EVERNEATH that has been posted on your blog or Goodreads. Rules: Please post ONLY your review of EVERNEATH. Please provide the direct link in the linky. You can include your rating of the book. Example of link: Confessions of a Bookaholic — Everneath Review (4 stars)
We would love you to join the discussion about the book. Leave comments, tell us what you thought, or ask questions. PLEASE DO NOT INCLUDE SPOILERS! We don't want to ruin it for others, but we'd love to see what everyone thought of the story.
"The characters were all fantastically real to me... I found myself rooting for them and thinking of them well after the book was closed and finished. The plot was extremely fast paced, suspenseful, and down-right addicting." — Miss Remmers From Amazon.com... "Not all dreams are sweet. For seventeen-year-old Janie, getting sucked into other people's dreams is getting old. Especially the falling dreams, the naked-but-nobody — notices dreams, and the sex-crazed dreams. Janie's seen enough fantasy booty to last her a lifetime.She can't tell anybody about what she does — they'd never believe her, or worse, they'd think she's a freak. So Janie lives on the fringe, cursed with an ability she doesn't want and can't control. Then she falls into a gruesome nightmare, one that chills her to the bone. For the first time, Janie is more than a witness to someone else's twisted psyche. She is a participant... "
Book Trailer I picked this book up simply because it looked good. Then I read the premise and that sounded interesting too. So I put it with the five other "these look good" books at the used bookstore; when I got home I put them on my shelf. Less than 24 hours later I felt drawn to this book, there were loads of other books I needed to get to first but I found myself looking on the shelf for this book in particular after finishing Delirium. Upon first opening "Wake," I realized that the writing is extremely choppy — and that I liked it that way. The sentences are short and to the point; it's a type of writing style I would normally discourage with my freshmen, but with "Wake" I found that it drew me in and added both mystery and suspense. The choppy writing made the story seem to move faster and with a sense of urgency. Lisa's writing style otherwise was unique and different. The different font for the dreams and the reality were helpful; the dream writing was done so in a way that I felt like I was actually seeing it. I pitied Janie for her ability, I can't imagine getting pulled into people's dreams without warning. It'd be one thing if she were sleeping too, but that she can be driving, studying, talking, and all of a sudden pass out — not cool. But speaking of cool... Cabel is hot. I've been lucky enough to read two books in a row with fantastically drool worthy male protagonists ("Wake" and "Delirium"). Even when Cabel was being sketchy, I couldn't help but hope he had a plan. On the bus with the McDonalds when he came to her rescue — I almost died of romance! The Snickers bar and the skateboard! This boy has moves and if I weren't engaged to the most romantic man I know (nonfiction wise), I'd let him put his moves on me! Cabel's "alternate" life was a little hard to buy — but it didn't deter me from reading. Lisa's characters were all fantastically real to me, even with their flaws (especially Janie's a bit unbelievable best friend). I found myself rooting for them and thinking of them well after the book was closed and finished. The plot, like I said, was extremely fast paced, suspenseful, and down-right addicting. I can't wait to pick up "Fade" and "Gone" from the library today! Originality: 10/10 Ending: 10/10 Characters: 8/10 Plot: 10/10 My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10 Theme: 10/10 Imagery: 10/10 Setting: 5/5 Voice: 5/5 Style: 5/5 Tone: 5/5 Cover: 10/10 Overall: 97/100 A To the FTC, with love: Loved and Bought To find out more about this series and author, visit the following links: -Visit Lisa around the web here: Website | Blog -BUY THE BOOK: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Random bit of information: Last night I had to extremely awful nightmares that I'm sure Janie is happy she didn't have to witness. Not the kind of nightmare where I'm naked — but the kind where both my parents have died and I didn't get to say good bye. I just remember wallowing in my dream pity. I'm pretty sure my face was contorted to my "crying face" while I was sleeping because now my cheeks hurt. I also dreamt that I was in a play with my three best friends (all drama majors) and I screwed around the whole time and then didn't know my lines when it came to the opening night and I let them all down. /End Rant
While Brian DeLouise was working the graveyard shift at a conspiracy theory-crazed radio station his wife was alley-catting around Washington, DC. But a cheating wife and a dead-end job no longer made him angry or depressed. He was just numb. It took a daring brush with death to awaken his senses and a few clicks on Google to begin a journey to recapture a love he believed was gone forever. Brian finds his lost lover in a rundown mansion on the windswept bluffs of Cape Cod, where he must confront a fast approaching evil while he risks losing everything he now cherishes."
There was a lot of story to this book — and it got to be a bit much. There was just so much going on. There was the first part, with Brian in his dead end job with a cheating wife. I think this alone could have been a great plot with a bit of personalization. Then there was the part with finding his long lost love and winning her back. With some originality, this would make another great plot. And finally, there's the suspense (or 'evil') part.
