EATING Y.A. BOOKS

Top Ten Books on Jan's List for Winter

2011-11-29T02:23:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme created by the Broke and Bookish.

This week's list highlights books that are due out between December through March.What better way to stay cozy and warm than with a great book? Here are the ten books I hope to do just that with.

Wintertown by Stephen Emond: When I first read the summary for this one it reminded me of John Green meaning it is all about relationships and has a male protagonist infatuated with a girl. I love reading books that focus on relationships that are slightly askew, and this sounds amazing.

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare: I am definitely ready to read more from Clare so I am super excited about getting my hands on this sequel to Clockwork Angel.

The Probability of Miracles by Wendy Wunder: This is a debut novel and sounds fantastic since it deals with a protagonist who is dying; it also sounds like a intensely personal read.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E Smith: A book that takes place over a 24 hour period in an airport. Can't wait to read this one.

Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh: Nevermore was an amazing read and it seems like I have been waiting forever to see whether Isobel will be able to save Varen.

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver: I love Oliver and would read anything she writes. I am certainly excited about finding what will happens next for Lena and Alex.

Spell Bound by Rachel Hawkins: Love the Hex Hall series and cannot wait to find out what is up next for Archer and Sophie.

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand: Pretty sure that this one will be on a lot of the list today and like everyone else I cannot wait to find out more about Tucker (sigh) and Clare.

Bewitching by Alex Flinn: I have to admit I just learned about the release of this one (thank you Melissa) and am very excited about it. I enjoy Flinn's writing and even use a couple of her books in my classroom so when I learned that she was focusing in on Kendra I was thrilled.

The Fine Art of Truth and Dare by Melissa Jenson: This one is definitely has my interest piqued. It sounds very cute, has a boarding school vibe and while it might just be a fluff read the title and the summary has me wanting it.

Well, that my list for winter releases so far. What are books are you looking forward to snuggling up with on those long cold winter days and nights?

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T02:08:00.000-06:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

HOPE EVERYONE HAS A GREAT DAY

2011-11-22T04:45:00.000-06:00

In the third installment of the Tiger series, Kelsey Hayes pushes through the pain of lost love and strengthens her friendship with Kishan. Despite his strong feelings for her, Kishan has agreed to be her ally in helping her reunite with the man she still loves. Together, they seek to help Ren regain his memory and begin the search for the third magical gift—an object of power that will help break the curse that causes them to live part of their lives as tigers.

They board a luxury yacht and seek Durga's aid once again, who supplies them with her golden weapons. With Nilima, Mr. Kadam, Ren, and Kishan at her side, she soon learns that the task ahead will be even more difficult than the others. Confronting a dark magician, multiple dragons, and terrifying denizens of the deep seems easy when compared to facing the daunting task of stitching up her heart. Just when she thinks she's ready to set her feet on a new path, she is yanked back with a jolt to the one she's determined to leave behind.

The jarring tug-of-war that ensues for Kelsey's heart leaves her anxious and confused. Combined with the stress of almost being killed every other day, it would appear that saving the tigers is almost more than she can handle. Still, she presses on, knowing that a choice is looming on the horizon. One she cannot put off making for long.

Tiger's Voyage is an irresistible romance with a barrage of action on the high seas, where a reader will find a treasure chest full of dragons, sea monsters, knights in shining armor, fabled weapons, and enduring love. The tropic waters of India create the backdrop for the latest installment in the tiger series. This novel, a multicultural take on the classic Beauty and the Beast tale, delves into the complex emotional turmoil and pressure associated with not only making the best choice for a nation but also the best choice for yourself. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Reason Why I Chose the Book:

I have been enamored with Colleen's series from the get go. I loved Tiger's Curse and after listening to it as an audio book, I ran right out and bought both the first book and the second. It has also been quite popular with my students.

Reason Why I Liked/Disliked the Book:

Like the other two books in this amazing series, Tiger's Voyage finds Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan getting ready for another dangerous mission to break the curse that has kept Ren and Kishan tigers. It picks up right where Tiger's Quest left off with Kelsey reeling from Ren's loss of memory, and Kishan being support and caring. Ren is unable to touch Kelsey or spend too much time near her without getting physically ill. While I am not a huge fan of the love triangle and often got anxious over the situation that Kelsey and her tigers find themselves in, Colleen does an excellent job creating unbelievable tension between these three wonderfully drawn characters.

I love how creative the mythology in this series is and Tiger's Voyage finds our protagonists on board a luxurious yacht in search of Durga's Necklace. In order to find it, they must visit five different dragon realms eliciting help from each, which is no easy task and the danger they face is filled with suspense and kept me furiously turning pages.

The only complaint I had with this one is that I felt the relationship between Kelsey, Ren, and Kishan was drawn out too much. I really wanted a resolution, and if I am completely honest, I wanted Kelsey to rush into Ren's arms as soon as it was clear that his memory was back and that the strength of his love declared. However, Kelsey continued to deny that she and Ren were obviously destined for each other and stubbornly refused to tell Kishan that while she loved him too, their love was not as strong or as passionate.

Finally, I was quite surprised with the ending as I thought that Tiger's Voyage was the last book in the series. The ending, however, leaves the reader gasping and once again anxious for book four.

Reasons Why I Would Recommend This Book:

If you love mythology, beautiful settings, intense romance, and lots of action then this is a series you need to read. The characterization is perfect, and the plot so intricate, complex, and exciting that I guarantee it will hold you spellbound and gasping at every page.

Waiting on WednesdayIrises by Francisco X. Stork

2011-11-09T02:16:00.000-06:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Francisco X. Stork
Publisher: Arthur L. Levine
Release Date: January 1,2012

Two sisters discover what's truly worth living for in the new novel by the author of MARCELO IN THE REAL WORLD.

TWO SISTERS: Kate is bound for Stanford and an M.D. -- if her family will let her go. Mary wants only to stay home and paint. When their loving but repressive father dies, they must figure out how to support themselves and their mother, who is in a permanent vegetative state, and how to get along in all their uneasy sisterhood.

THREE YOUNG MEN: Then three men sway their lives: Kate's boyfriend Simon offers to marry her, providing much-needed stability. Mary is drawn to Marcos, though she fears his violent past. And Andy tempts Kate with more than romance, recognizing her ambition because it matches his own.

ONE AGONIZING CHOICE: Kate and Mary each find new possibilities and darknesses in their sudden freedom. But it's Mama's life that might divide them for good -- the question of *if* she lives, and what's worth living for.

IRISES is Francisco X. Stork's most provocative and courageous novel yet. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I loved Macelo in the Real World, which was an book with wonderful and honestly portrayed characters, not to mention a very realistic plot and excellent writing. Irises sounds like another character driven story with an intriguing plot drawn from real life.

ReviewCryers Cross by Lisa McMann

2011-11-03T04:49:00.001-05:00

The community of Cryer’s Cross, Montana (population 212) is distraught when high school freshman Tiffany disappears without a trace. Already off-balance due to her OCD, 16-year-old Kendall is freaked out seeing Tiffany’s empty desk in the one-room school house, but somehow life goes on... until Kendall's boyfriend Nico also disappears, and also without a trace. Now the town is in a panic. Alone in her depression and with her OCD at an all-time high, Kendall notices something that connects Nico and Tiffany: they both sat at the same desk. She knows it's crazy, but Kendall finds herself drawn to the desk, dreaming of Nico and wondering if maybe she, too, will disappear...and whether that would be so bad. Then she begins receiving graffiti messages on the desk from someone who can only be Nico. Can he possibly be alive somewhere? Where is he? And how can Kendall help him? The only person who believes her is Jacian, the new guy she finds irritating...and attractive. As Kendall and Jacian grow closer, Kendall digs deeper into Nico's mysterious disappearance only to stumble upon some ugly—and deadly—local history. Kendall is about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried (Summary from Goodreads)

Reason Why I Choose the Book: After seeing Cryers Cross on so many of the Halloween posts and lists last week, I decided to give to see why it was so popular. When the book first came out I had wanted to read it but never got around to it. I love books that have a creep factor to them and between the cover and the summary, Cryer Cross most definitely fit that requirement. Since I also needed a new audio book, keeping the Halloween theme in mind, I added this one to my audio library.

Reasons I Like/Disliked about the Book: I loved everything about Cryers Cross. As an audio book it was terrific. Julia Whelan who is a wonderful narrator and someone I have had the pleasure of listening to with a couple other books, was perfectly pitched as Kendall. However, an audio narrator is only as good as the written narration and McMann's characterization of Kendall was perfection.

I have never read a book that featured a character with obsessive compulsive disorder, and I was fascinated with the way McMann was able to build Kendall's character around this disorder. It made Kendall so much more real in my eyes. Her thoughts and feelings about her disorder gave a reality to her character that I doubt would have been as prominent without it. Jacian was also a terrific character. His moody distant attitude made him both sympathetic and troublesome, and I really liked the progression of his and Kendall's relationship. Definitely not a love at first sight so prevalant in many YA novels.

Together with such fantastic characters, McMann's plot took on a suspenseful tension that kept me tuned into her story about missing teens. The pacing was flawless and the ending although not completely a surprise, was distrubing and eerie lasting just long enough to have my heart thumping and my breath bated for the resolution.

Reasons Why I Recommend This Book: Without hesitation I would urge anyone who loves suspenseful stories with a certain degree of creepiness to pick Cryers Cross up. The characters bring this one to life with such an eerie realism that it is impossible to put it down, and if you are into audio books this is a sensational listening experience.

My Top Ten Books I Had VERY Strong Emotions About

2011-11-01T03:32:00.000-05:00

This week's Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and the Bookish is all about those books that in some way raised your emotional levels: made you cry, laugh out loud, or had you screaming at the top of your lungs in frustration or anger.

Bridge to Terabithia by Kathrine Peterson: My son, who unlike his mother, hated to read and avoided it at all costs. One night I found out he was suppose to finish this book for class, and still had several chapters to finish. While I had read this book already, I proceeded to read it out loud to him before bed that night. As we got to (spoiler ahead) the part when Jess learns about Leslie's death, tears began to fall and by the time I finished I was sobbing uncontrollably as I read. Not sure whether it was my emotional breakdown, or the story, or both, but I had my son in tears too.

Souless by Gail Carrington: I listened to this book on audio and remember sitting in the car laughing out loud at the ending, which was the most hysterical and sexy honeymoon scene I have ever read.

Paper Towns by John Green: Another audio book that had me laughing out loud in my car, but also had me fearing the end. Sometimes I wonder what people must think when they see me driving along and cracking up when there is obviously no one in the car with me.

Eva by Peter Dickinson: Another older book that remains a favorite of mine and emotionally torn by the subject matter. Eva's parents in an effort to save her life after a horrific accident transplants her brain into the body of chimpanzee. The story revolves around her adjustment and eventual acceptance, with a very unusual twist at the end. I was outraged and distraught reliving all Eva's emotions right along with her.

Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok: The hard realities of a young Chinese immigrant attempting to find her place in America, while maintaining her own culture and the dealing secretly with her poverty was an emotional rollercoaster.

Where the Read Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls: I came to this book not as a children but as an adult. The ending was a heart-breaker and definitely left me in tears.

1984 by George Orwell: My first dystopian novel read in high school and it left an indelible mark causing lots of different emotions including fear and outrage for the characters and their lives.

Tuedays With Morrie by Mitch Albom: A book that is both uplifting and sad filled with such strong emotions.

New Moon by Stephanie Meyers: OK I know that these books produce strong emotions on both sides of the spectrum, but I read them as they were published and this one had me hurting a lot. The separation between Bella and Edward was very upsetting and I sped through the book wanting to see these two star-crossed lovers reunited.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte: One of the most romantic and books I have ever read. I felt so much sympathy for Jane's life and wanted so much for her to be loved. I rejoiced at the ending.

ReviewDark Passage by M. J. Putney

2011-10-31T02:44:00.001-05:00

The Irregulars return home to 1803 England safely, but their worldview has changed. Not only have their heroic efforts at Dunkirk given them pride and confidence but their dangerous mission has increased their magical powers.

Tory delights in the ever deepening bond she shares with Allarde until she discovers how powerfully he is connected to his ancient family estate—the lands he will not inherit unless he denies his magical powers and chooses a nonmagical mate. If Tory really loves him, she must walk away—but does she have the strength to leave the love of her life?

Cynthia’s heroic efforts at Dunkirk have won her the respect of the Irregulars, but her sharp tongue keeps everyone at a distance. Isolated and very alone at Lackland Abbey over the Christmas holidays, she reluctantly agrees to join Jack Rainford and his family for their celebration even though they’re commoners, far below her own noble rank. The warm welcome of the Rainfords makes her feel happier and more accepted than she has ever been. But she can’t possibly be falling in love with flirtatious Jack! Can she?

Then the Irregulars are drawn into a dangerous attempt to rescue a vitally important French scientist from Nazi-occupied France. Tory and Allarde must work together because countless lives are at stake. Disaster strikes and not only is their mission threatened, but their very lives. Can magic and their loyalty to each other help them survive to return home? (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

I was lucky enough to read M. J. Putney's first book Dark Mirror last March and enjoyed it's unique blend of historical fiction with magic that when I was approached about reading the second book in the Dark Magic series I jumped at the chance. I really like historical fiction and cannot seem to find enough of it. I also really liked the characters and the budding romance between Tory and Allarde and was hoping to see it blossom.

I was not disappointed at all with Dark Passage. The book picks up shortly after book one. Starting off with the irregulars in 1940 France trying to help one of Jack's future relatives. When Tory, Allarde, Jack, and Cynthia return to 1803 via Merlin's Mirror, the school is shutting down for Christmas and Tory's sister invites her to her wedding leaving Cynthia alone. Things between Allarde and Tory start to heat up since Allarde is also home for Christmas, but their relationship is strained when Tory realizes that Allarde's connection to his land is so powerful and his love for her will ruin his chances to inherit.

I really liked that M.J. focused a lot of the book around Cynthia, who is a hard character to like. She is snotty and entitled, but after being left alone over the holidays is invited to share her time with Jack and his family. We find out a lot more about the reason Cynthia is the way she is and Jack is such a great character, who obviously sees past Cynthia's personality and begins to bring out the best in her.

The new mission they take on was quite exciting. Going back to 1940 in order to rescue a scientist from a German strong hold in France, puts everyone in danger. The feelings between Tory and Allarde once again flair when danger and the possibility of loss prove stronger than all of Tory's good intentions. The combination of their magic with Cynthia and Jack's weather magic, plus Jack's cousin's ability to locate people and Elspeth's healing magic worked in sync once again proving that the Irregulars make a powerful team of mages.

Even though Putney takes a lot of liberty with the historical aspects of this book, I really think the magic, time travel, and history sets this book apart. The characters definitely come to life. If you like paranormal mixed with romance, or historical fiction then this one will appeal to you too. I will also be anxious to read the third book to see where M. J. takes the Irregulars next time and whether Tory and Allarde, and Cynthia and Jack can overcome the major roadblocks in their relationships.

Source: Received book from publisher/author for review

Technical Difficulties

2011-10-30T03:03:00.000-05:00

This is a test to see whether or not my comments are showing up.

Technical Difficulties

2011-10-30T02:55:00.000-05:00

I am currently experiencing some major issues with my comments not showing up. I tried deleting intense debate and ended up messing this up more.

Please be patient with me as I try to fix the problem.

Audio Review Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury

2011-10-27T04:17:00.007-05:00

Agnes Wilkins is standing in front of an Egyptian mummy, about to make the first cut into the wrappings, about to unlock ancient (and not-so-ancient) history.

Maybe you think this girl is wearing a pith helmet with antique dust swirling around her.

Maybe you think she is a young Egyptologist who has arrived in Cairo on camelback.

Maybe she would like to think that too. Agnes Wilkins dreams of adventures that reach beyond the garden walls, but reality for a seventeen-year-old debutante in 1815 London does not allow for camels—or dust, even. No, Agnes can only see a mummy when she is wearing a new silk gown and standing on the verdant lawns of Lord Showalter’s estate, with chaperones fussing about and strolling sitar players straining to create an exotic “atmosphere” for the first party of the season. An unwrapping.

This is the start of it all, Agnes’s debut season, the pretty girl parade that offers only ever-shrinking options: home, husband, and high society. It’s also the start of something else, because the mummy Agnes unwraps isn’t just a mummy. It’s a host for a secret that could unravel a new destiny—unleashing mystery, an international intrigue, and possibly a curse in the bargain.

Get wrapped up in the adventure . . . but keep your wits about you, dear Agnes. (Publisher's summary from Good reads)

Regency England, mummies, and Napoleon, Wrapped by Jennifer Bradbury has is all. Add to this a wonderful narration by Elissa Steele, whose voice readily captures Agnes Wilkin's personality and allows listeners to become part of the action, suspense and romance, and what you have is a delightfully entertaining mystery that will have you begging for more and wondering why you hadn't read this book sooner.

