Bookworm Extraordinaire!

Review: One Hundred Candles by Mara Purnhagen

2012-01-29T16:26:00.003-05:00

Title: One Hundred Candles

Author: Mara Purnhagen

Release Date: February 15^th, 2011

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 240

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: Past Midnight (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: Past Midnight (#1), Beyond the Grave (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): It's taken a long time for me to feel like a normal teenager. But now that I'm settled in a new school, where people know me as more than Charlotte Silver of the infamous Silver family paranormal investigators, it feels like everything is falling into place. And what better way to be normal than to go on a date with a popular football star like Harris Abbott? After all, it's not as if Noah is anything more than a friend….

But my new life takes a disturbing turn when Harris brings me to a party and we play a game called One Hundred Candles. It seems like harmless, ghostly fun. Until spirits unleashed by the game start showing up at school. Now my friends and family are in very real danger, and the door that I've opened into another realm may yield deadly consequences.

My Review:

Mara Purnhagen has a way of freaking me out even when I KNOW something scary is going to happen. The way she describes the ghosts/demons/scary stuff is so creepy that I just wanted to crawl under a blanket and hide until the scariness was over. That is what makes me love these books! That and the amazing characters and how real they are. Even though this is a paranormal novel these characters and the things that happen to them feel 100% real. Charlotte and her friends don’t just feel like some characters in a book, they could be anyone of your friends; they could go to your school or live down the block from you. That combined with the fantastic suspense makes this a really great read. This is an action packed, fast paced read that fan of books like Meg Cabot’s Mediator series will really enjoy.

Review: Girl Wonder by Alexa Martin

2011-12-31T20:12:00.003-05:00

Title: Girl Wonder

Author: Alexa Martin

Release Date: May 3^rd, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 304

Source: Won ARC at TBF 2011

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (hosted by The Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): As if transferring senior year weren't hard enough, Charlotte Locke has been bumped to lower level classes at her new school. With no friends, a terrible math SAT score, and looming college application deadlines, the future is starting to seem like an oncoming train for which she has no ticket.

Then Amanda enters her orbit like a hot-pink meteor, offering Charlotte a ticket to something else: popularity. Amanda is fearless, beautiful, brilliant, and rich. As her new side kick, Charlotte is brought into the elite clique of the debate team—and closer to Neal, Amanda's equally brilliant friend and the most perfect boy Charlotte has ever seen.

But just when senior year is looking up, Charlotte’s life starts to crumble. The more things heat up between Charlotte and Neal, the more Neal wants to hide their relationship. Is he ashamed? Meanwhile, Amanda is starting to act strangely competitive, and she's keeping a secret Charlotte doesn't want to know.

Talented newcomer Alexa Martin delivers a poignant story of first love, jealousy and friendship, where the ups and downs of senior year have never been so complicated. What else can Charlotte do but throw her hands up and ride?

My Review:

Alexa Martin did a really good job writing about a lost girl who is having a hard time figure out who she is and who she wants to be in her life. The main character Charlotte is a girl who got sucked up into the vacuum of a stereotypical high school senior year complete with drugs, sex and booze. I hated Charlotte because of this. I found her to be a written really well character, so well written in fact, that I ended up hating her for the majority of the novel. However, once her life imploded I really started to like her because she realized that she was an idiot and her so called friends were losers. The denouement of this story is what makes me like Charlotte and the book in general. I ended up rooting for Charlotte in the end. I could see that after she came to her epic realization that she finally started to see the people who were there for her all along such as her brother and his best friend (who, by the way, were my favorite characters of the novel). Overall, this is a story about growing up and making mistakes, but it is also a story about how even after making a ton of mistakes there will always be a tomorrow and it will be better than the day before!

Review: The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver

2011-12-31T19:40:00.005-05:00

Title: The Demon Trapper’s Daughter

Author: Jana Oliver

Release Date: February 1^st, 2011

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 340

Source: Bought for Kindle

Series: The Demon Trappers (#1)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (hosted by The Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): Demon Trapper Riley Blackthorne just needs a chance to prove herself—and that’s exactly what Lucifer is counting on…

It’s the year 2018, and with human society seriously disrupted by the economic upheavals of the previous decade, Lucifer has increased the number of demons in all major cities. Atlanta is no exception. Fortunately, humans are protected by Demon Trappers, who work to keep homes and streets safe from the things that go bump in the night. Seventeen-year-old Riley, only daughter of legendary Demon Trapper Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father’s footsteps. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing attraction to fellow Trapper apprentice, Simon, Riley’s out saving citizens from Grade One Hellspawn. Business as usual, really, for a demon-trapping teen. When a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood, she realizes that she’s caught in the middle of a battle between Heaven and Hell.

My Review:

I really liked this book! It’s really different from all the other books I’ve read this year. From the summary I got the impression that this book would be told from Riley’s point of view seeing as she is the Demon Trapper’s daughter, so I was (pleasantly) surprised to find that it’s a dual narration between Riley and her father’s trapping partner, Beck. I think this narration technique is what made me like it so much. Yes, the action and plot and all the other characters are brilliantly written as well, but it’s the stark contrast and the surprising similarities between the narrators that make this book stand out. I just really like Riley and Beck together (I ship them, I really do. I will go down with this ship). I also loved how Oliver handled the setting of the story. It’s 2018 and the world is literally going to Hell because of the economy of the last decade (which would be what we’re living in right now). She presented it in a way that is totally believable even with all the demons running amok. I could see this happening the way she puts it forth. Riley, too, is totally believable because you can tell that at times it’s hard for her to be the only female trapper in her neighborhood and that she has to live up to what her father has done and that even though it is hard and the pressure is overwhelming she remains strong. Riley is a character that it’s almost hard not to immediately love her due to her sarcastic and heroic nature! Overall, a splendid debut that has everything one could possibly be looking for in a book: love, laughter, life, death and demons!

Review: Past Midnight by Mara Purnhagen

2011-11-26T17:52:00.003-05:00

Title: Past Midnight

Author: Mara Purnhagen

Release Date: September 1^st, 2010

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 216

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: Past Midnight (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: One Hundred Candles (#2), Beyond the Grave (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): Let me set the record straight. My name is Charlotte Silver and I'm not one of those paranormal-obsessed freaks you see on TV…no, those would be my parents, who have their own ghost-hunting reality show. And while I'm usually roped into the behind-the-scenes work, it turns out that I haven't gone unnoticed. Something happened on my parents' research trip in Charleston—and now I'm being stalked by some truly frightening other beings. Trying to fit into a new school and keeping my parents' creepy occupation a secret from my friends—and potential boyfriends—is hard enough without having angry spirits whispering in my ear.

All I ever wanted was to be normal, but with ghosts of my past and present colliding, now I just want to make it out of high school alive….

My Review:

This is the beginning of a series that I can see myself reading over and over again just for fun. I just love the idea of seeing inside a ghost hunter’s family. Ghosts are my favorite thing to read about so I knew that this would be just the book for me. Purnhagen is a great writer; she managed to make even the simplest of things, like furniture moving, sound like the scariest thing ever. Charlotte didn’t really believe in ghosts until one followed her home and the story that follows left me pretty freaked out. I’ve always wanted to be a ghost hunter but I never felt that I was brave enough, this book let me have a look into the ghost hunter life and now I’m positive that I would not be up for the job! Past Midnight is a quick-witted, fun, fast, and spooky book that will have you screaming for the next one!

Review: Witch Eyes by Scott Tracey

2011-11-26T13:05:00.006-05:00

Title: Witch Eyes

Author: Scott Tracey

Release Date: September 8^th, 2011

Publisher: Flux

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 332

Source: Won finished copy in contest

Series: Witch Eyes (#1)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge 2011 (hosted by The Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): Braden was born with witch eyes: the ability to see the world as it truly is: a blinding explosion of memories, darkness, and magic. The power enables Braden to see through spells and lies, but at the cost of horrible pain.

After a terrifying vision reveals imminent danger for the uncle who raised and instructed him, Braden retreats to Belle Dam, an old city divided by two feuding witch dynasties. As rival family heads Catherine Lansing and Jason Thorpe desperately try to use Braden's powers to unlock Belle Dam's secrets, Braden vows never to become their sacrificial pawn. But everything changes when Braden learns that Jason is his father--and Trey, the enigmatic guy he's falling for, is Catherine's son.

To stop an insidious dark magic from consuming the town, Braden must master his gift—and risk losing the one he loves.

My Review:

Before getting Witch Eyes I had heard a lot of good things about it and those recommending this book knew what they were talking about. Witch Eyes didn’t disappoint me. I liked the concept of the feuding families and the star-crossed lovers because it was all very Romeo and Juliet but with boys and one happened to be a witch and could see visions if he took off his sunglasses, revealing his witch eyes. Seriously, if Shakespeare had used Tracey’s plot instead of Romeo and Juliet just being spoiled Italian kids I’m sure a lot more teenagers would have liked it. I think I liked this book so much because of the main character Braden. He’s sarcastic but it’s easy to feel for him. It’s not hard to find Braden and Trey’s story moving, I am rooting for them to pull through. It’s an action packed novel with romance and mystery that’s sure to leave readers wanting the sequel the moment they close the book. A great debut, I look forward to reading more of Scott Tracey’s work!

GIVEAWAY: I have two signed Witch Eyes bookmarks to giveaway! I will pick two random people to win on December 10th at noon! All you have to do is be a GFC follower on this blog and comment on *this blog post* answering the following question (with your email so I can get a hold of you if you win):

1) Who is your favorite Literary Witch/wizard/warlock and what book are they from (Harry Potter answers are excepted, but if you could say someone from a different book that would be great)?

GOOD LUCK!

Review: The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

2011-11-23T21:03:00.007-05:00

Title: The Name of the Star

Author: Maureen Johnson

Release Date: September 29^th, 2011

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 370

Source: Bought signed copy from Books of Wonder

Series: Shades of London (#1)

Summary (goodreads.com): The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper events of more than a century ago.

Soon "Rippermania" takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was walking with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.