Character development in Brian is awesome, but the supporting characters are lacking... character, I guess. I think this could be because of how much story Schindler tries to fit into the one book. I think that if the book were to focus on one plot, rather than three, the characters would be stronger.
I did like how all the characters were named after Shakespeare characters (yes, I picked up on that!). Richard, Portia, Juliette.
But overall, I was slightly disappointed. The synopsis had real promise — I was so excited to see what 'evil' was conspiring. Like I said, I think if this story would have been broken down a bit and... filtered, I think is the best word, we could have potentially had three concrete plots.
Settling by Shelley Workinger Publisher: CreateSpace (July 4th, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Source: Author Series: Solid #2 Rating: 5 of 5 stars
At the beginning of the summer, Clio Kaid was one of a hundred teens brought to a secret Army installation. But it was no ordinary camp and they weren’t ordinary kids…
Soon after learning they were the products of a secret genetic experiment, the teens began developing super-abilities ranging from bounding lightness to blocking heaviness; blinding brilliance and the ability to vanish. These same gifts made them targets of a psychopath in officer’s clothing, and they found themselves fighting for their lives.
Picking up where “Solid” left off, Clio and her friends realize that they aren’t ready to go home; they’re determined to stay on campus and continue their journey of self- discovery. But someone doesn’t feel the same way and will do anything to drive them away – even kill.
Friendships will be tested, abilities will evolve, and more secrets will come out as the teens race to stop the killer before he sets his sights on one of them… Review: This series gets better and better! Settling picks up from where Solid left off. Clio and her friends are still at the Army camp trying to find out what abilities they may have due to the experimentation done on their mothers.
While Settling does have drama and suspense, much of that is from the friendships between Clio and the rest of their close group. Clio seems to break away and it's not completely clear as to why. She seems to just simply be a teenager struggling with all the changes going on around her.
Beyond what Clio may be going through, attacks are still occurring at the camp and no one knows who is responsible. We also get introduced to a new character that had me blushing like crazy!! Wooahhh, can't wait to see what happens next with that little plot! Settling doesn't focus as much on what's going on with Clio's friends as Solid did but we still get a chance to see Garrett (who is awesome!), Jack and the rest of the gang. It just seemed that this book gave Clio a chance to make mistakes, learn, grow, and turn into who she truly is.
This series is so unique and engaging! Settling is a quick read but one that you won't be able to put down. I can't wait to see what Shelley Workinger comes up with next for this group of friends! The ending of Settling makes it impossible to not read the rest of the series!
Cold Blood by Heather Hildenbrand Publisher: Accendo Press (November 22nd, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Paperback: 366 pages Source: Author (Thank You!) Series: Dirty Blood #2 Rating: 5 of 5 stars Wood Point Academy is not at all what I expected. For one thing, it looks like a cross between military school and Buckingham Palace. Everyone stares, the floors shine so bright you can see your reflection in them from a mile away, and no one smiles. Unless they're kicking your butt in the process.
At least I've got plenty to take my mind off the fact that my psycho cousin, Miles De'Luca, keeps calling and declaring his love and promising to come for me just as soon as he's destroyed anyone standing in our way. Wes isn't going to like that idea. So between Miles, Wood Point's evil welcoming committee, and the drill sergeant hottie trainer from hell, I just keep asking myself, how did I end up here? Review: I truly adore this series, and in my opinion, book 2 was even better than book 1. After the battle in Dirty Blood, Tara's mom and grandmother send her to Wood Point Academy. There, she will train and learn the history behind her hunter background. As soon as Tara arrives, she knows she will never be embraced by the people at the school. They know that she is a"Dirty Blood" and most of them want nothing to do with her.
Tara is then introduced to Alex who will be training her to fight. He isn't very fond of her either so she knows their battles will be just full of excitement. Training with a super hot guy? SCORE. Training with a super hot guy who doesn't like that you exist? Bummer. But just maybe Tara can show him that there is much more to her than what he first thinks.
Luckily, Tara isn't alone with her school-time isolation. Cambria and Logan quickly take her under their wing and help her survive. They were terrific friends and really accepting. Cambria really didn't care what anyone thought of her and she stayed by Tara's side even with Tara's enemy/roommate tried to make her life hell.
We don't get a chance to see Wes much in this one and I gotta say, I didn't really miss that. Team Alex! Although Tara tries to keep in touch with Wes, he just never seems to open up. I felt Alex was more genuine and honest.
I think one of the big reasons why I love this series is because Tara is an incredible heroine! She does not back down and even with faced with the toughest fighter at the school (Alex) she shows him exactly what she can do. And, the plot is so fascinating. I love the werewolf/hunter/mix dynamic and seeing what new information is found out as the characters go along. For Tara, the bad guy is still out there and his plans are shocking.
Heather Hildenbrand has created a series that never lacks in action, drama, or suspense. The characters are strong and realistic and the surprises just keep coming!
