Extreme Reader Book Review

Author Drop In...featuring Cinda Williams Chima

2011-09-08T02:22:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to have one of my favorite authors on the blog today! Extreme Reader Book Reviews extends a warm welcome to Cinda Williams Chima! She is the author of the bestselling YA fantasy series: The Heir Chronicles (The Warrior Heir, The Wizard Heir, and The Dragon Heir) and the bestselling Seven Realms Series (The Demon King, The Exiled Queen, and The Gray Wolf Throne.... which just released on August 30th!) If you love fantasy you will love Cinda Williams Chima's books! I am honored to be able to share this incredible post written by Cinda. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. If you haven't read her series, then you MUST check them out!

How to Get an Author to Come to Your Town

by Cinda Williams Chima

I often receive emails, comments and messages from readers asking why I don’t come to their town for an author visit. This especially happens after I post the itinerary for an upcoming tour or I list an event on my blog or Facebook. No matter where I’m going, it seems the people who want to see me are somewhere else.

“Why aren’t you coming to my town?” they ask.

The truth is--I’d LOVE to come to your town—really, I would. I love to meet readers. But even an author who is lucky enough to be sent on tour doesn’t generally get to decide where she goes.

The publisher makes those decisions. My publicist will usually ask if I have any suggestions. If I’ve been hearing a lot from, say, Denver readers, I will mention it. Last time, I actually got on my Amazon author page and looked to see where my books were selling the most.

The publisher will also look at the size of the market, what book sales are like there, transportation costs, etc.

Beyond that, bookstores fill out request forms for authors they would like to host. Publicists quickly get to know which bookstores, libraries, and schools host awesome events that bring a great turnout. You will see certain bookstores hosting one event after another—because they’re so good at it.

My tours have been ten days long, meaning 8 or 10 cities. Plus some weekend gigs during the weeks surrounding the release. For efficiency and cost reasons, my tours usually focus on one region of the country. We try to switch around year to year.

Finally, if I’m aware of an event that would be the perfect place to showcase my book, I will ask my publisher to consider sending me. Sometimes my travel is sponsored by the bookfest/conference itself. For example, this year I’m going to Dragon*Con, The World Fantasy Con, and several bookfests, including Books by the Banks in Cincinnati, The Buckeye Bookfair, in Wooster, OH, and the Spartanburg Teen Reading Festival in South Carolina. Cons and bookfests are a great place for readers to meet many authors at once. And it’s a great place for an author to introduce her books to potential readers.

Is there anything you can do to make it more likely an author will come to your town? Well, first, move to a major market. Sorry, but it’s true. Publicists want the most bang for their buck, so they will send authors where the most people are. If you don’t live in a large town, maybe there’s one within driving distance.

Tell the author you would love to see her, of course. Also let her know if you know of an awesome venue in your town, such as a bookfest or a great bookstore. Offer to make a pitch/introduction. It often means more coming from a reader than from an author.

Speaking of, support your local bookstores. If they close their doors, there’s no venue to host an author appearance. Get to know bookstore owners, librarians, and teachers. Join your community library’s teen board. Ask if they ever host author visits. Tell them you would like to see your favorite author in person. If an in-person visit isn’t possible, perhaps a Skype visit can be arranged.

Many authors are willing to do school visits. Generally, the school pays a stipend and travel expenses. Often schools join forces to reduce the cost. Even a small market can snag an author visit if it’s in conjunction with a paid school visit. I’ve visited very small towns in southern Ohio and rural Illinois where librarians and teachers ganged up together and hosted me. Often librarians and teachers can access grant money to pay for author visits. Remember--one person on a mission can be very powerful. I have had visits happen because of one determined teen.

You can find out more about scheduling events with me on my website here. http://cindachima.com/Visit/Visit.htm

What if your favorite author comes to your town? Do everything you can to get the word out. Encourage your friends to go, if they like to read. Attend the event yourself. Support the venue (and the author) by buying books. If the author has a great experience in your town, she will be eager to return. And it’s likely that publisher will send other authors your way, too. For example, I’m returning to Oceanside, CA this fall because I had a great experience there two years ago.

Cinda Williams Chima has authored two best-selling fantasy series: The Heir Chronicles (The Warrior Heir, The Wizard Heir, The Dragon Heir) with two books forthcoming; and the Seven Realms series (The Demon King, The Exiled Queen, and the newly-released The Gray Wolf Throne) with more forthcoming. You can find information about her tour for The Gray Wolf Throne and other upcoming events here http://cindachima.com/Events/events.htm.

More information and excerpts from each book are available on her website, www.cindachima.com. Help for writers can be found under Resources/Tips for Writers, including a document called, “Getting Started in Writing for Teens.”

Chima blogs at http://cindachima.blogspot.com/, where you’ll find rants, posts on the craft of writing, and news. Visit her Seven Realms http://www.facebook.com/Seven.Realms and Heir Chronicles http://www.facebook.com/Heir.Chronicles pages on Facebook.

Thanks again to Cinda for taking the time to write such a great post for us!

Blog Tour Stop: Everblue by Brenda Pandos

2011-08-24T03:11:00.000-04:00

Everblue

(Mer Tales, #1)

Written by Brenda Pandos
Published by Obsidian Mountain Publishing
Released July 30, 2011

Summary from Goodreads:

"Best friends share everything with each other. Or do they? Seventeen-year-old Ashlyn Frances Lanski is tired of her boring, single life. Spending time with her best friend Tatiana, dreaming about kissing Tatiana's twin brother Fin, and swimming competitively are her only sanctuary. The girls plan to leave their drab lakeside town far behind for college. But when Tatchi fails to return home after a family emergency, and no one knows where the family has gone, Ash chooses to do something drastic to find them.

Ashlyn is about to discover what she’d thought to be true her whole life, wasn’t, and the truth, too fantastical to imagine. Secrets lurk beneath the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe, secrets that will change Ashlyn's life forever."

My Thoughts:

I will say up front that I am a HUGE fan of all of Brenda's work and my expectations were high going into this book. Needless to say, I was not disappointed! Recently there have been quite a few mermaid themed YA books released, but Everblue tops the charts! The story was absolutely captivating! The characters were so engaging and well developed. Brenda consistently does a great job creating characters that you can connect with and love (especially the guys!- Go Brenda!) Speaking of that.... my favorite character by far was Fin. He was absolutely adorable! He is the twin brother of Ash's best friend Tatchi and also her secret crush. Unfortunately, she doesn't know he harbors those same feelings for her. Under normal circumstances acting upon their feelings wouldn't be a big deal, but Fin and Tatchi's family is far from normal and they are hiding a secret that Ash would never imagine! They are from different worlds but the pull they feel for each other will force Fin to make difficult choices where Ash is concerned. Choices that could have far reaching consequences. I also liked Ash's character. She was the 'all american' high school student- smart, nice, and captain of the swim team (hello... perfect match for Fin!). She also shows tremendous loyalty to her friends. Once she realizes that Tatchi and Fin have disappeared, she stops at nothing to find them. The story also introduced us to other characters that I enjoyed. Tatchi was awesome! I loved her strong will and readiness to go against the grain to choose her own path in place of one being chosen for her by the Mer and their politics.

Brenda also did an incredible job creating the worlds both above and below the ground. Her attention to detail enables the reader to form vivid images of the settings as they read and that really helps draw you into the story. The Mer's world (Natatoria) was so mystical and majestic. It's beauty radiated off the pages. I feel that the story perfectly combines typical teen angst with the fantasy mermaid/merman portion. The ending was also good and it left me very eager to get my hands on the next installment in the Mer Tales series! I throughly enjoyed reading this and I am so proud to be able to call Brenda Pandos a friend! Make sure to check out the rest of the tour stops and go out and get this book. You won't be disappointed!

OK.... So My Comeback Was Delayed!!

2011-08-23T19:20:00.000-04:00

Well I had all intentions of getting my blog back on track a few weeks back but unfortunately that didn't happen! I promise I am coming back- I actually have a review of an amazing book posting tomorrow!!! I have, however, hit another snag. Man, I can't catch a break! My MacBook (which I work on my blog with) was given to me by the school that I have been teaching at and I had to move to another school this school year and they don't provide teachers with laptops there :( I was hoping to hold on to it for awhile since the start of the school year is always hectic- especially this one- but I got the call today that I have to return it on Monday. I am totally bummed! My husband has a desktop PC but I am a Mac girl 100% and I have a very hard time navigating and creating blog posts like I am used to on the PC. I also have to fight my hubby for a spot in front of the computer! I am still going to get the blog going again- but I can't promise the posts will look perfect!! Anyway... thanks for your patience and for sticking with me! Please stop by tomorrow and check out my stop on the Blog Tour for Brenda Pandos' new book (and new series!) Everblue!

I'm Back!!! I Hope You Are Still There!!!

2011-08-08T15:52:00.000-04:00

Hi guys!
I know I have been seriously MIA for quite awhile, but I decided to take a much needed break from all things blog/book/review and recharge my batteries! I have really enjoyed my summer but now it is time to get the blog back on track! I also want to apologize to anyone that may have tried to contact me via email at my yahoo address. My account got hacked and I have been locked out of it until this week. I am changing my contact email to extremereaderbookreviews@gmail.com and plan on closing my yahoo account at some point. I have so much to catch up on and I hope that my wonderful followers are still hanging around! I plan on making up my absence with an EPIC contest! You seriously do not want to miss this one! I plan on having it up by the end of the week. I also have some reviews to post and a really cool video from a cast member from The Nine Lives of Chloe King answering a question I posed. So stay tuned! I am sooo glad to be back and I really missed all of my bloggie buddies!!

The Nine Lives Of Chloe King + Secret Gamebox Item!

2011-06-15T12:55:00.000-04:00

Did you watch the premiere of The Nine Lives Of Chloe King last night? If you didn't, then you missed out! It was awesome!! I am so excited to see what happens to Chloe next week. I had so much fun in the weeks leading up to the premiere playing the game The Nine Paths To Chloe King. When we completed the Ninth Path on Monday, I wondered why there was still one item in my gamebox that we never used. It was a copy of Romeo and Juliet. I did not have to wonder long because the Mai sent me an email saying that there was an item in the box whose meaning I did not know yet and that I needed to watch the premiere to decipher it's meaning. Once I figure out the item's meaning and contact the Mai they will send me a clip of sneak peek footage of what's to come for Chloe!! So after watching the premiere, I know the book's significance.... Chloe meets a totally hot guy named Brian and they are mutually interested in each other. Unfortunately when Chloe discovers that she is Mai, she also learns that Mai and humans cannot be together. Something as simple as a kiss between a Mai and human can have deadly consequences (Chloe learns this the hard way in the premiere). So the copy of Romeo and Juliet represents Chloe and Brian's starcrossed relationship (If they even get to have one!).

Make sure to check back soon for the sneak peek footage of what's in store for Chloe. I will post it as soon as I get it! I would also like to thank ABC Family for inviting me to participate in this amazing game. I had so much fun!

The Nine Paths To Chloe King ~ Ninth Path!

2011-06-13T16:50:00.000-04:00

Today we received instructions on our final path (Path 9) in the game The Nine Paths To Chloe King hosted by ABC Family. I can't believe the game is coming to an end already. It was so much fun! It really has me excited about watching The Nine Lives Of Chloe King, which happens to premiere tomorrow night (June 14 @ 8/9c on ABC Family).

For Path Nine, we had to figure out the password needed in order to enter the Rezza Capital website. We had to use the Book of Mai to translate the symbols. The symbols translated in this password: YELTIHW. I entered the password at RezzaCapital.com and a list of email address under the heading "The Hunted" appeared. We had to find Chloe's email address and send her the message "TRUST NO ONE!". That sounds easy right?! Well, unfortunately the email address were not in English and I had to do a bit of translating. I decided to use Google Translate and I copied and pasted all of the addresses into it using Ukrainian to English. Chloe's popped right up and I promptly sent her the message. I hope that I did it right! The email we received also said that the first to accomplish the task would be rewarded, but unfortunately I was at work and couldn't check my MaiPad for emails until 3:45pm and other Circle members had already beat me to it! Oh well!! I am waiting to hear back from the Mai for confirmation that I completed the Ninth Path correctly. If I receive any new information I will pass it on to you! If you haven't claimed your Mai Protection charm yet, make sure you head over to the game site ( abcfamily.com/ninepaths ) and enter the password : DECEPTION. Thanks for following along with me during the game. I hope that you had as much fun as I did!!

Update: The Nine Paths To Chloe King Game: Paths 4,5,6,7 & 8

2011-06-11T01:35:00.000-04:00

First, I would like to apologize for my absence around the blog lately. The end of the school year is my absolute busiest time and I have been really struggling to get anything done outside of my mountain of paperwork! However, I have made time to play this game (my posts are a different story!). If you haven't started playing yet, you are really missing out. The Nine Paths To Chloe King is in full swing. We just completed the 8th Path today- but don't worry- you can still join in the fun! The latest two challenges give you passwords that give you access to cool game related goodies! So now I am going to break down the Paths I haven't posted about yet....

Path Four:
For this Path we were asked to remove the baby bib from the gamebox and look it over carefully. Upon inspection I noticed the Mai symbol for TRUST~

Along with the symbol, there was a website www.kiddiebibs.com. When you went to that site it asked for a vendor code and after typing in TRUST you were directed to a video showing Chloe running from someone who doesn't seem to have the best of intentions. If you want to see the video for yourself, just type head over to the site using the link above and type in the code : TRUST.

Path Five:
The Fifth Path had the Circle hitting Twitter to stop 'the deceiver'.

The Prophecy warns, "The Fifth Path will shine light on a deceiver. The Circle must keep an eye on this imposter and slow his chase by creating many false roads away from the one."

The Mai told us that the deceiver Batko614 was on Twitter searching for information about Chloe. We were instructed to lead Batko614 on a trail of lies and lead him away from The Uniter. The Circle was successful and we were rewarded with a hidden video (found by searching "Chloe's Crush" on Google) revealing a glimpse into Chloe's life. Check it out!

The Sixth Path:
The journey down the Sixth Path took us to The Uniter's hometown of San Franciso. The Clue for this path came from the Fedex guy! The package the Circle received contained a t-shirt bearing the Mai symbol for DANGER, along with a note. The note told us:

"The enclosed garment will lead you down the Sixth Path. You must examine it very closely to hear what you need to hear. Try to remember every detail you discover along this Path.
We need you to report what you hear back to the Mai via Email in order to receive the last challenge of this dangerous Path."

After looking over the shirt I noticed a phone number was printed on the inside at the bottom (1-877-789-1390) and an extension number was printed on the inside near the collar (x.99). So I called the number and after a long pause (I thought I had dialed the wrong number!) a voice recording started. I listened to it and then emailed our Mai contact for further instructions. I was told to post a voice recording or transcript of the message here for my followers. There is a hidden password within the message that will release a Mai t-shirt for you! The password is already out, so I will go ahead and tell you that you need to go to the game's website (www.abcfamily.com/ninepaths) and type the word 'THREAT' into the code box in order to claim your Mai shirt! Here is a transcript of the voice message.