My Review:

BRILLIANT! I can’t get enough of Maureen Johnson’s writing. There was a lot of flailing going on as I read MJ’s latest book. There was so much hype for this book and guys the hype is 100% real! NotS is so freakin’ cool! Everything about it, from Rory to her family to her friends, to Jack the Ripper to Shades and to London itself is all written so spectacularly that I honestly just want to awkward hug the heck out of MJ as thanks for writing this fantastic novel (and yes I realize how long this sentence is)! My favorite aspect of this novel is the Jack the Ripper plot line. I’ve always been interested in him, and I was curious as to how MJ would add that into her story. She didn’t disappoint, I can’t tell you how he’s involved but let me tell you that she had me on the edge of my seat for the whole entire book! Another great part about this is Rory, who is a lot like her creator in my opinion. I think Rory is like Maureen Johnson in that she is her own person, she knows who she is and I think that’s wonderful. Maureen Johnson to me means character driven novels and this one fills in with that. I always loved Maureen Johnson’s heroine (Ginny in 13 Little Blue Envelopes, Scarlett in Suite Scarlett to name a couple) because of their jump-off-the-page-personalities.

I also have a soft spot in my heart for this book because Maureen Johnson is my personal Heroine! MJ is an amazing woman who inspires everyone to be who they are and not be ashamed of it! She is the leading force in the YA Saves movement and she’s also a generally fun person. I encourage you to follow her on twitter (@maureenjohnson) because when she tweets it will make your day!

Another reason I have a soft spot for The Name of the Star is that MJ sent me a Jack the Ripper button which I wear proudly on my bag every single day (it says "I SURVIVED JACK THE RIPPER AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS BLOODY BUTTON").

I cannot praise The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson enough so you are just going to have to take my word for it and buy or borrow it from a friend or your local library as soon as possible!! If I could give it more than 5 HEARTS I would, that’s how much I loved this, it could be in its own CATEGORY of LOVELYNESS!

Review: Silvertongue by Charlie Fletcher

2011-11-23T16:15:00.004-05:00

Title: Silvertongue

Author: Charlie Fletcher

Release Date: April 28^th, 2009

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 352 (audio book has 9 parts)

Source: Audio book from Library’s Overdrive Media Console

Series: Stoneheart (#3)

Other Titles in the Series: Stoneheart (#1), Ironhand (#2)

Summary (goodreads.com): The city of London is in the middle of one of its most destructive wars in history. And yet most of its inhabitants don't even know it.

The battle between the statues and gargoyles of London rages on. The stakes are high, with the spits engaged in a struggle against the evil taints that will determine the fate of their very souls.

Twelve year old George Chapman and his friend Edie are caught in the middle. A glint with the ability to "see" the past, Edie has become a crucial asset in the ongoing war. The Gunner, a statue of a World War I soldier, continues do his part to help them in their quest. But George knows that he is the one who must play the biggest role in helping to bring an end to the war. With the Walker intent on forcing his evil designs on London and the world, George realizes that his destiny is inextricably tied to the Walker's destruction. In the end, the most important soul he manages to save might just be his own.

*REVIEW OF AUDIO BOOK*

My Review:

I’m really sad that this is the last book in the Stoneheart trilogy. This story has become so close to me and to have it end is heartbreaking, but all great stories must come to an end and this one is no exception. I cannot remember a time when I laughed or cried so much during a book. And the characters- Oh! The Characters make this book what it is! George, who is heroic and will do anything to save his friends and London. Edie, who is the smart aleck with a sense of humor and a terrible past. The Gunner, Statue Extraordinaire who will stand up for the kids even if he dies in the process. Dictionary and Clocker, the duo who made me laugh the most. Spout, the gargoyle foe turned hysterical friend. The sphinxes, who must finally decide what side they are on. The Black Friar and Little Tragedy, who try to do what they can for those in need even if they may not seem the friendliest at times. I could go on and on (but I won’t), these characters and their stories will stay with me forever. The adventures they go on, the people they met, the foes they defeated and the laughs they shared will stay in my heart and I will make sure as many people as possible get them in their lives as well. I will forever be thankful to my Uncle Jim and cousin Kelly for introducing me to the books and then spending hours texting about them (respectively). If you only read one trilogy this year make sure its Stoneheart!

Review: Ironhand by Charlie Fletcher

2011-11-23T15:04:00.003-05:00

Title: Ironhand

Author: Charlie Fletcher

Release Date: May 20^th, 2008

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 400 (audio book has 8 parts)

Source: Audio book from Library’s Overdrive Media Console

Series: Stoneheart (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: Stoneheart (#1), Silvertongue (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): Now that George Chapman has upset the fragile truce between the warring statues of London, he has been drawn into a war that will test his mettle. He and Edie, a glint who can see the past, may have succeeded in their quest to find the Stoneheart, but their journey is far from over.

Edie and the Gunner, a statue of a World War I soldier, have been captured by the Walker, and it's up to George to save them. But first he must deal with the three strange veins, made of marble, bronze and stone, that have begun to grow out of his hand and curl around his wrist. Legend has it that unless he successfully completes three challenges, the veins will continue up his forearm, and eventually pierce through his heart.

As George struggles to find the strength within to face the choice he has made, to take the Hard Way, he is determined to use his power for good--even as others wish to harness it for its great potential for evil.

*REVIEW OF AUDIO BOOK*

My Review: Now that we know about George, Edie and their statue friends and foes, Ironhand starts off right where the cliffhanger left us in Stoneheart. I don’t think I can make this review very long because I honestly want to tell you EVERYTHING that happened and just generally gush about it, which would give everything away and you wouldn’t have to even read the book so, yeah, let’s just say that I love this series! The plot of the first novel carries over into this novel brilliantly and adds more plot twists so they can carry over to the next book. What I love about these books is that Fletcher’s writing makes me feel like I *am* in London and that I am the one all these things are happening to. He makes it so you are so caught up in George and Edie’s story that it is literally difficult to put the book down (or in my case, stop listening, as I was listening to the audio book). Read or listen to this series as soon as you can, you won’t regret it!

Review: The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

2011-11-23T14:43:00.004-05:00

Title: The Iron Queen

Author: Julie Kagawa

Release Date: January 25^th, 2011

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 358

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: The Iron Fey (#3)

Other Titles in the Series: The Iron King (#1), The Iron Daughter (#2), The Iron Knight (#4)

Summary (goodreads.com): My name is Meghan Chase.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

My Review:

Meghan Chase’s main story line ends with this book and while that is sad, I feel that Kagawa gave her the perfect send off. The characters and the plot developed in ways I couldn’t have imagined. We got to see more of Meghan and Ash’s relationship and more of Meghan and Puck’s friendship and of course we got to see more of that pesky gray cat, Grim. The adventures they go on are even more exciting and the stakes are even higher, win or the Nevernever will cease to exist. Yeah, no pressure or anything though. Meghan becomes a strong, selfless, and fearless leader throughout the course of this book and that made me love her and her story even more! Overall, I am glad I read these books and I cannot wait to read Ash’s story in The Iron Knight!

Review: Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

2011-10-29T12:26:00.004-04:00

Title: Guardian of the Gate

Author: Michelle Zink

Release Date: August 1^st, 2010

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 352

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: Prophecy of the Sisters (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: Prophecy of the Sisters (#1), Circle of Fire (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): The ultimate battle between sisters is nearing, and its outcome could have catastrophic consequences. As sixteen year-old Lia Milthorpe searches for a way to end the prophecy, her twin sister Alice hones the skills she'll need to defeat Lia. Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim her sister's role in the prophecy, and that's not the only thing she wants: There's also Lia's boyfriend James.

Lia and Alice always knew the Prophecy would turn those closest to them against them. But they didn't know what betrayal could lead them to do. In the end, only one sister will be left standing.

My Review:

I liked this book a lot more than its predecessor. A lot of things actually happened in this book. Yeah sure we learned more about the prophecy and the spectral world and stuff that we had already learned in the first book, but we also got to see the sister safe haven Altus. I liked that there was more adventure in this book and Lia and her friends got out of that freaky old house. This also wasn’t as Victorian as Prophecy of the Sisters, there was way more romance and it was generally more exciting. So if you loved the first book or if you were a tad disappointed like I was this is a good read either way.

Review: Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

2011-10-26T23:27:00.004-04:00

Title: Daughter of Smoke and Bone

Author: Laini Taylor

Release Date: September 27^th, 2011

Publisher: Little, Brown and Company

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 420

Source: finished copy from Publisher

Series: Daughter of Smoke and Bone #1

Summary (goodreads.com): Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war.

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages--not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out.

When one of the strangers--beautiful, haunted Akiva--fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?

My Review:

[insert a ridiculous amount of exclamation points and then add twenty more here]

I LOVE DAUGHTER OF SMOKE AND BONE SO MUCH!!! I love everything about it (except the ending which practically killed me when I read it). Daughter of Smoke and Bone is a beautiful novel (which is high praise considering I rarely ever used that word to describe anything). The beginning intrigued me. I was so interested in this girl with blue hair who went to art school in Prague and ran strange errands for devils. I loved her relationship with the chimera, Brimstone especially (who is my favorite character). I loved the idea of wishes coming true and doors that opened to anywhere in the world. But when the doors to Elsewhere burned the story takes a turn, it lapses into what can honestly only be called beautiful. The angel/devil relationship described within the pages of this novel is so touching, so heart-wrenchingly beautiful that I just sat there reading with tears in my eyes. But that ending! I wanted to− but no; I can’t tell you, let’s just say that I was a very angry chimera lover. This is one of those books whose characters will remain in my heart forever. I will always be able to picture Karou drawing Brimstone in his shop as he counts out teeth, that image (and many more) will be burned into my brain forevermore and I am a better, more magical person for it.

I LOVE BOOKMARKS!

2011-10-20T14:29:00.007-04:00

Hey readers,

Have I ever told you guys that I'm trying to break the World Record for the Largest Bookmark collection?!

So far I have 240 bookmarks in my collection.

(the picture is of my bookmark box*)

As of January of 2007 the current WRH has about 80,000...so I have a ways to go.

If you have extra bookmarks lying around collecting dust that you don't want anymore or if you have a book you'd like to promote with bookmarks, send them my way!

Email me at Littlewood10@aol.com with "bookmarks" as the subject if you'd like to help my cause :D

~Talk Less,

Review: Stoneheart by Charlie Fletcher

2011-10-13T13:38:00.004-04:00

Title: Stoneheart

Author: Charlie Fletcher

Release Date: August 2^nd, 2006

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 464 (audio book has 8 parts)

Source: Audio book from Library’s Overdrive Media Console

Series: Stoneheart (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: Ironhand (#2), Silvertongue (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): A city has many lives and layers. London has more than most. Not all the layers are underground, and not all the lives belong to the living.

Twelve-year-old George Chapman is about to find this out the hard way. When, in a tiny act of rebellion, George breaks the head from a stone dragon outside the Natural History Museum, he awakes an ancient power. This power has been dormant for centuries but the results are instant and terrifying: A stone Pterodactyl unpeels from the wall and starts chasing George. He runs for his life but it seems that no one can see what he’s running from. No one, except Edie, who is also trapped in this strange world.