Recommended: For paranormal readers or anyone who enjoys a nice spin on werewolf tales. Also, people who are fans of a strong heroine. Dirty Blood is book 1 in the series. Cold blood is book 2.
The Eternal Sea by Angie Frazier Publisher: Scholastic Press (June 1st, 2011) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 368 pages Source: Publisher Series: Everlasting #2 Rating: 4 of 5 stars
Romance and adventure are just around the corner.. After the thrilling journey that led Camille through the dangerous discovery of love, secrets, and a magical stone that grants immortality, Camille has everything she wants. She's escaped the men who wanted her dead, and now she is ready to build a new life with Oscar, her one true love. But things are not to be so simple. Oscar is acting strangely, and before they can even board a ship from Australia back home, to San Francisco, Camille learns that the journey is not over. If she does not follow the magic of the curse of Umandu, her life and Ocar's could be in grave danger. Review: I was actually surprised by how much I honestly enjoyed book one, Everlasting. I must say that this series continues to stun me as it continues. The Eternal Sea picks up there Everlasting left off. We see Camille go off on another journey that is packed with action, suspense, and even more romance.
A newer aspect of this story was the addition of a nice love triangle. Gotta love those! I really enjoyed getting the chance to learn about Randall. Although we know about him all along, this book really gives us a chance to understand him. He was not at all who I expected him to be. I will even admit that I went back and forth on who I liked best, him or Oscar. Shocking, but true! He was very well developed in the story and gave the book exactly what it needed. I enjoyed his interactions with Camille. It was obvious that he cared for her deeply.
The Eternal Sea takes us deeper into the legend that started Camille's journey. We also get a more in-depth look into her personality. I could relate to her and understand the difficulty of her decisions in this story. Her fighting spirit came forward and kicked butt! I loved it. I always enjoy a strong character and Camille is that and more. Sometimes I wasn't sure how she would continue but she always did.
This series has a fantastic list of characters; some new, some old, and some we don't see as often as we did in Everlasting. But they all bring so much to the plot. I did find that this book took me a little longer to get back into the story, but by the middle of the book I was completely hooked and couldn't put it down! I just had to know what was happening next and how the romance would heat up.and with who.
I am so excited for the next book! Angie has created a magical series with a complex plot, engaging characters, and a powerful heroine that will keep you at the edge of your seat!
Find Angie Frazier Website | Blog | Twitter | Goodreads
Purchase Everlasting Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository
"'Cryer's Cross' is definitely a book I'll need to put on my classroom shelves." — Miss Remmers
From Amazon.com...
"The small town of Cryer’s Cross is rocked by tragedy when an unassuming freshman disappears without a trace. Kendall Fletcher wasn’t that friendly with the missing girl, but the angst wreaks havoc on her OCD-addled brain.
When a second student goes missing—someone close to Kendall’s heart—the community is in an uproar. Caught in a downward spiral of fear and anxiety, Kendall’s not sure she can hold it together. When she starts hearing the voices of the missing, calling out to her and pleading for help, she fears she’s losing her grip on reality. But when she finds messages scratched in a desk at school—messages that could only be from the missing student who used to sit there—Kendall decides that crazy or not, she’d never forgive herself if she didn’t act on her suspicions.
Something’s not right in Cryer’s Cross—and Kendall’s about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried."
Book Trailer
After reading "Wake" by Lisa McMann, I knew I needed to read more of Lisa McMann (but no, I haven't gotten my hands on "Fade" or "Gone" yet).
The premise of "Cryer's Cross" is fantastically mysterious (just view the above Book Trailer). It's a perfect combination when the premise and the cover are equally intriguing and "grab worthy."
I'll admit that the beginning of the novel is a bit slow and I didn't feel the "need" to continue reading until I was a third through it. I didn't understand how everything fit together and (again, I'll admit) I became a bit frustrated. But then all of a sudden "weird" happenings appeared and the plot began to escalate.With this escalation my anticipation and "need to read" grew exponentially.
Something completely different about this suspenseful novel that I haven't come across in a YA book before was the main character, Kendall, dealt with OCD. At first the constant reminder of the meticulous actions seemed repetitive and unnecessary, but as the plot evolved I saw the purpose in the detailed OCD mannerisms.
While reading this book I realized I had a few OCD tendencies of my own — not necessarily straightening desks or markers, but more in my travels. For instance, in college I drove the same route to school and to Walmart as I did the first time, even though after living in Aberdeen for a while I found a shorter less congested route; I always say I'm a habitual creature. It almost pains me to switch that part of my route up. Another "for instance" of this behavior is when I fly out of the cities I always stay at the same hotel. It's near the airport, they let you park your car and shuttle you for free, and they have an epic continental breakfast! Yes, I could probably find a cheaper place to stay, but this is less that $100 and it's familiar.