"We believe the Uniter is here, in San Francisco. If this girl is, in fact, The Uniter, remember she has nine lives. You must eliminate this threat. One word of caution, it has come to our attention that a group called The Circle is helping the Mai. Do not allow them to get in your way. I repeat: Do not allow The Circle to get in your way. Eliminate the threat."

"FOE"

The Seventh Path:
This Path's clue came from the Fedex guy. The Circle received a package containing a business card and a ballpoint pen. Both items featured Rezza Capital.

The Prophecy tells us, "By the end of the Seventh Path the Circle will be prepared to see the face of The Uniter's greatest Foe."

When we received our MaiPads, they contained a locked media folder. I have been so curious as to what's in that folder!! Well, the wait is now over! The emailed instructions we received told us that we could unlock our media folder, but we first needed the KEY. The business card we received fit together perfectly with the envelope from the Ukranian Dept. for Adoption and Protection of Rights of the Child that came in my gamebox. When you put the two items together they spelled out the word : HUNTER. Yeah!! That was the key I needed! I went to the folder and unlocked it and inside was a video showing us the face of Chloe's greatest Foe. Have a look!

So now we know who Chloe's greatest foe is.... Whitley Rezza!

Path Eight:
And today we received the clues for Path Eight (I can't believe we are almost done!). It is obvious that The Uniter is being hunted and is in extreme danger and as her protector- we are too! So the Mai sent us Protection charms. We were asked to keep it close during the last two remaining paths.

As foretold by the Prophecy, "The Eighth Path reveals a great and dangerous Foe who sets many traps as he hunts his target. Only the Circle of Strangers can follow this deceptive path and uncover the truth."

Then we were told that there had been a breach in the Mai security system and our addresses may have fallen into the wrong hands. We were asked to contact them immediately if any person or any organization attempts to communicate with us about The Uniter. Well don't you know.... that's exactly what happened! We received a postcard with Coit Tower in San Francisco on the front and a pretty nasty message on the back. Check it out:

I knew there had to be more to this clue, so I decided to try the signature as a webpage and.... I was right! If you type in batko.me then you get to view this picture-

It looks like a surveillance picture to me! Not good!

*Now on to the goodies!! If you would like to claim a Mai Protection Charm for yourself, just type in the password ' DECEPTION' into the Enter Code Box on the game's website. For the official rules/details please check the game website as well. Good Luck!

The Nine Paths To Chloe King: Paths 2 &3

2011-05-31T23:19:00.000-04:00

I hope that all of you enjoyed your Memorial Day weekend! I did plenty of relaxing- which was my goal! The holiday is over and I am once again back on my quest to find The Uniter! I received a mysterious package from the Fedex guy today and was surprised to see that it was from ABC Family. Another clue!! Inside the black jewelry box with a small note that had Mai symbols on one side and on the other it read: "To unmask the ancient Mai script, seek the Bastet in your Book of Mai. A secret waits beneath. Tweet the decoded message using #TheUniter." There was also a silver cat charm included in the box! So I went to the Book of Mai and used the Mai alphabet to decode the symbols on the clue card and it said : The Uniter is Chloe King. PATH 3 COMPLETED!

Path 2 clues were given to me on Friday and they lead me to a YouTube video about the Mai. You can check out the video HERE.

Don't forget that you can play The Nine Paths To Chloe King along with me! You will have the opportunity to win some prizes and maybe even score the GRAND PRIZE.... a trip to the set of The Nine Lives of Chloe King! I will also be providing you secret code words a few times throughout the 3 week game that will unlock free gifts and extras for you- so keep an eye out on my site or in the Storify feed box on the game's web page. Click HERE if you would like to play.

Here is a sneak peek at ABC Family original series The Nine Lives of Chloe King which premieres on June 14th at 9/8c! Enjoy!!

Do You Want To Play "The Nine Paths To Chloe King" With Me & ABC Family???

2011-05-25T22:04:00.000-04:00

I received an email from ABC Family last week inviting me to participate in The Nine Paths To Chloe King game! This game is a three week online adventure leading up to the premiere of the ABC Family original series 'The Nine Lives of Chloe King. The show will debut on Tuesday, June 14th at 9/8c on ABC Family so make sure to set your DVRs. I am so excited because I had so much fun last summer participating in the Pretty Little Liars Secret Keeper Game! I received my Game Box yesterday and all I can say is..... SQUEEEEEE!!!!!! Take a look!

The box itself is awesome! It is wooden with the Mai symbols carved on the top and when you slide the top off the underside of the lid has the show's logo carved in it. The box contained a MaiPad ... aka~ an iPad 2 (WOW!!) loaded with information that will help me on my journey down the nine paths. There were also various other items/clues that I will need as the game progresses. I think that the coolest aspect of this game is that YOU (my lovely FOLLOWERS) get to play along and score prizes too!!! The game started yesterday and unfortunately I was unable to get this post up until today because of work obligations, but don't fret because there is still time to join in the fun and maybe even claim a prize! Here is how it works (I copied this info from the game's website):

On June 14th, 1995, a prophecy was discovered on a stone tablet in a remote cave near the Red Sea. Etched into this stone were Nine Paths -- instructions that lead the way to an amazing someone, known to many as The Uniter. Written in our ancient tongue, this Nine Paths Prophecy clearly states that we, the Mai, must first contact a select group of Humans — the Circle of Strangers.

It is written, "The Circle of Strangers must travel all Nine Paths in order to find The Uniter and help deliver a message of life or death."

You are a part of this select Circle. Only this group of humans can travel these Nine Paths and lead us to the one. We are honored that you stepped forward to take this journey, and we will do our best to guide you.

Every few days clues will be posted that will keep you traveling down the Nine Paths -- these paths will start at abcfamily.com but take you across the internet and give you exclusive videos, photos, and more.

The first person to correctly execute the Nine Paths will win the GRAND PRIZE (subject to verification): a set visit to The Nine Lives of Chloe King !*

*Additionally, keep an eye on the Storify feed at the bottom on the game's website that will have posts from the network of participating bloggers (THAT WOULD BE ME!! :) The bloggers will be unlocking some free gifts (available while supplies last) and extras for you!! You'll just need to check out my post on each of the nine path challenges I have solved and I will be giving you the secret code that you will need to claim your gift! Just check out the site HERE!

Path One: Completed!!!

I completed the task for the first path and the reward for that is the secret code word my Lovely Followers will need to claim the first prize (while supplies last) and a peek at The Uniter Scroll! The code word is Circle. Just head to the game's website and look on the sidebar for the spot to enter the secret code word. The Uniter Scroll is pictured below, so make sure to check it out too!

This game is going to be lots of fun, so I hope you will play along with me! Welcome to the Circle!

Review: Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut

2011-05-22T09:43:00.000-04:00

Griffin Rising

Written by Darby Karchut
Release Date: June 28, 2011
Published by Twilight Times Books
*Arc copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

Summary from Goodreads:
"For Griffin, it’s time to angel up.
Armed with the power to control the ancient elements of Earth and Fire, sixteen year old Griffin is determined to complete his apprenticeship and rise to the rank of Terra Angeli.
But first, he must overcome a brutal past if he is to survive in this world. Will the perseverance of his mentor and the love of a mortal girl give Griffin the strength he needs to triumph over the monster still haunting him?"

My Thoughts:

This was a really heartwarming book! Darby Karchut's debut novel is not only about Guardian Angels, but on a deeper level it seems to be about the journey of self discovery. Griffin's story had me wiping my eyes at times and laughing out loud at others. The story chronicles Griffin's journey from the tragic start of his apprenticeship as a Terrae Angeli or Guardian Angel to his final test, the Prolieum. I am a huge fan of Angel-themed books and this one is fantastic! It was a fresh take on Guardian Angels and had such an original storyline mixed with memorable characters. Darby Karchut did an incredible job developing these characters. Griffin was just so darn lovable! He was battling the emotional demons stemming from his abusive past with his first Mentor, but lucky for Griffin, he was placed with a new Mentor named Basil. Basil had a loving and capable hand where Griffin was concerned and this enabled Griffin to emerge from his shell and blossom into what he was destined to be. Griffin's vulnerability was endearing and his dedication to his destiny was admirable. The changes that take place in Griffin are no doubt in response to Basil's patience, understanding, and the father figure relationship he forged with Griffin. I really enjoyed the banter between the two of them too. It had me snickering throughout the book! Griffin also goes through another change when a new family moves in across the street. Much to Griffin's liking, the family has a daughter the same age as him- and she is cute! Griffin falls for the new girl (Katie) and the romance that sparks between them was both sweet and innocent. It brought me back to how it felt to be a young teen discovering love in all its awkward glory!

I liked the manner in which Darby Karchut wrote the book. Each chapter was a journal entry from one of the main characters (Griffin, Basil, or Katie) and this type of story structure really seemed to allow the reader to get to know each character on a deeper level. The story ended with a surprising twist that left me craving the next book in the series in a big way! I would highly recommend this book to all that enjoy Angel stories! It is a really quick read that should appeal to young teen readers as well as adult readers! Congrats to Darby Karchut on a wonderful debut!

Review: Hourglass by Myra McEntire

2011-05-18T17:39:00.001-04:00

Hourglass

Written by Myra McEntire
Release Date: June 14, 2011
Published by EgmontUSA
*Arc provided by AmazonVine in exchange for an honest review

Summary from Goodreads:

"One hour to rewrite the past . . .

For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.
So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.
Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science-fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult debut."

My Thoughts:

Hourglass was such interesting book! It was a little slow to start but after a few chapters I was hooked! The cover is to die for and I have been in cover lust since I first laid eyes on it. I started reading the book unsure of what it was really about. The summary on the book jacket doesn't really let on to the theme and I have to say that I enjoyed the surprise (So I won't spoil it for you either!). I will say that the plot was full of unexpected twists and Myra McEntire did a fabulous job keeping the reader guessing. The characters in the book where developed nicely and all of them (minus her brother and sister-in-law) had secrets and hidden layers. The secrets came to light as the story progressed but there are still many that have yet to be revealed (hello book two!). The main protagonist Emerson was really cool. She seemed like someone that I would like to be friends with. She carried a ton of emotional baggage due to tragedies in her past. She also struggled to come to terms with her 'gift' and her total lack of knowledge as to what it was and what all of it meant. Even through all of that she still pushed forward. She was really strong and tried so hard to do what was best for all of those around her. When she meets Michael her world does a complete 180! Ahhh.... Michael!! The gorgeous, caring, chivalrous knight in shining armor! He had all of the answers to the burning questions Emerson has been searching for. The answers, however, do not come easy. Michael is complicated and also very hard to read, but Emerson is inexplicably drawn to him (as he is to her). Once the two of them meet she is thrust into one seriously crazy power struggle with consequences that are more far-reaching than you can imagine! I had no idea how the book was going to end until I actually read the ending- and I love that! There was a surprise plot twist every time I thought I had it figured out. I was satisfied with how everything was left, but it has me seriously pining for the next book! I recommend this book to EVERYONE! If you love a good story, interesting plot, great characters, and a surprise around every corner then this book is the book for you!! An absolutely stunning debut from Myra McEntire!!

Review: Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

2011-05-17T16:55:00.000-04:00

Blood Magic

(The Blood Journals #1)
Written by Tessa Gratton
Release Date: May 24, 2011
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers
*arc provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review

Summary from Goodreads:

"This page-turning debut novel will entice fans who like their paranormal romances dark and disturbing. It's a natural next-read for fans of Stephanie Meyer, Carrie Jones, and Becca Fitzpatrick. But instead of mythical creatures, blood magic has everything to do with primal human desires like power, wealth, and immortality.

Everywhere Silla Kennicott turns she sees blood. She can't stop thinking about her parents alleged murder-suicide. She is consumed by a book filled with spells that arrives mysteriously in the mail. The spells share one common ingredient: blood, and Silla is more than willing to cast a few. What's a little spilled blood if she can uncover the truth? And then there's Nick—the new guy at school who makes her pulse race. He has a few secrets of his own and is all too familiar with the lure of blood magic. Drawn together by a combination of fate and chemistry, Silla and Nick must find out who else in their small Missouri town knows their secret and will do anything to take the book and magic from Silla. "

My Thoughts:

After you read this book you will never look at your blood in the same way again! I really enjoyed reading Blood Magic! The plot was so original and had enough twists and turns in it to give you whiplash! Magic, romance, danger, suspense, murder, and the quest for immortality made it difficult to put down and kept me reading way too late into the night. I felt like I really got to know the characters and I felt connected to them. The chapters alternated points of view between Silla and Nick, as well as occasional journal entries from other characters. I like this style of writing and I feel that it adds to the character's development. Silla and Nick were my favorite characters. Silla was dealing with some heavy emotions and the discovery of her 'magic' was the spark that brought her back to life. Nick was just a really cool guy. He was not as easy to figure out as Silla and their relationship was very natural and sweet. I really enjoyed the unexpected plot twists! It was hard to figure out who the villain was! I have to say that when it was finally revealed I was very surprised! The pace of the book was fast enough to keep you engaged, but not so fast that you feel that the story is rushed. Tessa Gratton did a great job with the setting and tone of the book. I could easily picture everything in my head, especially the graveyard that is the central point of most of the important events in the story. I would highly recommend Blood Magic to readers that enjoyed books like Beautiful Creatures and Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl or anyone that likes a good gothic romance! It is a stunning debut novel and I can't wait for the next installment in The Blood Journals series!

In My Mailbox (67)

2011-05-15T11:49:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly post that allows us to share the books we received during the week. This is a couple of weeks worth of book goodness! Here's what I got:

For Review:

Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Hourglass by Myra McEntire
Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

Bought/Swap:

After Midnight by Lynn Viehl
Shift by Jeri Smith-Ready
Dark Mirror by M.J. Putney
Remember Me by Christopher Pike
Die For Me by Amy Plum
Abandon by Meg Cabot
Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier
Entwined by Heather Dixon
Marvelous World: The Marvelous Effect by Troy Cle
Kiss of Life by Daniel Waters
Gone by Lisa McMann

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Winners of The Spring Blog Carnival Giveaways!!!

2011-05-11T16:09:00.001-04:00

I am so excited to announce the winners of both of my Spring Blog Carnival Giveaways! I would like to thank the wonderful hosts of the Carnival- Candace's Book Blog, Reading Angel, Pure Imagination, and The Book Swarm! They put a lot of work into making this Carnival so much fun! And now on to the winners!!!

*All winners chosen by Random.Org and will be notified by email*

The winner of The Spring Blog Carnival Hop Giveaway and now the owner of an arc of Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan, and Aurelia by Anne Osterlund plus some assorted swag goodies is.....

Cialina!!!