There is just so much to love about Wrapped it's hard to know just where to start. First, I guess I should say that I am now a huge fan of the Regency era. I love the manners, the dress, and Bradbury does a fantastic job bringing it all to life. Agnes is on the cusp of her debut, and in the thralls of the romantic works of fiction by A Lady aka. Jane Austin. While Agnes understands that customs require her to come out in society for the express purpose of finding a suitable husband, she dreams of adventure and true love.

The plot revolves around Agnes finding they key to a missing standard that has mystical powers to raise armies of the dead, something Napoleon wants very badly. With the help of Cateman, a museum worker fascinated with Egyptian artifact and the Rosetta Stone, the two uncover a dangerous conspiracy to help Napoleon gain access to this frightening weapon. As they unscramble the puzzle they grow closer despite the differences in their stations. I loved how Bradbury kept the reader entangled not only in the mystery, but the growing romantic feelings between Agnes and Cateman, knowing even before Agnes that her attachment to Cateman was more than just platonic. The ending although neatly tied, was quite satisfying and left the door open for more adventures featuring Agnes and Cateman.

For fans of the Regency era, well crafted mysteries, and romance, Wrapped is an excellent read that will leave you wanting more. And if you are looking for a new audio book then I highly recommend you give this one a listen.

Waiting on WednesdayRipper by Stefan Petrucha

2011-10-26T02:58:00.002-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Stefan Petrucha
Publisher: Philomel
Release Date: March 1, 2012

You thought you knew him. You were dead wrong.

Carver Young dreams of becoming a detective, despite growing up in an orphanage with only crime novels to encourage him. But when he is adopted by Detective Hawking of the world famous Pinkerton Agency, Carver is given not only the chance to find his biological father, he finds himself smack in the middle of a real life investigation: tracking down a vicious serial killer who has thrown New York City into utter panic. When the case begins to unfold, however, it's worse than he could have ever imagined, and his loyalty to Mr. Hawking and the Pinkertons comes into question. As the body count rises and the investigation becomes dire, Carver must decide where his true loyalty lies. Full of whip-smart dialogue, kid-friendly gadgets, and featuring a then New York City Police Commissioner Teddy Roosevelt, Ripper challenges everything you thought you knew about the world's most famous serial killer. (Publisher's Summary from Amazon)

Before I read nothing but YA, I was a huge gobbler of detective novels and psychological thrillers, so Ripper caught my eye immediately. Great title and it definitely has guy appeal, which is always a plus for me because middle school boys are notoriously reluctant readers. As an added plus this one throw in a serial killer, a body count and gadgets. Oh yeah I want this one asap.

Jan's Top Ten Book to Read During Halloween

2011-10-25T03:12:00.003-05:00

In keeping with Halloween this week's Top Ten List hosted by The Broke and the Bookish is all about getting your scare on. While my list has several books I have also listed a few short stories that are great reads for this time of year.

Morpheus Road:The Light by DJ MacHale: A truly suspenseful tale with a great protagonist this one is also a fantastic audio book and will have you reading with the lights on.

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff: Creepy with lots of great atmosphere. The setting is almost as amazing as the characters.

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson: Loved the story and the connection with Jack the Ripper.

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh: Want a little romance while you are getting your scare on than this one has it and lots more.

The Dead Boys by Royce Buckingham: Lots of ghost and a very evil boy eating tree this one is short enough to read in on Halloween night, but long on the fright-o-meter.

Liesl and Po by Lauren Oliver: While this doesn't have the creep factor of any of the others ones I have listed, it is long on story and fearing the worse for the protagonists. A really fantastic story.

Pemba's Story: A Ghost Story by Marilyn Nelson and Tonya C. Hegmin: Based on research with an actual eye witness, this one is also a book that can be read in one night and has you jumping at shadows.

The Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe: It's Poe enough said.

"The Tell Tale Heart" by Edgar Allen Poe: Ditto of the above.

"The Monkey's Paw" by William Wymark: Very suspenseful and while it is easy to predict what is coming, this is one heck of a masterful short story and perhaps the first zombie tale. Great read-aloud next to a fire for effect.

Waiting on WednesdayGhost Flower by Michele Jaffe

2011-10-19T02:03:00.003-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Michele Jaffe
Publisher: Razorbill
Release Date: April 12, 2012

Eve, a runaway, finds a new job at a coffee shop on the outskirts of Tuscon. When she's approached by two wealthy teens who claim she bears an uncanny resemblance to their missing cousin Aurora, her life takes a turn for the dark and mysterious. Drawn into a scheme to win Aurora's inheritance, Eve finds herself impersonating the girl, who disappeared three years ago on the night her best friend Elizabeth died. But when Liza's ghost begins to haunt Eve, doing harm to the people close to her under the guise of "protecting" her, Eve finds herself in a nightmare maze of lies and deception that leads her to question even her own identity. She realizes her only chance is to uncover the truth about what happened the night Liza died, and to find Liza's killer - before she's next. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

While I was first intrigued with the title and love the subtle cover design, the real reason I want this one is because of the mystery surrounding first, the scheme to get an inheritance, and then the protagonist's best friend's ghost coming back to "protect her" while harming those close to her. The plot sounds very complex with some unique twists.

What are you waiting on?

ReviewThe Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson

2011-10-17T01:04:00.006-05:00

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. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Reasons I chose this book: London and a boarding school setting, Jack the Ripper, gruesome murders, ghosts, and secret ghost police... how could I not choose this book?

Reasons I liked/disliked the book: I really like books set in London, a city that has always called to me as a place I would love to visit. Consequently, I immediately caught Rory's excitement over leaving her small Louisianna home to become a student at the Wexford School. London and specifically the area around Wexford was extremely important to the overall story since it was the old stomping grounds for the notorious Jack the Ripper murders; and therefore, became the perfect setting for the new Jack the Ripper's murder spree. Johnson's research on the events of the original Jack the Ripper murders gave authenticity to the present day murders and it was easy to imagine how both the historical murders and a present day reenactment could gain such attention. I loved how the tension built with each new murder. Johnson's use of the media frenzy was not only brilliantly played, but kept the events spiraling forward creating a suspense that kept the reader transfixed and propelled onward until the exciting and surprising climax and conclusion.

Rory was an interesting character, and made a fascinating narrator. She was the proverbial fish out of water. I think she was the perfect victim...not too weak, but also somewhat oblivious to everything happening around her. When Rory went from outside observer, to being a target, she gained my respect by not freaking out and running off to the comforts of parents and family. I also loved Rory's back story about her strange family, which I thought added a lot of layers to who she was. I found her reactions to her situation very realistic.

Reasons for recommending this book: If you love a good ghost story this one is a thrilling suspense ridden mystery, with a very original twist. Rory is a funny and endearing character who made me feel protective of her innocence. The romance is minimal but realistic and refreshing. All in all a very exciting read.

Waiting on WednesdayThe Crimson Crown by Cinda Williams Chima

2011-10-12T02:16:00.002-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Cinda Williams Chima
Publisher: Hyperion
Release Date: Fall 2012

In the fourth and final book in the Seven Realms series, the stakes grow ever higher as a series of murders raise tensions between the Wizard Council and Spirit Clans to a fever pitch. With treachery on every side, Han and Raisa struggle to fend off threats from ambitious neighbors while keeping the queendom from imploding from within. (Summary from Author's Website)

Although the cover has not been officially released, and the summary is a bit sparse, I am so enthralled with this series. I would buy the last book no matter what the cover or summary said. I have spent the last three weeks with these characters and would gladly spend a lot more; it is just that good.

What are you waiting for?

ReviewThe Gray Wolf Throne by Cinda Williams Chima

2011-10-10T03:22:00.001-05:00

Han Alister thought he had already lost everyone he loved. But when he finds his friend Rebecca Morley near death in the Spirit Mountains, Han knows that nothing matters more than saving her. The costs of his efforts are steep, but nothing can prepare him for what he soon discovers: the beautiful, mysterious girl he knew as Rebecca is none other than Raisa ana’Marianna, heir to the Queendom of the Fells. Han is hurt and betrayed. He knows he has no future with a blueblood. And, as far as he’s concerned, the princess’s family killed his own mother and sister. But if Han is to fulfill his end of an old bargain, he must do everything in his power to see Raisa crowned queen.

Meanwhile, some people will stop at nothing to prevent Raisa from ascending. With each attempt on her life, she wonders how long it will be before her enemies succeed. Her heart tells her that the thief-turned-wizard Han Alister can be trusted. She wants to believe it—he’s saved her life more than once. But with danger coming at her from every direction, Raisa can only rely on her wits and her iron-hard will to survive—and even that might not be enough.

The Gray Wolf Throne is an epic tale of fierce loyalty, unbearable sacrifice, and the heartless hand of fate. ( Publisher's Summary from Goodreads)

Reasons I chose this book: After reading a rave review by Sab at YA Bliss, I just had to check this entire series out. I am a big audio bluff and cannot even think about driving anywhere without tuning into a book. Consequently, I listened to the first two books in this series: The Demon King and The Exhiled Queen and totally fell in love. Unfortunately, The Gray Wolf Throne was not in audio format so as soon as I finished the second book I ran out and bought The Gray Wolf Throne.

Reasons I Liked or Disliked the Book: How do I begin to tell you how much I loved immersing myself in the world Cinda Williams Chima has created. It is a world of beauty, magic, and political intrigue, fraught with danger, and romance. Chima is a masterful story teller who knows how to transport readers not only through luscious and vivid prose, but with characters who burn their way into your heart and beg to be loved and loathed. This is high fantasy at its best. I truly adored Raisa ana Marianna and felt the same loyalty to her as all the other characters whose chief goal in life was to protect and serve. I felt drawn to her struggles to become the kind of person who deserved to take her place as the next Gray Wolf Queen. Forced to grow up too soon and face those who want her dead, I feared for her safety and watched enraptured as she grew from a young girl whose only wish was to be kissed and courted to a young women who desired to correct the evils of a kingdom on the verge of collapse. I also fell madly in love with Hans Alister, the street lord turned wizard. His heroic deeds were only over shadowed by his good nature and larger than life love of family and friends. As a couple Rasia and Han are two of the best. Torn between the destiny they have no control over and a love that seems impossible, I ached and longed for their happiness to be achieved together.

Sadly, The Gray Wolf Throne ends too soon to find out whether these two larger than life characters will find their way around all the obstacles that are keeping them from each other. I will be waiting impatiently to read more about the Seven Realms.

Reasons I would recommend this book: If you love fantasy then you have to read this. If you love epic love stories they do not get more epic than this. If you crave action and intrigue then look no further. And if you seek great characters who live long after you stop reading then you have got to read this series.

Thankfully, a fourth book, is slated to be released next fall, and I also found this amazing video, which embodies the essences of the books.

Review of Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

2011-10-06T03:13:00.003-05:00

What if you were bound for a new world, about to pledge your life to someone you'd been promised to since birth, and one unexpected violent attack made survival—not love—the issue?

Out in the murky nebula lurks an unseen enemy: the New Horizon. On its way to populate a distant planet in the wake of Earth's collapse, the ship's crew has been unable to conceive a generation to continue its mission. They need young girls desperately, or their zealous leader's efforts will fail. Onboard their sister ship, the Empyrean, the unsuspecting families don't know an attack is being mounted that could claim the most important among them...

Fifteen-year-old Waverly is part of the first generation to be successfully conceived in deep space; she was born on the Empyrean, and the large farming vessel is all she knows. Her concerns are those of any teenager—until Kieran Alden proposes to her. The handsome captain-to-be has everything Waverly could ever want in a husband, and with the pressure to start having children, everyone is sure he's the best choice. Except for Waverly, who wants more from life than marriage—and is secretly intrigued by the shy, darkly brilliant Seth.

But when the Empyrean faces sudden attack by their assumed allies, they quickly find out that the enemies aren't all from the outside. (Publisher's Summary from Goodreads)

When I was approached by Sarah at St. Martin's Press about Glow I was immediately drawn to her passionate description of the book's merits and the rave reviews from other bloggers. Since I love dystopian novels, I was intrigued, especially with science fiction aspect of the book.

Glow is unlike any dystopian novel I have read! It grabs you, spins you around, and keeps the adrenaline pumping non-stop. The plot and setting are the strongest aspects of the novel and definitely what make it unique among the plethora of YA dystopia currently on hand. Not only are many questions raised and explored about leadership, religion, and reproductive rights, these issues are all central to the conflict for all the characters and especially the protagonists. The setting also plays an important role in the story's conflicts with the action taking place on two separate ships whose missions were to recolonized a nearly extinct Earth. Unfortunately, one ship, the New Horizon, has failed to produce children and their Captain and religious leader blames the Empyrean.

Ryan carefully sets the main conflict up quickly in the first few chapters and subtly foreshadows things to come. When the New Horizon successfully steal all the female children aboard the Empyrean killing many adults including the ship's captain, Kieran and Waverly, the novel's protagonists are thrust into leadership roles and separately fight for their survival as well as the survival of those around them. Through their alternating points of view the reader experiences Kieran and Waverly struggles and watch as their individual ordeals strip them both of their innocence. By the end, each are transformed and their transformations leave the reader anticipating and predicting how things will play out in a second book.

Although I found Glow unique and exciting, I did have some ambiguity towards Kieran and Waverly. Part of the uncertainty stemmed in part from the relationship Ryan puts in place early on. I also never felt truly connected emotionally to either character. However, I was still able to appreciate and even admire Ryan’s characterization of them separately and in the end began to appreciate and even understand their individual changes.

Glow more than holds its own as a novel that brings together all of the elements I enjoy in a dystopian read. It provides suspense and sustains tension between characters throughout, and the ending left me anxious to see where the story will take me next.

Source: Received copy for review from St Martin's Press

Waiting on WednesdayThe Fine Art of Truth and Dare by Melissa Jensen

2011-10-05T02:25:00.001-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Melissa Jensen
Publisher: Speak
Release date: Feb. 16, 2012

Pretty in Pink meets Anna and the French Kiss in this charming romantic comedy

Ella is nearly invisible at the Willing School, and that's just fine by her. She's got her friends - the fabulous Frankie and their sweet cohort Sadie. She's got her art - and her idol, the unappreciated 19th-century painter Edward Willing. Still, it's hard being a nobody and having a crush on the biggest somebody in the school: Alex Bainbridge. Especially when he is your French tutor, and lessons have started becoming, well, certainly more interesting than French ever has been before. But can the invisible girl actually end up with a happily ever after with the golden boy, when no one even knows they're dating? And is Ella going to dare to be that girl?

Quirky title, and a comparison to Anna and French Kiss has me thinking this might be a lighthearted and fun romances we all like to read after the deep and intense teen drama or dystopian novels that are so plentiful.

What are you waiting on this week?

Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books that Left Me with My Mouth Hanging Open

2011-10-04T03:17:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

Today's top ten book are book that literally dropped my jaw because of a surprise ending or cliffhanger.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkins: I finished this one this weekend after reading so many fantastic reviews about its awesomeness and all I can say is OMG the book was amazing and my mouth is still open after reading the last sentence.

Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan: Another recent read that ended with me wondering what was going to happen next.

Crave by Melinda Metz and Laura J Burns: Great vampire story and romance that ended badly for the the couple. I have been waiting a long time to close my mouth on this one thankfully Sacrifice just came out and I will get a chance to see what becomes of this great couple.

The Gathering by Kelly Armstrong: Can't even imagine where this one will go next, but the end was suspenseful and has me all fired up for The Calling.

The Magnolia League by Katie Crouch: Hoodoo and southern belles, can't wait to see if revenge is going to be sweet.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by J. K. Rowlings: As a big fan of Stephen King back in my twenties, I was use to having characters killed off but this one was a really shocker. I not only had my mouth open but was screaming noooooooo!

Tiger's Curse by Collen Houck: Such a great love story with a terrible curse and when I finished I was so thankful that Tiger's Quest had just been released I ran out to the bookstore so I could continue reading.

The Giver by Lois Lowry: When The Giver first came out the ending was such a twist from any other book I had ever read that it definitely caused me to wonder about how Lowry could end it so unusually with the reader reading into it what they wanted. For me I wanted a happy ending!

The Fever Series by Karen Moning: While I don't remember if these books ended with huge cliffhangers, I do remember I had to read the next book right now, and when I finished the series, I wanted more. What I do remember is that throughout the books I was catching flies a lot.

The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins: What can I say except again the first two books had me slack jawed and the last one had me shaking my head and sad that the series was over.

I am sure that there are a lot more I could come up with that have had me shocked and amazed at the end of the book, but this list was harder than most. I am anxious to see which books left you shocked and amazed too.