Okay, back to the book. After getting through the exposition of the book, "Cryer's Cross" was perfectly timed and flawlessly executed. The suspense and mystery kept me guessing and thinking the entire time. The ending was "wrapped" up perfectly; yes, it was a quicker ending but it fit the story well. The romance was intriguing but not over done and didn't take away from the story (although at the end, I won't lie, my heart fluttered a bit).
The thriller part of the story was creepy and mysterious but the actuality of it was completely perfectly disturbing but believable at the same time — well, as believable as it could be. I was impressed with McMann's ability to write a thriller with a realistic end (see spoiler at the end). I will say that the romance between Kendall and Nico, I thought, could have been left out. He could have just been her best friend. I thought it was a bit over-dramatic how all of a sudden she had "feelings" for him once he had gone missing. Overall, "Cryer's Cross" is definitely a book I'll need to put on my classroom shelves.
SPOILER: I loved how the kids who went missing didn't just magically appear at the end — it was morbid but it was a "real" ending.
Originality: 10/10 Ending: 10/10 Characters: 10/10 Plot: 9/10 My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10 Cover: 10/10 Overall: 59/60 A
To the FTC, with love: Received for Review (eBook)
To find out more about this series and author, visit the following links: -Visit Lisa around the web here: Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | GoodReads -BUY THE BOOK on February 8th!: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
Real quick, another OCD thing — I have 229 followers, I'd love to have 230. Just to make it even:)
Can you d escribe the most memorable game of Truth or Dare you've ever played? Tell us and you could win a copy of TRUTH OR DARE by Jacqueline Green!
Truth or Dare by Jacqueline Green Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (May 14th, 2013) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 416 pages Series: Truth or Dare, #1 Summary: When a simple round of truth or dare spins out of control, three girls find it’s no longer a party game. It’s do or die.
It all started on a whim: the game was a way for Tenley Reed to reclaim her popularity, a chance for perfect Caitlin “Angel” Thomas to prove she’s more than her Harvard application. Loner Sydney Morgan wasn’t even there; she was hiding behind her camera like usual. But when all three start receiving mysterious dares long after the party has ended, they’re forced to play along—or risk exposing their darkest secrets.
How far will Tenley, Caitlin and Sydney go to keep the truth from surfacing? And who’s behind this twisted game?
Set against the backdrop of Echo Bay, an isolated beach town haunted by misfortune, Truth or Dare is a highly charged debut that will keep readers in suspense from beginning to end.
Prize: 1 winner will receive a copy of TRUTH OR DARE by Jacqueline Green.
Rules:
You must be at least 13 to enter.
Name and email must be provided and counts as 1 entry.
Extra entries are possible and links must be provided.
Contest is US Only and ends June 1st.
Once contacted, the winner will have 48 hours to respond.
So this week wasn't as lucrative as last — but I'm still happy with what I accomplished. I finished reading The Man Who Loved Jane Austen, Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride, and A Vengeful Spirit. I didn't exactly meet my goals from last week's Sunday Salon because Persuasion and Jane Austen Ruined My Life didn't come into my library yet. But I did watch Emma for the Everything Austen Challenge. I went to see My Sister's Keeper and Hp 6 (still working on my review). I received an award. And I hosted my first Author Interview. So overall — I'm very happy with how I fared last week.
This week don't expect near as much fun — book wise anyway. Tomorrow I leave for a mini vacation to Washington DC. My dad needs to attend the Indian Affairs meetings so my mom and I are going to sight see. Because of this, my goals are going to be sort of sad. My goal for this week is to finish A Circle of Souls, Suspense and Sensibility, and Jane Austen Ruined My Life. Expect Reviews!
But no worries about me being gone — I've been working especially hard to make sure that I have at least one post a day while I'm gone.:)
This week was crazy! I was in DC from Tuesday to Friday. Then Saturday evening the wireless internet modem broke and I've just recently got off the phone with Qwest setting up the new modem. So my Sunday Salon post is up on Tuesday. It's my favorite meme so I couldn't just not do it!
This week I finished A Circle of Souls, Elemental Shaman, and Suspense and Sensibility. So this week wasn't as lucrative as last — but I'm still happy with what I accomplished. I also hosted an Author Interview.
This week I intend to do a lot of catching up. I have 800+ posts in my Reader to read and comment on, two book reviews to post, a movie review to post, etc. I also went to the library and checked out the Twilight Books — figure now is the time to read them all before school starts and the next movie comes out! But the parents are gone for the week so it's just me and Pippin for the week so hopefully I'll get it all accomplished.
A little bit of excitement to mention: I was with my mom in her library in the middle school and saw a Harry Potter throw blanket laying on the floor. I asked mom what was up with it and she told me that it was something that the book clubs sent her as incentive to buy books from them and their publishers. She simply told me to take it if I wanted it (which of course I did!). So I am now the new owner of a Harry Potter blanket! Exciting! It will probably have to go into storage until next year when I move out of the house with the parents and into my own house in the 'real world'.