The winner of The Spring Blog Carnival Challenge: Guessing Booth and now the owner of a signed copy of Evernight by Claudia Gray, an arc of Chime by Franny Billingsley and a swag pack is....

The Book Pixie!!!

*Here are the answers to the cover collage challenge:

After Obsession by Carrie Jones and Steven Wedel
Luminous by Dawn Metcalf
Eve by Anna Carey
The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton
Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Indelible by Lani Woodland
Frost by Wendy Delsol
Wildefire by Karsten Knight
Fury by Elizabeth Miles

I would like to thank all of you for entering and dropping by my blog! I am still collecting goodies for my next giveaway and it is going to be EPIC- so make sure you check back soon!

Spring Blog Carnival Challenge: Guessing Booth!

2011-05-06T00:01:00.002-04:00

?*?*? GUESSING BOOTH ?*?*?

On your way through the carnival why not try your luck at The Guessing Booth? What's in it for you? If you can guess the names of the upcoming 2011 YA covers below then you will be entered to win an AWESOME prize pack! The contents of the prize pack are as follows:

*SIGNED* copy of Evernight by Claudia Gray
arc of Chime by Franny Billingsley
SWAG Pack: signed (Claudia Gray) The Dark Days of Supernatural tour bookmark, The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton postcard & signed bookmark, signed Possession by Elana Johnson bookmark, signed OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy bookmark, signed The Emerald Talisman and The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos bookmarks, Matched by Ally Condie bookmark, The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff bookmark, The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa bookmark, Angel Star and Lemniscate by Jennifer Murgia bookmark, Class of 2K11 bookmark

To have a chance at the prize pack you must take a guess at the titles of the upcoming 2011 books in the collage. The entry form will have spaces for your answers. You don't have to guess correctly to win but it will gain you an extra point!! International entries are welcome as always!

Fill out the form below with your answers and hit submit!

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Make sure to enter my hop giveaway! You can win an arc of Clarity by Kim Harrington, The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan, and Aurelia by Anne Osterlund- plus some swag! Click HERE to enter.

Spring Blog Carnival is Hosted by
Candace’s Book Blog http://www.candacesbookblog/, Reading Angel http://www.readingangel.com/, Pure Imagination http://www.pureimaginationblog.com/, and The Book Swarm http://www.bookswarm.blogspot.com/

May 1st-

Reading Angel: Haunted House
Reading Teen: Fortune Tellers Booth

May 2nd-

Candace’s Book Blog: Food Court
The Mod Podge Bookshelf: House of Mirrors

May 3rd-

The Book Swarm: Roller Coaster
Actin’ Up With Books: Karaoke Booth

May 4th-

Pure Imagination: Kissing Booth
Lovely Lit: Once Upon a Time Booth

May 5th-

Awesomesauce Books: Gaming Booth
Books R Us: Medieval Booth

May 6th-

Extreme Reader Book Reviews: Guessing Booth (That's Me!!:)
Colloquium: Cotton Candy Booth

May 7th-

The Minding Spot: Teacups Booth
Miss Remmers Review: It’s a Bad World Booth

*Don't forget to enter all of the other giveaways participating in the Blog Hop!

Spring Blog Carnival Giveaway Hop

2011-05-01T12:02:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be participating in The Spring Blog Carnival that is being sponsored by Candace's Book Blog, Reading Angel, Pure Imagination, and The Book Swarm. This giveaway is part of the giveaway hop! Here is what is up for grabs from me:

Clarity by Kim Harrington (arc copy)
The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan
Aurelia by Anne Osterlund

Details:
The giveaway will run until midnight, May 8th. This contest is open internationally. Please fill out the form below:

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Don't forget to enter all of the fun Carnival Challenges!

May 1st-
Reading Angel: Haunted House
Reading Teen: Fortune Tellers Booth

May 2nd-
Candace’s Book Blog: Food Court
The Mod Podge Bookshelf: House of Mirrors

May 3rd-
The Book Swarm: Roller Coaster
Actin’ Up With Books: Karaoke Booth

May 4th-
Pure Imagination: Kissing Booth
Lovely Lit: Once Upon a Time Booth

May 5th-
Awesomesauce Books: Gaming Booth
Books R Us: Medieval Booth

May 6th-
Extreme Reader Book Reviews: Guessing Booth
Colloquium: Cotton Candy Booth

May 7th-
The Minding Spot: Teacups Booth
Miss Remmers Review: It’s a Bad World Booth

Don't forget to enter all of the other giveaways that are part of the hop too!!

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-04-27T11:14:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly event, hosted by Jill from Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we are eagerly anticipating. It is always so hard to decide which books I want to feature on Wednesdays. There are so many wonderful books coming out! Waiting is such torture! Here are a few that I am waiting for....

As I Wake

Written by Elizabeth Scott
Release Date: September 15, 2011
Published by Dutton Juvenile

Summary from Goodreads:

"What if you woke up and didn't know where you were?

What if you didn't know who you were?

And what if, when your memories started to come back--what if they didn't match the you that you're supposed to be?

Ava is welcomed home from the hospital by a doting mother, lively friends, and a crush finally beginning to show interest. There's only one problem: Ava can't remember any of them--and can't shake the eerie feeling that she's not who they say she is.

Ava struggles to break through her amnesiac haze as she goes through the motions of high-school life, but the memories that surface take place in a very different world, where Ava and familiar-faced friends are under constant scrutiny and no one can be trusted. Ava doesn't know what to make of these visions, or of the boy who is at the center of them all, until he reappears in her life and offers answers . . . but only in exchange for her trust. "

The Mephisto Covenant

Written by Trinity Faegen
Release Date: September 27, 2011
Published by EgmontUSA

Summary from Goodreads:

"Sasha is desperate to find out who murdered her father. When getting
the answer means pledging her soul to Eryx, she unlocks a secret that
puts her in grave danger—Sasha is Anabo, a daughter of Eve, and
Eryx’s biggest threat.

A son of Hell, immortal, and bound to Earth forever, Jax looks
for redemption in the Mephisto Covenant—God’s promise he will find
peace in the love of an Anabo. After a thousand years, he’s finally
found the girl he’s been searching for: Sasha.

With the threat of Eryx looming, Jax has to keep Sasha safe and
win her over. But can he? Will Sasha love him and give up her mortal
life? "

*Both of these sound fantastic and I can't wait until they release!!

In My Mailbox (66)

2011-04-24T01:15:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly post that allows us to share the books we received during the week. This is two weeks worth of book goodness! Here's what I got:

For Review:

The Hot List by Hillary Homzie *Thanks Simon & Schuster
Kane Richards Must Die by Shanice Williams *Thanks Lands Atlantic

Bought/Swapped:

Kat Incorrigible by Stephanie Burgis
Kindred by Tammar Stein
The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide by Stephanie Meyer
Miles From Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams
The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong
Sweep Vol. II by Cate Tiernan

*Now you know what I got. What did you get?

I'm going to the open casting call for The Hunger Games Movie!!

2011-04-17T12:24:00.000-04:00

Ok.. normally I do my IMM post but today there is no time because I am headed to the open casting call for extras for The Hunger Games Movie!! Yeah! I may not (probably won't) get hired, but it's worth a try right?! I will take some pics for the blog and let you guys know how it goes!

Follow Friday!

2011-04-15T16:36:00.001-04:00

I haven't participated in Follow Friday in a really long time and I thought it was time to join back in the fun! This is a great way to discover new blogs and meet new blogger buddies. If you would like to join in with me then just follow these simple rules:

(Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com } and any one else you want to follow on the list
(Required) Follow the Featured Bloggers - http://romance-around-the-corner.blogspot.com/
Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI"
If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
If you're new to the Follow Friday Hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

This week's question:

Q. Do you have anyone that you can discuss books with? Tell us about him/her.

I discuss books with just about anyone that will listen, but I have a co-worker that loves books in the crazy-obsessed way that I do and we usually trade books, recommend books to each other and call each other to gush about something that happened in the book we are reading and just can't wait until we get to work the next day!

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-04-13T10:18:00.000-04:00

Juliet Immortal

Written by Stacey Jay

Release Date: September 13, 2011

Published by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Summary from Goodreads:

"These violent delights have violent ends
And in their triumph die, like fire and powder,
Which as they kiss consume."

-Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

The most tragic love story in history . . .

Juliet Capulet didn't take her own life. She was murdered by the person she trusted most, her new husband, Romeo Montague, a sacrifice made to ensure his own immortality. But what Romeo didn't anticipate was that Juliet would be granted eternity, as well, and would become an agent for the Ambassadors of Light. For 700 years, she's fought Romeo for the souls of true lovers, struggling to preserve romantic love and the lives of the innocent. Until the day she meets someone she's forbidden to love, and Romeo, oh Romeo, will do everything in his power to destroy that love.

Blood Magic

Written by Tessa Gratton

Release Date: May 24, 2011

Published by Random House Books for Young Readers

Summary from Goodreads:

"This page-turning debut novel will entice fans who like their paranormal romances dark and disturbing. It's a natural next-read for fans of Stephenie Meyer, Carrie Jones, and Becca Fitzpatrick. But instead of mythical creatures, blood magic has everything to do with primal human desires like power, wealth, and immortality. Everywhere Silla Kennicott turns she sees blood. She can't stop thinking about her parents alleged murder-suicide. She is consumed by a book filled with spells that arrives mysteriously in the mail. The spells share one common ingredient: blood, and Silla is more than willing to cast a few. What's a little spilled blood if she can uncover the truth? And then there's Nick—the new guy at school who makes her pulse race. He has a few secrets of his own and is all too familiar with the lure of blood magic. Drawn together by a combination of fate and chemistry, Silla and Nick must find out who else in their small Missouri town knows their secret and will do anything to take the book and magic from Silla."

*These books sound fabulous and both covers are beautiful!

Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

2011-04-12T18:42:00.000-04:00

Divergent

Written by Veronica Roth

Release Date: May 3, 2011

Published by Katherine Tegen Books

*Arc copy provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review*

Summary from Goodreads:
"In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her. "

My Thoughts:

I really don't even know where to start with this book! It is THAT GOOD! It was one of those books that you have to read fast because you want to know what is going to happen next, but you hate reading fast because you do not want to finish it! I already miss the characters in the book and I have to wait an entire year to see what happens with them next! Veronica Roth hit one out of the park with this one. It is one of my top three favorite books I have EVER read. Ok, Ok.... now that I've done a little gushing let me get on with the review! I love dystopian novels and this one is pretty much perfect! The vision of Roth's dystopian society is a little scary, but plausable considering the state of our world these days. The plan entailed dividing society into seperate factions based on the type of person you are and then cultivating these traits in the faction to perform a specific function needed in order for the new society to succed. It may not sound so bad to hear it that way, but unfortunately nothing is as it seems in this world! Corruption, betrayal, and impossible choices make this novel unputtdownable!! I feel that the strongest aspects of Divergent lie in Roth's use of characters and in the seamless, explosive, and riveting plot. The characters in the book really came alive on the page and I found myself experiencing the same feelings toward the characters that Tris (the main female protagonist) felt towards them. The villians were positively ruthless and I rooted for the good guys through the whole book. Tris undergoes a serious transformation in the book. She makes some difficult decisions that throw her life into utter chaos, yet they allow her to explore who she really is underneath everything she has been forced to adhere to during her youth. Throughout the book she seems to teeter on the edge of who she thought she was and who she was truly meant to be. I admired her 'no fear' attitude even if it wasn't always true on the inside and her ability to stand up for what was right regardless of the consequences. Another character I fell in love with was 4. He very hard to figure out. So much lay under the surface that it was hard to tell what was really going on with him. As he and Tris got to know each other better the reader was given glimpses of who he really was and what made him tick and that only made me love him more! The ending of Divergent was as action-packed as the rest of the book and had me biting my nails and flipping pages like a crazy woman! The final scene set the stage for the next book and left me begging for more! I cannot wait to see where Veronica Roth takes our characters next. I recommend this book to EVERYONE! Seriously!! It was such a beautiful mixture of triumph and loss and heartbreak and hope. I imagine that I will be thinking about this book for some time.

Review: Waterfall by Lisa T. Bergren

2011-04-11T13:28:00.000-04:00

Waterfall

The River of Time Series #1

Written by Lisa T. Bergren

Available NOW!

Published by David C. Cook
*Arc copy provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review*

Summary from Goodreads:
"Lisa Tawn Bergren's new YA series, River of Time, is romantic, historical fiction in which the plucky heroine doesn't have to fear a vampire's bite but must still fight for her life.

In Waterfall, American teenager Gabi Betarrini accidently finds herself in Fourteenth-Century Italy . . . Knights. Swords. Horses. Armor. And Italian hotties. Most American teens want an Italian vacation, but the Betarrini sisters have spent every summer of their lives there with their archaeologist parents. Stuck on yet another hot, dusty dig, they are bored out of their minds... until they place their hands atop handprints in an ancient tomb and find themselves catapulted into the Fourteenth Century and in the middle of a fierce battle between knights bent on killing one another."

My Thoughts:

This is the first book I have ever read that is marketed as 'christian fiction' and I honestly didn't know what to expect. I will say that this book really took me by surprise! I enjoyed it from cover to cover. To me, it didn't seem like christian fiction. There were references to God here and there, and Gabi prayed more than once, but it flowed with the direction and setting of the story. Waterfall was just a great read! I was fascinated with the time period that the majority of the story took place in. I have always loved medieval history and culture and this book made you feel as if you were really there. The author did such a great job creating the medieval setting, characters, and overall tone of the book. I imagine that tons of research must have went into writing this! I enjoyed so many of the characters! Marcello, Luca, and Fortino made my heart melt and Gabi was such a strong female protagonist. She was able to think on her feet quickly and not afraid to defend herself. I did find it a little difficult to believe that at only 17 years old she would be able to step back into medieval Italy and blend in with the language, daily practices, and customs that were so dramatically different than her modern day life. Granted she knew a lot from history lessons with her famous archaeologist parents and courses in school- but would that really be enough to blend in? Aside from that, I found the pace of the story fast and the plot exciting. The men in the book were beyond perfect... chivalry at its best! Who wouldn't want their own knight in shining armor! I was lost in this story and in its forbidden romances, betrayals, and vicious battles! I predicted the ending pretty acurately, but that didn't take away from it at all. I cannot wait until the second book in this series releases so I can see what Gabi and her sister do next! Book two in The River of Time Series is titled, Cascade, and is scheduled for release on June 1st, 2011. I highly recommend this book to any readers that love historical fiction or just a good clean 'sweep you off your feet' romance!

In My Mailbox (65)

2011-04-10T11:21:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly post that allows us to share the books we received during the week. I purchased some really good books that I have been wanting so bad! Have a look at what I got:

Bought:

Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward (not YA!)
City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison
Born at Midnight by C.C. Hunter
Wake Unto Me by Lisa Cach
Sati by Christopher Pike
Once A Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Review: Clarity by Kim Harrington

2011-04-08T16:40:00.000-04:00

Clarity

Written by Kim Harrington

Available Now!

