Review: Skinned

This one took me a bit longer to review mostly because I was trying to find the right words to describe it. This proved to be a bit difficult at times.

Skinned By Robin Wasserman
Published: by Simon Pulse- 9/9/08
Pages: 361
Series or Standalone? 1st of trilogy.

Summary (from GoodReads):
Lia Kahn was perfect: rich, beautiful, popular -- until the accident that nearly killed her. Now she has been downloaded into a new body that only looks human. Lia will never feel pain again, she will never age, and she can't ever truly die. But she is also rejected by her friends, betrayed by her boyfriend, and alienated from her old life.

Forced to the fringes of society, Lia joins others like her. But they are looked at as freaks. They are hated...and feared. They are everything but human, and according to most people, this is the ultimate crime -- for which they must pay the ultimate price.

I'm just going to start off by saying this is nothing like I have ever read. And let me tell you as a huge Sci-Fi nerd, especially through Middle School, I have read a lot of out there books. Nonetheless, this book is sure to "wow" you. I have seen people's reviews go both ways, but I think its brilliant.

Scott Westerfeld has called this series, "a gripping trilogy," and I am definitely in agreement with the Sci-Fi King. Actually, while I do prefer the Uglies series a bit more, I do believe the Skinned series is a strong contender for best Sci-Fi series. With the descriptions of Lia's "transformation" being so raw and heartbreakingly real, and the technology so evolved and well, awesome, its like a Sci-Fi dream come true. I am definitely going to read Wasserman other books, even the non Sci-Fi ones.

From page 1 to close, there was action and adventure and a tone of mystery that makes you want to keep on turning page after page. That hook gets you early on and does not let you go. Though it is likely you will have to take small breaks while reading this to be able to process everything.

Also, Wasserman uses some strong characterization that I really enjoyed. In this book there were characters I particurarly couldn't stand- but this just illustrated how good of a job Wasserman did in those situations.

Lia. At the start Lia was a little self-centered and conceited, which was a tad bit annoying, but in the grand scheme of things, this was essential to the plot and so I found this quite easy to overlook. As things move along after her "transformation" I really felt for Lia, and was able to really like her. Something about the outrageous, terrifying occurances she has to face really made me love her and root for her.

Riley. I looooove Riley. Seriously, where can I find my own Riley? I dont want to give anything away but then end of this book just about ripped my heart into two. (Its not what you think- I'll tell you that.)

Jude. I don't always want to, but I love Jude. Sometimes I may want to scream at him, but what can I say, the guy grew on me. I'm even rooting for him in the next book!

Now, the ending. "OH MY WORD." That is all I could think at the end if the book. Well that and, "I NEED the next one!" I am definitely excited to see how this story plays out. Its very thought provoking and will make you really think about the value of a human life and the result of technologically advancing ourselves.

All in all, I think this was a wonderful book. Like I've said before, this book makes you think, hard, so your guaranteed to remember this one. I would recommend this to all Sci-Fi fans boys and girls alike, but also those who want a good action-packed yet thought provoking read.

When Hooked. Immediately.
Hookability: (10/10)
Writing: (9.5/10)
Characters: (9.5/10)
Plot: (10/10)
Originality: (9.5/10)
Romance: (8/10)*
Ending: (9.5/10)
Remembrable: (10/10)
Recommendability: (10/10)
Enjoyability: (10/10)

Overall: (9.68/10)

(If you're a "letter person" 96/100=A)

* I do believe that in future installments the romance will be more developed, but in this particular book there wasn't much romance. (Though I think the point was to introduce it more than anything.)

Want more Skinned? The second book Crashed is currently released in Hardcover, and the final book Wired is set to be released September 14th, 2010.

Want more Robin Wasserman? She has a Seven Deadly Sins series out which books include Lust, Envy, Pride, Wrath, Sloth, Gluttony, and Greed. Also, she is the author Hacking Harvard and a few others.