I've also started reading "Jane Austen Ruined My Life" and wow — I'm on chapter four and... wow! I can't wait to finish it! The main character is so easy to relate too! Wow! But I feel like I have some catching up to do with the blog and summer classes before that will happen — but really, wow!
"This is a fantastic read that's unlike any other I've read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the werewolf/vampire craze (admit it...) — this is unique read and you'll find yourself on the new pixie craze next!" — Miss Remmers
From Goodreads...
"Zara White suspects there's a freaky guy semi-stalking her. She's also obsessed with phobias. And it's true, she hasn't exactly been herself since her stepfather died. But exiling her to shivery Maine to live with her grandmother? That seems a bit extreme. The move is supposed to help her stay sane... but Zara's pretty sure her mom just can't deal with her right now.
She couldn't be more wrong. Turns out the semi-stalker is not a figment of Zara's overactive imagination. In fact, he's still following her, leaving behind an eerie trail of gold dust. There's something not right — not human — in this sleepy Maine town, and all signs point to Zara.
In this creepy, compelling breakout novel, Carrie Jones delivers romance, suspense, and a creature you never thought you'd have to fear."
Why I read this: I received an awesome poster at BEA advertising Need, Captivate, and Entice and I figured I had better have these books on my classroom shelves if I was going to hang the poster. So I purchased Need and Captivate. I love the covers, very eye catching.
Plot: It took me a while to get into the plot because it was SO mysterious. I felt like there were a few too many factors left out. When questions started to be answered, I also felt like it was done in a very sneaky way. There were parts I had to reread because I had assumed I missed the big "oh, yea... " moment only to find out that the moment was three chapters ahead. Apart from that, the plot was fast moving, captivating, and addicting. I hated putting this book down. There were some fantastic "twists" in the plot that I never saw coming — never even considered! That doesn't happen a lot! I love the idea of pixies as well, it kind of threw me off at first and I had to overcome the urge to say, "Pixies?! Come on." But it's written so well that by the end I really was afraid of these man-eating, soul-sucking pixies!
Characters: I really connected with Zara, although I dislike the name. Witnessing her father dying and having to leave home to live with her Grandma in unfamiliar territory. Her personality and fear of life was really easy to relate to for me and for I think most people. I loved Nick! I'd love to see him portrayed on the big screen. I really adored Issie and Devyn as well, reading about their cute innocent romance made my day. I hate to admit it, but I really felt for the Pixie King; I don't want to give anything away, but I could see myself liking his character in the next book.
Cover: I adore this cover. When my students saw it on my desk, especially the girls, they were drawn to pick it up and see what it was about.
Random Thoughts: I love Betty!!
Final Thoughts: This is a fantastic read that's unlike any other I've read. I highly recommend it to any YA reader, but especially to anyone who loves the werewolf/vampire craze (admit it...) — this is unique read and you'll find yourself on the new pixie craze next!
I know I'm a little late with this. But I wanted everyone to know that I did complete the Everything Austen Challenge (my first challenge too!).
My list did change throughout the six months, I had to delete a lot (I think I started out with over 27 books/movies), but once school started I realized there was no way I was going to do all of that.
Big thanks to Stephanie's Written Word for hosting the Everything Jane Austen Challenge!
Here's what I accomplished:
1. Watch the BBC Version of Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth — Completed July 6 2. Watch Lost in Austen — Complete October 13 3. Watch Emma — Completed July 16 4. Read Prada and Prejudice — Completed July 31 5. Read The Man Who Loved Jane Austen — Completed July 13 6. Read Suspense and Sensibility — Completed July 26 7. Read Jane Austen Ruined My Life — Completed July 28 8. Read Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride Completed July 19
I had a wonderful time reading/watching "Everything Austen". I view this challenge as a success — despite changing things up a lot. I can't wait to start my next challenge!
I couldn't find a meme that fit exactly what I was looking for — so we'll just try this. I don't want something on Monday, because there are already two memes I'm participating in. And I'm really not a big reader of new releases (right away at least) — so "Waiting on Wednesday" doesn't really work for me. I'm looking for a meme where I can post what I receive in the mail (either through contests or for review) and whatever I get from the library. If you know of something like this — please let me know!
Last week I received in my mailbox three books! My first three books at that! I am very excited!
For Review: Then thanks to Book Blogs, Preetham Grandhi, was able to send me a personally signed copy of "A Circle of Souls".
From Amazon.com... "The sleepy town of Newbury, Connecticut, is shocked when a little girl is found brutally murdered. With the murderer on the loose, the police desperately look for any clues to lead to his identity. Meanwhile, a psychiatrist in a nearby hospital is also in a desperate search to find the cause of seven-year-old Naya Hastings' devastating nightmares. Afraid that she might hurt herself in the midst of a torturous episode, Naya's parents have turned to the bright young doctor as their only hope. When these two situations converge, they set off an alarming chain of events. In this stunning psychological thriller, innocence gives way to evil, and trust lies forgotten in a web of deceit, fear, and murder."