Published by Point

*Review copy provided by Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.

Summary from Goodreads:

"When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth?

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

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

My Thoughts:
Clarity has been on my wishlist since it began popping up around the blogosphere months ago. The reviews I read were all pretty stellar and I do love a good paranormal murder mystery! After reading the book, I can say without a doubt that the early reviews I read were spot on! Clarity is very well written. Kim Harrington did a phenomenal job creating a story that kept me guessing throughout. It was so suspensful that I had a hard time putting the book down! All of the characters peaked my interest as well. As the story unfolded so did the characters. There was more to each of them than you initially thought and that type of character development adds to the suspenseful nature of this book. I really liked the main character Clare. She was strong, determined, and able to maintain a thick-skin against the constant taunts and name-calling from her peers. Her psychic ability isn't the main storyline in the book, although, it is because of her gift that she is thrust into the middle of a dangerous murder investigation. After the tragic murder of a teenage tourist, Clare is asked to 'asssist' the police by using her psychic ability. Clare is put face to face with more danger than she could have imagined but luckily she isn't alone! The classic YA love triangle was present in the story. Should Clare go for the ex-boyfriend, who is the all-american good guy or should she go for the new guy in town, who happens to be ultra mysterious and superhot? Both guys hold appeal for Clare, but there are things about each of them that make her hesitate. I liked both of the guys and I was still undecided at the end of the book as to which one I wanted to see Clare with. One of my favorite parts of this book was Clare's family. Each member had some type of 'gift' and they used their abilities and worked together giving readings to the local tourists. You could really tell how much they loved each other and how they would do whatever was necessary to ensure each other's well being. Their family (and their business) is threatened when a rival psychic sets up shop in town. The family falls on hard times and paired with the recent murder, it looks pretty bleak for Clare, her family, and their business. The end of the story is exciting! Shocking revelations are discovered as the investigation nears its end and Clare finds that everything she holds dear could be in jeopardy. The people in her life that she thought were her friends could be enemies and her enemies could really be her friends! You will just have to read it to find out! Lisa Harrington's has secured her place in YA with this one. I cannot wait to see what happens next in Clare's story. The second book in the series, titled Perception, is scheduled for release in March of 2012.

In My Mailbox (64)

2011-04-03T01:09:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly post that allows us to share the books we received during the week. I haven't had time to do any posts this past week, but I plan to get back on track this week. I received some really good books for review! Have a look at what I got:

For Review:
Divergent by Veronica Roth *read this a few days ago and it is one of THE BEST books EVER!* (Courtesy of Amazon Vine)
Waterfall (River of Time #1) by Lisa T. Bergren (Courtesy of Amazon Vine)
America Pacifica by Anna North (Courtesy of Little, Brown & Co.)
The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland by Catherynne M. Valente (Courtesy of Feiwel and Friends)
The Hot List by Hilary Homzie (Courtesy of Simon & Schuster)

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

In My Mailbox (63)

2011-03-27T14:48:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly post that allows us to share the books we received during the week. I didn't have time to do a post last week, so this is two weeks worth of books and bookish goodies! Have a look at what I got:

For Review:

Clarity by Kim Harrington
Strings Attached by Judy Blundell

Bought:

Once In A Full Moon by Ellen Schreiber
Invincible (Chronicles of Nick #2) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan (scored this for my upcoming giveaway for $3!)
Afterlife (Evernight #4) by Claudia Gray *signed*
Evernight by Claudia Gray *signed for upcoming giveaway!*

Trade/Won/Gift:

The Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead *signed* Won from Kristina! Thanks!
Mind In The Making by Ellen Galinsky *signed* Work related book given to me @ a conference.
Choker by Elizabeth Woods *trade
Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King *trade
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins *R.A.K from Liz! Thanks!

Swag Goodness Collected over the past 2 weeks for my upcoming MEGA-SWAG & More Giveaway:

The Body Finder/Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting poster, pins, stickers, bookmarks and postcard
arc copy of Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut and bracelets
The Year We Were Famous by Carole Estby Dagg bookmarks, stickers, postcards
OyMG by Amy Fellner Dominy bookmarks, magnetic poetry
The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton bookmarks, postcards
The Emerald Talisman & The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos bookmarks
Illegal by Bettina Restrepo bookmarks
Class of 2K11 bookmarks & stickers
Dark Days of The Supernatural Tour bookmarks signed by Claudia Gray

*This is just a small sampling of the goodies that will be included in the giveaway! If you are a YA/MG author and have swag goodies that you would like to include in the giveaway please go to 'Contact Me' on the nav bar and fill out the form.

Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Winners of DEMONGLASS Prize Packs

2011-03-22T00:17:00.000-04:00

I am so sorry that it took a few extra days to post the winners of the DEMONGLASS by Rachel Hawkins Prize Packs, but I had a very busy weekend. Thank you to all that entered. If you didn't win don't fret, I will be posting a new contest very soon! So without further ado (drumroll please.....) The two winners are:

Ang19 and Sarah

*I have emailed both winners and the publisher will have the prizes out to you soon! Congratulations!!
*Winners were chosen using Random.Org.

Indie Authors Relief Fund

2011-03-20T01:14:00.001-04:00

As all of you know, Japan suffered a devastating natural disaster that has caused unimaginable pain, suffering, and lose. There are so many people in need and some absolutely amazing indie and self-published authors have really stepped up to the plate to do their part! The Indie Authors Relief Fund was started by Kristie Cook (author of The Soul Savers Series) with assistance from Brenda Pandos (author of The Talisman Series) and Ang'dora Productions. Together they have organized a number of auctions that feature items donated by indie and self-published authors. The selection of auction items ranges from signed books and swag to critique services and blog design. The auctions are ending at MIDNIGHT (3-20)!!! You can go directly to the Indie Authors Relief Fund website by clicking HERE. The site has banners and buttons available for you to grab and help spread the word! There is detailed information concerning what is up for auction as well. Please take a few moments and check out the incredible generosity of these amazing authors. 100% of the profits will be given to The Red Cross to aid victims. Every little bit counts! If all of us just gave a little we would truly have the power to help!

Happy St. Patrick's Day from 'A' and ABCFamily!

2011-03-17T16:40:00.000-04:00

~Happy St. Patrick's Day from 'A'~

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Hopefully you escaped a day of pinches! I was not so lucky myself! I teach Pre-K and my students enjoyed 'legally' pinching me throughout most of the day (and I was even decked out in GREEN!) :) When I came home from work I found an interesting box on the porch. It was marked 'LIVE PLANTS'. When I examined the shipping label and saw that it was from my friend 'A' and the great (and generous!) people at ABCFamily I was so excited! If you are new to my blog, you may not know that I was one of the lucky participants in the Pretty Little Liars Secret Keeper Game hosted by ABCFamily during the summer of 2010. I thought the game was over in June, but 'A' is someone that enjoys keeping you guessing! Since the game conclusion in June, 'A' has lavished the Secret Keepers with incredible gifts on every holiday! Today, I received a small pot of clover. Inside the clover there was a 'clue' that lead me to a secret website that displayed an intriguing photo from the season finale (which is airing next week)! If you'd like to take a peek yourself you can find it HERE. Thanks 'A' and ABCFamily! The Pretty Little Liars spring finale airs on Monday (March 21st) at 8/7c on ABCFamily. Don't miss it! I'm sure it will have you glued to to your seat!!!

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-03-16T21:57:00.001-04:00

The Near Witch

Written by Victoria Schwab

Release Date: August 2, 2011

Published by Hyperion Books

Summary from Goodreads:
The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children.

If the wind calls at night, you must not listen.

The wind is lonely, and always looking for company.

And there are no strangers in the town of Near.

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

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

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

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

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

Bad Taste In Boys

Written by Carrie Harris

Release Date: July 12, 2011

Published by Delacorte Press

Summary from Goodreads:

Someone's been a very bad zombie.

Kate Grable is horrified to find out that the football coach has given the team steroids. Worse yet, the steriods are having an unexpected effect, turning hot gridiron hunks into mindless flesh-eating zombies. No one is safe--not her cute crush Aaron, not her dorky brother, Jonah . . . not even Kate!

She's got to find an antidote--before her entire high school ends up eating each other. So Kate, her best girlfriend, Rocky, and Aaron stage a frantic battle to save their town . . . and stay hormonally human.

Griffin Rising

Written by Darby Karchut

Release Date: June 15, 2011

Published by Twilight Times Books

Summary from Goodreads:

For centuries, rumors have abounded of a lowly caste of supernatural beings known as the Terrae Angeli. Armed with the power to control Earth, Fire, Wind and Water, these warriors secretly serve as guardians for mortals in danger.

But for one young angel-in-training, Griffin, life is hell as a cruel master makes his apprenticeship a nightmare. On the verge of failing, a new mentor, Basil, enters his life and changes it forever. It is their father-and-son relationship, sometimes turbulent, often hilarious, always affectionate, that sings through the story like a pure note.

Masquerading as the average teen next door, Griffin struggles to learn his trade, navigate the ups and downs of modern life among humans (including falling in love with the girl next door), and prepare for the ancient trial-by-combat every apprentice must pass at sixteen or be forced to become mortal.

*I am SOOO excited about all three of these titles! Bad Taste In Boys has one of the coolest covers EVER! Griffin Rising.... Angels - need I say more and The Near Witch sounds really original and really good too! Now you know what I'm waiting for! What are you waiting for?

In My Mailbox (62) AMAZING BOOK DEALS!!

2011-03-13T14:55:00.000-04:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox' is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. I had an amazing week in books! If you have a BOOKS-A-MILLION in your area then you MUST go check out their 'March Madness' deals! I am not kidding... I got all of the books in the bottom picture for $0.72 a piece! Crazy right?!! I bought multiple copies of most of them- which means a contest is lurking around the corner for you guys!! Take a look at what I got:

For Review:

When Colors Bleed *A Collection Of Short Stories* by Estevan Vega

*Swag* Bookmarks- The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa bookmarks, The Dark Days Of The Supernatural Tour bookmarks, Flipped bookmarks, Indie Bookstore handmade bookmarks, Choker, Darkness Becomes Her, and Ten Miles Past Normal bookmarks from Simon and Schuster!!!

Bought:
The Iron Thorn by Caitlin Kittredge
Discord's Apple by Carrie Vaughn
Steel by Carrie Vaughn
Falling Under by Gwen Hayes
A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford
*Bargain Books*
The Secret Life of Prince Charming by Deb Caletti
Someone Like You/Keeping The Moon by Sarah Dessen (2 books in one!)
Pretty Little Devils by Nancy Holder
Such A Pretty Girl by Laura Wiess
John Belushi Is Dead by Kathy Charles
Ninth Grade Slays- Chronicles of Vladimir Tod by Heather Brewer
The Betrayal of Natalie Hargrove by Lauren Kate
Aurelia by Anne Osterlund
Breathe My Name by R.A. Nelson
Are You Alone On Purpose? by Nancy Werlin
The Deathday Letter by Shaun David Hutchinson
The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan
Buffy The Vampire Slayer Vol.1 by J. Vornholt, A.B. Cover, & A. Henderson
Devilish by Maureen Johnson
An Abundance Of Katherines by John Green
All About Vee by C. Leigh Purtill

Traded:
Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith *Thanks Khadija!!!

R.A.K. (Random Acts of Kindness hosted by BookSoulmates!!)
Anna And The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins (Kindle book!!) generously given to me by Ivy!! Thanks so much!!!!

*So now you know what I got! What did you get?

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-03-09T00:00:00.000-05:00

Written by Kiki Hamilton

Release Date: October 1, 2011

Published by Tor Teen

Summary from Goodreads:

"London, December 1871
Orphaned and picking pockets in London’s Charing Cross station to support not only herself, but her ‘family’ of orphans, sixteen year-old Tiki steals the Queen’s ring and thinks she’s solved their problems. That is, until Rieker, a pickpocket from the North End, suspects her in the theft and tells her that the ring is really a reservoir that holds a truce between the British and Faerie courts.

When he warns her that the fey will do anything, including murder, to recover the ring, Tiki is unsure whether to believe him or not. To complicate matters, Rieker seems to know something about the unusual birthmark on Tiki’s wrist. But when Tiki and her family are threatened the game changes.

In a dazzling debut that takes you from the gritty slums of Victorian London to the glittering ballrooms of the Royal Palace to the menacing Otherworld, you won’t want to miss this thrilling tale of mystery, adventure and romance."

A Long, Long Sleep

Written by Anna Sheehan

Release Date: September 15, 2011

Published by Gollancz

Summary from Goodreads:

"Rosalinda Fitzroy has been asleep for 62 years when she is woken by a kiss. Locked away in the chemically-induced slumber of a stasis tube in a forgotten sub-basement, sixteen-year-old Rose slept straight through the Dark Times that killed millions and utterly changed the world she knew. Now, her parents and her first love are long dead, and Rose - hailed upon her awakening as the long-lost heir to an interplanetary empire - is thrust alone into a future in which she is viewed as either a freak or a threat. Desperate to put the past behind her and adapt to her new world, Rose finds herself drawn to the boy who kissed her awake, hoping that he can help her to start fresh. But when a deadly danger jeopardizes her fragile new existence, Rose must face the ghosts of her past with open eyes - or be left without any future at all."

The Vampire Stalker

Written by Allison van Diepen

Release Date: June 1, 2011

Published by Point

Summary from Goodreads:

"What if the characters in a vampire novel left their world--and came into yours?Amy is in love with someone who doesn't exist: Alexander Banks, the dashing hero in a popular series of vampire novels. Then one night, Amy meets a boy who bears an eerie resemblance to Alexander. In fact, he IS Alexander, who has escaped from the pages of the book and is in hot pursuit of a wicked vampire named Vigo. Together, Amy and Alexander set out to track Vigo and learn how and why Alexander crossed over. But when she and Alexander begin to fall for each other, Amy wonders if she even wants him to ever return to the realm of fiction."

*I am super excited about all of these titles! They all sound amazing!

In My Mailbox (61)

2011-03-05T16:09:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox' is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. I had an amazing week in books! Take a look at what I got:

For Review:

Chime by Franny Billingsley *Thanks Dial Books!
Angel Star by Jennifer Murgia and Lemniscate & Angel Star bookmarks, Lemniscate bookmark with Angel Star charm and an Angel Star bracelet! * Thanks Jennifer!

Bought:

The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney
The Morganville Vampires Vol.3 by Rachel Caine
Shadowspell (Faeriewalker #2) by Jenna Black
Clarity by Kim Harrington
Haven by Kristi Cook
Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely #5) by Melissa Marr
Darkness Becomes Her (Gods and Monsters #1) by Kelly Keaton

Gifts:

Soul Stalker (Timeless #2) by Laura Kreitzer and The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos Street Team bookmarks and sticker (Thanks so much Brenda!!)
So Shelly by Ty Roth (Thanks Kristin @ Bookworming in the 21st Century - *given through R.A.K hosted by BookSoulmates!)

*For more info on R.A.K. (Random Acts of Kindness) check out BookSoulmates!

Swap:

Heist Society by Ally Carter (Goodreads Swap)

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Author Interview: Rachel Hawkins & DEMONGLASS Giveaway!

2011-03-03T00:13:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to welcome Rachel Hawkins to Extreme Reader Book Reviews! Rachel is the author of the wildly popular HEX HALL series. HEX HALL (the first book in the series) was one of my favorite books of 2010 and the sequel is even better! DEMONGLASS hit shelves on March 1st from Disney Hyperion.

1. Welcome Rachel! First, let me say that DEMONGLASS is incredible. I absolutely loved it! It was a perfect follow up to HEX HALL. Was writing your second book a different experience for you? Easier? Harder?

It was MUCH harder, haha! I didn't want to let anyone down, plus I had to be sure I was wrapping up some loose ends from HEX HALL, but also leaving SOME things unresolved for Book 3...whew!

2. My favorite character in your books is Sophie. She is such a cool female protagonist. She is brave, strong, and a little reckless (or maybe a lot reckless!). I also truly envy her skill in the art of sarcasm and snarky comebacks! Is her character inspired by anyone from your life? You, a former student? For me, she is who I wish I would have been at her age!!

Aw, thank you so much! I'm very fond of Soph! There's no direct inspiration for her (and she's certainly a LOT bolder than I ever was!) I like to say Sophie was a gift from the writing gods. She just showed up in my head, snarking like a pro.

3. As a former high school teacher, did you draw inspiration from any of your past students when creating your characters (not just Sophie)? If so, which ones?

I honestly didn't, although I DID steal some of their names!

4. Can you give us one little known fact about each of your main characters?

Sure! 1) Sophie hates mayonnaise with the fire of a thousand suns, 2)Jenna secretly dances around her dorm room to Girls Aloud, 3) Archer has a weakness for 80s soft rock, 4) Cal has four sisters.

5. If you could Sophie one piece of advice at the start of DEMONGLASS what would it be?

Brace yourself, girlfriend. Things are about to get ROUGH.

6. The ending of DEMONGLASS is a major cliffhanger! How long must we suffer until book 3 hits the shelves? Any hints about book 3?

Book 3 will be out in Spring 2012! In it you will see Sophie dealing with the fallout from DEMONGLASS, ending up in some truly terrifying places, and teaming up with some surprising allies.

7. Now... a few questions about you! When you are not writing, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Free time? WHAT IS THIS YOU SPEAK OF? Seriously though, I love to read, obviously, and I love to go to the movies and watch TV. I also love to travel whenever I can, and I always enjoy hanging out with my husband and son. I am spectacularly boring, basically. ;-)

8. What is your favorite word? favorite book? favorite joke?

It's a French word, but pamplemousse ("Grapefruit") is just about the most perfect word ever. My favorite book is Anne Rice's THE WITCHING HOUR, followed VERY closely by George R.R. Martin's Song of Ice and Fire series. As for jokes, my Dad was a sailor, so all my favorite jokes are NOT fit to be shared on the internet! ;-)

9. Describe a 'perfect day' in the life of Rachel Hawkins!

Oooh! That's a fun one! First I'd wake up WHENEVER I WANTED. Then I'd drink coffee and sit in the quiet for awhile. Then my husband and son would magically re-appear, and we'd go to the beach. I'd leave them to go have lunch with all my best girlfriends, and end the day with grilling out and a nice bottle of wine. Sigh. Makes me happy just to think about it!

10. Any funny/embarrassing fan moments yet?

No funny/embarrassing ones (well, I embarrass myself daily, so I've PROBABLY had an embarrassing fan encounter and not realized it), but lots of cool ones! I had one girl tell me Sophie inspired her to ask a guy out, and another who brought me a mixed CD of Hex Hall-y songs. People have made me jewelry...seriously, I have the best readers ever!

11. What 2011 book (other than DEMONGLASS:) are you anticipating the most?

I'm dying to read Caitlin Kittredge's THE IRON THORN (1950s alterna-history Steampunk! YESSSSS!), and Myra McEntire's HOURGLASS sounds FANTABULOUS (Time travel and romance and sexy science!) Also I'm really psyched for Victoria Schwab's THE NEAR WITCH since it's very fairy tale-esque and I LOVE those kind of books. And I'm practically salivating for Lev Grossman's sequel to THE MAGICIANS, which I HOPE will be out in 2011!

What are you reading now?

Patrick Rothfuss's THE WISE MAN'S FEAR.

Can you tell us what you are working on now?

I just turned in the 3rd HEX HALL book, and I also have a book called REBEL BELLE coming out in Summer 2012. It's about a debutante-turned-superhero, and I can't wait for it to be out! In addition to that, I have a HEX HALL spin-off coming out in 2013, and I'm currently tinkering with a few seeeeeekiriiiiiit projects.

If you could jump into any book and hang out for a day, what book and which characters would you hang with?

Oh, the Harry Potter books, DEFINITELY! Any of the earlier ones, before they have to start, like, facing death and stuff. Wait, that's ALL the books, isn't it?

And finally.... what is the one question you wish I would have asked but didn't? And the answer!

"Why Do I Insist On Wearing My Hair This Way?"

I don't know. I'm sorry. It's the humidity, I swear.

***

Thanks so much for stopping by Rachel! You are absolutely hilarious! OK people...If you haven't read these books then I suggest you head over to the bookstore (right now!) and pick them up. You won't be disappointed! I will be posting my review of DEMONGLASS within the next few days, but I can tell you that it will be receiving 5 stars!

About The Book:

"Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.
That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth. Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.
But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?"

About The Author:
Rachel Hawkins was born in Virginia and raised in Alabama, which means she uses funny words like “fixin’” and “y’all”. After graduating from Auburn University, she succumbed to the lure of Summers Off and became a high school English teacher. Four years of forcing students to memorize the first twelve lines of The Canterbury Tales finally broke her, and in 2007, she quit teaching to pursue writing full time. When not writing, Rachel enjoys dyeing her hair various shades of red and spending time with her husband and son!

HEX HALL, Disney-Hyperion, March 2, 2010

DEMONGLASS, Disney-Hyperion, March 1, 2011

http://readingwritingrachel.blogspot.com

~Giveaway~
Do you want to get your hands on a SIGNED copy of DEMONGLASS ? If so, then you're in luck! Up for grabs... 2 prize packs ~ each containing a signed copy of DEMONGLASS and a DEMONGLASS tote bag! This contest is open to US/Canadian followers and will end at midnight (EST) on March 18th. To enter just fill out the form below!

CLOSED

BIG BOOK GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!

2011-03-02T17:54:00.000-05:00

WOW! Over 500 people entered My Big Book Giveaway! I want to thank all of you for stopping by my blog and I hope you will come back and visit. I had entries from all around the world and winners from all around the world! The Random Number generator has spoken and the prize packs go to:

Prize Pack 1 (signed copy of Matched, Restoring Harmony, and Prophecy of the Sisters & Swag) goes to:

Megan @ A Cover Lover (#438)

Prize Pack 2 (Mockingjay, Swoon, and Wintergirls & Swag) goes to:

Kat @ A Myriad of Books (#225)

Prize Pack 3 (The Demon's Lexicon, Going Bovine, and Blood Promise & Swag) goes to:

Zula (#477)

Prize Pack 4 (arc of Extraordinary, Goddess Bootcamp, and Graceling & Swag) goes to:

Ambur @ Burning.x.Impossibly.x.Bright (#101)

Prize Pack 5 (signed copy of Intrinsical and book inspired necklace & Swag) goes to:

The Library Owl (#285)

I will be sending the winners emails shortly! I already have the books in the mail to you! Congratulations and thanks for entering! If you didn't win don't worry - I have some amazing contests coming soon!

March 2011 YA Book Releases

2011-03-01T21:30:00.000-05:00

I am so excited about all of the books that are coming out within the next couple weeks. I put together a list of these release dates mainly as a reference to myself, but I figured it might come in handy for you guys too! If there are any mistakes or if I missed any just let me know in the comment section and I will fix it.

March 1st
Falling Under by Gwen Hayes
Demonglass (Hex Hall #2) by Rachel Hawkins
Clarity by Kim Harrington
Betrayal (Haunting Emma #2) by Lee Nichols
Morganville Vampires Vol. 3 by Rachel Caine
Strings Attached by Judy Blundell
The Liar Society by Lisa and Laura Roecker
Dark Mirror by M.J. Putney
I Am J by Cris Bean
Blood and Flowers by Penny Blubaugh
Recovery Road by Blake Nelson
Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt
The Chaos (Numbers #2) by Rachel Ward
Unlocked by Ryan G. Van Cleave
Gemini Bites by Patrick Ryan
Outside In (Inside Out #2) by Maria V. Snyder
Subway Girl by P.J. Converse
Summer: Beautiful Dead by Eden Maquire
The Dark-Hunters Vol.4 (Manga) by Sherrilyn Kenyon

March 3rd
Mermaid: A Twist On The Classic Tale by Carolyn Turgeon

March 7th
The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell

March 8th
Evercrossed (Kissed By Angel) by Elizabeth Chandler
Human .4 by Mike Lancaster
The Hunt Of The Unicorn by C.C. Humphreys
Like Mandarin by Kristen Hubbard
Illegal by Bettina Restrepo
The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta
Blue Blood (Pulse #4) by Kailin Gow
Please Don't Be True by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Shadows (Hex #2) by Rhiannon Lassiter
The Hot List by Hillary Homzie
Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler
Afterwar by Gloria Skurzyaski
Afterlife (Evernight #4) by Claudia Gray

March 15th
Steel by Carrie Vaughn
Midnight (The Vampire Diaries: The Return 3) by LJ Smith
Miles From Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams
Shimmer (Riley Bloom #2) by Alyson Noel
A World Without Heroes (Beyonders #1) by Brandon Mull

March 17th
Chime by Franny Billingsley

March 21st
Lemniscate (Angel Star #2) by Jennifer Murgia
Those That Wake by Jesse Karp

March 22nd
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
Ten Miles Past Normal by Frances O'Roark Dowell
Wither (Chemical Gardens #2) by Lauren DeStefano
The Dark and Hollow Places (Forest of Hands and Teeth #2) by Carrie Ryan
Invincible (The Chronicles of Nick #2) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
The Door In The Forest by Roderick Townley
Touching Snow by Sindy Felin
Royally Crushed by Niki Burnham
The Screaming Season (Possessions #3) by Nancy Holder
The Sky is Everywhere (paperback) by Jandy Nelson
The Poison Eaters & Other Stories (paperback) by Holly Black
The Six Rules of Maybe (paperback) by Deb Caletti

March 29th
Born At Midnight (Shadow Falls #1) by C.C. Hunter
Entwined by Heather Dixon
Fury Of The Phoenix (Kingdom of Xia) by Cindy Pon
Lover Unleashed (NOT YA! but awesome!!) by JR Ward

March 31st
On The Volcano by Nelson James
Karma by Cathy Ostlere
Wake Unto Me by Lisa Cach

Last Chance to Enter My BIG BOOK Giveaway!

2011-02-28T12:06:00.000-05:00

Today is the LAST day to enter my BIG BOOK Giveaway! Entries will be cut off at midnight tonight (EST). The giveaway is open internationally. There are lots of great books and swag up for grabs and I've added some of the swag I got at the Breathless Reads event on Friday too! Here are the books up for grabs:

Signed copy of Matched by Ally Condie

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony

Prophecy Of The Sisters by Michelle Zink

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Swoon by Nina Malkin

Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan

Going Bovine by Libby Bray

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead

Extraordinary (arc) by Nancy Werlin

Goddess Bootcamp by Tera Lynn Childs

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Signed copy of Intrinsical by Lani Woodland

Lots of SWAG with all of the prizes too!

If you would like to get your entry in before it's too late, then just click HERE to get to the contest post and form! Thanks for entering!

In My Mailbox (60) and Exciting Info from the Breathless Reads Event!

2011-02-27T16:51:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox' is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. I got some good reads this week. Take a look at what I got:

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff (signed @ The Breathless Reads event ~ info below)
Secrets and Shadows by Shannon Delany
Trickster's Girl by Hilari Bell (Thanks Ari!)
Shadow Bound by Erin Kellison
Shadow Fall by Erin Kellison
My Zombie Valentine featuring Marianne Mancusi, Lisa Cach, Katie MacAlister, and Angie Fox

Breathless Reads Tour Stop ~ Raleigh NC 2/25/11

Friday night I was fortunate enough to be able to attend the Breathless Reads Tour event in Raleigh, NC. I cannot express how incredible it was! Five amazing young adult authors in one place ~ Ally Condie (author of Matched), Andrea Cremer (author of Nightshade), Kirsten Miller (author of The Eternal Ones), Beth Revis (author of Across the Universe), and Brenna Yovanoff (author of The Replacement) were all in attendance. The event began with a Q&A session. Here are a few interesting tidbits:

Beth Revis, My niece Maddie, Me, and Brenna Yovanoff

Each author gave a little known fact about their main characters. Here is what they said:

*Ally Condie - "Cassia is stronger than she knows."
*Andrea Cremer - "Calla's favorite book is Watership Down."
*Kirsten Miller - "Haven is from a small town in Eastern Tennessee."
*Beth Revis - "The main character has the BIGGEST secret!"
*Brenna Yovanoff - "Mackie is an excellent bass player."

Ally Condie, Me, and Andrea Cremer

Each author gave some Dos and Don'ts for aspiring authors. Here is what each of them said (some paraphrasing):

*Beth Revis - "Do - go out and have new experiences. Don't - take too much advice!"
*Brenna Yovanoff - "Do- finish projects. Don't - be too much of a perfectionist the first time through."
*Kirsten Miller - "Do - exercise 'butt-power' (the power to sit for hours on end until you write something that you like!). Don't - let anyone tell you that you can't! All authors have people that love their books and people that hate their books."
*Andrea Cremer - "Do - write what you love. Write the story you want to tell. Don't write about what you know~write the story you want to know because you will learn as you write. Don't try to follow someone else's writing process. Try lots of processes and find what works best for you because there isn't one correct way!"
*Ally Condie - "Do - cut yourself some slack." I missed her 'Don't'... sorry!

Me and Kirsten Miller

What genre would you like to write?

*Beth Revis - Fantasy
*Brenna Yovanoff - Edgy Contemporary
*Andrea Cremer - Detective Novel
*Kirsten Miller - Horror
*Ally Condie - A happy book for boys ages 7 to 9 (she is working on a book for her son).

What advice would you give to your main character?

*Ally Condie - Trust yourself.
*Beth Revis - Don't trust anyone!
*Brenna Yovanoff - Don't be so self conscious!
*Andrea Cremer - Me more careful! Watch out!
*Kirsten Miller - Things are rarely what they seem!

Bookmarks!!!