And this is just the beginning as the statues of London awake…

This is a story of statues coming to life; of a struggle between those with souls and those without; of how one boy who has been emotionally abandoned manages to find hope.

*REVIEW OF AUDIO BOOK*

My Review:

I first learned about Stoneheart from my Uncle Jim. A few years ago he told me to find the audio book because it’s read by Jim Dale (the man who reads the Harry Potter books here in the States), who happens to be the best audio book reader on the planet. Anyway, I finally found it and its brilliant (and not just because of Jim Dale). Stoneheart is an amazing story with characters that really come to life (sometimes literally). I love everything about it from the statues coming to life like the Gunner and Dictionary to everything that George and Edie have to navigate around in this strange new level of London. Stoneheart is one of those books where I want to buy it just so I can turn back and read my favorite passages over and over again and believe me there are a lot of them. This book is really funny and at times it’s quite serious. George needs to learn about this new world so he can figure out a way to make it to tomorrow and it turns out to be quite a ride. Stoneheart is one of the best books I’ve read (okay, listened to) this year!

Review: Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

2011-10-11T12:12:00.003-04:00

Title: Prophecy of the Sisters

Author: Michelle Zink

Release Date: August 1^st, 2009

Publisher: Little, Brown

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 352

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: Prophecy of the Sisters (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: Guardian of the Gate (#2), Circle of Fire (#3)

Summary (goodreads.com): An ancient prophecy divides two sisters-

One good...

One evil...

Who will prevail?

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, the girls find themselves entangled in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets.

Lia and Alice don't know whom they can trust.

They just know they can't trust each other.

My Review:

I read this upon the urging of two of my best friends who read it when it first came out in 2009. My one friend read it in one day, while the other read it in a double period of engineering (so about an hour and a half). I was convinced that it would be a brilliant book because they just blew through it like they couldn’t read fast enough. I didn’t blow through it at all, there was a slow start and it didn’t pick up until more than half way through. I felt as if I was always waiting for something to happen, something other than what the book jacket said. There’s a lot of talk and no action. However, I will be reading (and reviewing) the rest of the series because I am hoping it will get better. Overall, I liked this book, but it was nothing special.

Review: The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

2011-10-11T11:46:00.005-04:00

Title: The Iron Daughter

Author: Julie Kagawa

Release Date: August 1^st, 2010

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 359

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: The Iron Fey (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: The Iron King (#1), The Iron Queen (#3), The Iron Knight (#4)

Summary (goodreads.com): Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

My Review:

The beginning of the book starts off where the last one left off basically, Meghan in the Winter Court. However, in the beginning of the novel she isn’t that strong heroine I grew to love. Oh no she’s a whiner baby. She spends most of her time in the Winter Court complaining about how Ash is ignoring her. That drove me CRAZY. If she loves him she should have LISTENED to him when he told her that he was going to have to do that while they were in his neck of the Nevernever because it wasn’t safe for her there if he showed his true feelings. But did she listen to the man she loves? Of course not, so she spends a majority of the beginning complaining about everything. When she does leave the Winter Court to go on the next adventure she becomes her old awesome self and the book starts to become as unputdownable as the last one. All my favorite characters are back including Puck, Grim and Ironhorse and with some new enemies and some new friends the middle and end are action packed. Will I tell you about that action? No, because I’m afraid I’ll spoil it. Rest assured though that if you like The Iron King and can make it though the whiny beginning this will not disappoint!

Review: Supernaturally by Kiersten White

2011-09-29T16:02:00.004-04:00

Title: Supernaturally

Author: Kiersten White

Release Date: July 26^th, 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 326

Source: Borrowed from Library

Series: Paranormalcy #2

Other Titles in the Series: Paranormalcy (#1)

Summary (goodreads.com): Evie finally has the normal life she’s always longed for. But she’s shocked to discover that being ordinary can be . . . kind of boring. Just when Evie starts to long for her days at the International Paranormal Containment Agency, she’s given a chance to work for them again. Desperate for a break from all the normalcy, she agrees.

But as one disastrous mission leads to another, Evie starts to wonder if she made the right choice. And when Evie’s faerie ex-boyfriend Reth appears with devastating revelations about her past, she discovers that there’s a battle brewing between the faerie courts that could throw the whole supernatural world into chaos. The prize in question? Evie herself.

So much for normal.

My Review:

After all the kick butt action of Paranormalcy, Supernaturally toned it down so there could be more of just Evie living her life. I miss the high amounts of Tasey the taser, but I enjoyed reading about how Evie is handling her new “normal” life. Which for a “normal” life isn’t all that normal, her roommate is a vampire and she is, after all dating, an adorable shape-shifter Lend, but at least she has a locker now in this new life! Technically not a whole heck of a lot happened in this book, it was more of a “okay now that we know who these people are let’s get to know them even more so we can totally mess with their minds in the next book” kinda thing. And I loved that. I’m glad we got to learn more about what Evie is and what she can do in this installment. I also love how this series is paranormal, but not DARK paranormal, it’s cute and there are a whole lot of laughs, especially when it comes to the new character, Jack. He is trying his hardest to annoy Evie as much as possible and when he does it is the funniest thing ever. Read Supernaturally if you’re looking for the quirky follow-up to the amazing Paranormalcy!

Review: Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

2011-09-22T20:18:00.005-04:00

Title: Starcrossed

Author: Josephine Angelini

Release Date: May 31^st, 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 496

Source: Ebook from Publisher via Netgalley

Series: Starcrossed (#1)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge 2011 (hosted by the Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): How do you defy destiny?

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.

As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

My Review:

I really liked this book. The ways the famous Greek myths are put forth in this novel are not only unique, but fantastic as well. Most YA Greek myths books are about demi-gods and monsters and God Parents, but it’s rare (at least for me) to read a book that deals with a historical event such as the Trojan War and in particular the “love story” between Helen and Paris of old. The love story of Starcrossed drives me batty but also makes me ridiculously happy because for once the characters don’t have smooth sailing (I won’t say anything else for fear of HUGE spoilers). Read Starcrossed, if you don’t want to face the wrath of the Gods!!

Review: Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

2011-09-20T18:42:00.004-04:00

Title: Beauty Queens

Author: Libba Bray

Release Date: May 24^th, 2011

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 390

Source: ARC from Scholastic

Summary (goodreads.com): The fifty contestants in the Miss Teen Dream pageant thought this was going to be a fun trip to the beach, where they could parade in their state-appropriate costumes and compete in front of the cameras. But sadly, their airplane had another idea crashing on a desert island and leaving the survivors stranded with little food, little water, and practically no eyeliner.

What's a beauty queen to do? Continue to practice for the talent portion of the program--or wrestle snakes to the ground? Get a perfect tan--or learn to run wild? And what should happen when the sexy pirates show up?

Welcome to the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Your tour guide? None other than Libba Bray, the hilarious, sensational, Printz Award-winning author of A Great and Terrible Beauty and Going Bovine. The result is a novel that will make you laugh, make you think, and make you never see beauty the same way again.

My Review:

People are comparing this book to Lord of the Flies and I can see why; kids on a deserted island because of a plane crash. However, the comparison ends there. Beauty Queens is ten times better than Lord of the Flies. Beauty pageant contestants are way funnier than whiny British boys. The way the Queens dealt with survival things on the island surprised me, they used anything and everything they could to survive while maintaining a nice, even tan. This is the first Libba Bray book I’ve read and I really liked it. I always wanted to read her books, but I never did until she did a blog tv video with Maureen Johnson. They were talking about this book and it just sounded so good. It didn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for a fun read check this out!

Review: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs

2011-09-15T16:23:00.006-04:00

Title: Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

Author: Ransom Riggs

Release Date: June 7^th, 2011

Publisher: Quirk

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 348

Source: Finished Copy from Publisher (thanks so much!)

Summary (goodreads.com):

A mysterious island.

An abandoned orphanage.

A strange collection of very curious photographs.

It all waits to be discovered in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children, an unforgettable novel that mixes fiction and photography in a thrilling reading experience. As our story opens, a horrific family tragedy sets sixteen-year-old Jacob journeying to a remote island off the coast of Wales, where he discovers the crumbling ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores its abandoned bedrooms and hallways, it becomes clear that the children were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a deserted island for good reason. And somehow—impossible though it seems—they may still be alive.

A spine-tingling fantasy illustrated with haunting vintage photography, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children will delight adults, teens, and anyone who relishes an adventure in the shadows.

My Review:

This book is so great. The art for this book is truly phenomenal. The story is refreshingly original and is made even more special by the vintage photographs that accompany many of the descriptions provided for the characters. I find that those photographs really helped make this book more than just a story and into a quite touching and mysterious novel. It also helped my imagination fully form those characters in my mind. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children doesn’t ever need to be made into a film because with the aid of those pictures I pictured it better than any movie director ever could (very high praise that). Jacob meets these monsters early in the story’s plot and there was a drawing of it to accompany the encounter, I immediately pictured an OOD from Doctor Who (which complicated my imagination a bit since these monsters are actually bad and the Ood are adorable). I could go on and on about this book, but I’ll spare you. RUN to your local bookstore or library and get this book even if it is just for the art (however once you see the art you’ll be curious about the story behind them, so it’s a win-win)!

Blog Tour Review: Elemental Reality by Cesya MaRae Cuono

2011-09-12T09:30:00.003-04:00

Title: Elemental Reality

Author: Cesya MaRae Cuono

Release Date: August 21^st, 2011

Publisher: Revolution Publishing

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 251

Source: ebook from Publisher

Series: Elemental #1

Summary (goodreads.com): When Callie Pierce was ten, her mother disappeared without a trace. On the eve of her disappearance twelve years later, the earth seemingly comes alive. The elements speak to Callie, and that's only the beginning. Everything she has ever known was a twisted fabrication to protect her. Now the truth is set free. Callie and her sister are more powerful than any Faerie ever born. Now they have to use their powers to save their mother and family from the evil hands of fate that threaten to tear them apart. Welcome to her elemental reality.

My Review:

I wanted to like this book more than I did. I like it, I do, but I don’t love it. Should you read it? Hell yes. It’s a great story and really interesting, but personally I think the events happened way too quickly. This is the type of fantasy novel where things like wars, powers and such should really be explained thoroughly, but they weren’t and I was left very confused. The main character is also in her twenties and that really threw me off. I’m just not used to reading about non-teens in young adult/teen books. Other than those small complaints I did enjoy Elemental Reality. I loved Oli and his Aussie-ness and I loved how Lola, Callie’s sister, drove me crazy just like little sisters are supposed (she also made me really glad I don’t have one). I really liked that they weren’t traditional faeries either but ones with all the elements (even if that was a bit convenient for what was happening in the story). Overall, I liked Elemental Reality and am waiting patiently for the next installment.