Won: I won in a Twitter Contest from @lizzyarmentrout a wonderful signed copy of "A Vengeful Spirit".
From Amazon.com...
"Welcome to Pilotview, NC; a quiet, peaceful town where nothing much happens. That all changes when evil strikes the Irvin family. Why is someone targeting Tucker's family? What could a 12 year old have done to bring such terror to his home? Why is his father missing? Shelly Gale, his teacher, can't resist helping one of her students as his family seems to go through trial after trial."
Finally, thanks to Laurel and Vic at Jane Austen Today, I won a copy of "Rude Awakenings of a Jane Austen Addict".
From Amazon.com... "Laurie Viera Rigler’s debut novel, Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict, was a hit with fans and critics, and a BookSense and Los Angeles Times bestseller. Its open-to-interpretation ending left readers begging for more—and Rude Awakenings of a Jane Austen Addict delivers. While Confessions took twenty-first-century free spirit Courtney Stone into the social confines of Jane Austen’s era, Rude Awakenings tells the parallel story of Jane Mansfield, a gentleman’s daughter from Regency England who inexplicably awakens in Courtney’s overly wired and morally confused L.A. life.
For Jane, the modern world is not wholly disagreeable. Her apartment may be smaller than a dressing closet, but it is fitted up with lights that burn without candles, machines that wash bodies and clothes, and a glossy rectangle in which tiny people perform scenes from her favorite book, Pride and Prejudice. Granted, if she wants to travel she may have to drive a formidable metal carriage, but she may do so without a chaperone. And oh, what places she goes! Public assemblies that pulsate with pounding music. Unbound hair and unrestricted clothing. The freedom to say what she wants when she wants—even to men without a proper introduction.
Jane relishes the privacy, independence, even the power to earn her own money. But how is she to fathom her employer’s incomprehensible dictates about “syncing a BlackBerry” and “rolling a call”? How can she navigate a world in which entire publications are devoted to brides but flirting and kissing and even the sexual act itself raise no matrimonial expectations? Even more bewildering are the memories that are not her own. And the friend named Wes, who is as attractive and confusing to Jane as the man who broke her heart back home. It’s enough to make her wonder if she would be better off in her own time, where at least the rules are clear—that is, if returning is even an option."
From the library:
"Suspense and Sensibility" "Mr. Darcy Presents His Bride"
I am very much excited to read these books. So look forward to reviews and perhaps even an author review (we'll see if I can persuade them). And even more exciting — receiving my first books (inevitably) means my first give away! Since "A Circle of Souls" is personalized to me, I don't think I'll give it away. I might 'lend' it to my dad — he's really interested in reading it — or I may even keep it for my classroom! But stay tuned for all the possibilities!
If you are a member of Book Blogs — be my friend (please)! Also, I encourage you to look up Mr.Preetham Grandhi. If you are a twitter"er" — @lizzyarmentrout is always up for interesting conversations and she is extremely friendly! And you can always look me up too! @ReaganRay — although I can't promise to be near as entertaining! And definitely stop by Jane Austen Today — I stop there everyday.
Thank you so much, Ms. Armentrout, Laurel and Vic at Jane Austen Today, and Mr. Grandhi. I look forward very much to reading these books!
"I can definitely see why my freshmen girls race through these novels." — Miss Remmers
From Barnes and Noble.com...
"Everyone has something to hide—especially high school juniors Spencer, Aria, Emily, and Hanna.
Spencer covets her sister's boyfriend. Aria's fantasizing about her English teacher. Emily's crushing on the new girl at school. And Hanna uses some ugly tricks to stay beautiful. But they've all kept an even bigger secret since their friend Alison vanished. How do I know? Because I know everything about the bad girls they were and the naughty girls they are now. And guess what? I'm telling."
Why I read this: I sat down and watched the first episode of the television show last summer but after the whole teacher/student scene I decided not to watch the rest. Now I'm wishing I had. I thought I'd give the series another chance by reading the book as my students request it on a daily basis.
Plot: I can see why this is such a popular book with my freshman. The plot is fast moving and the hook grabs readers from before the page number one (something many readers need in order to move forward). Uniquely, "the hook" didn't let up through out the novel. Each character had a different story line and a different secret that no one else knew. This variation in narration, I think, aided the novels' level of suspense and kept the reader "hooked." The level of deceit only rose throughout the novel and, of course, the mysterious "A" was forever elusive.
Characters: While I can't say any of the characters were exactly likable, I can say that they are definitely addicting to read about. Each character definitely had their own personality and identity. Shepard did a fantastic job of making each character hate-able but relatable at the same time; as a reader I saw the flaws in each of their actions but at the same time I could see where they were coming from.
Cover: Cute, different, eye-catching, and perfect for the story line.
Final Thoughts: I will definitely continue reading this series not only to find out who "A" is, but to find out how the girls deal with their "issues." I can definitely see why my freshmen girls race through these novels.