Signed goodies and discussion questions for the books!

What current project are you working on?

*Ally Condie - sequel to Matched.
*Beth Revis - sequel to Across The Universe titled A Million Suns.
*Kirsten Miller - just finished sequel to The Eternal Ones titled All You Desire and finishing the third Kiki Strike book.
*Brenna Yovanoff - stand alone novel titled The Space Between (a demon love story!)
*Andrea Cremer - the 3rd Nightshade book titled Blood Rose and the 4th Nightshade book which is a prequel/companion novel that revolves around the witch's war and is set in Scotland during the 1400's! She also said that she is writing a 'secret book' (how mysterious!) and a new steampunk series that she hopes will be her next series after Nightshade.

There was so much more advice, info, and funny stories shared by the authors, but I am not great at note-taking! If you haven't read these five books then you MUST! I loved all of them and I love them even more now that I know how incredible the authors are! I will be hosting a contest soon with some of my signed books and swag goodness- so check back soon for that!

I also wanted to remind everyone to check out my BIG BOOK Giveaway. It is filled with good books and good swag! These are just a few of the titles up for grabs (check out the post to see the rest!): Matched (now it's a signed copy!) by Ally Condie, Extraordinary (arc) by Nancy Werlin, Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland, Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Going Bovine by Libby Bray and more!!! It is open internationally and will close February 28th. Hurry... you only have a few days letft to enter. I will be adding some of the bookmarks that I picked up at the event to the prize packs too! You can check it out HERE.

In My Mailbox (59)

2011-02-20T14:04:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox' is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. I also wanted to remind everyone to check out my latest giveaway. I posted my BIG BOOK Giveaway and it is filled with good books and good swag! These are just a few of the titles up for grabs (check out the post to see the rest!): Matched by Ally Condie, Extraordinary (arc) by Nancy Werlin, Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland, Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Going Bovine by Libby Bray and more!!! It is open internationally and will close February 28th. You can check it out HERE.

Now here is what I got in my mailbox this week~

Bought:

This Side Of The Grave by Jeaniene Frost
Dreams Of A Dark Warrior by Kresley Cole

Goodreads Swap:

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine
Raven by Allison Van Deipen

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Review: The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

2011-02-19T17:52:00.000-05:00

The Iron Queen

(The Iron Fey Series, #3)

Written by Julie Kagawa
Available NOW!
Published by Harlequin Teen
*A review copy was provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Summary from Goodreads:

"My name is Meghan Chase.I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.
This time, there will be no turning back."

My Thoughts:

"Wow!!! I cannot express how much I love this series! The Iron Queen is my favorite installment so far. I had trouble putting this book down and endured a couple of sleep deprived nights as a result! The Iron Queen picked up right after Meghan and Ash were exiled from The Nevernever and banished to the mortal world. Unfortunately for Meghan, it doesn't take long for the Iron Fey to seek her out. Once again Meghan is a pawn in the conflict between the Courts. With war on the horizon, Meghan must come to terms with who she is and face her destiny because this threat is the biggest that the Nevernever has ever faced and the stakes couldn't be higher!

First I must say that Julie Kagawa did an incredible job with the third installment of The Iron Fey Series. With each book, the series seems to get better! I love all of the characters and was happy to see all of my favorite ones return. Meghan has changed so much from the first book. Where she was once dependent on others to protect her, she now has the maturity and capability to take care of herself. That doesn't mean that Ash and Puck stop looking out for her. In fact, it's quite the opposite! Puck was as fun and entertaining as ever. I love the banter between him and Ash. They claim to hate each other, but I believe that the friendship they once shared is reforming and neither is willing to admit it. Ash.... Oh, I do so love him! Without the Winter Court and Mab watching his every move, he was able to show his true feeling for Meghan. It was nice seeing the "Ice Prince" melt away- revealing a man completely consumed with love! Don't get me wrong, he doesn't go all soft and mushy. He is still the fierce and honorable warrior he was, but now we get to see glimpses of vulnerability in him. It's a good thing that he is a Winter Fey, because he definitely needs some ice to cool his extreme HOTNESS! I was also happy to see my favorite feline Fey grace us with his presence again. Grimalkin is aloof and clever, and he always seems to be at the right place at the right time. You get the impression that he knows the solution to every problem that arises, but only chooses to reveal bits and pieces as necessary. He has a superiority complex in a big way, but he is a cat after all! Grim always leaves me wondering when he is going to pop in to lazily save the day! There are also many new characters in this book. I won't say any more about them because I don't want to spoil anything for you!

Julie Kagawa did a marvelous job creating a plot that is not only full of action, but swirling with romance. The Iron Queen weaves a story of love, loss, sacrifice, and destiny. I highly recommend this book and series to EVERYONE! I am already pining for the next installment, The Iron Knight, which is expected to release in November of this year. As you can probably tell from the title, this is Ash's story and I cannot wait to read it!

Books for Trade!

2011-02-18T00:00:00.003-05:00

This is long overdue! My bookshelves are bursting at the seams, so its time to thin them out a bit. The following books are available for trade. I have posted 'My Wishlist' HERE, however, if you have any recent releases or future releases (arcs are fine) that you want to trade and they are not on my list (I have most of the older releases already) please email me and let me know what you have available for trade. I am also willing to trade two for one if you have an arc of an upcoming release that I really want. If you are interested in swapping just email me at jenniferclodfelter(at)yahoo(dot)com. Thanks!

Books for Trade:

Paperbacks
Code Name: Silence by Kirsten Van Dyke
Kiss Me Deadly edited by Trisha Telep
Sweep ~ Vol. 1 ~ Book Of Shadows by Cate Tiernan
Unleashed by Kristopher Reisz
Morpheus Road: The Light by D.J. MacHale (arc)
She Thief by Daniel Finn (arc)
This Gorgeous Game by Donna Freitas (arc)
The Gardener by S.A. Bodeen (arc)
The Debs by Susan McBride
The Clockwork Three by Matthew Kirby (arc)
Bitter Frost by Kailin Gow
Still Missing by Chevy Stevens (arc)
Death Cloud: Young Sherlock Holmes by Andrew Lane (arc)

Hardcovers
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman
Because I Am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas
Bog Child by Siobhan Dowd

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-02-16T12:44:00.002-05:00

Lemniscate

(Angel Star #2)

Written by Jennifer Murgia
Release Date: March 21, 2011
Published by Lands Atlantic Publishing, LLC

Summary from Goodreads:

"For Teagan, these last few months have been heaven on earth- especially now that Garreth, her boyfriend and guardian angel, is earthbound. But perhaps Garreth is becoming a little more human than either of them expected.
Now, Teagan must realize that her world is once again about to shift, as she questions the faith she held in others against those once considered enemies.
In this continuation of Angel Star, Lemniscate will draw you even deeper into the world of dark and light as Teagan realizes the angel who could possibly save them all is the one angel she feared the most."

*I really enjoyed Angel Star and I can't wait to find out where the story is headed next! I have this book in my tbr stack and I can't wait to read it!!

Breath of Angel: A Novel

(The Angeleon Circle #1)

Written by Karyn Henley
Release Date: June 21, 2011
Published by WaterBrook Press (Random House)

Summary from Goodreads:

"Melaia, a young priestess, is drawn into an ancient feud between immortal brothers who destroyed the Wisdom Tree with its stairway to heaven, stranding angels in the world of humans. For the Tree and its stairway to be restored, the debt that sparked the ancient feud must be paid, and the payment, Melaia discovers, involves her own destiny."

*This sounds really interesting!

A Touch Mortal

Written by Leah Clifford
Release Date:February 22, 2011
Published by Greenwillow Books

Summary from Goodreads:

"Eden didn't expect Az. Not his saunter down the beach toward her. Not his unbelievable pick-up line. Not the instant, undeniable connection. And not his wings.
Yeah.
So long, happily-ever-after.
Now trapped between life and death, cursed to spread chaos with her every touch, Eden could be the key in the eternal struggle between heaven and hell. All because she gave her heart to one of the Fallen, an angel cast out of heaven.
She may lose everything she ever had. She may be betrayed by those she loves most. But Eden will not be a pawn in anyone else's game. Her heart is her own.
And that's only the beginning of the end."

*I have been eagerly awaiting this book's release! The wait is almost over... it releases next week!

Now you know what I am waiting for! What books are you looking forward to?

Happy Valentine's Day from A!!

2011-02-15T20:41:00.000-05:00

Sorry this post is a day late, but unfortunately my Valentine's Day consisted of my 6 year old coming down with the flu. However, I did receive some awesome Valentine's goodies that I wanted to share with you guys! If you follow my blog then you are aware that I was one of the extremely lucky bloggers asked to participate in the Pretty Little Liars promotional game hosted by ABCFamily this past summer. As sadistic and scary as A is on the show (and in the books), she has showered the game players with gifts since Thanksgving! I thought that her generosity had come to end after receiving the beautiful calla lilies on New Year's Eve, but no.... yesterday I found a FedEx package waiting at my door with A's name on it! Inside was a velvet heart shaped box filled with delicious chocolates (I have almost eaten them all:). As usual, there was a clue to find that would lead you to an exclusive video clip from Pretty Little Liars! After much chocolate eating, I found the hidden website under the chocolate marked with the ?. The video can be found HERE if you want to check it out- you won't be disappointed! If you are not watching Pretty Little Liars on ABCFamily then you are missing one of the best shows on TV. It airs Monday nights at 8:00pm(EST) on ABCFamily. Thanks for the goodies A and ABCFamily!!

In My Mailbox (58)

2011-02-13T00:00:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

For Review:

Lemniscate (Angel Star, #2) by Jennifer Murgia
Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut + Griffin Rising bracelet

Bought:

Vampire Crush by A.M. Robinson
Immortal by Gillian Shields
Beastly by Alex Finn
Angelology by Danielle Trussoni

Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-02-09T00:52:00.001-05:00

Once Every Never

Written by Lesley Livingston
Release Date: July 1, 2011
Published by Penguin Canada

Summary from Goodreads:

"Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker… but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins.
Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time—literally—maybe even get a date.

This is the kind of adventure that happens to a girl once every… never. "

*Lesley Livingston... need I say more!?

Huntress

(Prequel to Ash)
Written by Malinda Lo
Release Date: April 11, 2011
Published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Summary from Goodreads:

"Nature is out of balance in the human world. The sun hasn’t shone in years, and crops are failing. Worse yet, strange and hostile creatures have begun to appear. The people’s survival hangs in the balance.

To solve the crisis, the oracle stones are cast, and Kaede and Taisin, two seventeen-year-old girls, are picked to go on a dangerous and unheard-of journey to Taninli, the city of the Fairy Queen. Taisin is a sage, thrumming with magic, and Kaede is of the earth, without a speck of the otherworldly. And yet the two girls’ destinies are drawn together during the mission. As members of their party succumb to unearthly attacks and fairy tricks, the two come to rely on each other and even begin to fall in love. But the Kingdom needs only one huntress to save it, and what it takes could tear Kaede and Taisin apart forever.

The exciting adventure prequel to Malinda Lo’s highly acclaimed novel Ash is overflowing with lush Chinese influences and details inspired by the I Ching, and is filled with action and romance. "

Possession

Written by Elana Johnson
Release Date: June 7, 2011
Published by Simon & Schuster

Summary from Goodreads:

"Vi knows the Rule: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the Rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she's wary of joining the rebellion, especially since that means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charismatic, and dangerous--everything Zenn's not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play. "

*All of these titles sound fantastic! I can't wait to get my hands on all of them!

In My Mailbox (57)

2011-02-06T13:30:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

Now on to the mailbox:

The Vampire's Promise by Caroline B. Cooney
The Demon Trapper's Daughter by Jana Oliver
The Iron Queen (Iron Fey, #3) by Julie Kagawa
The Season of Passage by Christopher Pike
Vesper: A Deviants Novel by Jeff Sampson
Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
Delirium by Lauren Oliver (My review)

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Review: Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2011-02-03T13:59:00.001-05:00

Delirium (Delirium, #1)
Written by Lauren Oliver
Available NOW!!
Published by HarperTeen
*ARC copy provided by publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Summary from Goodreads:

"Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love. "

My Thoughts:
This book was so original! The story was captivating, suspenseful and heart-wrenching. I found myself so angry at the government in this alternate version of our world. Love is the backbone of all human emotions and to envision a world without it is incomprehensible! I loved Lena's character. She learned so much about herself through the course of the book. The life she envisioned for herself, her future, and the 'cure' itself are facades. Enter Alex... so swoonworthy! I loved him and admired his strength and bravery. He wasn't afraid and in turn, he opened Lena's eyes to the truth of their world. I don't want to go into too much detail about the plot because I don't want to spoil it for anyone, but I will say that this book forces you to look at the importance of love- the good parts and the painful parts. You can't have one without the other. I highly recommend Delirium to anyone that loves a good Romeo/Juliet type lovestory. It was a pageturner, a heartbreaker, and much more! Kudos to Lauren Oliver!

Upcoming CSN Product Review

2011-02-01T01:04:00.000-05:00

Do you love online shopping like I do? If you answered yes, then you have to visit my favorite online shopping destination ~ CSN. I love every item that I have received from CSN. I am very excited that I have been given another opportunity to do a product review. It is always so hard to choose an item because they have so much to pick from! I 'm trying to decide between a new laptop messenger bag, a new handbag, or another bookshelf. You may be asking.... why should you shop with CSN Stores? That's easy... They have the largest selection of products in the largest variety of categories on the web. They also offer low prices, exceptional customer service and quality products. Take a few minutes and go check out CSN for yourself!

Here are a few items that I am interested in:

In My Mailbox (56)

2011-01-30T02:36:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

Now on to the mailbox:

For Review:

Demonglass (Hex Hall, #2) by Rachel Hawkins

Bought:

*Not Pictured... Archangel's Consort (Guild Hunter, #3) by Nalini Singh (Kindle edition)
Balefire by Cate Tiernan
Across The Universe by Beth Revis
Shadowfever (The Fever Series, #5) by Karen Marie Moning
Stormglass (Glass Trilogy, #1) by Maria V. Snyder
Fallen Angel by Heather Terrell
XVI by Julia Karr
Thorn Queen (Dark Swan, #2) by Richelle Mead
The Fallen: Raziel (Fallen Series, #1) by Kristina Douglas
*I also bought a super cute book light!

Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Upcoming YA Releases and Book Birthdays!

2011-01-25T17:17:00.001-05:00

I am so excited about all of the books that are coming out within the next couple weeks. I put together a list of these releases mainly as a reference to myself, but I figured it might come in handy for you guys too! If there are any mistakes or if I missed any just let me know in the comment section and I will fix it. Today is a BIG release day with many highly anticipated novels hitting the shelves - So Happy Book Birthday!

Release Date: Today! (1/25/11)

The Iron Queen (The Iron Fey, #3) by Julie Kagawa
Drought by Pam Bachorz
Dark Goddess (Devil's Kiss, #2) by Sarwat Chadda
Blessed by Cynthia Leitch Smith
The Charmed Return: Faerie Path #6 by Frewin Jones
Vesper: A Deviant's Novel by Jeff Sampson
Throat by R.A. Nelson
The Fallen: Raziel by Kristina Douglas (Not YA- but I want it!)
False Princess by Ellis O'Neal
Famous by Todd Strasser
Red Riding Hood by Sarah Blakely-Cartwright

Release Date: February 1st

Delirium by Lauren Oliver
The Demon Trapper's Daughter (Demon Trappers, #1) by Jana Oliver
Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance by Emily Franklin
Death Cloud (Young Sherlock Holmes, #1) by Andrew Lane
The Trust: A Secret Society Novel by Tom Dolby
Dark Moon: A Wereling Novel by Steve Feasey
Accomplice by Valerie Sherrad
Consumed (Possessed, #2) by Kate Cann
Haunted (Dreaming Anastasia, #2) by Joy Preble
Waterfall (River of Time, #1) by Lisa T. Bergren
Chasing Alliecat by Rebecca Fjelland Davis
The Things Hidden by Heather Gudenkauf

Release Date: February 3rd

The Locket by Stacey Jay

Release Date: February 7th

Mindgap by Marina Cohen

Release Date: February 8th

The Iron Witch (The Iron Witch Saga, #1) by Karen Mahoney
Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann
Angry Young Man by Chris Lynch
Cloaked by Alex Finn
So Shelly by Ty Roth
Pink by Lili Wilkinson
Father of Lies by Ann Warren Turner
Kindred by Tammar Stein
Red Moon Rising by Peter Moore
Will Work For Prom Dress by Aimee Ferris
The Fourth Stall by Chris Rylander (middle grade)
Where I Belong by Gwendolyn Heasley
Four Seasons by Jane Breskin Zalben

Release Date: February 14th

Angel (Maximum Ride, #7) by James Patterson

Release Date: February 15th

Desires of the Dead (Bodyfinder, #2) by Kimberly Derting
Angelfire (Angelfire Trilogy, #1) by Courtney Allison Moulton
A Tale of Two Pretties (The Clique, #14) by Lisi Harrison
Secrets and Shadows: A 13 to Life Novel by Shannon Delany
The Girl Who Became A Beatle by Greg Taylor
Outside In (Inside Out, #2) by Maria V. Snyder
Rival by Sara Bennett Weaver
One Hundred Candles (Past Midnight #2) by Mara Purnhagen

Release Date: February 17th

Babe In Boyland by Jody Gehrman
Leverage by Joshua C. Cohen

* February 18th- Release of I Am Number Four movie!!!

Release Date: February 22nd

Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely, #5) by Melissa Marr
Haven by Kristi Cook
Darkness Becomes Her (Gods and Monsters #1) by Kelly Keaton
The Iron Thorn (The Iron Codex #1) by Caitlin Kittredge
A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford
Tortall and Other Lands by Tamora Pierce
Deadly by Julie Chibbaro
Exposed by Kimberly Marcus
Orchards by Holly Thompson
Ominous (Private, #13) by Kate Brian
The Visconti House by Elizabeth Edgar
Wonderland by Joanna Nadin
Unnatural (Archangel Academy #1) by Michael Griffo
Iron Crowned (Dark Swan #3) by Richelle Mead
Inside Out and Back Again by Lai Thanhha

In My Mailbox (55)

2011-01-23T02:34:00.000-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox' is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. I didn't have time to do an IMM last week, so this is two weeks worth of book goodness! I also wanted to remind everyone to check out my latest giveaway. I posted my BIG BOOK Giveaway and it is filled with good books and good swag! These are just a few of the titles up for grabs (check out the post to see the rest!): Matched by Ally Condie, Extraordinary (arc) by Nancy Werlin, Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland, Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Going Bovine by Libby Bray and more!!! It is open internationally and will close February 28th. You can check it out HERE.

Now on to the mailbox:

For Review:
Death Cloud (Young Sherlock Holmes Series, #1) by Andrew Lane
Enclave (Razorland, #1) by Ann Aguirre
Red Moon Rising by Peter Moore

Bought/Swapped:
Tiger's Curse (Tiger Saga, #1) by Colleen Houck
Endymion Spring by Matthew Skelton
Odd and the Frost Giants by Neil Gaiman
My Soul To Save (Soul Screamers, #2) by Rachel Vincent
Confessions of a Vampire's Girlfriend (Ben and Fran #1-2) by Katie MacAlister
Catching Fire (The Hunger Games, #2) by Suzanne Collins *my original copy received water damage :( *

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?

Review: Death Cloud by Andrew Lane

2011-01-21T00:26:00.000-05:00

Death Cloud
~ Young Sherlock Holmes Series: Book 1~

Written by Andrew Lane

Release Date: February 1, 2011

Published by Farrar Straus Giroux

*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review~ Thanks Macmillan!!!*

Summary from Goodreads:
"It is the summer of 1868, and Sherlock Holmes is fourteen. On break from boarding school, he is staying with eccentric strangers—his uncle and aunt—in their vast house in Hampshire. When two local people die from symptoms that resemble the plague, Holmes begins to investigate what really killed them, helped by his new tutor, an American named Amyus Crowe. So begins Sherlock’s true education in detection, as he discovers the dastardly crimes of a brilliantly sinister villain of exquisitely malign intent."

My Thoughts:

I really didn't know what to expect from this book. The extent of my knowledge base concerning Sherlock Holmes comes from the recent movie about him starring Robert Downey Jr.! Death Cloud is the start of a series that follows a young Sherlock Holmes. Through this series, readers will get a peek into his journey from teenager to legend. Death Cloud introduces us to Sherlock at the age of 14. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked his character. He was intelligent but still had much to learn. His interactions and relationships with characters like Crowe, Mycroft and Matty provided the learning experiences necessary to begin transforming him from boy to legend. Of course, he has a long way to go before he reaches legend status, but it is obvious that the skills he is beginning to learn in this book will be perfected through experience and time and eventually make him the legend he is. A good portion of this book seemed to be devoted to character development, which is typical of many first installments in a series. I enjoyed all of the characters, but I really liked Amyus Crowe and his daughter Victoria. Crowe is Sherlock's American tutor. He teaches Sherlock many valuable lessons outside of 'schoolwork' that help Sherlock develop his observational skills and his skill with logic and deduction. In other words, he was teaching Sherlock how to be a detective! Crowe's daughter Victoria was a great female character and I liked how she could take care of herself. She was independent and strong and Sherlock found her very different from other girls that he knew. He was intrigued by her and her 'American' ways. An innocent romance is kindling between them and hopefully we will see her play a bigger role in future installments.

Overall, the pace of the book was quick and the story flowed well. There is plenty of suspense and intrigue to keep you turning the pages and a creepy villian with a diabolical plot that keeps Sherlock and his gang on their toes. The ending was climatic and satisfying, but there are still plenty of questions that pave the way for future installments. As a reader much older than the target age for this book, I did find parts of the story very predictable, but I am not sure that a 12 or 13 year old would be able to figure things out quite as easily. You have to appreciate the book for its intended audience. The predictablility and simplicity in the eyes of an adult wouldn't be obvious to a younger reader and my 4 star rating is based upon how I feel the target audience would enjoy the book. This book (and series) will probably appeal more to boys (heavy on action/light on romance), but I think that any 12 to 16 year old who enjoys a good mystery will like this book. I am looking forward to the next book (Rebel Fire) and discovering what new mystery awaits!

Check out the book trailer for Death Cloud!

Waiting On Wednesday

2011-01-19T00:09:00.000-05:00

Wildefire

Written by Karsten Knight
Release Date: July 26, 2011
Published by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Summary from Goodreads:

"Ashline Wilde never received an instruction manual on how to be a 16-year-old Polynesian volcano goddess. If she had, it might have contained helpful warnings such as:
*Dreaming about your (thankfully) mortal boyfriend may cause your bed to spontaneously combust
*Oven mitts should be worn at all times during heavy make-out sessions
Instead, Ash has to learn these life lessons the hard way as her dormant powers erupt at the most awkward times. In the wake of a hometown tragedy, Ash transfers to Blackwood Academy, a boarding school nestled in California’s redwoods, where a group of fellow gods-on-earth have mysteriously convened. As if sophomore year couldn’t get any worse, her storm goddess older sister, the wild and unpredictable Eve, resurfaces to haunt Ashline. With a war between the gods looming over Blackwood, Ash must master the fire smoldering within her before she clashes with her sister one final time, which leads us to life-lesson #3: When warm and cold fronts collide, there’s guaranteed to be a storm. "

*Ok... I know it's going to be awhile before this one comes out, but I just couldn't resist the BEAUTIFUL cover! I also love stories about Gods/Goddesses, so I can't wait to get this one!

Original Sin

(Personal Demons #2)
Written by Lisa Desrochers
Release Date: July 5, 2011
Published by Tor Teen

Summary from Goodreads:

"When secrets and old histories come to light, Frannie realizes that nobody is who she thought they were. Hell won’t give up and Heaven won’t give in. Some are willing to hurt anyone close to Frannie in order to get what they want. It will take everything she has and then some to stay out of Hell's grasp.
And not everyone will get out of it alive "

*Sequel to Personal Demons.... need I say more?

Chime

Written Franny Billingsley
Release Date: March 17, 2011
Published by Dial

Summary from Goodreads:

"Before Briony's stepmother died, she made sure Briony blamed herself for all the family's hardships. Now Briony has worn her guilt for so long it's become a second skin. She often escapes to the swamp, where she tells stories to the Old Ones, the spirits who haunt the marshes. But only witches can see the Old Ones, and in her village, witches are sentenced to death. Briony lives in fear her secret will be found out, even as she believes she deserves the worst kind of punishment.
Then Eldric comes along with his golden lion eyes and mane of tawny hair. He's as natural as the sun, and treats her as if she's extraordinary. And everything starts to change. As many secrets as Briony has been holding, there are secrets even she doesn't know."

*This sounds really interesting and I like the cover!

So these are just a few that I have on my wishlist! What are you books are you waiting for?

Review: The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos

2011-01-18T00:44:00.000-05:00

The Sapphire Talisman

(The Talisman Series, Book 2)

Written by Brenda Pandos
Published by Obsidian Mountain Publishing
Available NOW!!!

Summary from Goodreads:

"With the local vampire coven decimated, Julia and Nicholas try to begin a somewhat normal life together. Bound by secrecy from a shape shifter determined to see Julia’s world-saving prediction come to fruition, Julia isn’t allowed to tell Nicholas the leader survived, ransacking her happiness with guilt. When Alora returns, bent on revenge, the reunion forces Nicholas and Julia to choose what they are willing to live and die for."

My Thoughts:

I can't tell you how excited I was to get my hands on this book! I loved the first book in the series, The Emerald Talisman, and the second book did not disappoint! The Sapphire Talisman had me hooked from the get go. The story picks up with Julia and Nicholas trying to have as 'normal' a life as possible after the events at the end of the last book. Normalcy doesn't come easy for them considering Nicholas is a vampire slayer and half vampire himself and Julia is an empath and a MAJOR vamp magnet! However, the two of them are taking advantage of this lull in vamp activity and enjoying spending time together. But like all good things... it must come to an end. It doesn't take long for evil to rear is vampiric head or for Julia to draw it right to them! An old enemy has returned and Julia and Nicholas are once again thrust into another round of good vs. evil. The stakes are higher this time and the lines become blurred between the two sides in a jaw-dropping kinda way! I was super-excited to see some of my favorite characters from The Emerald Talisman make a return in this book. I won't spoil the surprise and tell you who returns, but I will say that one in particular was completely unexpected and 100% AWESOME!!! Brenda definitely keeps you guessing this time. The plot is full of twist and turns and 'I can't believe that just happened' kind of moments. The pace was quick and there was no lack of action or suspense. The characters, especially Julia, did some growing up in this book and we learned some valuable family history concerning both Julia and Nicholas. The characters also showed more depth, which allowed a greater connection with them while reading. The ending offered closure to some pretty big questions, leaving me satisfied. But like all good series, new questions arise that can only be answered in the final Talisman Series installment titled, The Onyx Talisman- which is due out in late 2011! Kudos to Brenda for writing another edge of your seat thriller that will have you swooning and biting your nails at the same time! If you haven't read this book yet.... What are you waiting for?

*The Sapphire Talisman is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at www.theemeraldtalisman.com

*If you would like to learn more about Brenda Pandos you can find her at http://brendapandos.blogspot.com

Big Book Giveaway

2011-01-12T22:18:00.001-05:00

It's that time again! What time is that you may be asking yourself..... it's GIVEAWAY TIME!! I love hosting giveaways and I always try to make them fantastic for you guys! I hope everyone likes this haul of goodies. This is what's up for grabs:

Prize #1 ~ Matched by Ally Condie ~ Prophecy Of The Sisters by Michelle Zink (PB) ~ Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony (HC) ~ Swag Bag: BOOKMARKS: The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos (signed), Virals by Kathy Reichs, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland (signed), Soul Savers Series featuring Promise and Purpose by Kristie Cook (signed), Mistwood by Leah Cypess, Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs with a temporary tattoo!

Prize #2 ~ Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins ~ Swoon by Nina Malkin (PB) ~ Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson (PB) ~ Swag Bag: BOOKMARKS: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins with Mockingjay temporary tattoo, Virals by Kathy Reichs, The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos (signed), Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, Soul Savers Series featuring Promise and Purpose by Kristie Cook and a Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson pin!

Prize #3 ~ Going Bovine by Libby Bray (HC) ~ The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan (PB) ~ Blood Promise by Richelle Mead (HC) ~ Swag Bag: BOOKMARKS: Intrinsical by Lani Woodland goodie bag, The Dark Divine by Bree Despain, Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs with temporary tattoo and an Oh.My.Gods pin and Goddess Bootcamp pin, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos (signed), Virals by Kathy Reichs, and a cute vampire bookmark!

Prize #4 ~ Extraordinary by Nancy Werlin (ARC copy) ~ Graceling by Kristin Cashore (HC) ~ Goddess Bootcamp by Tera Lynn Childs (HC) ~ Swag Bag: BOOKMARKS: Goddess Bootcamp by Tera Lynn Childs with two Goddess Bootcamp pins, Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs, Intrinsical by Lani Woodland goodie bag, The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos (signed), Virals by Kathy Reichs, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly and a Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins temporary tattoo!

Prize #5 ~ Intrinsical by Lani Woodland (signed) and a Replica of Yara's necklace from the book! ~ Swag Bag: BOOKMARKS: Intrinsical goodie bag, Virals by Kathy Reichs, Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly, Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs, The Sapphire Talisman by Brenda Pandos (signed) and a Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus pin!

This contest is open to all my followers (international included!)! It will run until midnight on February 28th. Just fill out the form below to enter and leave me a comment after entering! Good Luck!!

***CONTEST CLOSED***

2011 Debut Author Challenge

2011-01-07T13:17:00.001-05:00

I decided to join the 2011 Debut Author Challenge hosted by The Story Siren. I participated last year and really enjoyed it. There are so many exciting debut titles for 2011! I know that my list will grow throughout the year, but these are the titles I know I am going to read:
(*own but haven't read yet)

Warped by Maurissa Guibord*
~~Unearthly by Cynthia Hand~~
~~Across The Universe by Beth Revis~~
Vesper by Jeff Sampsen*
XVI by Julia Kerr*
~~Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton~~
A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford*
Haven by Kristi Cook*
Here Lies Bridget by Paige Harbison
~~Darkness Becomes Her by Kelly Keaton~~
The Iron Thorn by Caitlin Kittredge*
The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney*
So Shelly by Ty Roth*
Wake Unto Me by Lisa Cach*
~~Wither by Lauren DeStefano~~
Entwined by Heather Dixon*
~~Clarity by Kim Harrington~~
Falling Under by Gwen Hayes*
~~Enclave by Ann Aguirre~~
~~Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton~~
~~Hourglass by Myra McEntire~~
Luminous by Dawn Metcalf
Bad Taste in Boys by Carrie Harris
The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
Human.4 by Mike Lancaster
~~Blood Red Road by Moira Young~~
~~The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff~~
~~Divergent by Veronica Roth~~
~~The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter~~

I look forward to this challenge and I am going to really try to do better than I did last year! Thank you to The Story Siren for putting so much time and effort into hosting this!

CSN Product Review: Delonghi Retro Pump Espresso Machine

2011-01-06T16:00:00.001-05:00

I have to start this post by saying that I LOVE CSN! If you are looking for anything for your home, kitchen, outdoor space, pets, travel, and more, then www.csnstores.com should be your first stop! I was very excited to have the opportunity to review another product from their wide selection. I already have two bookcases and a dog bed that I couldn't be happier with! This time I decided on something for my kitchen and more importantly... my caffeine addiction! I chose the Delonghi Retro Pump Espresso Maker-BAR32.

It arrived in perfect condition- no assembly required!!

Doesn't it look great!?

My Thoughts:
I received my espresso machine just a few days after I ordered it. It arrived in perfect condition (as have all the CSN products I have received!). I was a little worried that it would be difficult to use, but I couldn't have been more wrong. This espresso machine is not only user friendly and easily operated, but it is stylish! It looks great in my kitchen and makes a mean latte! I was surprised at how quickly I am able to whip up my favorite caffeinated beverages. My house has now become a rival to our local coffee shop! I would highly recommend this machine to anyone who loves a good espresso or latte. Its easy to use, easy to clean, and makes a killer latte! Thanks CSN!!

New Year, New Books, New Goals and More!

2011-01-05T00:20:00.000-05:00

Wow! I haven't posted in a LONG time! I apologize for that, but there is good reason for my absence. I was super busy almost everyday of my holiday break with family, friends, and travel. Now that I am back at work and the New Year is in full swing, I decided it was time to set some goals for 2011! One of my main goals is to become a better blogger! I tend to blog in spurts. I will have a month that I am pretty consistent with reviews and posts and then I will get caught up in my day to day life of juggling motherhood, marriage, and teaching and the blog takes a backseat for weeks at a time. I know that there will still be lulls from time to time, but I am going to TRY to post at least three times a week. Reviews are another area that I have to improve on. I am soooo behind in my reviews now that it is a little overwhelming. I am going to try and catch up, but I've also decided not to let blogging, reviewing and reading stress me out. Reading is my escape and I never want it to feel like a job. Hopefully this new outlook will ease the stress I feel when I gaze upon my review/tbr stack! In celebration of the New Year I also have an exciting contest on the horizon. Make sure you stay tuned because you DON'T want to miss this one!

I haven't done an IMM post in a few weeks and I really hope that Santa treated all of you as good as he treated me!! I have so many new books to read that it makes it hard to decide what to read next! In addition to all of my new books, I also received a fabulous camera from my wonderful husband. So hopefully there will be some better quality pictures on my blog. Santa wasn't the only one giving gifts this year, I also received some holiday goodies from the notorious 'A' from Pretty Little Liars (ABCFamily)!

So here is what I got:

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
The Scorch Trials by James Dashner
Entice by Carrie Jones
Heavenly by Jennifer Laurens
Penitence by Jennifer Laurens
Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst
Zombies Vs. Unicorns edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier
Banished by Sophie Littlefield
Rosebush by Michele Jaffe
Tempestuous by Leslie Livingston
Room by Emma Donoghue
Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
Sapphique by Catherine Fisher
**I did some bargain shopping**
Jinx by Meg Cabot
The Gargoyle by Andrew Davidson
The Monsters of Templeton by Lauren Groff
The Debs by Susan McBride

Here are the wonderful gifts that I received from 'A' from Pretty Little Liars and ABCFamily (Thank you so much!) Be sure to watch the new season that debuted this week! It is a great show based on the super popular book series by Sara Shepard. I received the digital photo frame, which contained sneak peek photos from the new season, for Christmas. I received the beautiful calla lillies along with the bag of 'A' confetti and picture puzzle for New Years. How awesome is that?!!

I hope the New Year brings happiness and prosperity to all of you. Thank you for supporting my blog and bearing with me during my frequent absences! I look forward to another year of blogging and I am really going to focus on making my blog a better place to visit. Happy New Year!!!

In My Mailbox (54) and Secret Santa Gifts!!

2010-12-19T13:01:00.001-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox'is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. Here is what I got:

I participated in two Secret Santas this year and I received some amazing goodies! The first holiday swap that I participated in was the Booklover's Secret Santa. My swap partner was the fabulous Emily from Emily's Reading Room. She totally hooked me up! Check out all of the goodies she sent me. Thanks so much Emily! Please take a little time and go check her out at Emily's Reading Room! I also participated in the Book Blogger's Holiday Swap. My Secret Santa was the wonderful Pixie from Page Turners! She sent me some great books that were on my wishlist! Thank you Pixie, I love my goodies! You need to go check her out at Page Turners!

From Emily:
A SIGNED copy of Matched by Ally Condie!
Arc of The Lost Saint by Bree Despain!!!
A SUPER cute hat crocheted by Emily herself!
A Match Made in Highschool by Kristin Walker pencil and matchbook
Box of Selling Hope by Kristin O'Donnell Tubb 'anti-comet pills' (too cute!)
Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus pin
Bookmarks:
Signed Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
Signed Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
Poison Study, Magic Study, and Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder
Mistwood by Leah Cypess
Flux bookmark
The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
Cute alligator card

From Pixie:
Signed copy of Shadow of the Sun by Laura Kreitzer!
Copy of Prophecy of Days by Christy Raedeke!

Thank you sooooo much Emily and Pixie! You guys are AWESOME Secret Santas! I love all my goodies!

I hit a few bookstores this week too. I found some amazing bargains on some good books- so I couldn't resist! Here is what I bought:

Blood Promise by Richelle Mead (future contest prize)
2 copies of Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony (one for me- one for a contest prize)
Graceling by Kristin Cashore (contest prize)
The Red Queen's Daughter by Jacqueline Kolosov
Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon
Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves
The Magicians by Lev Grossman
Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson
Undead Much? by Stacey Jay
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson (trade- thanks Brandi!)

Wow! What a haul this week! I can't wait to read all of these. Now you know what I got. What did you get?

Purpose Blog Tour Stop: Character Interview with Alexis Ames!

2010-12-15T08:47:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard of the Soul-Savers Series by Kristie Cook then you are definitely missing out! Promise (Book 1) is one of my all-time favorite reads and Purpose is just as good if not better!! Although these books are not YA, they have tons of YA appeal (recommended for 17 and up). This series is an action-packed Heaven vs. Hell paranormal smackdown mixed with romance, suspense, and intrigue! I LOVE it!!!!
I am super excited to introduce my guest today. She is one of the main characters in the Soul Savers Series, (LUCKY) wife of the super hot Tristan Knight and an all-around kick ass character! Welcome to Extreme Reader Book Reviews Alexis Ames! Thank you so much for stopping by to chat with me for a few minutes. I know you are super busy these days and I appreciate you taking the time to talk to us! So without further ado....

1)Describe yourself in three words.

Mom, writer, a-little-insane (Are those three redundant…?)

2) You have spent most of your life 'in the dark' about what you are and what your destiny holds. What has been the hardest part of not knowing?

It’s one thing to know your family has skeletons in the closet that the adults won’t tell you. But when your “skeletons” mean you have weird, annoying quirks – like instant healing or a sixth sense or that your mom can lift a refrigerator over her head – you go crazy with curiosity. And then you get people giving you crap all the time and you just want to know why…as if knowing will change anything. The worst part, though, was when I was attacked by those…creatures [when my story starts in Promise]. When Mom wouldn’t explain then, I decided it was time to do something. Of course, that didn’t turn out exactly as planned…

3) You are a mother now, How has that changed you?

First, let me admit that I’m not the greatest mother. I haven’t exactly been myself since…well, since that horrible day… I do my best to push aside my issues, at least for a little while, and try to be the best mom I can be under the circumstances. Fortunately, our time together is the best part of my day – the only time I feel most like the real me. So I can be almost normal, teaching and playing and loving like a mom should. I know I’m not perfect at self-sacrificing, but I do always watch out for Dorian’s best interests…even if it’s in his best interest to be as far away from me as possible. I know he’s in good hands when he’s with Mom, though. Thank God for her!

4) Speaking of that horrible day, that’s how we left you in Promise. Your life since then must be unbearable. Where do you find your strength to make it day to day?

In my son and in my writing. I suppose that’s another way being a mom has changed me – it has given me strength I didn’t know possible. I remind myself to keep on going for him. And for Tristan. I have to hang onto hope.

5) What is your favorite memory of Tristan (try to keep it as PG as possible!:)

Really, some of my favorite times with him was cooking together. I liked cooking before I met him, but when we hung out in the kitchen, sometimes bumping into each other in Mom’s tiny place…we had so much fun, just the two of us.

6) You are a writer of paranormal books. How has writing helped you through life’s struggles?

Writing is my escape. I get to leave my life and enter someone else’s for a while. Theirs might be just as craptastic, but since it’s not real, it’s more fun and exciting. Does that make any sense? It’s like reading a really good book – the exact story you want to read right now. It’s full of conflict and tension and stress, but it’s still an escape for you, right? Writing lets me forget, at least for a little while.

7) Although you have powers yourself, if you could have ANY superpower you wanted what would you choose?

I wrote a story once about a loner girl (hmm, wonder where I got that idea) who could freeze the world. She’d freeze it, rearrange people – specifically the ones that bullied her – into embarrassing positions and then unfreeze it, leaving her enemies in compromising positions for everyone to see. It’s not a mystery why I always thought that would be a great power. Not just for revenge, though, but also to stop criminals – put them in a different place so they can’t complete their crimes. But, admittedly, also for revenge. Of course, the main character in my story learned that there were consequences to her messing around like that…but a girl can dream, right?

8) Growing up was tough for you. You constantly felt like an outcast because of your 'differences' from other kids. What advice can you give teens who may read this that have similar feelings of not fitting in?

It does get better. Kids are mean, but they’re really just worried about their own issues, using others to make themselves feel better about themselves. I know you hear this all the time, but that’s because it’s true. By the time you hit college, most kids are pretty much over that. College and the real world are so diverse, making it easier to find your niche, your group of real friends. They are out there. You’ll find them. Whenever you think you’ve had enough, give yourself – and the world – six more months. So much can change in six months.

Thank you for inviting me to your lovely blog! I enjoyed spending time with all of you. If anyone has any questions – for me or Kristie – please feel free to ask.

Thanks so much for stopping by Alexis!

*If you haven't read Promise then YOU MUST order it! If you've read it then prepare yourself for a late night of reading when you get your hands on Purpose!! You can check out my review of Promise HERE and my review of Purpose HERE! Thanks for visiting!

Author Website - KristieCook.com

Review: Purpose by Kristie Cook

2010-12-14T01:41:00.000-05:00

Purpose (Souls Savers #2)
Written by Kristie Cook
Release Date: December 15, 2010
Published by Ang'dora Productions
*Arc provided by author in exchange for an honest review*

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

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

My Thoughts:
I have been racking my brain trying to find a way to review this book in a way that does it justice. I guess I could start by saying that it is INCREDIBLE! I felt this exact same way after reading the first book in this series, Promise, but Purpose is even better! If you haven't read Promise STOP HERE and go get it NOW!! I would hate to spoil any of the goodness for you in this review of the second book!........ Purpose picks up in the present. Alexis has been dealing with her husband/soulmate's absence the best way that she can which equals just existing. The only bright spot in her despair is her and Tristan's son, Dorian. She has been passing the time writing and her books are wildly popular. But all Alexis focuses on is holding on to the promise Tristan made to her before he left for the ill-fated battle at the end of book one- "I'll be back- I promise". While reading this portion of the book I really could feel Alexis' despair and desperation. I felt so bad for her and I so wanted Tristan to reappear. Kristie Cook did such a fantastic job relating the character's emotions and making them jump off the page. Her characters are so real to you while you read their story and I felt so connected to them. Her attention to detail doesn't end with the characters. The Amadis and the Daemoni are better understood in this book. Many of the questions I carried over from the Promise were answered in this book. The plot was seamless and Kristie's writing flowed beautifully. I just love how easy it is for me to sit down with one of her books and realize hours later that I have actually been reading that long! The time seems to slip away as you get sucked into the story! As far as endings go- this one is missing NOTHING! It is climatic, action-packed, and fulfilling. Of course there is still the open-door for the next installment, but I was satisfied with where it left off. I can't even tell you how often I have recommended Promise to friends, colleagues and blog followers. Now I will have to sing the praises of this book as well because it is 100% deserving!! I would like to clarify that this IS NOT A YA book! It contains adult situations, sexual content(fanning myself as we speak!) and my SUPER HOT ROMANTIC Dream guy (aka Tristan)! I would recommend this to ages 17 and up.
Thank you Kristie Cook for not only giving me a much needed Tristan fix- but one helluva story to go with it!! I am already swooning for the third book! Purpose releases tomorrow, so make sure you order your copy TODAY! Also don't miss the Twitter Virtual Release Party TONIGHT @ 8pm est! For more info on all of the fun and prizes available during the Release Party go HERE!

*If you would like to learn more about The Soul Savers Series or Kristie Cook you can find more info through the following links:

Kristie Cook/Promise/Purpose/Goodreads

In My Mailbox (53)

2010-12-12T13:45:00.001-05:00

**Thanks to The Story Sir en for hosting IMM

'In My Mailbox'is a weekly post that spotlights the new books that were received during the week. Here is what I got:

For Review:

Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely #5) by Melissa Marr

*Thanks Melissa and HarperCollins!

Bought:

Last Sacrifice (Vampire Academy #6) by Richelle Mead

*Now you know what I got! What did you get?