This review is part of the Elemental Reality Blog Tour (which happens to be my very first blog tour ever. I couldn't have hoped for a better book to start off with)!

About Author:

Cesya MaRae Cuono hails from a small town in northeastern Pennsylvania. She is a graduate of Alvernia

University where she majored in Business Administration and also received her certificate of Multi-Media & Production makeup from Cosmix School of Makeup Artistry. You can find any updates from Cesya on her website at www.cesyacuonobooks.blogspot.com.

Review: Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

2011-08-30T19:01:00.003-04:00

Title: Anna Dressed in Blood

Author: Kendare Blake

Release Date: August 30^th, 2011

Publisher: Tor Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 320

Source: ARC Won in Contest

Series: Anna Dressed in Blood (#1)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (hosted by the Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.

So did his father before him, until he was gruesomely murdered by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay.

When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: track, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, now stained red and dripping with blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home.

But she, for whatever reason, spares Cas's life.

My Review:

A good scary, thrilling tale is hard to come by these days, but a brilliant one is almost impossible to find! Anna Dressed in Blood is one of those rare near impossible to find stories that will give you chills. There are parts of this that truly freaked me out, but there are also parts that made me laugh as well as say “AWW”! It’s got action, blood, love and laughs which makes it pretty much perfect in my opinion. It’s a book that will make you think twice about going into that dark room after you read it. I loved Cas’s background of ghost hunting and I loved that he was a kick butt character. I love how this seemingly “easy job” of Cas’s changes his life. I also really love Anna. Her story is so sad and it just tore at my heart. Cas and Anna’s relationship is truly what made me love this book (also the plot and well everything else)! I beg you to go get this book. Don’t walk, don’t even run, I want you to break speeding laws to get to your local book store or library!

Review: Red Glove by Holly Black

2011-08-23T14:59:00.003-04:00

Title: Red Glove

Author: Holly Black

Release Date: April 5^th, 2011

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 325

Source: Library

Series: Curse Workers (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: White Cat (#1), Black Heart (#3 is out April 2012)

Summary (goodreads.com): Curses and cons. Magic and the mob. In Cassel Sharpe's world, they go together. Cassel always thought he was an ordinary guy, until he realized his memories were being manipulated by his brothers. Now he knows the truth—he’s the most powerful curse worker around. A touch of his hand can transform anything—or anyone—into something else.

That was how Lila, the girl he loved, became a white cat. Cassel was tricked into thinking he killed her, when actually he tried to save her. Now that she's human again, he should be overjoyed. Trouble is, Lila's been cursed to love him, a little gift from his emotion worker mom. And if Lila's love is as phony as Cassel's made-up memories, then he can't believe anything she says or does.

When Cassel's oldest brother is murdered, the Feds recruit Cassel to help make sense of the only clue—crime-scene images of a woman in red gloves. But the mob is after Cassel too—they know how valuable he could be to them. Cassel is going to have to stay one step ahead of both sides just to survive. But where can he turn when he can't trust anyone—least of all, himself?

Love is a curse and the con is the only answer in a game too dangerous to lose.

My Review:

I fell into Cassel’s world of cons and curses much faster in Red Glove than I did in White Cat. Red Glove jumps right in and the action starts early and never stops. After the events in White Cat I was sure things couldn’t get any worse for Cassel. I’ve since learned to never think that. Red Glove is much more exciting than White Cat. I learned more about the characters and I loved that there was more of a mystery in this book than there was in the first one. Between Cassel’s relationship with Lila and the murder of a family member it kept me on the edge of my seat! If you liked White Cat you’ll love its sequel.

Review: Falling for Hamlet by Michelle Ray

2011-08-22T13:52:00.004-04:00

Title: Falling for Hamlet

Author: Michelle Ray

Release Date: July 5^th, 2011

Publisher: Little Brown

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 368

Source: ARC from Publisher (thanks so much!)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (hosted by the Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): Meet Ophelia: a blonde, beautiful high-school senior and long-time girlfriend of Prince Hamlet of Denmark. Her life is dominated not only by her boyfriend's fame and his overbearing family, but also by the paparazzi who hound them wherever they go. As the devastatingly handsome Hamlet spirals into madness after the mysterious death of his father, the King, Ophelia rides out his crazy roller coaster life, and lives to tell about it. In live television interviews, of course.

Passion, romance, drama, humor, and tragedy intertwine in this compulsively readable debut novel, told by a strong-willed, modern-day Ophelia.

My Review:

Falling for Hamlet is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s play Hamlet told from Ophelia’s point of view. I enjoyed Hamlet, but I adored this retelling. I read Hamlet for my AP Literature class, two years ago (and will be reading it again for my theater class this semester) so I’m familiar with the story, but you don’t need to be to like this novel. I don’t even think you need to like Hamlet to like this retelling. My friend hates the play, but I’m sure she will like Falling for Hamlet. What I liked best was that it was told from Ophelia’s point of view. In the play she’s vastly overlooked as just being Hamlet’s crazy, suicidal girlfriend. In Falling for Hamlet she’s neither crazy nor suicidal; she’s strong and has a sensible head. I think she does everything right; she makes the right decisions even if they are hard. It’s also quite interesting, as a fan of the original play, to see how Michelle Ray modernized all those famous speeches; my favorite was the way she conveyed the “To be or not to be” soliloquy of Hamlet’s (you’ll have to read it to know how she did it, I know unfair, but I don’t want to spoil it). I encourage you to give this a try!

Review: Sweetly by Jackson Pearce

2011-08-22T12:11:00.005-04:00

Title: Sweetly

Author: Jackson Pearce

Release Date: August 23, 2011

Publisher: Little Brown

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 312

Source: Finished copy from Little Brown (thanks!)

Companion Novel: Sisters Red

Summary (goodreads.com): Twelve years ago, Gretchen, her twin sister, and her brother went looking for a witch in the forest. They found something. Maybe it was a witch, maybe a monster, they aren’t sure—they were running too fast to tell. Either way, Gretchen’s twin sister was never seen again.

Years later, after being thrown out of their house, Gretchen and Ansel find themselves in Live Oak, South Carolina, a place on the verge of becoming a ghost town. They move in with Sophia Kelly, a young and beautiful chocolatier owner who opens not only her home, but her heart to Gretchen and Ansel.

Yet the witch isn’t gone—it’s here, lurking in the forests of Live Oak, preying on Live Oak girls every year after Sophia Kelly’s infamous chocolate festival. But Gretchen is determined to stop running from witches in the forest, and start fighting back. Alongside Samuel Reynolds, a boy as quick with a gun as he is a sarcastic remark, Gretchen digs deeper into the mystery of not only what the witch is, but how it chooses its victims. Yet the further she investigates, the more she finds herself wondering who the real monster is, and if love can be as deadly as it is beautiful.

My Review:

Sweetly is a companion novel to Jackson Pearce’s Sister Red, which I haven’t read. I don’t think it’s necessary to read companion novels in the order they were published because they aren’t actually continuations of each other, or so I keep telling myself. I plan on reading Sisters Red, however, because if it’s anything like Sweetly its sure to be brilliant. I couldn’t put down this modern retelling of Hansel and Gretel. I loved how it wasn’t just a fairy tale retelling but also a super cool mystery with a sprinkle of romance thrown in for good measure! Sweetly doesn’t just retell Hansel and Gretel and doesn’t just update it with modern technology, no Jackson Pearce has made this fairy tale completely her own by adding her own twists and turns. At times I completely forgot it was supposed to be like Hansel and Gretel at and I love that. What I didn’t love was the cover, it seriously creeps me out to the point where I can’t look at it without shuddering.

I fully recommend this to everyone.

Review: 13 to Life by Shannon Delany

2011-08-15T20:50:00.002-04:00

Title: 13 to Life

Author: Shannon Delany

Release Date: June 22nd, 2010

Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 308

Source: Bought (and had signed at TBF 2011)

Series: 13 to Life (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: Secrets and Shadows (#2), Bargains and Betrayals (#3), Destiny and Deception (#4 out January 31st, 2012)

Summary (goodreads.com): Everything about Jessie Gillmansen’s life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing. Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But showing a hot new guy around Junction High, she’s about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent—he’s a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie’s small town. It seems change is the one thing Jessie can’t avoid…

My Review:

I met Shannon Delany in May at TBF 2011 and attended her panel (with Rachel Hawkins of Hex Hall fame). She was super sweet and totally incredible. She wrote this for the first ever cell phone novel contest and she won! I think that’s so cool. Russian Mafia Werewolves? Oh yes, I think so! I really enjoyed this book, even though at times the plot was very high school (which is appropriate because that’s when it takes place). When I say High School, I mean that Jessie and Pietr act a tad childish when it comes to their relationship, but due to Jessie’s history with certain characters I forgive them for acting as such. There’s a scene in this book that also made me terrified to go on an ATV when I went camping this summer. However, I did go on it when my friend convinced me that she was a safer driver than a Russian werewolf. Read this!

Review: Skin Hunger by Kathleen Duey

2011-08-15T20:23:00.003-04:00

Title: Skin Hunger

Author: Kathleen Duey

Release Date: July 24th, 2007

Publisher: Atheneum

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 368

Source: Bought (and had signed at TBF 2011)

Series: A Resurrection of Magic (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: Sacred Scars (#2)

Summary (goodreads.com): Sadima lives in a world where magic has been banned, leaving poor villagers prey to fakes and charlatans. A "magician" stole her family's few valuables and left Sadima's mother to die on the day Sadima was born. But vestiges of magic are hidden in old rhymes and hearth tales and in people like Sadima, who conceals her silent communication with animals for fear of rejection and ridicule. When rumors of her gift reach Somiss, a young nobleman obsessed with restoring magic, he sends Franklin, his lifelong servant, to find her. Sadima's joy at sharing her secret becomes love for the man she shares it with. But Franklin's irrevocable bond to the brilliant and dangerous Somiss traps her, too, and she faces a heartbreaking decision.

Centuries later magic has been restored, but it is available only to the wealthy and is strictly controlled by wizards within a sequestered academy of magic. Hahp, the expendable second son of a rich merchant, is forced into the academy and finds himself paired with Gerrard, a peasant boy inexplicably admitted with nine sons of privilege and wealth. Only one of the ten students will graduate — and the first academic requirement is survival.