This year we have 23 authors that I'll be featuring over 7 days and each day you'll have a chance to enter to win! There's also a scavenger hunt going on, so be sure to check out The Crossroads Tour Post to see what questions will be asked, what blog you'll be able to find the answer on and enter to win! Today I am featuring P.J. Hoover, Lucienne Diver, Carrie Harris, and Patrice Lyle. Be sure to check out the rafflecopter giveaway, too!
1. Solstice is your first YA novel. What is the biggest thing you learned by writing YA and what was the hardest part of the journey?
The list of things I learned while writing YA could fill an entire blog post, but I’ll stick with this one. Make your characters relatable. The characters in your story should be people that your reader can relate to. It’s as simple as that. The more the reader can relate to the characters, the more they will be able to see bits and pieces of themselves in those same characters. And the more they see of themselves in those characters, the more real the story will feel. Hardest part of the journey? Developing patience because everything takes so long. When I finally develop it, I’ll let you know.
2. For those who don’t know, can you tell us a little about the world we jump into in Solstice?
Sure! Solstice is a mash-up of dystopia and mythology, two of my favorite genres. It’s set in Austin, TX in the future when global warming is destroying the earth. For the main character, Piper, this is her world until, on her 18th birthday, she opens a mysterious present and all of a sudden this parallel world of mythology starts to explode around her. Her best friend almost dies. Piper has to travel to the Underworld to save her. And there are lots of Greek gods.
1. Of all the characters you have written, which one has been the most challenging for you to
write?
Challenging, hmm. The main character in the super secret project I’ve just sent off to my agent. It’s dark, angsty and suspenseful, not paranormal at all… a departure for me. The main character is going through some really serious stuff. If you’ve read my Vamped and Latter-Day Olympians series, you’ll know that I write very tongue-in-cheek. There’s a lot of suspense, but it’s tempered with humor. But this novel called for a serious approach, and getting that voice down, writing a character who doesn’t take things in stride but is buffeted by the deep darkness of what’s going on around her, was very challenging.
2. You have contributed to a few anthologies. Do you find those easier, or harder, to write than a full length novel?
Infinitely harder! All of my short stories want to be novels, so to condense a storyline into a smaller space and still make it rich and satisfying… that’s a talent all its own. My Vamped series actually started as a short story called “Unlife Style,” but it didn’t stay that way. The first short story I ever had published, “The Problem with Piskies,” didn’t become a novel series, but it did get a sequel, “Imaginary Fiend” in the Strip-Mauled anthology published by Baen Books.
1. In Demon Derby, Casey is into Roller Derby. Have you ever tried that?
I WISH! I do own roller skates, and I have secret (or not so much now that I told you publicly) aspirations to skate at some point. But a few years ago, I was taking a wilderness rescue course and learning to save people who fall off cliffs, and I fell off the cliff. Rolled, mostly, but the end result is the same. I just finished a second round of physical therapy on my knee and hip, and I’m slowly but surely trying to build up my endurance. I have a few friends who skate, and they’re good at motivating me. If by “motivating,” you mean constantly giving me friendly crap about it. Which I find really funny. I think the best friends are the ones who can give you a hard time and make it hilarious. Is it just me?
2. What are 5 words you would use to describe Michael? Inhuman, awkward, lovable, determined, and HOT.
1. Can you give us a little teaser from your upcoming book?
The Case of the Invisible Witch is the first book in the Poison Ivy Charm School Series, about a young teen witch who runs a private investigation business. It’s like a paranormal Nancy Drew!
Tulip Bonnaire has only 72 hours to figure out her latest case, or her classmate, Missy, will never be seen again. Literally. When Missy shows up in Tulip’s dorm room around midnight, she’s invisible. As in not even x-ray vision could spot her. The mean triplets who call themselves The Belles have cast an invisibility spell on poor Missy. But if Tulip can’t break the spell in 72 hours, Missy will remain invisible forever.It’s a case Tulip can’t resist — between her mom’s annoying new boyfriend and her own secret crush at school, Tulip understands how much it stinks to feel invisible. Luckily for Tulip, her two best friends and her cute, techy guy friend help dig up clues on a case that turns out to be her freakiest one ever.
2. Tell us 5 words you’d use to describe your main characters in the book?
Tulip Bonaire, the main character in The Case of the Invisible Witch, can be described as: 1) Witch PI – Tulip has to be an awesome Witch PI to keep earning her $20 retainer fee, or her discounted retainer of a cup of hot chocolate with tons of whipped cream. 2) Loyal – Tulip is loyal to her best witch friends, Soili and Alexandria, as well as her best warlock friend, Dexter. She throws pizza and root beer float parties after every case they solve. 3) Bug-lover – Tulip loves Monk the Third, her pet praying mantis. She always keeps fruit flies on hand for him. 4) Inquisitive – Tulip loves a good mystery, and the freakier the better! 5) Polite – Tulip goes to a school for polite witches and warlocks, and has to abide by “Queen Withania’s Rules of Refinement.” Tulip thinks the rules are stodgy and lame, but she does her best to follow them.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Follow the tour on Twitter: @TheCrossroadsBT
And Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Crossroads-Blog-Tour/218310244897337
"Rare-book theft is even more widespread than fine-art theft. Most thieves, of course, steal for profit. John Charles Gilkey steals purely for the love of books. In an attempt to understand him better, journalist Allison Hoover Bartlett plunged herself into the world of book lust and discovered just how dangerous it can be.