ReviewIf I Tell by Janet Gurtler

2011-10-03T03:53:00.000-05:00

Jasmine Evans knows one thing for sure... people make mistakes. After all, she is one. Jaz is the result of a one night stand between a black football player and a blonde princess. Having a young mother who didn't raise her, a father who wants nothing to do with her and living in a small-minded town where she's never fit in hasn't been easy. But she's been surviving. Until she sees her mom's new boyfriend making out with her own best friend. When do you forgive people for being human or give up on them forever?

Reasons I chose the book:

After receiving a request from the publisher and reading the summary I was definitely intrigued with the synopsis. I had missed out on Gurtler's first book I'm Not Her and was excited about reading a book by this contemporary author.

Reason I like or disliked the book:

To be honest while I liked several aspects of the book, I had some mixed feelings too. Gurtler deals with a whole boat load of issues, all of which are important, but I found myself questioning why so many in one story. Jaz, the main character, is biracial and has dealt with so much in her seventeen years. Raised by grandparents because her mother had her when she was in high school and couldn't deal, Jaz not only has some abandonment issues, but has a difficult time dealing with her racial identity. She has suffered through years of bullying and has consequently withdrawn from making friends preferring to isolate herself and escapes through music. Even though the relationship with her grandparents was strong and nurturing, not having any black role models in her life has greatly affected Jaz's ability to deal healthily with her ethnicity. Other issues that are dealt with include teen drinking, sexual abuse drugs, and post postpartum depression, and while these issues are not the main focus they do play roles in Jaz's story.

Because Jaz's life is messy, I found myself torn between really liking her character and also not always accepting her. The one person Jaz felt closest to, her grandfather, had died leaving her alone to deal with her best friend's betrayal. The friendship and romance between Jaz and Jackson was well written, and I also really liked Ashley, a lesbian friend whose presence in the novel was sporadic, but always a welcome change from Jaz's BFF Lacey.

Reasons for recommending the book:

Despite some of the issues I had with the book, Gurtler's writing is engaging and If I Tell explores issues that need to be explored. It is a quick read and I found myself engaged through out. I would definitely read other books by Gurtler.

Source: I received a copy of If I Tell from Sourcebooks for review.

Waiting on WednesdayThou Shalt Not Road Trip by Antony John

2011-09-28T02:31:00.001-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Antony John
Publisher: Dial
Release Date: April 12, 2012

One crazy road trip that's a mix of rejection, redemption, and romance

When sixteen-year-old Luke's book, Hallelujah, becomes a national bestseller, his publishing house sends him on a cross-country book tour with his older brother, Matt, as chauffeur. But when irresponsible Matt offers to drive Luke's ex–soul mate, Fran, across the country too, things get a little crazy. On the trip, Luke must loosen up, discover what it truly means to have faith, and do what it takes to get the girl he loves.

Told with Antony John's signature wit and authenticity, and featuring smart, singular characters who jump off the page and into your heart, this story is a spiritual awakening and rockin' road trip in one.(Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I am so excited about reading another novel by Antony Johns as I really loved Five Flavors of Dumb. The fact that the plot revolves around a road trip is a special bonus. I am also hoping to meet Antony John this spring as he is a St Louis resident and has been invited to the Area Wide Book Battle in May.

What are you waiting for?

Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books I Want to Reread

2011-09-27T02:51:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

This week's list is all about those books that were just so great you just have to read them again.

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte: This is a book that I have already read at least twice in my lifetime and would love to reread again. Definitely one of my all time classics.

Graceling: by Kriston Cashore: Another favorite story and while technically my first experience with the book was in audio form, I loved it so much that I listen to it twice and then bought the book so I could reread it again.

The Gathering by Kelly Armstrong: Right now I am awaiting book two in this series since I have to wait until April I will be rereading it again the story was that good.

The Magnolia League by Katie Crouch: Another great story that I cannot wait for the second book to be release and want to reread before it comes out.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: I read this before I began blogging and loved it. I would love to reread it before I see the movie.

Harry Potter series by J K Rowlings: OK, so I actually have reread Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, but would just like to spend a couple weeks going through the whole series since I read the series as it came out.

Twilight series by Stephanie Meyers: Now don't shoot me for this, but again I read this series as it came out and way before I began blogging. I know that many bloggers have some very strong opinions about the books, but I did enjoy them, and now I would love to see whether they can stand up to some serious scrutiny on my part.

The Stand by Steven King: Way back in my twenties I devoured all thing King and loved his early work. Of all his books The Stand was one of my all time favorites and I would love to reread it.

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson: I read this in 1999 when it first came out and was extremely taken by it. After hearing last year about it being a banned book, I thought about how ludicrous it was that someone could possibly consider this book pornography.

Unwind by Neal Schusterman: I recently heard that a sequel to this book was being published and I would love to reread this one before the new book is released. Definitely one of my all time favorite dystopian novels.

Well, that is my list of books I would love to reread, just wish I could find time to do it. What books would you like to reread?

In the Middle Monday: Character ConnectionRunaway Twin by Peg Kephret

2011-09-26T01:49:00.004-05:00

In the Middle Monday is a feature I use to highlight books written primarily for a middle school audience.

Today, in addition to featuring a middle level book, I am also featuring a guest post by Amy, one of my eighth grade students, who used the Character Connection format hosted by Jen at The Introverted Reader on Thursdays to talk about Runaway Twin by Peg Kepret. Amy chose to use this format for a recent book project and needless to say I was blown away by her creativity.

A unique story of separated twins and the unexpected consequences of their reunion.

Sunny Skyland longs to be reunited with her twin sister, Starr. With only an old photograph, taken a few days before the girls were separated at age three, to guide her, Sunny begins the cross-country journey that she has dreamed of during her ten years in various foster homes. Sunny manages to locate her twin, only to be faced with a whole new challenge.

Award-winning author Peg Kehret combines suspense and action with reflections on the true meaning of family as Sunny learns that sometimes we must let go of our dreams in order to embrace a different, better future.

A Day in the Mind of a Dog

by Snickers Skyland

My name is Snickers Skyland. You might have heard of me from Sunny’s book, Runaway Twin, written by Sunny’s pseudonym Peg Kehret, or seen Sunny walking me around the neighborhood. Sunny Skyland is the best person I know, and, just as the planets revolve around the sun, me, Sunny’s dog Snickers Skyland, revolves around Sunny. If I could talk to her, the first thing I would tell Sunny would be thanks for her determination, kindness, and compassion.

Sunny is a very determined girl. In her search to find her twin sister Starr, she perseveres through all sorts of hardships, including taking me along, fighting bullies, and having a run in with a tornado. Throughout all of these things, Sunny keeps the hope of finding her lost twin, even when the circumstances make it seem unlikely.

Sunny is patient enough to wait to fulfill her dreams. Before Sunny met me, she was traveling alone all day on the bus, covering hundreds of miles. When Sunny found me and took me along, it wasn’t until afterwards that she realized I wasn’t allowed on the bus. What did she do? Instead of leaving me in that parking lot, Sunny walked with me across states. She took much longer to get to Enumclaw, Washington than it would have riding on the bus. She got herself dirty and tired every day instead of sitting in air-conditioned comfort. She waited for me when I, being elderly, needed a rest from constantly walking. None of this was required of her, but Sunny put up with a lot, especially on account of me. It could have made her angry, but it didn’t, because she knows how to be patient and not let what happens to her ruin her outlook on things.

Sunny is forgiving. One day, we came upon a little town. After walking for miles, we ate and then hitched a ride with the owner of the restaurant to the next town with a bus stop. We were waiting outside for the bus when three teenage boys, named Zooman, Hunker, and Randy started bullying Sunny, trying to rob her. When I attacked them, they ran towards the approaching bus, waving for it to stop and then running off. When poor Sunny tried to get the driver to let us on, he angrily yelled at us and drove off. The bus came to that town only once a day. We were walking towards Starr when a storm started, with a tornado that headed straight for us through an open field. I got injured when debris fell on my head. Sunny went back into the town to look for help when she heard someone calling from under a demolished house. She ran over and started digging until she found the person’s head. The person was Randy, one of the bullies from earlier! Instead of leaving him in obvious pain, Sunny forgave Randy and did her best to free him and get help. Even when she herself could not help him, she directed others who could to help him first, then herself if possible. Sunny is so compassionate that she will put the needs of others first, with no thought of herself.

I love Sunny, and I wish more people could be like her. She is determined to complete what she starts, but is capable of patiently waiting for it to happen. She is kind to anyone, whether they are an animal or a person. Most of all, she is compassionate and forgiving. If Sunny sees someone in pain or needing help, no matter who he or she is or what they have done to her, she will try to help them. I love my friend Sunny for all this and more.

Show Me Five ReviewVanish by Sophie Jordan

2011-09-24T08:55:00.001-05:00

Show Me Five review, which was originally created by That's a Novel Idea as a weekly Saturday meme and has become a favorite review format of mine. The numbers correspond to the number of answers provided about the book.

1 Name of the book:

Vanish by Sophie Jordan

2 Words that describe the book:

Star-crossed Dragon love

3 Setting/characters:

While Sophie Jordan's first book took us away from Jacinda's home and the pride, Vanish brings us back. We get to know a lot more about the place Jacinda and Tamara grew up by walking the streets. The setting is of particular importance because in order for the pride to survive, they must be able to hide their existence from the rest of the world.

The town is positioned in some heavily forested mountains and because of Nidia's ability to shade the town, it would appear to the outside world as an ever present fog cover, with the town itself never fully seeing bright daylight.

With the manifestation of Tamara, who is also a shader, the pride's safety is once again secure.

Jacinda's return to the pride has cost her much. A fiery red-head, Jacinda is shunned by the pride for manifesting in front of humans. She proves once again how strongly defiant she is taking the ostracism in silent reservation. However, inside she is morning the loss of Will, even as she tries to understand the complex feelings she has for Cassian. Jacinda is also concerned about both her sister and her mother, and as much as she want to be with Will, her loyalty to her family proves to be a huge barrier to acting selfishly.

I think Emma Stone epitomizes Jacinda. She has a haughty look that Jacinda would need to carry off the coldness she receives from the pride while she hides her the pain and loss inside from everyone including herself.

In Firelight, I disliked Cassian. He was arrogant and entitled. He wanted Jacinda and ignored and hurt Tamara. However, in Vanish, I grew to respect Cassian a lot. Despite the fact that Jacinda continued to spurn his attention, Cassian repeatedly came to her aid, showing that he really did care about her as a person not just a fire breather. He also attempted to show feelings for Tamara, but his passion for Jacinda proves to be too strong. It becomes very obvious that as much as Jacinda cares about Will, Cassian cares that deeply for Jacinda and is willing to go up against his father to protect her.

Brant Daugherty has the dark handsome features of Cassian although I see Cassian as more brooding and buff.

4 Likes/dislikes:

Vanish definitely gave a greater insight into the pride. I like learning more about the daily operation of the town. Jordan also allowed us to see more into the some of the other characters inlcuding Cassain's father and leader of the pride, Severin; Cassian's sister, Miriam, and a new anatagonist; Cobin, Cassian's cousin.

Tamara's character is also developed more, although I would have liked more about her than was given. I do expect that Jordan will continue to give Tamara more prominence in book three. What I really liked about Tamara's character in Vanish though is she finally shows that Jacinda and her do have a deep connection that despite their differences cannot be broken.

While Vanish ends without resolving any of the conflict introduced, I do understand why Jordan wrote it this way. I just hope book three will prove to be the most exciting of the series, and not be too neatly tied up.

I like and dislike that Vanish leaves us wondering about Way too many things. The biggest is what Will is or isn't. There is one scene that foreshadows a possibility, which I won't spoil, but it does lead me to think that Will's part in the next book will be big. I am also intrigued about Jacinda and Tamara's mother and what will happen with her and finally whether or not Cassian and Tamara will find love.

5 Cherries or less:

I have to give Vanish four stars. I really liked the action and learning more about the pride. I was also very concerned that the storyline would focus way too much on Jacinda's pining over losing Will, and was extremely pleased that did not happen. Like many second books in a series, I didn't love it as much as Firelight, but I did enjoy where Jordan took us and am very excited to see where she will take us next.

Review of Dark Souls by Paula Morris

2011-09-22T04:26:00.003-05:00

Welcome to York, England.

Mist lingers in the streets.
Narrow buildings cast long shadows.
This is the most haunted city in the world. . . .

Miranda Tennant arrives in York with a terrible, tragic secret. She is eager to lose herself amid the quaint cobblestones, hoping she won’t run into the countless ghosts who supposedly roam the city. . . .

Then she meets Nick, an intense, dark-eyed boy who knows all of York’s hidden places and histories. Miranda wonders if Nick is falling for her, but she is distracted by another boy — one even more handsome and mysterious than Nick. He lives in the house across from Miranda and seems desperate to send her some sort of message. Could this boy be one of York’s haunted souls?

Soon, Miranda realizes that something dangerous — and deadly — is being planned. And she may have to face the darkest part of herself in order to unravel the mystery — and find redemption. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Why I Chose the Book: I am a sucker for ghost stories. I love suspense and seeing how well an author can verbally, through prose, creep me out or keep me on edge. There is also something about an English setting that has the ability to grab my attention and reading a story set in "the most haunted city in the world" well that sealed the deal.

Reasons I Like or Disliked the Book: I enjoyed the setting of Dark Souls and its history, which was told as a back drop to the present day events of Miranda and her brother. While I did not check to see whether or not the historical aspect was real or made up, Morris' writing allows the reader to believe that the ghostly record of the town is true. Unfortunately, while this aspect of the book worked for me, my connection to the characters did not. I never felt invested in Miranda and her brother's inability to overcome the tragic accident that killed Miranda's best friend. The accident and Miranda's subsequent ability to see ghost felt contrived as did their trip to York. Miranda's mysterious boy in York, and her fascination with him also felt uncharacteristically forced. Personally, I never warmed up to Nick, and doubted that he could attract anyone by his sullen, rude, antisocial behavior. The vengeful ghost's role was slow to unfold, and the excitement and danger was too little too late. The ending was also too pat for my taste.

Reasons for Recommending the Book: Despite the fact that Dark Souls will not make it to my top ten list, the setting and gothic feel is sure to entice readers. If you like ghost stories, this one has them and then some.

Waiting on WednesdayBorn Wicked by Jessica Sportswood

2011-09-21T02:53:00.001-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

A Great and Terrible Beauty meets Cassandra Clare in this spellbinding fantasy

Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship - or an early grave.

Before her mother died, Cate promised to protect her sisters. But with only six months left to choose between marriage and the Sisterhood, she might not be able to keep her word . . . especially after she finds her mother's diary, uncovering a secret that could spell her family's destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra.

If what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren't safe. Not from the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood - not even from each other. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

This week the cover is not what first attracted me to this book... it was the title. Then when I read the summary about eccentric sisters too well educated for their own good and witches to boot, well I couldn't resist. Plus, despite the short skirt on the cover model the summary also hints of a setting that is in the past so I am intrigued to find out just what era the story is in.

What are you waiting to read?

Top Ten Book I Feel Everyone Has Read But Me

2011-09-20T04:07:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and the Bookish.

This week 's list is all about those books that you know everyone else has read but you. So here it is.

Raw Blue by Kristy Eager: I first heard about this book last year and since I have seen it everywhere. Luckily, this is one I will be getting soon and the I too will be one of the many who has had the chance to see just how great the book is.

Graffiti Moon by Kristy Eager: Yes, another book I have read wonderful reviews and have wanted for over a year, but has not yet been released in the US.

Sookie Stackhouse series by Chalaine Harris: I had never heard of this series until I began blogging. I still remember the day I went into a bookstore and found out there were eight books in the series and number twelve was released this summer. I may not get to these until I retire.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Eyre: OK here is the one I am most ashamed of because while I have watched both the BBC mini series and the newer version of the movie I have yet to read this one on my own.

The Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead: While I did finally listen to the first book in this series that is as far as I have gotten, but I know how popular this series is and now that Mead has started a new series I had hoped to jump on the bandwagon and read it. Only trouble is every review I have read about Bloodlines talks about some of the characters from The Vampire Academy showing up Ugh!

Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink: I actually have this on my TBR shelf and bought it because so many bloggers raved about it and the two other books that I bought it and just have not gotten around to it.

The Poison Study by Marie Snyder: Yet another series I came to after blogging, and while I have read the Glass study series I have not gotten around to this one.

Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa: Yes, I read Iron King and loved it and yes, I have Iron Daughter, but no I have not read it yet.

Fallen by Lauren Kate: I own it, but I just haven't gotten around to it.

Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick: Once again I own it but just haven't gotten around to it as yet.

Except for the first two, which I cannot get yet, which of these books should I read next?

Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

2011-09-19T04:33:00.001-05:00

In the past few weeks I have been less forthcoming with my reviews. Despite the fact that I read everyday, I continually find myself stuck writing about those books. I have a million reasons for this, but the real truth is I am not sure why I am finding myself failing in this area. Consequently, I decide to give Three Reasons Review format a try especially for books that so many people have recently read and whose reviews are much more articulate than I seem to be able to accomplish.