Sadima's and Hahp's worlds are separated by generations, but their lives are connected in surprising and powerful ways in this brilliant first book of Kathleen Duey's dark, complex, and completely compelling trilogy.

My Review:

This book is so crazily complex, it blows my mind! I *LOVE* this book. At the beginning of the book I kept trying to figure out how Sadima’s and Hahp’s stories were intertwined and when I couldn’t figure it out I got discouraged. After a few chapters of each character’s world I just gave in to the wonderful worlds Kathleen Duey had created. Sadima’s world is magical despite magic being banned and Hahp’s world is terrifying because it has magic. This story is just brilliant. I beg you to read this book, you won’t be sorry!

Review: Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz

2011-08-15T19:54:00.005-04:00

Title: Blue Bloods

Author: Melissa De La Cruz

Release Date: April 1st, 2007

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 302

Source: Bought

Series: Blue Bloods (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: Masquerade (#2), Revelations (#3), The Van Alen Legacy (#4), Misguided Angel (#5), Bloody Valentine (#5.5), Lost in Time (#6)

Summary (goodreads.com): When the Mayflower set sail in 1620, it carried on board the men and women who would shape America: Miles Standish; John Alden; Constance Hopkins. But some among the Pilgrims were not pure of heart; they were not escaping religious persecution. Indeed, they were not even human. They were vampires. The vampires assimilated quickly into the New World. Rising to levels of enormous power, wealth, and influence, they were the celebrated blue bloods of American society.

The Blue Bloods vowed that their immortal status would remain a closely guarded secret. And they kept that secret for centuries. But now, in New York City, the secret is seeping out. Schuyler Van Alen is a sophomore at a prestigious private school. She prefers baggy, vintage clothes instead of the Prada and pearls worn by her classmates, and she lives with her reclusive grandmother in a dilapated mansion. Schuyler is a loner...and happy that way. Suddenly, when she turns fifteen, there is a visible mosaic of blue veins on her arm. She starts to crave raw food and she is having flashbacks to ancient times. Then a popular girl from her school is found dead... drained of all her blood. Schuyler doesn't know what to think, but she wants to find out the secrets the Blue Bloods are keeping. But is she herself in danger?

Could those vampire legends really be true? Steeped in vampire lore and set against the glittery backdrop of New York City, Blue Bloods will be devoured by Melissa de la Cruz's legion fans.

My Review:

As I was reading Blue Bloods I kept saying to myself “Mhm. Yep. That makes sense. That has to be why my family is so weird. We’re secretly Vampires”. You’re probably thinking that’s a really strange thing to think and it is if you aren’t me. Blue Bloods is about the people who came over on the Mayflower and how they rose to power throughout the years. My 10th Great- Grandfather Francis Cooke came over on the Mayflower and signed the Compact and stuff. That little fact is a big reason why I liked this book. It also is original, which is great. I don’t think I ever would have read this book if I hadn’t have had the chance to meet the author this past May (she is lovely!). Overall this is a fun read and I recommend it.

Review: The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab

2011-08-02T22:52:00.003-04:00

Title: The Near Witch

Author: Victoria Schwab

Release Date: August 2, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 288

Source: ebook from publisher via Netgalley. Bought Hardcover today (because I seriously love it so much)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge 2011 (hosted by the Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.

If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.

And there are no strangers in the town of Near.

These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life.

But when an actual stranger—a boy who seems to fade like smoke—appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true.

The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion. Still, he insists on helping Lexi search for them. Something tells her she can trust him.

As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi’s need to know—about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy.

Part fairy tale, part love story, Victoria Schwab’s debut novel is entirely original yet achingly familiar: a song you heard long ago, a whisper carried by the wind, and a dream you won’t soon forget.

My Review:

Where to begin? I could happily go on about The Near Witch forever. I love The Near Witch. If there was a stronger word than love I would use it to describe my feelings for Victoria Schwab’s brilliant debut novel. I read the advanced ebook last week and bought the hardcover of it today and I already want to re-read it. I’ve never read anything like it, yet I feel as if I’ve known it forever (the blurb above tells it all). Everything about this book makes me happy. The story of the Near Witch, which when told by the Main Character Lexi starts off with my new favorite line of all time, “The wind on the moors is a tricky thing”. The story of the Near Witch makes this novel one of my favorite of all time. When Lexi is telling Wren the story, Wren falls asleep and Lexi stops telling it, I literally said out loud “What? No! HOW CAN YOU FALL ASLEEP DURING THIS?! Oh man, finish the story, Lexi! I have to hear the ending”. Victoria Schwab’s writing is beautiful and chilling. Even when the characters mention “the town of Near” a chill goes up my spine. With Schwab’s writing you feel as if you’ve lived in the town of Near your whole life and you grew up hearing the stories. I felt as if I already knew the Near Witch song that the kids play along to. I keep humming it to myself even a week later (my version is sort of upbeat and bouncy, I’m not sure it’s supposed to be, but to me it made it all the creepier). I love the stranger that comes to Near and the witches that live on the edge of town, just as Lexi does. I despise Lexi’s uncle and friend, Tyler for what they do throughout the course of the book, just as Lexi does. I feel as if I live in a town called Near and hear the Near Witch singing the moor to sleep, just as Lexi does and that is what makes me love The Near Witch.

Review: Always a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

2011-08-01T13:46:00.005-04:00

Title: Always a Witch

Author: Carolyn MacCullough

Release Date: August 1st, 2011

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 288

Source: E-book from Publisher via NetGalley

Series: Book Two of the Witch Series

Other Titles in the Series: Once a Witch (book #1)

Summary (goodreads.com): The adventures of Tam and Gabriel continue with more time travel, Talents, spy work, and of course, the evil Knights.

Since the gripping conclusion of Once A Witch, Tamsin Greene has been haunted by her grandmother's prophecy that she will soon be forced to make a crucial decision—one so terrible that it could harm her family forever. When she discovers that her enemy, Alistair Knight, went back in time to Victorian-era New York in order to destroy her family, Tamsin is forced to follow him into the past. Stranded all alone in the nineteenth century, Tamsin soon finds herself disguised as a lady's maid in the terrifying mansion of the evil Knight family, avoiding the watchful eye of the vicious matron, La Spider, and fending off the advances of Liam Knight. As time runs out, both families square off in a thrilling display of magic. And to her horror, Tamsin finally understands the nature of her fateful choice

My Review:

Always a Witch is even better then Once a Witch. Now that Tamsin knows about her talent, its even more interesting then before. The returning characters are even more developed in this novel. Tamsin and Gabriel are together and they are such a cute couple, Rowena is becoming Bridezilla and the Greene Family basically hides from her wrath. Personally, if I was Tamsin I would have stuffed a sock in Rowena’s mouth ages ago, she annoys me. New characters are introduced when Tamsin travels back in time. She wants to stop Alistair from giving the Knights any information that may halt the Greenes’ plans in the future. I’ve got to say the only character I liked when she traveled back was Cook, everyone else had some kind of motive, it was like no one was really who they seemed. But never the less, Tamsin’s time in Victorian-era New York is so exciting, its almost like historical fiction. There’s a lot of action in Always a Witch, so it’s a good book for all types of readers. Its also a fast paced easy read, perfect for a lazy day.

Review: The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

2011-07-22T00:00:00.005-04:00

Title: The Iron King

Author: Julie Kagawa

Release Date: February 1^st, 2010

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 363

Source: Library

Series: The Iron Fey (#1)

Other Titles in the Series: The Iron Daughter (#2), The Iron Queen (#3), The Iron Knight (#4, out in stores in October)

Summary (goodreads.com): Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined.
Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

My Review:

It starts off great and only gets better! The Iron King starts off like a ghost story with bogeymen in closets and seemingly possessed little brothers. The story moves into a world that slightly resembled that which Alice finds when she falls through the rabbit hole, complete with a snarky talking cat (who, by the way, I love). In the end, it is a fantastic adventure story full of danger and magic, love and laughs that I couldn’t put down! I adore Meghan, who is so strong and selfless! I also love her best friend who is so funny at the most inappropriate times. There’s also an Ice Prince who is quite intriguing. The Iron King has its share of bad guys too, one of which is called Ironhorse. He is supposed to be rather scary and fierce, but everything he says is in capital letters even when he isn’t necessarily yelling. I found this to be extremely funny. I imagined this horse to be really aggravated with everything and if it was possible for a horse to flail, I’m pretty sure Ironhorse would. I could go on and on about this book and never get tired of it. I can’t wait to get the rest of the series from my local library. I urge you to check this out if you like tales of the Fey.

Review: Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

2011-07-20T20:34:00.004-04:00

Title: Blood Magic

Author: Tessa Gratton

Release Date: May 24^th, 2011

Publisher: Random House

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 405

Source: Library

Series: The Blood Journals (#1)

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (Hosted by the Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com):

It starts off simply.

Draw a circle ... place a dead leaf in the center ... sprinkle some salt ... recite a little Latin ... add a drop of blood ...

Maybe that last part isn't exactly simple. Yet somehow it feels right to Silla Kennicott. And nothing in her life has felt remotely right since her parents' horrific deaths. She's willing to do anything to uncover the truth about her family—even try a few spells from the mysterious book that arrived on her doorstep ... and spill some blood.

The book isn't the only recent arrival in Silla's life. There's Nick Pardee, the new guy next door who may have seen Silla casting a spell. She's not sure what he saw and is afraid to find out. But as they spend more time together, Silla realizes this may not be Nick's first encounter with Blood Magic. Brought together by a combination of fate and chemistry, Silla and Nick can't deny their attraction. And they can't ignore the dark presence lurking nearby—waiting to reclaim the book and all its power.

Tessa Gratton's intoxicating first novel will keep pulses racing, minds reeling, and pages turning right up to the very last drop of blood.

My Review:

I have really mixed feelings about this book. At times I hated it and had to stop reading because I didn’t agree with what was happening in the plot lines. Overall, though, I liked it. Would I reread it? I don’t think so. Will I read the next book? Maybe. Do I recommend you read it? Absolutely. Just because it’s not precisely my taste doesn’t mean I will tell people not to read it. I liked all the characters and for the most part I enjoyed the plot. But at times Silla, Nick, and Reese’s casual blood spillage just sickened me. It was incredibly interesting, but very twisted. The writing was suburb, though, which really made this book work. I really liked the switching narratives (this book is told from Silla and Nick’s POVs as well as journal entries from the antagonist and a surprise character later on). All the history and flashbacks and journal entries were all presented at the right plot point so they didn’t bog down the story, but greatly enhanced it. Anyway, my advice is to try this book out because it never hurts to try.