Gilkey is an obsessed, unrepentant book thief who has stolen hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of rare books from book fairs, stores, and libraries around the country. Ken Sanders is the self-appointed "bibliodick" (book dealer with a penchant for detective work) driven to catch him. Bartlett befriended both outlandish characters and found herself caught in the middle of efforts to recover hidden treasure. With a mixture of suspense, insight, and humor, she has woven this entertaining cat-and-mouse chase into a narrative that not only reveals exactly how Gilkey pulled off his dirtiest crimes, where he stashed the loot, and how Sanders ultimately caught him but also explores the romance of books, the lure to collect them, and the temptation to steal them. Immersing the reader in a rich, wide world of literary obsession, Bartlett looks at the history of book passion, collection, and theft through the ages, to examine the craving that makes some people willing to stop at nothing to possess the books they love."
Today's Quick Giveaway is "The Man Who Loved Books Too Much." I have shamelessly had this book for months and I just have not been able to get into it. I stuck to my review policy and made it 100 pages in, but this book is not for me. I wish I was more interested in the art of book collec
tion and the passion it involves — but I'm not.
So my loss is your gain: I'd like to give this book to a past Guest Reviewer who has participated in my holiday campaign for reviews.
All that you have to do is email me at google [at] gmail [dot] com: 1. Your Name 2. Your Email Address 3. The corresponding number to the review you sent in according to the Mr. Linky (Look at Mr. Linky, find your name/number — that's what I'm looking for).
Oh, and because this was an ARC review book (and I do feel excruciatingly bad about not finishing it) I will be forwarding an email to the winner from Lydia Hirt about the book so that, after posting the review review, the winner can email the link to her so that she does get a review.
After the first person as emailed me — I will update this post and contact the winner and hopefully get the book sent out tomorrow!
UPDATE: I apologize for my email hot mess. Three people contacted me and the first was Sharon from Sharon's Garden of Book Reviews. Stay tuned for another "Quick Giveaway" early next week!
Raised by Wolves by Janenifer Lynn Barnes Publisher: Egmont USA (June 8th, 2010) Reading Level: Young Adult Hardcover: 418 pages Series: Raised by Wolves, book #1 Source: ARC from Publisher Rating: 5 of 5 stars Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two.
But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs.
But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped? Review: It's no secret that I am a huge werewolf fan so when I read the summary of this book I had to have it! I was not disapointed. Bryn was raised by the pack after her parents were killed when she was young. The rules and power of the pack are all she knows. One thing she tries to keep private are her emotions. Although she is connected to the pack through her bond with the alpha, she resist giving in to the bond. Soon Bryn notices that something is being kept from her and she is determined to find out what it is. Callum, the alpha, tries to keep a tight reign on Bryn but she often bends and breaks the rules. Eventually she discovers what Callum has been keeping a secret; a young boy who is a newly turned werewolf. This opens the door to new memories for Bryn as she sorts through the details of what happened to her parents and what other secrets the pack has been hiding. These questions lead Bryn to test her limits with the pack and learn as much about the stranger in the basement as she learns about herself. Raised by Wolves is a unique story with outstanding characters that will keep your interest at it's peak. Bryn is an amazingly strong character who is smart, kind, determined, and a tad bit stubborn. The world where the wolves reside was fascinating to me. Janenifer Lynn Barnes did a fabulous job creating the complexity of the pack and their way of life. Along with the strength of Bryn, I enjoyed the characters of Chase and Devon. Devon, a wolf who has known Bryn since her arrival with the pack, is hilarious and was a great addition to the story. Chase, the changed wolf, was more of a mystery but I enjoyed his caring interactions with Bryn. One thing these wolves had in common was their fierce protectiveness of Bryn and it showed throughout the story. Another critical aspect of this story involved Ali, Bryn's surrogate mother. As much as I could understand how Bryn's fiery personality was influenced by the pack, it was strongly influenced by Ali as well. Raised by Wolves is full of action and suspense that is woven in the lives of these characters. Bryn's quest for answers takes her to places she never expected with unlikely allies. This is honestly one of the best werewolf books I have read and I can't wait for the sequel!
Trial by Fire, book #2, will be released June 14th, 2011. Cover art has not been released yet. Find Janenifer Lynn Barnes Janenifer Lynn Barnes / Blog / Twitter
Purchase Raised by Wolves Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository