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.(Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

1) Reason you chose the book: From the moment I saw the cover and read the summary I knew that this was a book I had to read. I love a good ghost story, and this sounded as if it would deliver.

2) Reason you liked or disliked the book: Characters! Kendare Blake did a phenomenal job creating characters who jumped off the page including secondary and minor characters. Often with first person POV I feel like I have a firm grasp of who the narrator is, but end up not knowing the other characters as well, but this was not the case here. Between Cas's thoughts and motivations, the dialogue between all the characters, and their actions I had no trouble picturing each and every one and becoming invested in their lives.

In addition, Blake's plot was so original and well executed that I was immersed in the action and the setting. Like Cas, I wanted to know more about Anna, her history, her reason's for killing, and why exactly she spares Cas's life. Blake's writing kept me mesmerized, and I never knew what would happen next. I also loved the ominous atmosphere that permeated the story throughout and Blake's ability to maintain that mood from beginning to end. And when the end came I was reluctant to stop reading. I can only hope that Anna Dressed in Blood is not the end of Cas's ghost chasing, because I am ready and willing to follow along with him an another adventure.

3) Reasons for recommending the book: Without reservation if you love a fast paced, ghost story with great characters then you should not miss Anna Dressed in Blood. The combination of urban legends meets Ghostbusters is just too spooktacular to ignore, and for those of you who want a bit of romance with your spooks then you will like it too.

I want to thank Staci @ Life in a Thumb for turning me on to Jenny Loves to Read's blog where Three Reasons Review was created.

Waiting on WednesdaySparks: The Epic, Completely True Blue (Almost), Holy Quest of Debbie by A. J. Adams

2011-09-14T03:39:00.001-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: S.J. Adams
Publisher: Flux
Release Date: Nov 8, 2011
Since sixth grade, Debbie Woodlawn has nursed a secret, heart-searing crush for her best friend, Lisa. Side by side, they watched countless 80s sit-coms and took vows of premarital chastity. But Debbie's never really been a fan of Full House or abstinence rallies, and all those years of pretending go down the drain when Lisa hooks up with the most boring guy at school. This earth-shattering event provokes Debbie to do the unthinkable: confess her love to Lisa.

But first, Debbie embarks on a holy quest guided by the two founding—and only—members of a wacky, made-up faith called the Church of Blue. Their fast-paced, hilarious adventure leads to nudity in a church coat closet, an unexpected kiss in a cemetery, and eye-opening revelations about someone Debbie's been ignoring far too long—herself. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Admittedly, this book's title completely drew me to investigate what it was about and the cover is cute, but the summary sold me because it sounds zany and whacky and sometimes you just need to go with that.

Top Ten Books I've Read Because of Another Blogger

2011-09-13T01:14:00.002-05:00

Because we all love lists, this meme created by The Broke and the Bookish was created to give us a chance to combine that love with our passion for books.

It is impossible to be a part of this community without being greatly influenced by the opinions of others, so this week in honor of BBAW my list of top ten books is based on books I read and loved because of the recommendation of another blogger whose review of these books had me saying I gotta read that!

The Fever Series by Karen Moning: I devoured this entire series after reading a review of one of the books by Natalie at Mindful Musing. I have always loved Natalie's reviews which are not only insightful, but honest and detailed. Over the past two years I have gotten quite a few recommendations for her.

Angelfire by L.A. Weatherly: I won this one from Leanne at Daisy Chain Reviews and enjoyed the unique angel story. Leanne is another reviewer who I admire and read daily because her reviews are always well-written and passionate.

Tomorrow When the War Began by John Mardsen: If you have never read one of Nome's reviews at Ink Crush then I highly recommend you do. I think I would probably read anything she recommends simply because her reviews are a delight and her taste in books are impeccable.

The Piper's Son by Melinda Marchetta: Another recommendation from Nome's at Ink Crush

Unearthly by Cynthia Heard: Yet another recommendation from Nome's at Ink Crush

The Gathering by Kelly Armstrong: After reading Kay's review of this book over at Dead Book Darling Book Reviews I immediately went out and got it for myself and this became on of my favorite reads this year.

Stork by Wendy Delsol: Lori at Pure Imagination is another blogger I go to for great reviews. While Stork did not get a lot buzz, it was Lori's review that made me want to read it and I really loved it too.

Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork: After reading Sab's review of this I knew I had to read it too. Sab's YA Bliss blog is another one I visit daily for terrific reviews. I have gotten a lot of recommendations from her in the past couple years.

While I am sure that there are a number of books I have pick up due to other bloggers, over the past two years I am not sure which ones specifically came from individual bloggers. I do know that had I not read reviews about the Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, and the Chaos Walking series, by Patrick Ness, I would have never picked these up.

BBAW 2011 Day 1: Highlighting Our Community

2011-09-12T03:16:00.004-05:00

Welcome to BBAW 2011

This year's BBAW's theme is Cultivating a Community of Bloggers and Readers.

Today's topic encourages us to highlight a couple of bloggers who have made blogging a unique experience. This is my second year blogging, and while there are lots of wonderful bloggers who deserve my applause for the fabulous reviews they write, the memes they create and host weekly, and the fantastic job they do promoting authors, this post is about a couple of bloggers who I have had to say goodbye to this year.

Mrs. Deraps of Deraps Reads last posted in April of this year. I loved reading her insightful reviews and gravitated to her blog because she was a high school teacher who talked about her students and often shared their love of books she wrote about. She created this one post format last year called Book 2 Book where she compared a YA book with a classic (or at least on older book) and I was always blown away by her ability to get to the nitty gritty and tell exactly how theses books complimented each other in story, character, and theme. She was also very active in the book blogging community, participating in a number of challenges, reading other bloggers reviews and leaving comments.

While I know a little about why she stopped blogging, I have high hopes that she will return some day in the future and once again share her special love of books.

Misha of My Love Affair with Books always made me smile, she frequently visited my blog and left comments that made my heart sing. I was continually amazed at her eclectic taste in books, and loved to read about the books she read. Many of the books were in genres other than YA, and I got a strong sense of what I was missing since I concentrate only on YA and middle school books. Her reviews were honest, perceptive, and intelligent, so I was greatly sadden last month when, due to health and personal issues, she said goodbye to blogging. The hole she has left is huge, but I can only hope and pray that her decision is one that will make her well.

The blogging community has definitely gotten smaller from the loss of both Mrs. Deraps and Misha. I wish them both good reads and best wishes for a happy healthy future!

ReviewNew England Witch Chronicles by Chelsea Bellingeri

2011-09-09T03:33:00.002-05:00

The Salem Witch Trials of 1692 were an embarrassing stain on America’s revered past. Innocent people were persecuted at the hands of a few over-zealous Puritans. But what if there were real witches during those colonial hunts? What if there are witches in present day New England? That is what Alexandria Ramsey’s crazy grandmother believes. Grandma Claudia claims Alex descends from a long line of New England witches.

Modern day witches in Hazel Cove, Massachusetts? Unlikely, but strange things are occurring in the weeks preceding Alex’s seventeenth birthday, which also coincides with her family’s annual Halloween party. Alex is haunted by bizarre reoccurring nightmares of a man chasing her through the Hazel Cove Cemetery. On a few occasions, when her emotions have spiraled out of control, inanimate objects have shattered around her. But that’s just a coincidence, right? Alex isn’t so sure, especially after a local girl, who supposedly dabbled in witchcraft, was killed in the nearby forest.

Alex knows something strange is happening to her. With the arrival of a new boy in town, the mischievous James Van Curen, who is making her life difficult and causing problems between Alex and her best friend, Peter, Alex feels like her entire world is on the verge of chaos. Could Alex really be a witch? Is it possible Hazel Cove will become a battleground for modern day witches and witch hunters? (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Paranormal has become a favored choice among young adult readers and writers alike. It popularity is due in part because it places creatures like werewolves and vampires, witches and demons within the realms of more modern day settings. The genre also develops characters with whom the readers can connect because they are living real lives in real time. The genre also evokes in the reader not only an age old fascination with mythical creatures once believed to exist, but sparks the imagination beyond what is known to be logical allowing readers to dabble in “what if’s”.

One period of history that has always been able to evoke my fascination because of the tragic insanity and rampant hysteria that cost innocent lives is the Salem Witch Trials, so when Chelsea Bellingeri asked me to read her new book New England Witch Chronicles I jumped at the chance. What I found in the tale was a modern day protagonist that I could connect with and a mystery with ties to the witch hunts of our past, plus, enough twists and turns that kept me reading for answers right along with the main character.

Through the first person narrative Chelsea Bellengri does a spectacular job steadily building suspense as we get acquainted with Alex. We learn early on that Alex’s home life is sadly lacking. Her mother’s drinks her way through the day and her father is icy and distant. But Alex’s family life does not define her. She is out going and has maintained a seventeen year-long relationship with Peter her best friend. She also has a great deal of affection for her parents’ chauffer, and house keeper, both of whom are more parental than her mother and father. Finally, Alex is very close with her maternal grandmother, who lives in Salem. Each of these relationships prove important as strange things begin to occur that has Alex questioning everything. First, a new boy enters into her life, then she dreams about a missing girl who turns up dead the next day, and every time Alex get angry or scared lights explode. But the strangest event yet is when her grandmother reveals a family history that has her questioning everything about her life. As Alex begins to piece together a rather bizarre family past, the tension rises exponentially, and leaves the reader gasping at the surprise ending.

New England Witch Chronicles greatly surpassed my expectations holding me spellbound. Alex’s relationship with Peter provided just enough romance without taking center stage and offsetting the mystery, which is the main course and very addicting. Every time I thought I knew what was going to happen next, Bellengri managed to shock me with another revelation that I did not expect, and I will be looking forward to finding out what is in stored for Alex next because the biggest revelation occurred at the end.

Source: Received copy for review from author

Waiting on WednesdayHow to SAve A Life by Sara Zarr

2011-09-07T03:43:00.001-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Sara Zarr
Publisher: Little Brown Books for Young Readers
Release Date: Oct. 18, 2011

Jill MacSweeny just wishes everything could go back to normal. But ever since her dad died, she's been isolating herself from her boyfriend, her best friends--everyone who wants to support her. And when her mom decides to adopt a baby, it feels like she's somehow trying to replace a lost family member with a new one.

Mandy Kalinowski understands what it's like to grow up unwanted--to be raised by a mother who never intended to have a child. So when Mandy becomes pregnant, one thing she's sure of is that she wants a better life for her baby. It's harder to be sure of herself. Will she ever find someone to care for her, too?

As their worlds change around them, Jill and Mandy must learn to both let go and hold on, and that nothing is as easy--or as difficult--as it seems.

Critically acclaimed author and National Book Award finalist Sara Zarr delivers a heart-wrenching story, told from dual perspectives, about the many roads that can lead us home. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Most of contemporary novels I've read lately have either been fantastic or really the same old same old blah. This one has some very original aspects that I feel are different enough to make it something fresh in the contemporary pool. I can see how both Jill and Mandy's interactions will spark intense emotional upheaval, but could result in saving them both. The whole giving away a baby and having your mom adopt one after losing your father is quite unique. What do you think?

What are you waiting on?

Top Ten Sequels I'm Dying to Read

2011-09-06T01:30:00.002-05:00

Because we all love lists, this meme created by The Broke and the Bookish was created to give us a chance to combine that love with our passion for books.

This week is all about the sequels we are most anxious to read. So here is my top ten list.

Tiger's Voyage by Colleen Houck: I fell in love with this series set in India. The combination of Indian mythology, a quest to break a centuries old curse and a romantic triangle that involves brothers is filled with loads of action and a high stake danger. I cannot wait to find out, which of the brothers Kelsey will choose or whether or not she will even get the chance to choose. The book is due out Nov 1, 2011

The Calling by Kelly Armstrong: The cover for The Calling can only be found on Armstrong's website and I am excited about this second book in this trilogy it will be especially painful to wait until spring to get my hands on this one. Maya the main character is a skin-walker who lives with her adopted parents on Vancouver Island in a small medical research town. The first book ended on a huge cliff-hanger with Maya and her friends and family leaving town after a forest fire deliberately set forces them to evacuate. Lots of unanswered question about the research facility and Maya's newly discovered abilities make this second a book a must have for me.

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare: I came to Clare's writing after reading Clockwork Angel and after devouring it and then all of the Mortal Instruments books I am a devoted fan. Got a feeling that this book will be on a lot of people's list today and for good reason. We all want to find out what is in store for both Jem, and Will, and Tessa. Romance, demon fighting, with steampunk thrown in for good measure this series is high adventure at its best.

Hallowed by Cynthia Heard: The Unearthly series caught me by surprise as I am not all the fond of angel related books. I especially fell in love with Tucker the hot cowboy who won Clare's heart and am anxious to see where their romance and Clare's angel training will lead next.

Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver: Its hard to believe that Oliver only released her debut novel about the time I began blogging (two years ago). I loved Delirium and hated that at the end of the first book Lena escaped without Alex. This book finds Lena fighting against the oppressive society. The summary suggests that Lena not only is struggling to survive, but may be falling love again.

Outpost by Ann Augirre: I recently finished Enclave and am happy that there is a sequel coming out that continues the struggle of Deuce, Fade, and Stalker as they adjust to life topside. While this one is not scheduled to be release till fall 2012, it sounds like all the things that made Enclave a thrilling dystopian novel will make Outpost just as thrilling.

Perception by Kim Harrington: Clarity was such an original and charming mystery with a great setting and a different protagonist that I am looking forward to revisiting Clare and her psychic abilities as she tries to unravel a new mystery close to her heart.

The White Glove War (Magnolia League #2) by Katie Crouch:

While this one is in the final stages of editing, which means no cover or release date as yet, I am excited about it because I was quite captivated with The Magnolia League. The first book takes place in Savannah, Georgia and introduced us to Alex a free-spirited girl forced to live with her grandmother who is the grand dame of a Southern society that has enjoyed wielding power hoodo style. In book two I see Alex and her grandmother going head to head and I am rooting for Alex.

The Death Cure by James Dashner: The final book in this amazing dystopian series that started out strong and maintained that strength in book two, but left us hanging as to who would survive definitely has a place on my list of sequels. The Wicked experiments went from jungle to desert and based on the cover will find Thomas fighting Arctic conditions as he attempts to takes down Wicked. Coming out next month.

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore: While this last title is not really a sequel, I am adding it because of it is a companion book to Graceling, which is one of my all time favorite book since I first began blogging. I love the adventure and the romance of Graceling, but most of all Cashore's gorgeous poetic prose. Katsa remains top on my list of stand out heroines, and I figure if Cashore is not going to write a sequel to Gracling, then Bitterblue, which will bring Katsa and Po back along with an older version of Bitterblue, which will certainly be the next best thing.

In the Middle Monday Review of The Odd Job Squad by Karl Fields

2011-09-05T06:53:00.000-05:00

In the Middle Monday is a feature where I review books that while geared towards middle school readers are what I believe represent excellent examples of story.

The best way to get even is to get Odd... Thirteen-year-old Ander Cartwright is an expert on two subjects: fortune cookies and payback. Especially payback. When he’s not struggling with algebra, Ander leads an anonymous revenge club that operates within the walls of Marina Middle School. Got a beef with a classmate? Email Ander’s crew and, if your case if legit, they’ll get even on your behalf. It’s not easy to right wrongs and fly under the radar at the same time. That’s why Ander developed three simple rules designed to help him and his friends stay incognito. But when Ander spots the opportunity to settle a score of his own, he ignores the rules, setting off a chain of events that threatens to blow his cover, and it’ll take all the butt-kicking, detention-dodging skill the guys can muster to keep a lid on their secret.(Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Middle school and bullies walk hand in hand down the locker filled halls of grades six through eight and Karl Fields takes this unfortunate fact of life and creates for his readers an entertaining yet realistic twist on getting even in his debut novel The Odd Job Squad.

Ander and his best buds Christian, Joe, and Shooter (the only girl in the group) have been trying to set things right for victims of bullying at Marina Middle since sixth grade. Together they decide which cases to take on from the various emails they received and follow a few simple rules: everyone has to agree to take on a case, the payback should match the crime, and it should never be personal. But when Ander gets a chance to payback an old nemesis he forgets the rules and the squad’s anonymity is threatened. What follows is a frantic push to set things right, and in the process, not only does Ander grow and learn about revenge not being sweet, but he also gets a glimpse at why bullies become bullies.

What makes The Odd Job Squad a perfect middle school read is equals amounts of charming relatable characters, interesting and original events, and real issues facing tweens and young adults. I loved Ander, who is a typical middle school guy who struggles with algebra and the fact that he lacks athletic abilities. But what he lacks in these two areas he more than makes up in personality and his strong sense of right and wrong. His intentions to fight for the underdogs is noble and his loyalty to his friends make Ander not only a fantastic narrator, but a character I wanted to succeed. He is a keen observer of human nature using what he labels as people’s preactions. Ander’s voice, as well as the other characters in the book, is authentic and gives credence to the story without compromising or watering it down as many middle school often authors do.

The events that move the story forward were completely original and fun to participate in. Part of the conflict involves a quest to score tickets to a boy band concert, which takes the odd squad on a scavenger hunt around San Francisco and ends up with Ander singing one of the band’s pop hits in Chinese.

But what I really appreciated most about the book was how Fields’ managed to deal with the issue of revenge without leaving the reader believing that getting even is an acceptable way to deal with bullies. The ending leaves the reader contemplating what causes a bully to be mean in the first place? And provides a few answers to reflect upon. I also enjoyed the other theme of friendship and the budding of romance that occurs between Ander and Shooter.

Although I usually prefer young adult novels, The Odd Job Squad is a book that will appeal to not only middle school, but many young adult and adult readers too. It is definitely a book I will be recommending to my students this year and will consider for next year's Area Wide Book Battle.

Source: Received copy for review from author

Book Looks Mini Review of Eon Dragoneye Reborn by Allsion Goodman

2011-09-01T05:20:00.000-05:00

Book Looks are mini reviews of books I have read where I atttempt (key word attempt) to review a book using six sentences or less. This format was created by Staci at Life in a Thumb .

Eon has been studying the ancient art of Dragon Magic for four years, hoping he'll be able to apprentice to one of the twelve energy dragons of good fortune. But he also has a dark secret. He is actually Eona, a sixteen-year-old girl who has been living a dangerous lie for the chance to become a Dragon-eye, the human link to an energy dragon's power. It is forbidden for females to practice the Dragon Magic and, if discovered, Eon faces a terrible death. After a dazzling sword ceremony, Eon's affinity with the twelve dragons catapults him into the treacherous world of the Imperial court, where he makes a powerful enemy, Lord Ido. As tension builds and Eon's desperate lie comes to light, readers won't be able to stop turning the pages. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

I had no idea when I downloaded Eon Dragoneye Reborn from Audible that I would irrevocably fall in love with this book. The plot, which focuses around Eon's master's attempt to sponsor a dragoneye apprentice hoping to regain a power position in the Emperor's court is richly steeped in old world dragon lore that has strong Asian influences. I loved the intrigued that centered around the dragoneyes, the Emperor and his son, and the Emperor's brother's, subterfuge; unfortunately, Eon becomes both a pawn and savior in the upheaval that ensues. Eon who has been forced to disguise the fact that he is actually a she is one of the most dazzling characters I have ever met. Although physically handicapped, mentally she is one of the strongest female leads in YA. Her affections toward those around her know no bounds, and she fights tooth and nail for what is right even at the cost of her own safety. In addition to, Goodman's masterful characterization of Eon, the secondary characters also breathed life into each page making this an epic tale that should not be missed and I highly recommend the audio version read by Nancy Wu.

Waitng on Wednesday Supergirl Mixtape by Meghan Brothers

2011-08-31T03:03:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Meghan Brothers
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
Release date: April 2012

After years of boredom in her rural South Carolina town, Maria is thrilled when her father finally allows her to visit her estranged artist mother in New York City. She’s ready for adventure, and she soon finds herself immersed in a world of rock music and busy streets, where new people and ideas lie around every concrete corner. This is the freedom she’s always longed for—and she pushes for as much as she can get, skipping school to roam the streets, visit fancy museums, and flirt with the cute clerk at a downtown record store.

But just like her beloved New York City, Maria’s life has a darker side. Behind her mother’s carefree existence are shadowy secrets, and Maria must decide just where—and with whom—her loyalty lies.(Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

I was perusing Listopia on Goodreads yesterday and came across this book. The cover was the first thing obviously that caught my eye. I love that it doesn't have a gorgeous girl in a flowing dress or a face with big eyes, but the summary cemented things. The setting in New York and the idea of the freedom the protagonist gets when going to visit Dad, rock and roll, and oh yes the darker side of freedom that test loyalties all sound like this will be a intriguing YA addition.

What are you waiting on this week?

My Top Ten List of Books on My TBR List

2011-08-30T03:15:00.001-05:00

Because we all love lists, this meme created by The Broke and the Bookish was created to give us a chance to combine that love with our passion for books.

This week is all about the books we are most lusting after. Like a kid in a candy store, I am always wanting more so this is an easy list especially since I only have to list ten. So here are my current list of books I just have to have.

The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch: Last May after the Area Wide Book Battle an annual event created and host at the middle school where I work, I got to have lunch with James Dashner, Heather Brewer, and some bookish types from Scholastic. Of course we talked about book and this was a title that came up in our conversation. Since I am a huge fan of dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction I have been anxious to read it ever since.

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins: Oh how I adored Anna and the French Kiss and I am keeping my fingers crossed that this next book by Perkins is as good (dare I say or better) as her first novel)

Fury by Elizabeth Miles: OK I admit it I do lust after covers, but yesterday I read a fabulous review of this over at Daisy Chain Book Reviews, which has me counting the days before I can get to a book store to pick it up. Leanna compares it to Stephan King meets Lois Duncan with a dash of Greek mythology who can resist.

Frost by Wendy Delsol: While I have to wait another month for this one I am so wanting this book now. I loved Stork and really am looking forward to reading more about the Icelandic Stork society. This promises more romance, with Katla having to save Jack from the Snow Queen.

Witchlanders by Lena Coakley: I love male POV's and this one delivers along with another passion of mine witches. It also sounds like an original premise offering new territory for both my passions.

Supernaturally by Kristen White: Another sequel that I cannot wait to read. Paranormalcy was such an fun book with a terrific protagonist that I anxious to revisit Evie and the Paranormal Containment Agency.

The Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare: Unlike many readers I came to Clare's writing with The Clockwork Angel before I read her Mortal Instrument's series (which I later devoured), so I am anxious read more about Will and Jem (my fav).

Witch Song by Amber Argyle: Yet another witchy book, but again this one sets the main character on a quest to find a traitor and save the witches and the world.

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith: A twist of fate and quirks of timing offer up a story that plays out over a 24 hour period definitely must to read this one.

The Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon: Another cover lust, but it also is set in Ireland at a school and offers up a fated romance that spells possible "ultimate destruction" how can I resist.

What books do you have on your current TBR list?

ReviewEnclave by Ann Aguirre

2011-08-29T08:25:00.000-05:00

In Deuce’s world, people earn the right to a name only if they survive their first fifteen years. By that point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups–Breeders, Builders, or Hunters, identifiable by the number of scars they bear on their arms. Deuce has wanted to be a Huntress for as long as she can remember.

As a Huntress, her purpose is clear—to brave the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading ferocious monsters known as Freaks. She’s worked toward this goal her whole life, and nothing’s going to stop her, not even a beautiful, brooding Hunter named Fade. When the mysterious boy becomes her partner, Deuce’s troubles are just beginning.

Down below, deviation from the rules is punished swiftly and harshly, and Fade doesn’t like following orders. At first she thinks he’s crazy, but as death stalks their sanctuary, and it becomes clear the elders don’t always know best, Deuce wonders if Fade might be telling the truth. Her partner confuses her; she’s never known a boy like him before, as prone to touching her gently as using his knives with feral grace.

As Deuce’s perception shifts, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival. The mindless Freaks, once considered a threat only due to their sheer numbers, show signs of cunning and strategy… but the elders refuse to heed any warnings. Despite imminent disaster, the enclave puts their faith in strictures and sacrifice instead. No matter how she tries, Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she’s ever known.(Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Although I came to Enclave by Ann Aguirre a bit late, I have to say that better late than never. To be sure, Enclave is a riveting example of just how gripping apocalyptic fiction can be if done right. From the devastated world building, which greatly affects the setting and atmosphere of the book to the sensational characterization that breathes life into the story, Enclave compels the reader to deal with life that is fraught with dangers, and survival trumps love and compassion.

Certainly in any post-apocalyptic tale, the world built must set the scene for what is to come and Aguirre does just that. Like the Enclave living in dark tunnels, Aguirre keeps her readers in dark about what has occurred to force this underground society. Instead, we learn about the harsh realities of life, where twenty-five is as old as it gets, only breeders are allowed to propagate, and children or brats are named only if they survive long enough to become useful members of the Enclave. As we adjust to this new reality we also begin to see that a lack of compassion has worn away much of the essences of humanity, and like Deuce and Fade we begin to question the status quo.

Deuce is an exceptional character and it is through her first person narrative that the story unfolds. Born and raised in the Enclave the tunnels are her only reality. While she has learned that being a hunter required strength and courage, and for the most part has accepted the wisdom of the elders, we are also given glimpses into her ability to question that wisdom. I loved Deuces ability to kick-ass, but was seriously drawn to her vulnerabilities, which made her stand out in such an unforgiving world of the Enclave and Topside.

Fade, Deuce’s hunting partner, and an outcast despite his expert hunting ability was the ideal counterpoint to Deuce and the other members of the Enclave. Allowed to become a member of the Enclave when he is found in the tunnels, his experiences Topside keeps him from embracing the blind rules set forth by the elders and his fierce sense of right and wrong greatly influences Deuce’s actions. As Deuce learns more about Fade, she begins to trust not only his incredible instincts, but his distrust of the Enclave, and when Deuce stands up for one of her friends and is banished from the Enclave Fade does not hesitate to join her.

Deuce and Fade are spectacular together. As they fight to survive, I found myself on edge rejoicing at their successes and cringing at their desperate plight. I also greatly enjoyed Deuce's Topside education, learning about the sun and stars, and libraries. While the Deuce and Fade find comfort with each other, I was happy that Aguirre held back from allowing their feelings for each other to become overly romantic, which would have negated the harsh realities of the world the perils they face daily. What few tender moments they did share ended up being very powerful.

Enclave is a fantastic story and while the ending was satisfying, it left me wanting more. I will be looking forward the book two and finding out whether Deuce and Fade's feeling for each other will grow, and whether the world around them will change for the better. I am also intrigued to find out whether some of the secondary character will end up will greater roles. If you are a an of post-apocalyptic fiction then don't miss this one.

Waiting on WednesdayWinter Town by Stephen Emond

2011-08-24T03:38:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Stephen Emond
Publisher: Little Brown Books
Release Date: Dec 5, 2011

Every winter, straight-laced, Ivy League bound Evan looks forward to a visit from Lucy, a childhood pal who moved away after her parent's divorce. But when Lucy arrives this year, she's changed. The former "girl next door" now has chopped dyed black hair, a nose stud, and a scowl. But Evan knows that somewhere beneath the Goth, "Old Lucy" still exists, and he's determined to find her... even if it means pissing her off.

Garden State meets Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist in this funny and poignant illustrated novel about opposites who fall in love. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

While there isn't a lot to go on in this summary, when I read it it reminded me a little of John Green's Paper Town and Looking for Alaska both of which I loved. I also have not read Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist, but read a lot of positive reviews and I like the idea about opposites attracts. What do you think?

What are you waiting for?

ReviewAshfall by Mike Mullin

2011-08-22T04:43:00.000-05:00

Under the bubbling hot springs and geysers of Yellowstone National Park is a supervolcano. Most people don't know it's there. The caldera is so large that it can only be seen from a plane or satellite. It just could be overdue for an eruption, which would change the landscape and climate of our planet.

Ashfall is the story of Alex, a teenage boy left alone for the weekend while his parents visit relatives. When the Yellowstone supervolcano erupts unexpectedly, Alex is determined to reach his parents. He must travel over a hundred miles in a landscape transformed by a foot of ash and the destruction of every modern convenience that he has ever known, and through a new world in which disaster has brought out both the best and worst in people desperate for food, water, and warmth. With a combination of nonstop action, a little romance, and very real science, this is a story that is difficult to stop reading and even more difficult to forget.(Publisher'e sumary from Goodreads)

Ashfall by Mike Mullin authentically captures a world devastated by a large-scale natural disaster through the eyes and actions of sixteen-year-old Alex. From his spot on descriptions of the ramifications of a super volcano erupting and the resulting change of landscape, to his realistic characterization, Mike Mullin has created a post-apocalyptic novel that is suspenseful and edgy and impossible to put down.

Mullin delivers a front row seat to his readers as he aptly describes the effects of Yellowstone’s supervolcano erupting. From the artillery like bombardment of Alex’s home and town, the destruction of all the technology we have become so dependent on, to the ash that completely transforms the landscape into a unrecognizable wasteland, in a matter of a few chapters, Mullin creates an atmosphere where life becomes a terrifying struggle to survive.

As with all disasters, Alex soon experiences first hand that people’s reactions are either positive or negative, and while some readers might find aspects of the plot hard to take I feel that had Mullin not included the more negative actions Alex experiences would have greatly skewed the authenticity of the story.

Besides the realistic portrayal of a land in chaos, Mullin’s did a fantastic job with his characters. Alex is a very typical sixteen-year old who adamantly resists a family trip to his uncle’s farm exasperating his mother enough for her to give in to his demands. From the moment Alex decides to go in search for his family, we begin to see that his journey will be as transforming to Alex's personality as the ash is to human existence . With each new experience, Alex’s personality changes from a spoiled entitled teen to a confident caring man. Along the way, Alex meets Darla, who proves to be a strong and independent character with great survival instincts. Through a tragic turn of events Darla joins forces with Alex, and each in turn, work together to locate Alex’s family. The romance between them is extremely well-written and adds yet another layer to Alex’s growth without distracting the reader from the dire realities of their situation.

Ashfall is one of the best post-apocalyptic novels I have read. It is extremely well researched with details that maintain a realistic atmosphere I have found lacking in similar novels. Although there are portions of the book that might not be appropriate for younger middle school readers, (murders and rape) these events are not superfluous, and add authenticity of the story. The ending is cautiously hopeful and perfectly aligned with the emotional weight of the story. Highly recommended.

Source: received copy for review from author

Waiting on Wednesday Never Eighteen by Megan Bostic

2011-08-17T03:38:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Megan Bostic
Publisher: Graphica
Release date: Jan 12, 2012

Austin Parker is on a journey to bring truth, beauty, and meaning to his life.

Austin Parker is never going to see his eighteenth birthday. At the rate he’s going, he probably won’t even see the end of the year. The doctors say his chances of surviving are slim to none even with treatment, so he’s decided it’s time to let go. But before he goes, Austin wants to mend the broken fences in his life. So with the help of his best friend, Kaylee, Austin visits every person in his life who touched him in a special way. He journeys to places he’s loved and those he’s never seen. And what starts as a way to say goodbye turns into a personal journey that brings love, acceptance, and meaning to Austin’s life. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

So what attracts me about this book first is it is another road trip novel (just finished Amy and Roger's Epic Detour and loved it), it is from a male POV, and it will be both literally and figuratively quite an emotional ride. What's not to want?

What are you waiting on?

It's Monday Here What I've Been Reading

2011-08-15T03:35:00.000-05:00

It's Monday, What Are you Reading is a weekly meme hosted by Shelia @ One Person's Journey Through a World of Books where I answer the question, "What are you reading?"

This Monday marks the official first day of school, and for the last couple of weeks between making preparations for this day, and trying to finish up all my summer projects I have been a bit distracted from spending much time on the blog. I have been reading, but even that has taken a back seat, but I am hoping once I settle back into my daily routine that I will also be back to reading and blogging on a daily basis.

Books Read:

Ashfall by Mike Mullen

A highly enjoyable dystopian novel that felt like the real deal. Told from a male POV I loved Alex and was rooting for him all the way!

Fairy Bad Day by Amanda Ashby

Not my favorite read of the bunch but still a cute and often funny take on the things that go bump in the night.

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Everything you have heard about this one is true. The road trip is awesome and Amy is my new best friend. I would also take a road trip with Roger any day and hate for it to end.

Eon Dragoneye Reborn by Alison Goodman

I fell in love with this epic tale of a young girl forced to become a boy in order to become a dragonseye. The Chinese mythology and lore is amazing and all the characters are phenomenal.

Currently Reading/ Listening to:

Eona The Last Dragoneye by Alison Goodman

A very exciting sequel to Eon Dragoneye Reborn. Eona is a marvelous character and the action is nonstop.

The Help by Kathren Stockett

I have been wanting to see this movie, but decided to read the book first. Although not my normal genre, I am enjoying it a lot.

So that's what I have been up to for the last couple weeks. What are you reading?

Win ARC copy of Witch Song by Amber Argyle

2011-07-29T07:20:00.000-05:00

Heads up to anyone and everyone who loves paranormal and especially stories about witches!

Amber Argyle invites you to check out her awesome giveaway of an ARC copy of her debut novel which will be released September 1.

The world is changing. Once, Witch Song controlled everything from the winds to the shifting of the seasons-but not anymore. All the Witches are gone, taken captive by a traitor. All but Brusenna. As the echo of their songs fades, the traitor grows stronger. Now she is coming for Brusenna. Her guardian has sworn to protect her, but even he can't stop the Dark Witch. Somehow, Brusenna has to succeed where every other Witch has failed. Find the traitor. Fight her. Defeat her. Because if Brusenna doesn't, there won't be anything left to save.

Check out the giveaway on Amber's blog

ReviewFallen Star by Jessica Sorenson

2011-07-28T06:40:00.000-05:00

For eighteen year-old Gemma, life has never been normal. Up until recently, she has been incapable of feeling emotion. And when she's around Alex, the gorgeous new guy at school, she can feel electricity that makes her skin buzz. Not to mention the monsters that haunt her nightmares have crossed over into real-life. But with Alex seeming to hate her and secrets popping up everywhere, Gemma's life is turning into a chaotic mess. Things that shouldn't be real suddenly seem to exist. And as her world falls apart, figuring out the secrets of her past becomes a matter of life and death.(Summary from Goodreads)

While Fallen Star by Jessica Sorensen had several elements that on the surface speaks to its originality in the paranormal genre, there were just too many aspects both major and minor that left me flat and struggling to finish the book.

First, the minor problems. As an English teacher, I get very distracted by typographical errors. When I read an arc copy, I am aware that the book may still have some errors present, but when I read a finished project I expect those errors to be fixed. Unfortunately, the copy I received of Fallen Star was a finished copy and there were lots of glaring mistakes throughout.

Another minor problem was the mishmash of paranormal creatures. While I found the Death Stalkers quite original and accepted that one of the main secondary characters was a witch, when the author threw in a vampire, I felt that it was just too much, and I never fully grasped the reason behind making this character a vampire to begin with.

One of the major reasons that the story fell flat with me were the characters. Gemma was a very annoying MC. She was immature, whiny, and spent most of the book vacillating between hating Alex or swooning at his touch, which was electrical (for real not metaphorical). Personally, Alex was the last guy I would swoon over as he was arrogant and pompous and never really redeemed himself in my eyes. The only character who I actually liked was Laylen, the Keeper turned vampire, and I was disappointed when just as quickly as he was introduced he disappeared from the story.

Finally, while I feel that the plot had some very original aspects I also felt that the execution of these aspects were either overlooked, or dragged out. It took forever to gain answers about who Alex was and why his sudden appearance in Gemma’s life. The attraction Gemma held for Alex was also difficult for me to understand since he remained uncommunicative and secretive with her throughout the story and only showed a vague interested in her towards the end.

Overall, I had a tough time finishing this book. What caused me to see it through, however, was my belief that Sorensen original concept would eventually shine. The ending was quite the cliffhanger leaving the reader with more questions than answers, so I am sure that a second book will be forth coming. Hopefully, Gemma will mature and Alex will redeem himself. I am also in the minority of opinions on this one, so I would stress that you check out a few other reviews on Goodreads.

Source: Received copy of book from author

Waiting on WednesdayFrost by Wendy Delsol

2011-07-27T03:14:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Authors: Wendy Delsol
Publisher: Candlewick
Release Date: October 11, 2011

After the drama of finding out that she’s a Stork, a member of an ancient and mystical order of women, and that her boyfriend, Jack, is a descendent of the Winter People able to control the weather, Katla Leblanc is delighted when all signs point to a busy and peaceful Christmas. That is, until the snowstorm Jack summons as a gift to Katla turns into the storm of the century, attracting Brigid, a gorgeous scientist who, in turn, attracts Jack. Between the school play, a bedridden, pregnant mother’s to-do lists, and keeping an eye on her aging grandfather, Katla doesn’t have time to question Brigid’s motives or deal with Jack’s increasingly cold behavior. But Katla’s suspicions mount when Jack joins Brigid on a research expedition to Greenland, and when the two of them go missing, it becomes clear that Katla is the only one who can save her beloved Jack from the Snow Queen who holds him prisoner. Adventure, romance, and myth combine in this winter escapade for teens who like a bit of fire with their ice. (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

I loved Stork the first book in this series, which offered up some original and interesting Nordic mythology along with an excellent romance, and a lot of excitement and action. I am hoping that Frost will be as good maybe better, which makes me want this book NOW!

Book Look/ Mini ReviewKara, Lost by Susan Niz

2011-07-25T06:01:00.000-05:00

Book Looks are mini reviews of books I have read where I atttempt (key word attempt) to review a book using six sentences or less. This format was created by Staci at Life in a Thumb .

Sixteen-year-old Kara flees the suffocation of her suburban life, trading in her home and family for a gritty, anonymous existence on the streets of Minneapolis. She begins a perilous journey, naive, well-intentioned, and isolated as she struggles to reconnect with her older sister.

In her debut novel Susan Niz chronicles Kara’s struggles living on the streets alone. I found Kara’s voice to be quite authentic and Niz’s prose definitely had moments that were stunning and poignant. However, I am not a huge fan of a story told primarily by narration and because Kara’s story mostly documents her day to day struggle there is very little dialogue to break up her thoughts and feelings. What I did like was Kara’s strength and perseverance. Faced with overcoming the odds of finding a job and a safe place to live, Kara manages to survive and even finds a way to go back to school. Niz definitely had me emotionally invested in Kara’s story, forcing me to keep reading to find out what would become of her. The climax felt a bit manipulative and the ending too rushed and a bit too neatly package to be fit the otherwise realistic portrayal of Kara’s story.

Kara, Lost is a raw gritty look at one teenager’s struggle on the street and Susan Niz is an author whose work I will definitely read again.

Source: Received book for review from author

Show Me Five ReviewAngel by L.A. Weatherly

2011-07-23T08:03:00.000-05:00

Angel by L. A Weatherly

2 Words that describe the book:

Action-packed, romance

3 Settings or characters

The setting in Angel covers a large amount of the US, including the east coast where Alex finds Willow then cross country to New Mexico, the Sierra Nevada, and eventually Denver.

My favorite setting was the small mining cabin Alex takes Willow after several near misses with both angels and people trying to kill Willow. The cabin is a place where Alex and his brother would go to relax after an assignment and is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains.

It is basically one room with a single cot and a table where the two play cards. They use a small mountain stream to bathe in.

The reason this is my favorite setting is because the cabin provides Alex and Willow a chance to get to know each other and relax enough to express their feelings for one another. It is also the calm before the storm because leaving the mountain means Willow is facing almost certain death.

Willow is a very special character. For most of her life she has taken care of her mother, who has angel burn, and lives inside herself. Willow is different than most girls her age. She is not into fashion preferring to buy vinatage clothers to fashionable ones. She can fix cars, and is psychic. Having been responsible for her mother since she was very young she is independent and has no trouble standing up for herself. She has long wavy blonde hair large eyes and a pixie-ish chin and she is half-human half-angel.

Alex like Willow never had a childhood. At the age of five his mother died as a direct cause of angel burn. His father built a camp to train angel killers and Alex and his brother Jason grew up learning how to detect an angel's aura, and how to kill them. At seventeen he has lost both his brother and father, hates angels, and is the best angel killer around.

He is medium build, slim, but with firm-looking shoulders and moves like an athlete confident in his own body. He seems older than he is with bluish-grey eyes and dark hair slightly tousled, growing down past his ears.

4 Likes/dislikes

The plot of Angel was extremely fast-paced. I enjoyed Weatherly's take on angels. These are not benevolent beings, but feed off of humans leaving them with angel burn. The humans become sick either mentally, physically or both and eventually die from their contacts with angels, although once feed off, they can only see the angels as beautiful creatures who deserve to be worshiped and adored, which is why Alex hates them so.

Although it took me a while to embrace the fact that the story alternates between Willow's POV and third person, I eventually grew to not only understand why Weatherly chose this, but ended up liking it. First, it gave a greater insight into Willow's character and also allowed me to understand the magnitude of background needed to know not only Alex, but the sinister plan the angels had to destroy the human race.

The romance between Willow and Alex was very well done. At first they are uncomfortable with each other. Alex knows Willow is half-angel and his whole life has been dedicated to killing angels. Willow is trying to come to terms with that fact that she is on the run because the angels are trying to kill her. As they travel across county together they both begin to rely on each other. Alex protects Willow and Willow saves Alex's life. The time they spend in the mining cabin cements their feelings. Their relationship is slow and steady and deeply rooted in a mutual need to save mankind.

The ending was also very well down. I loved the respite Weatherly gave right before the climax. I also was quite satisfied that instead of a major cliff-hanger or a neat wrap up that the story ended with enough tension that ensured the sequel would see Willow and Alex together fighting another day.

5 Cherries of less:

I am giving Angel five cherries because I feel it was a extremly well written book that kept me reading to find out what would happen to two really amazing characters. I love the intricate plot and the unique angel mythology.

I want to thank Leanna at Daisy Chain Book Reviews for this book. It may have taken me a while to get around to reading it, but now that I have I am grateful that I was lucky enough to have won it.

Waiting on WednesdayThe Calling by Kelly Armstrong

2011-07-20T03:36:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Kelly Armstrong
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: April 2012

Maya Delaney’s paw-print birthmark is the sign of what she truly is—a skin-walker. She can run faster, climb higher, and see better than nearly anyone else. Experiencing intense connections with the animals that roam the woods outside her home, Maya knows it’s only a matter of time before she’s able to Shift and become one of them. And she believes there may be others in her small town with surprising talents.

Now, Maya and her friends have been forced to flee from their homes during a forest fire they suspect was deliberately set. Then they’re kidnapped, and after a chilling helicopter crash, they find themselves in the Vancouver Island wilderness with nothing but their extraordinary abilities to help them get back home. Plentiful action and romance in this second installment in the Darkness Rising series will keep readers enthralled to the last page. (Summary from Author's Website)

I loved The Gathering because it was such a wonderful paranormal suspense with some of the most real and well developed characters I have read in the genre including the secondary characters. The story ended with a cliffhanger and I cannot wait to find out what happens next to Maya. If you haven't read The Gathering yet you have some time before this one comes out.

What are you waiting for?

Jan's Top Ten Books That Should Be Required Reading for Teens

2011-07-19T06:22:00.002-05:00

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created here at The Broke and the Bookish. This feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists at The Broke and the Bookish and love sharing their lists with other bookish folks.

Each week a new Top Ten list is posted that one of the bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

This is the first time I have participated in Top Ten Tuesday, but I couldn't pass this one up. Since I began this blog as an extension to the independent reading component in my 8th grade classroom, almost every book I read ends up on my classroom shelf, and I am always encouraging my students to try this book or that, hoping to develop a life long love of reading before they get to high school. Since I teach the younger ranger of teens, I have tried to compile a list of books that will speak to them as well as books that represent older teens.

1. To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee: This is a quintessential coming of age read for everyone. It is also the perfect example of how all the elements of fiction come together to produce one of the finest stories ever told.

2. Lord of the Flies by William Goldings: Another fantastic coming age tale, but very different in the telling. The allegorical connections to the characters and the themes make this a must read in classic literature.

3. Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes by Edith Hamilton: All teens need a basic background in Greek mythology and Edith Hamilton is the Queen of Myth. These ageless tales provide background for understanding much of classic literature and poetry as well as a lot of today's popular tales.

4. Ender's Game by Orson Card Scott: This is a very accessible science fiction novel and deals with two opposing traits compassion and ruthlessness.

5. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie: Funny and poignant Alexi accurately portrays life on an Indian Reservation and a boy's struggle to rise above the his culture without losing it in the process. Definitely one of my favorite books.

6. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson: A important story both for girls and boys, with a strong message about speaking out and getting help.

7. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling: Although by the time most kids become teens I think they have already entered the world of HP, I still think this is a series all teens should be familiar with. Already classics they will continue to entice and entertain our youth for decades and is a great stepping stone to the fantasy genre.

8. Romeo and Juliet/Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare: While I think all teens should be exposed to the Bard, these two are accessible representations of his tragic and his comedic prowess. Both great plays they each allow for very different conversations about love.

9. The Giver by Lois Lowery: Although this book has primarily been demoted to 5th grade, I think every teen should read it. It is a fantastic example of a dystopian world disguised as a utopia.

10. The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton: Another coming of age story that explores class differences. Because of Hinton's age at the time the story is quite authentic in it characterization and appeals even to reluctant readers.

After working up this list I still have quite a few books that I could add, but then I would probably have a list of my top twenty, fifty or hundred so I am stopping here.

Review Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter

2011-07-18T06:37:00.000-05:00

Katarina Bishop has worn a lot of labels in her short life: Friend. Niece. Daughter. Thief. But for the last two months she’s simply been known as the girl who ran the crew that robbed the greatest museum in the world. That’s why Kat isn’t surprised when she’s asked to steal the infamous Cleopatra Emerald so it can be returned to its rightful owners.

There are only three problems. First, the gem hasn’t been seen in public in thirty years. Second, since the fall of the Egyptian empire and the suicide of Cleopatra, no one who holds the emerald keeps it for long — and in Kat’s world, history almost always repeats itself. But it’s the third problem that makes Kat’s crew the most nervous, and that is . . . the emerald is cursed.

Kat might be in way over her head, but she’s not going down without a fight. After all, she has her best friend — the gorgeous Hale — and the rest of her crew with her as they chase the Cleopatra around the globe, dodging curses and realizing that the same tricks and cons her family has used for centuries are useless this time.

Which means, this time, Katarina Bishop is making up her own rules. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

For an uncommonly exciting read Ally Carter’s Uncommon Criminals definitely fits the bill. This fast paced sequel to Heist Society brings readers back into the world of Katrina (Kat) Bishop, whose family are master thieves. Kat who tried to run away from her family’s legacy has now embraced it, with one very important differences: she only steals priceless items in order to return them to their rightful owners. Consequently, when Kat is approached by a woman claiming to be the rightful owner of the Cleopatra Emerald, Kat’s inner Robin Hood goes into hyper drive. Knowing that the job is too big to do alone she turns to her crew, Gabrielle and Hale plus a new member of the family Uncle Charlie. Together they pull off another carefully executed heist. Unfortunately, after returning the emerald, Kat quickly realizes that she has been conned and it is up to her to set things right.

Uncommon Criminals builds upon Heist Society and for this reason, I am not sure that it can be read and enjoyed as much as it should be if you have not read the first book. If you have read Heist Society and like me found Kat to be an engaging and refreshingly different female protagonist in YA contemp novels then you will once again be entertained by Carter’s well executed plot and may even questions where Carter gets her research to plan such elaborate and complex heists.

Kat continues to be a strong female protagonist and grows stronger as a character in this book. After the high from pulling off the Henley job in the first book. Kat has taken to pulling off jobs alone. The fact that Kat steals objects that rightly belong to someone else allows her to separate what she does with what her family does. However, deep within her Kat revels in the adrenaline rush of her successes and the reader has to question Kat’s real motives. Eventually, with the help of Hale, her best friend and the romantic interest, Gabrielle, Kat's cousin, Simon, the techy of the crew, and some unexpected appearances from other family members, Kat comes to understand that the ultimate crew is family and there is strength in numbers.

While I found Uncommon Criminals as entertaining as Heist Society I am keeping my finders crossed that Carter’s next novel in this series finds Kat and Hale getting past the best friend stage and become a real couple. I also hope to see more of Gabrielle as I like her snarky, straight forwardness. If you like clever, twisty plots, with a strong female protagonists, and settings that have you wishing you were part of Kat's crew, both Heist Society and Uncommon Criminals will more than satisfy.

Waiting on WednesdayTiger's Voyage by Colleen Houck

2011-07-13T00:00:00.008-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Colleen Houck
Publisher: Splinter
Release Date: November 1, 2011

In the third installment of the Tiger series, Kelsey Hayes pushes through the pain of lost love and strengthens her friendship with Kishan. Despite his strong feelings for her, Kishan has agreed to be her ally in helping her reunite with the man she still loves. Together, they seek to help Ren regain his memory and begin the search for the third magical gift—an object of power that will help break the curse that causes them to live part of their lives as tigers.

They board a luxury yacht and seek Durga's aid once again, who supplies them with her golden weapons. With Nilima, Mr. Kadam, Ren, and Kishan at her side, she soon learns that the task ahead will be even more difficult than the others. Confronting a dark magician, multiple dragons, and terrifying denizens of the deep seems easy when compared to facing the daunting task of stitching up her heart. Just when she thinks she's ready to set her feet on a new path, she is yanked back with a jolt to the one she's determined to leave behind.

The jarring tug-of-war that ensues for Kelsey's heart leaves her anxious and confused. Combined with the stress of almost being killed every other day, it would appear that saving the tigers is almost more than she can handle. Still, she presses on, knowing that a choice is looming on the horizon. One she cannot put off making for long.

Tiger's Voyage is an irresistible romance with a barrage of action on the high seas, where a reader will find a treasure chest full of dragons, sea monsters, knights in shining armor, fabled weapons, and enduring love. The tropic waters of India create the backdrop for the latest installment in the tiger series. This novel, a multicultural take on the classic Beauty and the Beast tale, delves into the complex emotional turmoil and pressure associated with not only making the best choice for a nation but also the best choice for yourself.

I fell in love with the first two books in this series. The setting is amazing the story one of a kind and the romance steamy, heartbreaking, and very intense. The characters are wonderful and the plethora of paranormal aspects is a paranormal lover's dream. So yes I am very anxious to read this next one come November.

Review Crush Control by Jennifer Jabaley

2011-07-12T08:02:00.000-05:00

Willow has spent most of her life as her mother's sidekick in a popular Las Vegas hypnotism show. So when she and her mom move back to their sleepy southern hometown to start over, she thinks she's in for a life of quiet normalcy. Except that her new life turns out to be anything but, when she kinda sorta hypnotizes Quinton, the hottest guy on the football team, to fall madly, deeply, head over heels in love with her. But what started out as an innocent way to make her best friend, Max, jealous soon gets way out of hand, and Willow begins to wonder if the mind - and more importantly, the heart - is something you can really control.(Publisher's Summary from Goodreads)

While Crush Control deals with issues many YA contemp novels deal with (romance, relationships, friends), Jennifer Jabaley did a fantastic job creating a story that definitely stands out. Willow was a fantastic character. She has spent the past five years living in her mother’s shadow (the Hip Hypontist), invisible, responsible, and unwilling to take any risks. Max her best friend since childhood, and Willow have stayed in touch and although their relationship has been completely long-distant, Willow has high hopes that when she moves back to Georgia they will be able to move from best friend status to a more romantic one. Unfortunately, Max already has a girlfriend so in an effort to make Max jealous, Willow decides to use what she has learned about hypnotism from her mother and hypnotizes Quinton into being her boyfriend.

I found the idea of hypnotism extremely interesting and hilarious. Once Willow hypnotizes Quinton he falls head over heels for her. He follows her around, skips football practice, doesn’t do his homework, and showers her with gifts. Willow also get talked into helping Mia, the most popular girl in school overcome her fear of heights so she can perform more and more difficult cheerleading maneuvers. When things begin to go terribly wrong with Quinton, Willow and her new friend, Georgia try to undo the hypnotic suggestions. They even buy a magic potion and voodoo doll, but nothing works. While I really enjoyed the antics Willow and Georgia take to reverse Quniton’s over the top crush, I also kept hoping that Willow would realize just how over her head she was and seek help from her mother. Unfortunately, it isn’t until things go from bad to worse that Willow finally admits to her mother what she has done.

What I liked most about Crush Control were the strong relationships Jabaley developed. Willow and her mother were an interesting pair. I liked how comfortable they were with each other, and while I did understand that Willow felt overshadowed by her mother’s charisma, and even a bit disappointed in her refusal to build bridges with her own mother, in the end Willow realized that her mother was special and a good mom and was able to defend her without hesitation.

I also loved Max and Willow’s relationship. It was impossible to believe that Max and Willow would not end up together, but the more Willow refused to tell Max how she felt and made stupid decisions to try to win him over, the farther away she seemed to get from the what she wanted.

Finally, I really like how Jabaley shows that regardless of what people appear to be on the outside, they all have fears and doubts. Willow comes to see this most through her relationship with Mia. Although Mia seems to have the kind of life most high school girls would die for, Mia feels extreme pressure to be the best in everything she does. Deep down she hates parts of her life and confides this to Willow. I felt sorry for Mia and it made me wonder how many of girls like Mia there are.

Crush Control is a humorous story that touches on some serious issues of peer and parental pressures. The romance is fun and the characters relatable and authentic. It is a quick read that will have you chuckling and shaking your head up until the end, which although fairly predictable was still quite satisfying.

Source: Received copy of Crush Control from publisher for review

Waiting on WednesdayFrost by Marianna Baer

2011-07-06T05:01:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Marianna Baer
Publisher: Baltz & Bray
Release Date: September 13, 2011

Leena Thomas’s senior year at boarding school begins with a shock: Frost House, her cozy dorm of close friends, has been assigned an unexpected roommate: confrontational, eccentric Celeste Lazar. But while Leena’s anxiety about a threat to her sanctuary proves valid, it becomes less and less clear whether the threat lies with her new roommate, within Leena’s own mind, or within the very nature of Frost House itself. Mysterious happenings in the dorm, an intense triangle between Leena, Celeste, and Celeste’s brother, and the reawakening of childhood fears, all push Leena to take increasingly desperate measures to feel safe.

Frost is the story of a haunting. As to whether the demons are supernatural or psychological . . . well, which answer would let you sleep at night? (publisher's summary from Goodreads)

I have seen this one on a few other WoW's recently and am interested in it because of the last question asked in the summary...is the haunting supernatural or psychological? Intense and creepy I am intrigued to see just where the threat lies.

What are you waiting for?

Review Populazzi by Elise Allen

2011-07-04T09:49:00.000-05:00

Cara has never been one of those girls: confident, self-possessed, and always ready with the perfect thing to say. A girl at the very top of the popularity tower. One of the Populazzi.

Now, junior year could change everything. Cara’s moving to a new school, and her best friend urges her to seize the moment—with the help of the Ladder. Its rungs are relationships, and if Cara transforms into the perfect girlfriend for guys ever-higher on the tower, she’ll reach the ultimate goal: Supreme Populazzi.

The Ladder seems like a lighthearted social experiment, a straight climb up, but it quickly becomes gnarled and twisted. And when everything goes wrong, only the most audacious act Cara can think of has a chance of setting things even a little bit right.

Fitting in is a frequent theme in YA lit and Elise Allen’s Populazzi while lighted heart and funny at times also takes a serious look at what can happen when being popular is more important than being ourselves.

When Cara, the narrator of Populazzi, moves to a new school her best and only friend, Claudia, convinces her that she can reinvent herself simply by moving up on the proverbial social ladder of the school’s hierarchy by dating a guy who is part of that tier. Allen spends a good deal of the first few chapters defining Claudia and Cara’s version of school cliques, from the Happy Hopeless (the bottom rung), the Cubby Crews (theatre geeks, wastoids, genuis), DangerZone (dark troubled, fascinating, and above labels) and the Supreme Populazzi (beautiful, confident and admired) and I have to admit that I found her descriptions funny and germane.

Although I really like Cara I spent most of the book cringing at what she was doing. In the process of gaining social status she ignores and uses people who she cares about including the one guy who she really does like, but whose tier will not make her a Supreme Populazzi. Once she succeeds in moving up the ladder, I had a difficult time liking how blindly she accepted her behavior. It was impossible not to see that she was headed for real trouble early on, and I just wanted shake her until she saw it too. Once I finished the book and stopped cringing, I realized that what I was feeling was exactly the emotion Allen had wanted the reader to experience. It is impossible not to walk away from this book and realize that being popular is not as important as being true to ourselves.

Populazzi is a charming and entertaining read with a comical yet realistic look at high school’s social scene. While I knew that Cara would eventually wake up and see just how damaging it is to lie to those around you and to yourself, Allen managed to keep me tense right up to the end.

Source: Received copy for review from publisher

Review Flawless Ruin by Kieryn Nicolas

2011-07-01T06:11:00.000-05:00

In 2238, life in America is finally perfect. The Wars are over and the CommWall is in place, blocking communication with what remains of other continents. The women are content to have great education, choice careers, and glamorous hair. Best of all, when every girl turns seventeen she’s given her Like; an adorable, perfect spouse tailor-made just for her.

Everyone looks forward to the day she gets her Like, and Morgan Waters is no exception—until she accidentally stays out past curfew and stumbles across someone who appears to be a Like but claims to be a man. Morgan’s perfect world crumbles down around her in the midst of a forbidden romance, forcing her to deal with the realization that her life may not be so flawless after all.

In her dystopian novel Flawless Ruins, Kieryn Nicolas cleverly reveals that even perfection has flaws and what is one person’s utopia is another’s nightmare.

I found Nicolas’ world building nearly flawless. Unlike some dystopian novels where it takes time to assimilate the differences, Nicolas eases us into life in 2238 America through her use of alternating points of view. Morgan’s POV allows the reader to experience what it is like to be a seventeen year-old girl in a world run entirely by women, and like Morgan, we experience a world that seems idyllic. However, unlike Morgan we also understand that there is no such thing as perfection and when Morgan meets Neil we begin to see just how flawed this world truly is.

In addition to strong world building Nicolas also did a terrific job building characters who were quite believable. Morgan is a fairly typical seventeen year-old strongly committed to becoming a doctor just like her mother. She is excited about her best friend’s upcoming Amore and like all seventeen year-olds is looking forward to her own. But what I liked most about Morgan was her gumption. When the world she knows begins to fray around the edges, instead of turning a blind eye to it she investigates without hesitation. Neil on the other hand was a bit more difficult to like at first. He is moody, and suspicious of Morgan and remains guarded through most of the book. However, as we learn more about Neil’s life these traits are completely understandable. Besides the two main characters, I loved Hans, Neil’s roommate. He is funny, supportive and very pragmatic and was a excellent addition to the story.

Flawless Ruins is also very well paced. There is not a lot of action, but this only helps solidify the extraordinary world in which Nicolas has created. The pacing also was perfect for the romance that builds between Neil and Morgan. Anything faster would been unrealistic. The ending, although, a bit rushed still left me quite satisfied.

Flawless Ruins is a fantastic dystopian novel with a believable and substantial world. Nicolas takes a close look at how even good intentions can go terribly wrong. Through her strong characterization, readers will take away a powerful message: perfection cannot be manipulated and it is our flaws that make us individuals.

Source: Received copy for review from author

Waiting on WednesdayIlluminated by Erica Orloff

2011-06-29T03:23:00.000-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

Author: Erica Orloff
Publisher: Speak
Release Date: December 8, 2011

Some loves are not made to last . . . Like Romeo and Juliet, Heloise and Abelard were doomed from the start, and their romance was destined to pass into history. Yet when sixteen-year-old Callie Martin discovers a diary hidden within an antique book, their story - and hers - takes on another life. For the diary leads Callie to the brilliant and handsome August, who is just as mysterious as the secret the diary hides. Their attraction is undeniable. As the two hunt down the truth behind the diary - and that of Heloise and Abelard's ancient romance - their romance becomes all-consuming. But Callie knows it can't last . . . love never does. Will their love that burns as bright as a shooting star flame out, or will these star-crossed lovers be able to defy history? (Publisher's summary from Amazon)

Star crossed lovers, a hidden diary, an ancient love, and a mystery even if the cover wasn't brilliantly gorgeous I would be hooked by the summary. So ya, I am anxious to read this one.

What are you waiting on this week?

Review Redheart by Jackie Gamber

2011-06-28T04:56:00.000-05:00

Enter the lands of Leland Province, where dragon and human societies have long dwelled side by side. Superstitions rise sharply, as a severe drought strips the land of its bounty, providing fertile ground for the darker ambitions of Fordon Blackclaw, Dragon Council Leader, who seeks to subdue humans or wipe them off the face of the land.

As the shadow of danger creeps across Leland Province, a young dragon named Kallon Redheart, who has turned his back on dragons and humans alike, comes into an unexpected friendship. Riza Diantus is a young woman whose dreams can no longer be contained by the narrow confines of her village, and when she finds herself in peril, Kallon is the only one with the power to save her. Yet to do so means he must confront his past, and embrace a future he stopped believing in.

A tale of friendship, courage, and ultimate destiny, Redheart invites readers to a wondrous journey through the Leland Dragon Series. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Jackie Gamber’s first book in The Leland Dragon Series, Redheart takes the reader to a setting where dragons and humans have lived side by side for a long time. We are introduced to Kallon Redheart a disenfranchised young dragon who prefers his solitary life to being a part of dragon society, and to Riza, who has left her home because she wants more from life than marriage, motherhood, and farming. When these two unlikely characters meet, their destiny becomes entwined and their lives are changed forever.

What immediately struck me about this YA fantasy was the clever way Gamber reveals her characterization through the dialogue between Kallon and Riza. Both the pacing and background information about the two main characters are conveyed primarily through their interactions building an unusual yet believable relationship. This also allows the reader to suspend disbelief for the surprising end, and keeps the reader rooting for these characters when both their lives are threatened.

Strong themes of friendship, love, honor, independence, and duty are seamlessly woven into this first book, providing readers with a lasting impression. Although the ending is more than satisfying it is also clear that Kallon and Riza’s destiny is not complete raising questions of what else is in store for these two in future books.

Redheart is a lovely fantasy that provides strong characterization, an evenly paced storyline, and engaging themes. It is a quick read bringing together those elements that make fantasy an enjoyable escape from reality.

Source: Received book for review from Seventh Star Press

Show Me Five ReviewThe Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

2011-06-25T07:29:00.001-05:00

Show Me Five is a review format created by That's a Novel Idea as a weekly Saturday meme. The number indicates how many answers you will provide.

1 Book:

The Gathering by Kelly Armstrong

2 Words:

Fabulously unique

3 Setting/characters:

The Gathering is set on Vancouver Island and is a very important part of the plot influencing not only Armstrong's characterization, but the over all conflict.

The thousand acre park

The main action takes place in the fictional town of Salmon Creek, surrounded by a thousand acre state park. The town, most of the homes, and the private school were all built by The St Cloud Corporation, a top secret research facility for the company's employees. Everyone who lives in Salmon Creek works for the St. Cloud Corporation with only a few exceptions.

Maya's Home

This includes the main character, Maya whose father is the park warden and whose mother is an environmental architect, Kenjii, Maya's German Shepard, and Fitz, a three legged cougar.


Fitz

Maya is an fantastic character and the narrator of the story. Her parents adopted her after she was left at a hospital when she was an infant. While she knows she is Native American she does not know what tribe she is from. She has a way with animals and helps her father with the animals they rescue from the park. Her best friend Serena drowned a year ago right in front of her and she is still dealing with that loss. She is smart, sensible, grounded, and strong enough to beat most of the guys she knows rock climbing. She has a wonderful relationship with both her parents, and with Daniel, who was Serena's boyfriend and now her best bud.

Rafael---Rafe---Martinez is new to Salmon Creek. He lives with his older sister in a cabin they inherited from a distant relative and has been allowed to go to school in Salmon Creek's so he wouldn't have to spend hours on a bus every day to attend another school in a distant town. While his name suggests he is Latino, his high cheek bones and amber eyes look Native. He is tall, lean with black hair down to his shoulder. He is a player with sexy eyes and crooked smile.

4 Likes and or Dislikes

I love how original the plot of The Gathering was. It is by far one of the best paranormal books I have read this year. The mystery surrounding Serena's death, the medical facility, and Rafe had me turning pages fast and furiously, and while Armstrong only begins to unfold some of the secrets in this first book I am completely hooked.

Armstrong's characterization is amazing. I adored Maya. Her voice is clear and strong, and she is one of the most sensible female protagonists I have ever come across. As she deals with the death of her best friend, and some strange changes she is experiences, she never becomes angsty or self indulged. I also am smitten with Daniel, who is Maya's best buddy. He is protective and caring. His home life sucks, but it never affects his positive attitude. I also loved Maya's parents. It was so refreshing to have both parents involved positively in their teen's life. Finally, although I was not immediately taken with bad boy Rafe because his motives remain hidden during the first half of the book, as the story unfolds and we learn more about him he did grow on me.

This is the first book I have read by Kelly Armstrong and I found her writing lush and vivid. I enjoyed reading about the unique setting, and felt the pacing of the book was excellent. The prologue drew me in immediately, and while there are a lot of questions left unanswered at the end, it only makes me want to read the next book in the series.

Finally, I felt that Armstrong did a fantastic job building the plot and her characters around the setting making this a perfect example of how a writer can use all the elements of fiction to craft a story that builds tension and creates atmosphere.

5 Stars or Less

Definitely a five star read for me. I felt the unusual nature of the paranormal aspect was quite inventive, and thought everything about the book was extremely well done.

Waiting on WednesdaySeizures by Kathy Reichs and Brendan Reichs

2011-06-22T02:34:00.002-05:00

Waiting On Wednesday, is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine and asks the question, "What are books are you anxiously waiting on?"

The second novel in the Virals trilogy from #1 bestselling author and inspiration for the TV series Bones-Kathy Reichs!

Ever since Tory Brennan and her friends rescued Cooper, a kidnapped wolf pup with a rare strain of canine parvovirus, they've turned from regular kids into a crime-solving pack! But now the very place that brought them together-the Loggerhead Island Research Institute--is out of funding and will have to shut down. That is, unless the Virals can figure out a way to save it!

So when Tory learns of an old Charleston legend about a famous she-pirate, Anne Bonney, whose fortune was never found, she can't believe her luck--buried treasure is exactly what she needs to save the Institute on Loggerhead! Trouble is, she and her friends aren't the only ones looking for it. And this time, the Virals' special powers may not be enough to dig them out of trouble . (Publisher's Summary from Goodreads)

As a fan of the long running TV series Bones, I read Kathy Reichs first book, Virals last year and loved the characters and the setting, so much I recommended this it for the 2012 Book Battle list. I am excited to revisit her characters in this second book. If you like action and mystery then I know you will enjoy Virals and be excited about Seizures too.

In the Middle Monday ReviewMoon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

2011-06-20T08:02:00.000-05:00

In the Middle Monday is where I review books geared towards the middle school audience.

The movement of the train rocked me like a lullaby. I closed my eyes to the dusty countryside and imagined the sign I’d seen only in Gideon’s stories: Manifest—A Town with a rich past and a bright future.

Abilene Tucker feels abandoned. Her father has put her on a train, sending her off to live with an old friend for the summer while he works a railroad job. Armed only with a few possessions and her list of universals, Abilene jumps off the train in Manifest, Kansas, aiming to learn about the boy her father once was.

Having heard stories about Manifest, Abilene is disappointed to find that it’s just a dried-up, worn-out old town. But her disappointment quickly turns to excitement when she discovers a hidden cigar box full of mementos, including some old letters that mention a spy known as the Rattler. These mysterious letters send Abilene and her new friends, Lettie and Ruthanne, on an honest-to-goodness spy hunt, even though they are warned to “Leave Well Enough Alone.” Abilene throws all caution aside when she heads down the mysterious Path to Perdition to pay a debt to the reclusive Miss Sadie, a diviner who only tells stories from the past. It seems that Manifest’s history is full of colorful and shadowy characters—and long-held secrets. The more Abilene hears, the more determined she is to learn just what role her father played in that history. And as Manifest’s secrets are laid bare one by one, Abilene begins to weave her own story into the fabric of the town.

For anyone who has read To Kill a Mockingbird and consider it a quintessential reading experience then Clare Vanderpool’s debut novel Moon Over Manifest will delight you with its compelling story and setting, powerful prose and endearing characters. I loved everything about this book from its double entendre title and adorable cover, to the way the narration unfolds Manifest’s historical past. All the elements work in tandem to bring together a tale that lives and breathes long after the last word is read.

One of the truly brilliant elements in Moon Over Manifest is how effectively Vanderpool weaves story with setting through the eyes of Abilene Tucker, one of the most unforgettable characters since Harper Lee’s Scout. The small town of Manifest, Kansas in 1936 is revealed primarily through first person narration. Vanderpool’s addition of newspaper articles, letters, and Miss Sadie, a diviner who regales Abliene with stories about Manifest’s past, allows the reader to walk hand in hand with Abilene as she attempts to understand why her father sent her to Manifest. The historical aspects of WWI, immigration, coal mining and prohibition combine to add color and realism to this town. Conflicted, Abilene searches to find among Manifest’s past a connection to her father hoping to answer the question of whether his desertion is temporary. Moon Over Manifest plot holds the reader’s attention through the rich use of symbolism, history, and disarming characters.

Vanderpool’s impressively clever plot is greatly magnified by her spectacular array of memorable characters and beautiful yet simple prose. The reader is introduced to not only the current town’s folk but also those who lived and contributed to Manifest’s past and present. While certain characters certainly stand out more than others, they all enhance and enrich this tale of loss and redemption. But the star is certainly Abilene. I ached for Abilene as she dealt with the possibility of never seeing her father again...

I remembered all these things about Gideon, but I couldn’t remember if he’d said the words or if I’d only imagined them. Those words I’m coming back for you.

Memories were like sunshine. They warmed you up and left a pleasant glow, but you couldn’t hold them.

...And I loved how this 12 year-old girl looked at the world and used her observation of it to make sense of herself and those around her...

I thought I knew a thing or two about people. Even had my list of universals. But I wondered. Maybe the world wasn’t made of universals that could be summed up in neat little packages. Maybe there were just people. People who were tired and hurt and lonely and kind in their own way and their own time...If there was such a thing as universal---and I wasn’t ready to throw all of mine out the window---it’s that there is power in a story. And if someone pays you such a kindness as to make up a tale so you’ll enjoy a gingersnap you go along with that story and enjoy every last bite.

Abilene’s childlike wisdom and sharp observation makes her voice resonate and will continue to be heard for years to come.

While I have barely touched the surface of the magnitude of Vanderpool’s novel, there is no possible way to fully explain just how truly special Moon Over Manifest really is. This is a book that must be experienced first hand, and in my humble opinion is a true classic in the making. While categorized as a middle level read, the intricate fabric of the story will be enjoyed and appreciated by any adult who loves to read.

Review Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Rigg

2011-06-16T08:14:00.000-05:00

A mysterious island. An abandoned orphanage. And 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 who once lived here—one of whom was his own grandfather—were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous. They may have been quarantined on a desolate island for good reason. And somehow—impossible though it seems—they may still be alive. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

Jacob loved listening and believed the imaginative stories of fighting monsters and the peculiar children his grandfather lived with at a Welsh orphanage during the start of WWII. That is until he got old enough to stop believing in Santa Claus and fairy tales. Even his grandfather’s pictures of the invisible boy, a levitating girl, a boy so strong he could lift huge boulders with one hand, and a kid with two mouths one in the back of his head could all be explained away as just tricks of photography. But when Jacob finds his grandfather dying from deep gashes in his chest, and briefly glimpses the monster from his grandfather’s stories, he completely with draws from life and blames himself, wishing he had believed his grandfather. His parents send Jacob to a psychiatrist who explains his nightmares and waking fears as acute stress reaction. As Jacob begins to deal with his grandfather’s death, he still cannot forget his grandfather’s dying words, “Find the bird. In the loop. On the other side of the old man’s grave. September third 1940 Emerson---the letter. Tell them what happened.”

Then on his sixteenth birthday his aunt gives him a book she found among his grandfather’s belongings: The Selected Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson with a inscription to Jacob. Inside the book is a letter from the headmistress of the orphanage written 15 years prior and suddenly Jacob begins to think that it might be possible to lay to rest his grandfather’s secrets by traveling to Wales and looking into his grandfather’s mysterious past.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is the most extraordinary and imaginative tale I have read in a very long time. Ransom Riggs debut novel combines a complex plot filled with unusual characters, historical content and a setting that is atmospheric perfection. Once I began reading, I was completely captivated by the first person narration, which is stunningly simple in its descriptions and realistically encapsulates Jacob’s voice. Jacob’s overwhelming need to make sense of his grandfather’s death and lay to rest the nightmares plaguing him every night drew me in like a moth to a flame and kept me by his side as the mystery surrounding the peculiar children unfolds and takes shape. The addition of authentic, vintage photographs adds an undeniable realism to the story.

As Riggs slowly reveals, through Jacob’s investigation of the coastal town of Cairnholm, facts about the peculiar children, and the orphanage’s reason for existing, Jacob’s nightmares become real. His interactions with headmistress Miss Peregrine, Emma, and several other orphans added a new dimension and scope to story and increased the suspense. Jacob eventually must make a difficult decision, not only about his future, but the future of the peculiar children he has befriended and who have befriended him. The ending was quite surprising and beautifully executed leaving me awed by Riggs talent for subtle foreshadowing.

Riggs one up’s the reader’s ideas of monsters and places before us characters so endearing that like Jacob we come to realize that their lives are worth sacrificing safety. Even though the odds might be against them, the reader cannot help but hope for a happy ending because these characters are now alive and a part of our psyche. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is brilliantly crafted and is certainly not to be overlooked by readers of all ages.

Source: Received copy from Melissa at Quirk Books for review

Its Monday Here's What I'm Reading

2011-06-13T03:25:00.003-05:00

Time for another Monday's meme with Shelia @ One Person's Journey Through a World of Books where I get to answer the question, "What are you reading?"

Last week marked my first full week of summer vacation. The weather here in the Midwest has been sweltering and it looks like summer has arrived ahead of schedule. With such heat it is easy to stay home in the air-conditioning and try putting a dent in my overly crowded TBR pile.

Books Read/Listened to/Reviewed

The Last Thing I Remember by Andrew Klavan

Exciting and action-packed this is one being considered for the 2012 Book Battle list. It is the first in a series and left a lot of unanswered questions.

Liar Society by Lisa and Laura Roecker

Fantastic mystery with wonderful characters and plot. A must read for anyone who enjoys trying to figure out whodunit.

Angel Fire by Courtney Allison Moulton

The first book in a series about demons and angels. Lots of action, vivid fight scenes, and the hint of romance. Characterization however, a bit flat.

The Cupcake Queen by Heather Hepler

Very charming story dealing with lots of teen issues. Loved the writing and the characters. This book is also being considered for the 2012 Book Battle list.

Tiger's Curse by Colleen Houck (Audio)

Awesome book. Loved, loved, loved the plot, characters and setting. A must read if you enjoy mythology and folklore, action, suspense and romantic tension.

Tiger's Quest by Collen Houck

The second book continues the character's struggles to find a way to break a 300 year old curse. Sets up a romantic triangle and takes us to Shangri-la. Ends with a cliff hanger that has me anxious to read the next book.

The Shifter by Janice Hardy

Another 2012 Book Battle nominee with a very interesting plot and characters. A little difficult to get into at first as the author world builds, but has a lot of action and is a great start to a new middle school series.

So that is what I have been reading this week. What did you read?

Review Tiger's Curse by Colleen Houck

2011-06-11T06:10:00.001-05:00

The last thing 17-year old Kelsey Hayes thought she’d be doing this summer was trying to break a 300-year-old Indian curse. With a mysterious white tiger named Ren. Halfway around the world. But that’s exactly what happened. Face-to-face with dark forces, spellbinding magic, and mystical worlds where nothing is what it seems, Kelsey risks everything to piece together an ancient prophecy that could break the curse forever. (Publisher's summary from Goodreads)

After losing her parents in a tragic car accident and moving in with foster parents, Sarah and Mike, Kelsey goes looking for a summer job to earn money for junior college in the fall. The employment agency sends her to the Maurizio’s Circus to help out with ticket sales and the care and feeding of the circus animals including the exotic white tiger named Ren. From the moment Kesley makes eye contact with the tiger’s cobalt blue eyes, she feels an emotional connection to Ren. She begins spending her evenings sketching the tiger and reading poetry and Shakespeare to him until one night she feels the inexplicable desire to touch his soft white fur. When Ren licks her hand and begins purring as she pets him, Kelsey fervently wishes that Ren could be free.

As Kelsey gets close to the end of her two weeks with the circus, a mysterious man makes an offer to buy Ren. Mr. Kadam is willing to pay an exorbitant amount so that he can return Ren to a Wildlife Reserve in India. Kelsey agrees to accompany Mr. Kadam to help make Ren’s trip smooth. But when Kelsey is suddenly left by the transport truck and finds Ren loose, she has not other choice but to follow the tiger as he leads her into the jungle where she meets a beautiful man who exclaims he is actually her tiger and explains how over 300 years ago he and his brother, Kishan were cursed by an evil and greedy man to live life as tigers. After his explanation, Ren declares that he believes Kelsey has the power to break the curse. Together she and Ren face many obstacles in their quest to find a way to help Ren and Kishan break the ancient curse that has imprisoned them.

Tiger’s Curse by Colleen Houck is one of those books where the plot, setting, and characters blend together seamlessly to create a mesmerizing tale of magic, adventure, and romance. Houck’s prose is spellbinding. She expertly weaves Indian and Hindu mythology and lore connecting Ren’s past and present with Kelsey’s role in breaking the curse, thus, creating an epic tale of betrayal, healing and love. Interspersed throughout the book are poems, and a prophecy that holds key elements to Ren and Kelsey’s success.

Aside from the mythology and lore which becomes a focal point in Ren and Kelsey’s quest, India’s landscapes such as the bustling city of Mumbai, the palatial home Mr. Kadam has maintain for the princes, the temples and ruins of Kishkindha and jungles are more than mere backdrops. The exotic setting generates an atmosphere of excitement, danger, and romance that builds tension and suspense throughout the book.

Adding to both the plot and the setting Houck breathes life into her characters. They become people the reader grows to care about. Kelsey is a lonely young women who accepts a summer job at a circus and becomes fascinated with white tiger. She feels more comfortable talking to the tiger than she does with humans. She is also bookish and reads both poetry and Shakespeare each evening with the tiger. She believes herself average looking and seems to have resigned herself to becoming a lonely adult. However Kelsey is very courageous, determined, and passionate about Ren and finding a way to break the curse. Her inquisitive nature and her no nonsense intelligence make her a wonderful character. The only exception was her continued insistence that Ren, the man, couldn’t possible love her, which dragged on a little too long and made me what to shake some sense into her.

Ren was also a fabulous character. His old world charm was irresistible as was his godlike good looks. Like Kelsey, I found him impossible to resist and shivered every time he spoke. He was completely fascinated with Kelsey and his manners were impeccable, yet he had a strength and a passionate nature that made me envy Kelsey and wish I could take her place. I also fell in love with Mr. Kadam, who was actually older than Ren. He had dedicated his life to finding a way to break the tiger’s curse and sacrificed himself unselfishly in the process. I loved his stories and how grandfatherly he was with Kelsey.

Tiger’s Curse definitely ranks up on my top ten best reads this year. I loved the story, the mythology, the setting, and the romance left me giddy. After finishing the book, I ran out and bought Tiger’s Quest, Houck’s second book in the series, which I devoured too and am now anxious to read the third book Tiger’s Voyage when it is release in November.

If I had a 4.5 rating scale Tiger's Curse would have rated this. The only reason I did not give it 5 Cherries is because of Kelsey's refusal to accept Ren loved her for her, which as I mention annoyed me.

My Book Boyfriend

2011-06-08T04:26:00.002-05:00

My Book Boyfriend is a weekly feature hosted by Missie at The Unread Reader allowing us to bring to life some of the most amazing men we can find between the covers of our books.

This week I have fallen deeply in love (and lust) with Prince Dhiren (Ren) from Tiger's Curse and Tiger's Quest by Colleen Houck.

Ren is over 300 years old but looks 20. After a curse turned him into a white tiger he has spent most of those years in captivity until Kelsey comes into his life. Kelsey becomes quite enthralled with the tiger and agrees to travel to India thinking she is taking him to a reserve and freedom.

Kelsey first finds out the truth when Ren morphs into the man:

I saw a handsome young man standing directly behind me ... he was taller than me by a head and had a strong, well-developed trim body that was clothed in loose white cotton garment. His long-sleeved shirt was untucked and carelessly buttoned, revealing a smooth well-built golden bronze chest ... glossy black hair swept away from his face and curled slightly at the nape of his neck. His eyes were what riveted me the most. They were my tiger's eyes the same deep cobalt blue ... He had full lips, a square jaw, and an aristocratic nose. He didn't look like any other man I'd ever seen. I couldn't place it, but there was something else, something cultured about him. He exuded confidence, strength and nobility ... He was as beautiful a man as he was a tiger.

He smelled wonderful, like waterfalls and woods mixed together

His eyes turned to my face. He smiled and reached a hand up to touch my cheek. My pulse quickened and my face felt hot where he touched it. I became suddenly aware that my fingers were still twined in his hair, and my hand was resting on his chest. I quickly removed them and twisted them in my lap. He sat up slightly, leaning on on hand which brought his beautiful face very close to mine. His fingers moved down to my chin and, with the lightest touch, he tilted my face so my eyes met his intense blue eyes.

The touch was sweet, hesitant, and careful, the way you might try to touch a frightened doe. His face was full of wonder and awareness. I quivered. he paused just a moment more, then smiled tenderly, dipped his head, and brushed his lips lightly against mine. He kissed me softly, tentatively, just a mere whisper of a kiss. His other hand slid down to my waist too... He gently pulled me closer and pressed me lightly against his chest I gripped his arms. He sighed with pleasure, and deepened the kiss.

There are many different types of kisses. There's a passionate kiss of farewell like the kind Rhett gave Scarlett when he went off to war. The kiss of I-can't-be-with-you-but-I want-to-be---like Superman and Lois lane, There's the first kiss---one that is gentle and hesitant, warm and vulnerable. Then there's he kiss of possession---which was how Ren kissed me now.

It went beyond passion, beyond desire. His kiss was full of longing, need, and love, like all those other kisses. But, it was also filled with promises and pledges, some of which seemed sweet and tender while others seemed dangerous and exciting. Ren was taking me over like he was staking a claim.

Even though Hrithik Roshan doesn't have the cobalt blue eyes Ren does, he has all the rest of Ren's features and if Ren was ever brought to life on the screen Hrithik with the aid of some blue contacts Hrithik definitely has he right stuff!

So how do you like Ren?