A Letter to The Boy Who Lived.

2011-07-14T14:37:00.009-04:00

Dear Mr. Potter,

The seventh book has come and gone. We know who survives and who dies, we know who marries whom and what their children are called. We know all that and more. So why does the end of the seventh movie mean so much to us? When we turned the last page of the seventh book, to keep a level head we told ourselves "It’s not over yet! There are more movies left to watch!" Well the time has come, there are no more movies left to look forward to. It seems to all the world as if the time to say goodbye has finally arrived. But for me it hasn't. There is still Pottermore to look forward to, a place in which wands will choose us and the Sorting Hat will finally put us in our proper houses; it will provide many new words about you and your world that we have been interested in learning about for years. And of course, there are still many visits to your theme park that have yet to be planned. In the meantime, however, I will continue to re-read the books that tell your life story. I will pour over the facts provided in your old textbooks in a very Hermione like fashion. I will also read my children the same bedtime fairy tales that you are reading yours, with the same colorful embellishments that Ron added when you, yourself first heard the tales. I will relive your triumphs and mourn your losses over and over again in the years to come because as your famous creator once said "Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home".

Lots of love,

Laura.

Review: Mercy by Rebecca Lim

2011-07-13T16:27:00.004-04:00

Title: Mercy

Author: Rebecca Lim

Release Date: May 17^th, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 288

Source: Won ARC at TBF ‘11 (also ebook from publisher via Netgalley)

Series: Mercy (#1)

Summary (goodreads.com): A fallen angel haunted by her past. Yearning for her immortal beloved. Forever searching for answers.Who will show her Mercy?

Mercy has lost herself. She can’t count how many times she’s “woken up” in a new body, and assumed a new life, only to move on again and again. During the day she survives in the human world on instinct and at night her dreams are haunted by him. Mercy’s heart would know him anywhere. But her memory refuses to cooperate.

But this time is different. When Mercy wakes up she meets Ryan, an eighteen year old reeling from the loss of his twin sister who was kidnapped two years ago. Everyone else has given up hope, but Ryan believes his sister is still alive. Using a power she doesn’t fully comprehend, Mercy realizes that Ryan is right. His sister is alive and together they can find her. For the first time since she can remember, Mercy has a purpose; she can help. So she doesn’t understand why the man in her dreams cautions her not to interfere. But as Ryan and Mercy come closer to solving the dark mystery of his sister’s disappearance, danger looms just one step behind.

Will Mercy be able to harness her true self and extraordinary power in time?

The first in a dazzling new series, Mercy masterfully weaves romance, mystery and the supernatural into a spell-binding tale.

My Review:

I really like these kinds of books. You know the ones where you think you’re going into a book where everything will be just so and you’re sure you know what you’re in for and then you start reading and it takes you by surprise? Mercy is like that. I thought I was going to be reading another fallen angel book. And yeah I guess I was but this was more of a mystery, thriller type book and I wasn’t expecting that. I loved Mercy; she’s one tough cookie! I didn’t fully comprehend how Mercy’s powers work though, or how she starts a new life or why or, well, anything to do with Mercy’s background. Most of the story was about the girl she was “possessing” or whatever it is she was doing. I’m glad there are more books in this series because I would love to know more about Mercy (and what will happen to her relationship with Ryan)! A very good read for a sunny summer day!

Review: An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

2011-07-13T16:01:00.005-04:00

Title: An Abundance of Katherines

Author: John Green

Release Date: September 21st, 2006

Publisher: Dutton Juvenile

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 227

Source: Library

Summary (goodreads.com): When it comes to relationships, Colin Singleton’s type is girls named Katherine. And when it comes to girls named Katherine, Colin is always getting dumped. Nineteen times, to be exact.

On a road trip miles from home, this anagram-happy, washed-up child prodigy has ten thousand dollars in his pocket, a bloodthirsty feral hog on his trail, and an overweight, Judge Judy-loving best friend riding shotgun but no Katherines. Colin is on a mission to prove The Theorem of Underlying Katherine Predictability, which he hopes will predict the future of any relationship, avenge Dumpees everywhere, and finally win him the girl.

Love, friendship, and a dead Austro-Hungarian archduke add up to surprising and heart-changing conclusions in this ingeniously layered comic novel about reinventing oneself by Printz medalist John Green, acclaimed author of Looking for Alaska.

My Review:

This is the first John Green book that I’ve read and I thought it was brilliant. I liked how diverse it was. Hassan, Colin’s best friend, made this book awesome for me. He was just so different from any other character I’ve ever read (meaning he was the first Muslim character I’ve read about). It’s also got a quite a lot to do with math (which I try to avoid at all costs), but in a cool way. Who would have thought to make a theorem about old girlfriends? Colin did because that’s the kind of kid he is and that’s why I liked him! The character’s in this book and their dialogue is just amazing. The plot is completely original and totally hysterical. What I like most about An Abundance of Katherines is its contemporary. There are no fantasy creatures and no magic, but it feels as if there is. It’s essentially about a sad kid who goes on a road trip with his best friend to get away from it all and along the way he has a bit of a crazy adventure! Which I for one would love to do! Read this you won’t be sorry (especially since the math is optional)!

Review: Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

2011-07-12T21:55:00.005-04:00

Title: Forever

Author: Maggie Stiefvater

Release Date: July 12, 2011

Publisher: Scholastic

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 386

Source: ARC from publisher

Series: The Wolves of Mercy Falls #3

Other Titles in the Series: Shiver (#1), Linger (#2) (click links for my reviews of these previous titles)

Summary (goodreads.com):

then.

When Sam met Grace, he was a wolf and she was a girl. Eventually he found a way to become a boy, and their love moved from a curious distance to the intense closeness of shared lives.

now.

That should have been the end of their story. But Grace was not meant to stay human. Now she is the wolf. And the wolves of Mercy Falls are about to be killed in one final, spectacular hunt.

forever.

Sam would do anything for Grace. But can one boy and one love really change a hostile, predatory world? The past, the present, and the future are about to collide in one pure moment - a moment of death or life, farewell or forever.

My Review:

I’m so sad that this series is over! I feel like Sam and Grace have been a part of me since I Shiver. I loved how Sam and Grace’s relationship developed in Forever. I especially loved how Isabel has changed as a person; she’s not as annoying to me anymore. Forever took me a long time to read though. I’m not sure if it’s because I didn't want it to end or if it was because it was slightly boring. It felt like I was always waiting for something to happen, but it never did. However, if there’s any book series that I would like to just read about the characters’ daily lives it would be The Wolves of Mercy Falls because of Maggie Stiefvater’s exquisite writing. It’s so simple and yet so beautiful. I’m not exactly impressed with how it ended. I expected more of the major plot points to come to a close instead of being left to the reader’s imagination. All in all, Forever was a glorious book that I’m sure will be in the heart of readers forevermore.

Review: Beastly by Alex Flinn

2011-07-05T20:06:00.004-04:00

Title: Beastly

Author: Alex Flinn

Release Date: October 1st, 2007

Publisher: HarperTeen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 304

Source: Bought then waited a lifetime for it to come after it was backordered.

Summary (goodreads.com):

I am a beast.

A beast!

Not quite wolf or bear, gorilla or dog but a horrible new creature who walks upright. I am a monster.

You think I'm talking fairy tales? No way. The place is New York City. The time is now. It's no deformity, no disease. And I'll, stay this way forever ruined unless I can break the spell.

Yes, the spell, the one the witch in my English class cast on me. Why did she turn me into a beast who hides by day and prowls by night? I'll tell you. I'll tell you how I used to be Kyle Kingsbury, the guy you wished you were, with money, perfect looks, and the perfect life. And then, I'll tell you how I became perfectly...beastly.

My Review:

I am crazy about this book (and the movie, but more the book though). I love the Beauty and the Beast tale, there are so many different versions and Beastly combines them all in an ingenious way. I liked how she stayed true to the story, but also gave it a modern feeling. It’s definitely the best retold fairy tale that I’ve ever read. I was properly annoyed at Kyle, who is so ridiculous in the way he believes the perfect people are better nonsense. And my heart bled for sweet Lindy whose life just wasn’t going the way she wanted (or how anybody would have wanted it). However, my favorite character was the tutor Will, whose wit kept the story super enjoyable. Since having read this I have lent my copy out to a couple people and they love it as much as I do.

I won The Versatile Blogger Award!

2011-07-03T14:59:00.006-04:00

Hey there, a big thank you goes out to Scarlette from The Secret Book Lover for this award! Her blog is awesome and you should really go check it out!

Now, 7 random facts about me:

1) I love Ron Weasley!

2) I was on the Dean’s List both semesters of my Freshman Year of college!

3) I’ll be a sophomore this fall.

4) I was nominated for this award on my 19th birthday (July 1st).

5) The late Princess Diana of Wales and I share the same Birthday!

6) I went to the Teen Book Festival in Rochester in May and I still haven’t posted about it (but I will soon I promise), and

7) I love getting blogging awards. It’s nice to feel appreciated!

And so, I nominate these 5 blogs because its fun to spread the feeling around:

Award Rules:

1. Thank the person who gave you this award.

2. Share 7 random things about yourself.

3. Nominate 5 blogs that you have recently discovered.

4. Contact the bloggers you’ve picked and let them know about the award.

Review: Queen of the Dead by Stacey Kade

2011-05-31T16:13:00.003-04:00

Title: Queen of the Dead

Author: Stacey Kade

Release Date: May 31st, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion Teen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 288

Source: Won ARC at TBF ‘11 (also ebook from publisher via Netgalley)

Series: The Ghost and the Goth #2

Other Titles in the Series: The Ghost and the Goth (#1)

Summary (goodreads.com): After being sent back from the light, Alona Dare - former homecoming queen, current Queen of the Dead - finds herself doing something she never expected: working. Instead of spending days perfecting her tan by the pool (her typical summer routine when she was, you know, alive), Alona must now cater to the needs of other lost spirits. By her side for all of this - ugh - “helping of others” is Will Killian: social outcast, seer of the dead, and someone Alona cares about more than she’d like.

Before Alona can make a final ruling on Will’s “friend” or “more” status, though, she discovers trouble at home. Her mom is tossing out Alona’s most valuable possessions, and her dad is expecting a new daughter with his wicked wife. Is it possible her family is already moving on? Hello! She’s only been dead for two months! Thankfully, Alona knows just the guy who can put a stop to this mess.

Unfortunately for Alona, Will has other stuff on his mind, and Mina, a young (and beautiful) seer, is at the top of the list. She’s the first ghost-talker Will’s ever met—aside from his father—and she may hold answers to Will’s troubled past. But can she be trusted? Alona immediately puts a check mark in the “clearly not” column. But Will is - ahem - willing to find out, even if it means leaving a hurt and angry Alona to her own devices, which is never a good idea.

Packed with romance, lovable characters, and a killer cliffhanger, Queen of the Dead is the out-of-this-world sequel to The Ghost and the Goth.

My Review:

Alona and Will were working well together in more ways than one, then Will meets a fellow ghost talker, one thing or another leads Alona to do something stupid and BAM you’ve got a hell of a twist that makes Queen of the Dead a great book! This sequel to The Ghost and the Goth is still from the alternating perspectives of Alona (the ghost) and Will (the goth who isn’t really goth so much as a quiet kid who’s trying to find his place in a world where he sees and hears ghosts). I really liked that Will met some fellow Ghost talkers but I’m actually on Alona’s side of things. I understand why she does that big stupid thing (that I will say no more about for the fear of spoiling it) even if it was, well, stupid. All I can say is that I can’t wait for the next book. I wanna see how Alona’s gonna get out of trouble this time! I also found myself feeling bad for Alona more so in this book than in the first book because Alona is starting to cope with how her family is coping with her death; which by the way isn’t going well. Alona’s coping, I mean. Will is trying to help her but he’s got things of his own he’s coping with! Overall, I really liked this book and I recommend it to everyone who read the first book (which should be everyone).

Review: Die for Me by Amy Plum

2011-05-31T14:51:00.004-04:00

Title: Die for Me

Author: Amy Plum

Release Date: May 10th, 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 352

Source: ARC ebook from publisher via Netgalley

Series: The Revenants #1

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge (hosted by The Story Siren)

Summary (goodreads.com): In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them apart again and again for eternity.

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate's guarded heart with just his smile. As she begins to fall in love with Vincent, Kate discovers that he's a revenant--an undead being whose fate forces him to sacrifice himself over and over again to save the lives of others. Vincent and those like him are bound in a centuries-old war against a group of evil revenants who exist only to murder and betray. Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

My Review:

This is the very first book I read on my Kindle and oh boy I couldn’t have asked for a better book to begin with. This is an amazing start to what I’m sure will be a great new series, in fact I’m positive it is. At first it seemed like one of those books where the parents die, the girl is sad, girl meets boy, all is good. It sort of is, but there is so much more than that when you add in Paris and the fact that the boy is well a hot zombie type person. Now before you let your imagination run wild no one eats any brains in Die for Me and there are no apocalypses, zombie or otherwise. I love the concept of the revenants in this book because it completely new to me. I love that this book doesn’t have vampires or werewolves or fairies or any of the other overdone supernatural beings. I love that this book’s setting isn’t in the States, but in Paris it makes it seem as if anything can happen if you go abroad (which I am a total believer in). I also love Kate! She’s so cool; I love the fact that she doesn’t jump into a relationship with Vincent that she may regret, she thinks about it then decides she doesn’t just jump in like other heroines. I guess my only complaint about Kate was that she was a tad whiny at one point but hey she’s a normal teenager and I like that! I also love that even though I read this a couple weeks ago I still think about it, this plot just sucked me in and its hard to get out of. I can’t wait for the next book! I recommend this to everyone, go get it ASAP!

Review: Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

2011-05-16T15:44:00.004-04:00

Title: Demonglass

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Release Date: March 1st, 2011

Publisher: Hyperion

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 359

Source: Library originally, but I have since bought a copy

Series: Hex Hall Trilogy (#2)

Other Titles in the Series: Hex Hall (#1) *check out my review here*

Summary (goodreads.com):

(((SPOILER FOR HEX HALL)))

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

My Review:

Just when I thought this series couldn’t get better Rachel Hawkins adds a few huge plot twists and I fall in love with this series! I had the pleasure of meeting Rachel this weekend at the Teen Book Festival in Rochester, NY. During her Paranormal Panel (with Shannon Delany, author of the 13 to Life series) she talked about why Demonglass had such a cliff hanger ending. I won’t say what happens at the end just that I understood Rachel when she said that she “ended the book where [she] did because that’s where the story ended”. There are new characters, a new setting and even bigger conflicts! Rachel did an excellent job of reminding readers of what happened in the previous book without it seeming as if she was retelling Hex Hall all over again. Its rare when I like a sequel more than the first book, but Demonglass pulls it off. There’s so much action in this that it was hard for me to put it down! Pick up this book and Hex Hall today! Even if it’s just to stare at the beautiful covers! :D

Review: City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

2011-05-16T14:02:00.004-04:00

Title: City of Glass

Author: Cassandra Clare

Release Date: March 24th, 2009

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 541

Source: Bought (ages ago)

Series: The Mortal Instruments (Book #3)

Other Titles in the Series: City of Bones (#1), City of Ashes (#2), City of Fallen Angels (#4)

Summary (goodreads.com): To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her new found powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost?

My Review:

Holy Wow! What a roller coaster of emotions this book was! Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. It took me a couple years to actually start reading it because I didn’t want the series to end! Then Cassandra Clare announced that there would be three more books in TMI series so I finally felt like I could read CoG and not be sad that it was ending. I loved this book and I feel if this was the end I would have been okay with it. I loved that we got out of NYC for this book and went to Alicante. Even with everything bad that was happening there it was so magical and one of a kind! If you liked the first two books you will love this one as well. This is a short review, but I find that’s better than giving something away! Trust me, you will not be sorry; this book is great!

Review: The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson

2011-04-26T10:49:00.004-04:00

Title: The Last Little Blue Envelope

Author: Maureen Johnson

Release Date: April 26th, 2011

Publisher: Harperteen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 304

Source: ARC from publisher

Series: Sequel to 13 Little Blue Envelopes

Summary (goodreads.com): Ginny Blackstone thought that the biggest adventure of her life was behind her. She spent last summer traveling around Europe, following the tasks her aunt Peg laid out in a series of letters before she died. When someone stole Ginny's backpack—and the last little blue envelope inside—she resigned herself to never knowing how it was supposed to end.

Months later, a mysterious boy contacts Ginny from London, saying he's found her bag. Finally, Ginny can finish what she started. But instead of ending her journey, the last letter starts a new adventure—one filled with old friends, new loves, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Ginny finds she must hold on to her wits . . . and her heart. This time, there are no instructions.

My Review:

There has to be a sequel to this sequel because I need more of an ending. Don’t get me wrong there was an ending, an amazing ending that was perfect except that I need more. Ginny’s life is addicting. I just need more. My new goal in life is to live underneath Maureen Johnson’s desk and drill her for details about Ginny’s life. Did I mention that its really late at night and I’m slightly off my rocker right now? You can probably tell. The Last Little Blue Envelope is full of great characters (old and new) and beautiful settings abroad. Oh and its also hysterical. Maureen Johnson is a master at writing books that make you laugh and make you cry all at the same time. The ending of this book is bittersweet, but it is perfect despite my rant earlier. I’ll end this here to avoid spoilers. Go buy, go devour!

Review: Abandon by Meg Cabot

2011-04-26T10:36:00.006-04:00

Title: Abandon

Author: Meg Cabot

Release Date: April 26th, 2011

Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 320

Source: ARC from Publisher

Series: First book in the Abandon Trilogy

Summary (goodreads.com): New from #1 New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot, a dark, fantastical story about this world . . . and the underworld.

Though she tries returning to the life she knew before the accident, Pierce can't help but feel at once a part of this world, and apart from it. Yet she's never alone . . . because someone is always watching her. Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back.

But now she's moved to a new town. Maybe at her new school, she can start fresh. Maybe she can stop feeling so afraid.

Only she can't. Because even here, he finds her. That's how desperately he wants her back. She knows he's no guardian angel, and his dark world isn't exactly heaven, yet she can't stay away . . . especially since he always appears when she least expects it, but exactly when she needs him most.

But if she lets herself fall any further, she may just find herself back in the one place she most fears: the Underworld.

My Review:

Meg Cabot will forever be the women whose books opened up my eyes to the world of Young Adult Literature. She will always be one of my favorite. Abandon is a fantastic example of why. The beginning was slow because the main character, Peirce’s background was extensive, but it was laid down perfectly with just the right amount of hints and flashbacks. Halfway through the book the story picks up the pace and doesn’t stop. Abandon is one of those books that had me saying, “Wait, what? Why are there no more pages? That couldn’t have been the END! Are you serious? I have to wait HOW LONG before the next book comes out!?” No matter how many books I read I will always be pissed off at the cliffhanger endings even though I always expect them to happen for books that plan to have at least one sequel; its actually quite amazing really that that always happens. I adored the fresh new look at the Persephone Tale. Meg Cabot is so good at re-imagining classics in ways others never could. She is a master at turning the old into something bright and shiny! Since I want this to be a spoiler free review I will end it here. Go buy it, you won’t be sorry!

Review: City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

2011-04-23T19:32:00.005-04:00

Title: City of Ashes

Author: Cassandra Clare

Release Date: January 1st, 2008

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 443

Source: Bought (ages ago)

Series: The Mortal Instruments (book #2)

Other Titles in the Series: City of Bones (#1), City of Glass (#3), City of Fallen Angels (#4)

Summary (goodreads.com): A murderer is loose in New York City ...

... and the victims are Downworlder children. Clary Fray and her fellow Shadowhunters have a strong suspicion that Valentine, Clary's father, may be behind the killings. But if he is the murderer, then what's his true motive? To make matters worse, the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, has been stolen, and the mysterious Inquisitor has arrived to investigate, with his eyes vigilantly targeted on Clary's brother, Jace.

Clary will need to face some terrifying demons and even more terrifying family decisions. No one said that the life of a Shadowhunter would be easy.

My Review:

I have come to the conclusion that I suck at writing reviews for books in my favorite series. So, I will keep this short and sweet. I like this book so much because it expands so much on the characters. This is the second time I’ve read it so I really understood it better. Cassie Clare puts her heart and soul into these books and CoA shows it. There’s so much tension between Clary and Jace I wanted to cut it with a knife. My favorite thing in this second installment of TMI was Simon; he’s just so sweet. Personally, I wish that Clary would just go for him, but I understand why she’s so caught up with Jace.

Review: Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

2011-03-29T13:34:00.005-04:00

Title: Paranormalcy

Author: Kiersten White

Release Date: August 31th, 2010

Publisher: Harperteen

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 335

Source: Library

Series: Paranormalcy

Other Titles in the Series: Supernaturally (book #2, due out in stores August 30th, 2011)

Summary (goodreads.com): Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.

But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

My Review:

When Evie said that she named her taser, Tasey and that it was hot pink and sparkly I knew this book was destined to be great. I was right. I didn’t know there was any hype about this book until just before I read it when I was about to add it to my ‘currently-reading shelf’ on goodreads. I’m not sure what kind of hype there was, but it doesn’t matter; this book was good. it’s a fun quick read and its not a typically YA fantasy. I loved Evie’s relationship with her best friend Lish (who is so bleeping awesome) and the mysterious Lend. I loved the idea of the International Paranormal Containment Agency, its original which is a nice change. Usually I don’t really comment on covers but as pretty as this cover is its very misleading. It makes the book seem too dark and serious when its also fun. I can’t wait to read the second book!

Review: The Beginning (An Original Glee Novel) by Sophia Lowell

2011-03-08T16:49:00.008-05:00

Title: The Beginning

Author: Sophia Lowell

Release Date: August 5th, 2010

Publisher: Poppy

Age Group: I’m really not sure. I think if you can watch Glee you can read this book.

Pages: 216

Source: Library

Series: Glee #1

Other Titles in the Series: Foreign Exchange (Book #2)

Summary (goodreads.com): Calling all Gleeks!

Get more of your favorite characters in this official Glee prequel!

All great performances deserve a warm-up! Enroll early at McKinley High--before New Directions was even a glimmer in Mr. Schuester's eye. When did Rachel first decide Finn was more than just a jock? When did Puck and Quinn start their secret romance? And how did the fledgling Glee Club function without a fearless leader? Hint: It wasn't exactly a perfect melody.

Break out the gold stars and refill the slushies: It's time to find out what happened to all your favorite characters before the show-mance began.

My Review:

First off, I’m a gleek and proud of it so I just had to read this book. There’s a lot of depictions in this book that completely contradict things that actually happened in the show. One thing that REALLY bothered me was that they said that Puck’s name was “Puck Puckerman” as if Puck was his real name and not just a nickname (his name is Noah). I can’t figure out when exactly the show’s plot is supposed to fit in. I know this is a prequel but its like the beginning of the show is completely disregarded. Its almost as if the author didn’t bother watching the series before she wrote it. But even with all the problems I really liked it because it captured the essence of Glee. I thought the characters of Coach Sylvester and Rachel were written splendidly; they both annoyed me just like they do in the show. I liked how this story develops the relationship between Puck and Quinn as well as the friendship between Kurt and Mercedes. So basically, if you’re a Gleek read it, if you’re not don’t bother. My rating of this is 4 hearts because I really liked it as a fan of Glee. However, I can see why other fans would hate it because of the discrepancies.

Review: Leviathan by Scott Westerfeld

2011-03-08T15:27:00.007-05:00

Title: Leviathan

Author: Scott Westerfeld

Release Date: October 6th, 2009

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 448

Source: Library

Series: Book #1 of the Leviathan series

Other Titles in the Series: Behemoth (book #2)

Challenge: Steampunk Challenge

Summary (goodreads.com): On the eve of World War I, conflicts in Europe are coming to a bloody boil. On every side, governments are frantically arming themselves with new weaponry and sorting out likely friends and foes. On the whole continent, perhaps the oddest pairing of all is the makeshift alliance bred in danger between Aleksandar Ferdinand, fugitive prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and Deryn Sharp, a daring British airwoman disguised as a boy. Both have secrets that they must conceal and now face dangers of literally global proportions. A steampunk series by the author of the Uglies and the Midnighters series.

My Review:

I’ve never really particularly liked World War I. For some reason I always forget what happened, why it started and who was involved. Leviathan changed all that. It creates its own version of WWI and yet it still sticks to the facts. I liked learning about Alek’s side of things with all the machines and what not but I was truly fascinated by Deryn’s aide of the war with the fabricated animals. I was a Bio Chemistry major in high school and even though I hated it some of it (unfortunately) stuck with me. In my HS I could have chosen one of three majors, Bio Chemistry, computers or engineering. I hate computers (I tend to break them a lot) so I obviously didn’t choose that and I could honestly care less about machines and building things so engineering was also out. Even though I sucked at science even back then I chose it because there was no where else for me to go (well I could have gone to a different high school but I really liked mine). I came to loath science by the way because of majoring in it. Okay, here’s the point of that long rambling tangent: I think it sort of explains why I like Deryn better than Alek. Alek was interesting I guess, but Deryn’s story made the book good. Its what kept me from giving up on it all together. Once the stories of the two main characters combined however I knew I wouldn’t be able to put it down. I plan on reading Behemoth soon because Leviathan was in fact really good. I also really loved the illustrations in this book they were wonderful. I recommend this to steam punk fans as well as WWI fans or just history in general.

Review: The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell

2011-03-07T23:32:00.005-05:00

Title: The Vespertine

Author: Saundra Mitchell

Release Date: March 7th, 2011

Publisher: Harcourt Children's Books

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 293

Source: Ebook from Publisher via NetGalley

Summary (goodreads.com): It’s the summer of 1889, and Amelia van den Broek is new to Baltimore and eager to take in all the pleasures the city has to offer. But her gaiety is interrupted by disturbing, dreamlike visions she has only at sunset—visions that offer glimpses of the future. Soon, friends and strangers alike call on Amelia to hear her prophecies. However, a forbidden romance with Nathaniel, an artist, threatens the new life Amelia is building in Baltimore. This enigmatic young man is keeping secrets of his own—still, Amelia finds herself irrepressibly drawn to him.

When one of her darkest visions comes to pass, Amelia’s world is thrown into chaos. And those around her begin to wonder if she’s not the seer of dark portents, but the cause.

My Review:

Saundra Mitchell did such a good job of making me think I was in Baltimore in 1889. I’ve always loved historical novels but this one is just fantastic! The language is perfect for the time period. From the way things are described to the dialect everything is said just right. Its as if Saundra traveled back into time to write this and came back to us just so she could deliver us this amazing story. I forgot I was reading a book that was written in the 21st century and not the 19th. I can tell that Saundra Mitchell not only loved the story and the setting and the characters but the language itself. And no matter what the situation whether normal or psychic it always fits perfectly in with the storyline and it never feels out of place. About a quarter of the way through the novel or so, Amelia, Zora and Thomas go to see Lady Privalvna who is a medium. At one point in the lady's show she is overcome with tremors and a doctor comes out. The doctor’s companion yells out to the audience that they shouldn’t be alarmed because the man is a doctor. If I was there I would still be alarmed, so what if he’s a doctor! It’s the 1800’s for heaven’s sake, they knew nothing about medicine! It’s a good thing I was not a time traveler in this book or I would have pointed this out to Amelia and her friends. I loved the character of Nathaniel. I really did. He was so adorable I wish there was more of him in the story but then again if there was I wouldn’t have gotten so excited every time his name was mentioned or Amelia saw him. I probably wouldn’t love him quite so much if his name wasn't Nathaniel though either (I adore that name). I especially liked the way Saundra Mitchell had the ability to rip out my heart and STOMP on it in one chapter and then completely mend it in the next! This had the potential of becoming another one of those I want a re-do on the ending kind of books, but in the end it really did work out just the way I planned (for two of the characters at least). I fully recommend this to fans of historical fiction or people who are looking to try it out.

Review: Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

2011-03-01T21:35:00.004-05:00

Title: Anna and the French Kiss

Author: Stephanie Perkins

Release Date: December 2nd 2010

Publisher: Dutton

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 372

Source: Library (but I’m going to be buying asap)

Series?: Technically it is a Stand Alone, but there will be companion novels.

Summary (goodreads.com): Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near-misses end with the French kiss Anna—and readers—have long awaited?

My Review:

I read this ages ago, but I’m having the hardest time thinking of something to write about it other than BEST BOOK EVER, READ IT NOW! It seems that the more I love a book the less I have to write about it because I’m afraid I will give something big away. So maybe it’s a good thing I plan to keep this review on the shorter side.

Everything about Anna and the French Kiss is perfectly executed. I loved every single character and every scene was written beautifully. I felt like I was in Paris with St. Clair (I wish). I just loved this book. Its really funny and romantic and its also quotable, if that makes sense. Before I had read this book I read a ton of reviews like I always do and I haven’t read a single word against it. Anna was the talk of the blogosphere but upon reading the summary on goodreads I couldn’t figure out why. After I read Anna I knew why but I still cant really explain why.

Let me just say that every single person on the planet should read Anna and the French Kiss. Oh and that I want Stephanie Perkins’ hair (that blue stripe is Awesome)!

Review: Clarity by Kim Harrington

2011-03-01T17:42:00.005-05:00

Title: Clarity

Author: Kim Harrington

Release Date: March 1st, 2011

Publisher: Point (imprint of Scholastic)

Age Group: Young Adult

Pages: 246

Source: ARC from Publisher

Series: Clarity, Book #1

Other Titles in the Series: Perception, Book #2 (due out March 2012)

Challenge: 2011 Debut Author Challenge hosted by The Story Siren

Summary (goodreads.com): When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth?

Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift.

And a curse.

When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case--but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother--who has supernatural gifts of his own--becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?

My Review:

When I opened the package that contained Clarity I squealed (my dad thought I saw a bat or something. Nope, I had just received a book I had been pining for for months). I just knew this book wouldn’t let me down. I had high hopes for it and Clarity didn’t let me down. I loved this book, it was so good. I have never read anything quite like it. Clarity is part paranormal, part murder mystery and completely awesome. I love how Clare is psychic but she doesn’t let her ability control her. She works with her mother and big brother at their family business like a lot of teens do, her family’s business just happens to be a whole lot cooler than a motor shop or something, the Ferns run psychic readings out of their home in Eastport on Cape Cod. Clare is a really believable character and super entertaining. I love Clare’s family, I am uber jealous of her. I think its so funny that her mom can read minds even though I wouldn’t want her reading mine. Perry, her big brother, reminded me a little of Jason from True Blood in that he’s a player who becomes suspect in a small town’s murder. Perry though is infinitely less annoying, he’s one of my favorite characters. There’s also a kind of love triangle type thing. Her Ex-boyfriend really wants her back and the new detective in town’s son may have feelings for her despite her abilities. I think I’m leaning towards her Ex Justin but I’m not sure yet, I’ll wait to read Perception next year to decide; I need more evidence. Clarity is also a small book at just under 250 pages, it’s a great book to read while sitting on the beach or even in your own back yard. I read this in February and it had me longing for summer (and I hate summer). Clarity is just a great read; I highly recommend it.