You can find her on:
her website (http://www.robinwasserman.com/),
her twitter (@robinwasserman),
her blog (http://www.robinwasserman.livejournal.com/),
or on GoodReads (though she isn't a member.)

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Also, check out this AWESOME book trailer I found of Skinned:

Cover Undercovered: Losing Faith by Denise Jaden

Tenner, Denise Jaden's debut book Losing Faith finally has a cover! Yay! Its so pretty and abstract I absolutely adore it!

Losing Faith shall be released September 7th, 2010! Also, it sounds AMAZING, and I will most likely run to the bookstore when it comes out.

Heres the summary:

A sister's sudden death is shrouded in mystery in this lyrical,emotionally intense debut.

When Brie's sister, Faith, dies in a fall from a cliff, Brie's world falls apart. As she goes through the bizarre and devastating process of mourning the sister she never understood, Brie must also contend with increasingly distant parents, her boyfriend's betrayal, and her sudden outcast status at school. And once she's over the initial shock of Faith's death, Brie is encountering more questions than closure. Certain facts about the way Faith died just don't line up. She soon uncovers Faith's role in a dark and twisted religious cult...a cult that now wants Brie as a member.

Wanna win Restoring Harmony?

*hyperventilates* Briana of The Book Pixie is currently having a contest for her ARC of it right here.

Well what are you waiting for? This book looks soooo awesome I cant wait for it! I NEED IT! :]

Incase you aren't already aware of what its about, heres the summary from GoodReads:

The year is 2041, and Molly McClure was only six when the Collapse of ’31 happened, ending life as the world’s population knew it. When she is forced to leave the comfort of her small B.C. island to travel down to Oregon, Molly discovers how hard the Collapse has been on the rest of the world. What starts out as a quick trip to the U.S. to convince her grandfather to return to Canada and be the island’s doctor, becomes a rescue mission. How much will she have to compromise to succeed in getting back home?

I mean seriously, no electricity? I love the idea and I love dystopia.... *wants, wants, wants*

Review: Catching Fire

This is wayy overdue. Also, you may have noticed I have slightly changed my review style yet again. I think this is the way it will stay though from now on, I like it a lot better. But who knows I change my mind a lot. {And dont worry if you get intimidated by long reviews- its actually shorter than it appears.} :]

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Published: by Scholastic- 9/1/09
Pages: 391
Series or Standalone? Book 2 in possibly the most amazing trilogy that has ever graced before my eyes!

Summary (from GoodReads):

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

Where do I start with Catching Fire? The only words that come to mind when trying to describe this are; "amazing," "mind-blowing," and "sooooo good." The Hunger Games trilogy is so absolutely beautiful in almost every possible way, that it is hard not to write a review on it that is not a total gush fest.

Unlike the majority it seems, I actually like Catching Fire better than The Hunger Games. They are both amazing, but I like the plot in this installment better. There was something about the intensity and energy of this book with literally not having any idea what is going to happen next that made me fall head over heals for this book.

That intensity also got me immensely hooked. I mean once you start reading you're HOOKED. Seriously, this book should come with a warning along the lines if this- "WARNING: Once you start this book (series), you will be so captivated by it, it shall be impossible to put down."

While I definitely like some characters WAY more than others- I still love them all.

Katniss. I love Katniss! She is strong, stubborn, and truly passionate in the things she believes in. Shes my role model. And while obviously my life/experiences are NOTHING like hers, I find her very relatable through how she expresses her thoughts and feelings, inwardly and outwardly.

Peeta. I loooooove Peeta! I wish I had a Peeta in my own life- he is just so sweet and truly genuine. And while I think he might not be the best for Katniss per se, it still doesn't take away the love I have for him.

Gale. True we don't see much of him throughout the books, but everytime I do see him he hath captured my heart!

Characters Katniss and Peeta meet in Hunger Games. They are so all quirky and distinct- I might not "like" them all, but I think they make great additions to the book.

Also, while it was a definite cliff-hanger (especially more than that of THG) as it makes me want to beg on my knees to Scholastic for a copy of Book 3, or at least get as a sneak peak. Or read a ton of mechanical books so I can build a time machine and set it for August 24th.

Overall, this book radiates originality*, and pure awesomeness. Its the kind of book that stays with you and you will most definitely remember. I can almost guarantee you will fall in love with this book, and thus I recommend to everyone above age 10, boys and girls alike.

When Hooked. Immediately.
Hookability: (10/10)
Writing: (10/10)
Characters: (10/10)
Plot: (10/10)
Originality: (10/10)*
Romance: (9.5/10)**
Ending: (9.5/10)
Remembrable: (10/10)
Recommendability: (10/10)

Enjoyability: (10/10)

Overall: (9.96/10) The highest rated book so far if I might add.

(If you are a "letter person" 99/100= A+)

*There has been some debate over whether or not The Hunger Games is a total "copy"/"rip off" of Koushun Takami's Battle Royale, and though I have yet to read Battle Royale so I cant make a proper refute, I refuse to believe that it is a rip-off because while the kids fighting to their death may not have been originally Suzanne Collins' idea, everything else about this book is just so amazing and unique that there is no way its a rip off.

**For fun debate on Team Gale vs. Team Peeta by Heidi R. Kling and other fabulous YA authors and bloggers check out Chelsea's post here.

Valentines Day Massacre (Outside Contest)

Dark Faerie Tales is having a HUGE Valentines Day Massacre contest. There will be 4 winners, and the Grand Prize Winner will choose 5 of the 30 books up for grabs.

So what are you waiting for? Go enter! HERE!

Cover Uncovered: The Demons Lexicon by Sarh Rees Brennan

Today Sarah Rees Brennan has released the new cover of her debut, The Demons Lexicon! So without further adu I give you the rejacketed cover of The Demons Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan...



And heres the summary...

Nick and his brother, Alan, have spent their lives on the run from magic. Their father was murdered, and their mother was driven mad by magicians and the demons who give them power. The magicians are hunting the Ryves family for a charm that Nick's mother stole -- a charm that keeps her alive -- and they want it badly enough to kill again.

Danger draws even closer when a brother and sister come to the Ryves family for help. The boy wears a demon's mark, a sign of death that almost nothing can erase...and when Alan also gets marked by a demon, Nick is des-perate to save him. The only way to do that is to kill one of the magicians they have been hiding from for so long.

Ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse, Nick starts to suspect that his brother is telling him lie after lie about their past. As the magicians' Circle closes in on their family, Nick uncovers the secret that could destroy them all.

This is the Demon's Lexicon. Turn the page.


I have yet to read this book yet despite the fact it looks AMAZING, I've heard only good things about it, and I actually own the original covered one. But I shall have to get on that soon...
Incase you were wondering my copy looks like this-->


As to which cover I think looks better, its honestly a tie. I have so much love for them both it would tear me to decide right now. I might be able to make a better decision after I have read the book. (I mean even the UK version looks amazing!
<----)

Cover Uncovered: Dark Flame by Alyson Noel

Ha, I guess the title of this meme is a bit contradicting, but whatever, its beside the point...

Recently Alyson Noel has released the cover of her 4th book in her Immortals series. I have yet to read the previous books though I have the first two. But I do love the cover for this one!

So without further adu I give you Dark Flame by Alyson Noel.

Heres the Summary:

In this eagerly awaited continuation of the bestselling "Immortals" series, Ever struggles to help her best friend Haven transition into life as an immortal—trying to keep her from doing anything that puts them at risk, while attempting to gain control over her enemy Roman, so she can finally obtain the antidote that will allow her and Damen to be together. But when the spell she casts backfires, resulting in a strange, foreign pulse that binds her to Roman instead, Ever turns to Jude and dark magick, desperately attempting to break free of the curse, and ultimately risking everything she knows and loves—including her beloved Damen.

This will be released on July 6th, 2010. (Atleast in the US, not sure about elsewhere)

The Great Steph Su Has Done It Again (Contest)

If you have seen my last post you can see that it has a part in there in which I gush (though not nearly much as I should have) about Steph Su's Best Books of 2009 Lists which are seriously so awesome I can't fathom words to accurately describe them.

So imagine my surprise when I check my Dashboard today and see that she is holding an epic contest of all awesome! Curious? Here are the deets of what you could win...

(ARC choices):

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan
Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce
Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink
Birthmarked by Caragh O'Brien
Linger by Maggie Stiefvater (signed)
The Snowball Effect by Holly Hoxter

And details of winning...

"Well, since it, um, appears that I have over 600 followers (six hun...sheesh. Wha? *goes to hide in hole*), let's have THREE winners!

*First-place winner will win THREE of the above ARCs, plus whichever TWO books published between Jan. 1, 2010-Feb. 28, 2010 they'd like.
*Second-place winner will win TWO of the above ARCs remaining, plus whichever ONE book published between Jan. 1, 2010-Feb. 28, 2010 they'd like.
*Third-place winner will win the remaining above ARC, plus whichever ONE book published between Jan. 1, 2010-Feb. 28, 2010 they'd like."

Extremely Awesome Contest Right???? I know. So what are you waiting for? Go enter. Unless you are withholding from entering so I can win in which case I thank you. :]

One Readers Mission: To Support The Little Guys

Recently I have noticed that the books I most frequently read, have on my shelves, buy, and put on wishlist of must-reads are all very mainstream books, or Tenners books. And while there is certainly nothing wrong with that, I wonder what will happen to the lesser known books if I continue this journey of only mainstream books.

So with this recent revelation I have made a mission for myself; I am going to reunite with my local library and for the next 3 months (seeing the amount of books on my list), only read the lesser known books on my massive TBR list. Having said that, in between I will probably read some of the books I have on my shelf seeing as they are immensely tempting (Will Grayson, Will Grayson; Linger; Beautiful Creatures; Some Girls Are; and many more!), but for the most part I am going to try to read the lesser known ones as my top priority!

Right here I am going to openly admit that my mission was not sparked by my revelation alone. The Recent "YA Books You May Never Heard Of, But Should Read" posts started by YAnnabe have been an influence. Also, a lot of my books came from The Great Steph Su's Best of 2009 Book Lists, which are seriously made of awesome. (I have linked the master list which you should really check out!)

So, incase you were particurarly curious, I shall include the list:]
They are in the theoretical order in which I plan to read them.

Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta (so many fans I'm finding of this surprisingly lesser known book)
Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
Project Sweet Life by Brett Hartinger
Broken Soup by Jenny Valentine (this looks amazing)
Swim The Fly by Don Calame (oh my this looks funny)
Inside The Mind of Gideon Rayburn by Sarah Miller (this one and the next, the sequel, I know if I don't read now I prob wont for very long time, and they look really good!)
The Other Girl by Sarah Miller
Madapple by Christina Meldrum
The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness
The Ask and the Answer by Patrick Ness
Genesis by Bernard Beckett
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
How to Say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Strandiford
Lockdown: Escape from the Furnace by Alexander Gordon Smith
Monstrumologist by Richard Yancey
Breathe My Name by R.A. Nelson
Marcelo In The Real World by Francisco X Stork
Cycler by Lauren McLaughlin
(Re)cycler by Lauren McLaughlin
Purple Heart by Patricia McCormick
Sleepless by Teri Hall
Bad Kitty by Michelle Jaffe
Kitty Kity by Michelle Jaffe
Lips Touch: Three Times by Laini Taylor
Lovestruck Summer by Melissa Walker (these last 4 I realize aren't lesser known books per se, but maybe under-appreciated. They all look amazing!)
Once A Witch by Carolyn MacCullough
Dani Noir by Nova Ren Suma
Vinyl Princess by Yvonne Prinz

So for the next 3 months approximately these will be my main source of YA books, though I know for a fact I will not be able to resist the utterly tempting books currently on my shelves. :]

Bloggiesta

BLOGGIESTA! If you dont already know, Bloggiesta is a 72 hour period (Jan. 8-10) in which as a blogger, you devote as much time as possible to your blog doing things you need to do, or simply want to do. This is anything from writing reviews, scheduling interviews, adding new elements to your blog, or finding a new layout etc.


This year I shall partake in the festivities! I really need to! I do however gave lots of homework (including to read 19 chapters of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn- blech!), and I want to catch up on some reading, so I cant devote all my time to Bloggiesta, but I do plan on spending a good chunk of my time on it.

Here is my list of stuff I would like to have done by the close of Bloggiesta:

1.) Write Reviews for:

• Catching Fire
• Skinned
• As You Wish
• Marni
• Espressologist
• The Dark Devine
• In A Heartbeat
• The Maze Runner
• Hush, Hush
• Candor
• The Van Alen Legacy
• Shiver

2.) Make Rating System (at a glance) for sidebar

3.) Make post where I go deep into my review process

4.) UPDATE UPCOMING RELEASES LIST! (Oh my word I got sooooo behind on that!)

5.) Pre-schedule posts for this week and for latter weeks (WOWs)

6.) Make a new button- I dont really like mine currently. :(

7.) Look into a new layout / Figure out how to change a template

8.) Possibly contact some authors about doing an interview (this one will be hard for me because I'm terribly shy!)

9.) Plan out 100 Followers Contest (I'm close and I have some fun ideas!) :]

Yeah thats about it. I don't know if I'll be able to complete this all, but I hope to atleast complete 1-4, maybe 5.

Weekly Embarks (2)

Weekly Embarks is a weekly occurance that will be updated through out the week with all of the Blogosphere's ongoing contests of awesome.

For the week of 1/4 - 1/10:

*Eleni of La Femme Readers is having a really cool contest in which you can Pre-order ANY 2010 Release! (Ends 2/15)

*Nikki from A Haunt of Ancient Peace is having a pretty sweetly awesome New Books in New Years contest! (Ends 2/26)

Wanna win The Lonely Hearts Club? Here are some places you can enter to win at:

*Jenny from Wondrous Reads is giving away 3 copies to US residents here. (Ends 1/18)

*Nicole from Word For Teens is also giving away 3 copies right here. (Ends 1/18)

*Lissett from T.V. And Book Addict is yet another person giving away 3 copies of this book right here. (Ends 1/18)

*Catt from The Dreamer Reader is another person hosting a contest for 3 copies right here yonder. (Ends 1/18)

*Alexa from Hooked on YA Books is having Happy New Year contest for any 2010 Book Release. (Ends 2/1)

*Nikki from A Haunt of Ancient Peace is having a generous 100 Followers contest for the first 11 Gossip Girl books. (Ends 2/7)

*Becky from The Bookette is having 150 Followers Contest for Ondine. (2/23)

*Keyona from Only Sexy Books Allowed is having her First Contest for a Something Like Fate ARC. (2/26)

*Lori from Pure Imagination is having a contest for 5 of one of my most anticipated 2010 books Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood. (1/12)

*Arya from Sea of Pages is having a really cool 101 post & 1st Contest contest for a Girl With The Mermaid Hair ARC. (1/30)

*Valerie from I Should Be Writing is having an awesome Happy 2010/ 200 Followers contest. (1/31)

*Elizabeth of From Ramblings to Interviews is having a cool 100 Followers Contest for the Entire A Great And Terrible Beauty Series. (Ends ???)

*Lovely Miss Lucy from Delightful Reviews is also giving away a SIGNED copy of Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood! (1/17)

In My Mailbox: Jan 4 (6)

Ahhhhh, I'm late once again on posting IMM. I didn't do it yesterday because I wanted to take a *literal* IMM picture like I usually do. And now it is way too cold (and dark) to take one, so I'm sorry but your stuck with a regular old picture of the stack of books I got. :[

-----------------------------------

Isabelle's Boyfriend by Caroline Hickey

WHAT DO YOU DO IF THE GUY OF YOUR DREAMS IS SOMEBODY ELSE’S BOYFRIEND?
Taryn has found the perfect guy. Epp is tall, athletic, handsome, and best of all, she is sure he likes her, too. There’s only one problem: He’s dating someone else. But when Taryn becomes friends with Epp’s beautiful girlfriend, Isabelle, her life begins to change. New friends, movie dates, and a first kiss—life couldn’t get any better, could it? Except that Epp is still Isabelle’s boyfriend. Girls will relate to Taryn’s sincerity and humor as she tries to balance family, friendship, and, of course, romance.

--Got this one for review from InGroup. It looks really cute and fun, I can't wait!

Boys That Bite by Mari Mancusi

This is not your typical boybites-girl love story.

Technically Sunshine can't get killed-because she's immortal. Well, not quite yet. Due to the worst case of mistaken identity with her dark-side-loving twin sister at a Goth club called Club Fang, Magnus, a vampire hottie, went for Sunshine's innocent neck. Now if she doesn't reverse it in time, Magnus will be her blood mate forever and she's doomed to be a blood-gulping, pasty, daylight-hating vampire. That would seriously bite.

And now, after the unfortunate slaying of the vampire leader, Sunshine, her sister Rayne, and Magnus must find the one thing that can solve her problem: the Holy Grail. They wish it were a joke but it's not. It's absolutely necessary that Sunshine gets out of this in time, because somehow she scored the hottest prom date in her school, the mouth-watering Jake Wilder. So she just can't be a vampire for the prom-let alone the rest of eternity.

--I bought this one because this series looks sooooo good! The others are on their way (including the newest one), and I'm really excited to start reading them!


Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other. Now, in Linger, they must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping a very dangerous secret about her own well-being. For Sam, this means grappling with his werewolf past . . . and figuring out a way to survive into the future. Add into the mix a new wolf named Cole, whose own past has the potential to destroy the whole pack. And Isabelle, who already lost her brother to the wolves . . . and is nonetheless drawn to Cole. At turns harrowing and euphoric, Linger is a spellbinding love story that explores both sides of love -- the light and the dark, the warm and the cold -- in a way you will never forget.

--I just finished Shiver and I AM SO GLAD that I have gotten to read this book early, the wait would have been grueling! Currently, I have a few books to read before this one, but I'm so excited for when I do! Oh, did I mention it's signed!!!! Thank you Karin!


All the rest are from Lenore. Thank you Lenore, you are SO AWESOME!

The Naughty List by Suzanne Young

As if being a purrfect cheerleader isn’t enough responsibility!

Tessa Crimson’s the sweet and spunky leader of the SOS (Society of Smitten Kittens), a cheer squad–turned–spy society dedicated to bringing dastardly boyfriends to justice, one cheater at a time. Boyfriend-busting wouldn’t be so bad . . . except that so far, every suspect on the Naughty List has been proven 100% guilty!

When Tessa’s own boyfriend shows up on the List, she turns her sleuthing skills on him. Is Aiden just as naughty as all the rest, or will Tessa’s sneaky ways end in catastrophe?

The Naughty List. Is your boyfriend on it?

-- Yay! I am so excited for this one, it looks sooooo good! And I've only heard amazing things about it!


Wanderlust by Lucy Silag

Will they save their lost friend before it’s too late?
Angst and betrayal abound as teens search the French countryside for their missing classmate in this exciting sequel to Beautiful Americans.

The book opens with PJ on a train, racing toward Rouen to meet her sister, Annabel. But Annabel’s life may be fraught with troubles far worse than her own.

Alex persuades Jay and Zack to hunt for PJ at one of her absentee father’s ritzy estates in the country. But a painful encounter with her dad leaves Alex weeping—on Jay’s shoulder. Three’s a crowd for Zack; he heads to Amsterdam seeking an old friend, and a place to belong.

Back in Paris, Olivia’s escapades with Thomas are interrupted when they discover reason to believe PJ is in more peril than she knows. Will the crew find PJ in time? Have they lost themselves along the way?

-- This series looks really good, I just have to pick up the first book and then I can get onto reading it!


The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg

Penny is sick of boys and sick of dating. So she vows: no more. It's a personal choice. . .and, of course, soon everyone wants to know about it. And a few other girls are inspired. A movement is born: The Lonely Hearts Club (named after the band from Sgt. Pepper). Penny is suddenly known for her nondating ways . . . which is too bad, because there's this certain boy she can't help but like. . . .

--This one looks sooooooo good, I am so unbelievably psyched for it! My copy is the ARC so it has the original cover, but I love the new cover so much that if I like this I'm probably going to pick up a finished copy!


The Mark by Jen Nadol

Cassandra Renfield has always seen the mark—a glow around certain people reminiscent of candlelight. But the one time she mentioned it, it was dismissed as a trick of the light. Until the day she watches a man awash in the mark die. After searching her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person’s imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.

Armed with a vague understanding of the light, Cassie begins to explore her “gift,” seeking those marked for death and probing the line between decision and destiny. Though she’s careful to hide her secret—even from her new philosophy-obsessed boyfriend—with each impending death comes the temptation to test fate. But so many questions remain. How does the mark work? Why is she the only one who sees it? And finally, the most important of all: If you know today is someone’s last, should you tell them?

--Another one I'm really excited to read! Also, I actually already pre-ordered this one so now I get to read it early and get the pretty new cover, yay!


The Line by Teri Hall

An invisible, uncrossable physical barrier encloses the Unified States. The Line is the part of the border that lopped off part of the country, dooming the inhabitants to an unknown fate when the enemy used a banned weapon. It’s said that bizarre creatures and superhumans live on the other side, in Away. Nobody except tough old Ms. Moore would ever live next to the Line.

Nobody but Rachel and her mother, who went to live there after Rachel’s dad died in the last war. It’s a safe, quiet life. Until Rachel finds a mysterious recorded message that can only have come from Away. The voice is asking for help.

Who sent the message? Why is her mother so protective? And to what lengths is Rachel willing to go in order to do what she thinks is right?

--Yay, I dont have to wait until March! I've heard good things about this one so I'm super excited!


Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green & David Levithan

One cold night, in a most unlikely corner of Chicago, two teens—both named Will Grayson—are about to cross paths. As their worlds collide and intertwine, the Will Graysons find their lives going in new and unexpected directions, building toward romantic turns-of-heart and the epic production of history’s most fabulous high school musical.
Hilarious, poignant, and deeply insightful, John Green and David Levithan’s collaborative novel is brimming with a double helping of the heart and humor that have won both them legions of faithful fans.

--Squeeeeeee! I AM SO FRICKEN EXCITED YOU DON'T EVEN KNOW! I loooooooooooove John Green so much, and though I have never read any of David Levithan's books, I hear they're really good! Who knows I might have to pick some up after reading this! :]

So, thats what I got. What did you?

2010 Support Your Library Reading Challenge

Out of all the challenges I've joined in 2010, this is one of my favorites! I absolutely looooove my library! I love owning books, but I don't have enough money to buy all the books I want to read, and my library always stocked with all the awesome books I want to read! Really my public library is the epitomy of awesome! :]

Here are the rules:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.

--Non-Bloggers: Post your list of books in the comment section of the wrap-up post. To learn how to sign up without having a blog, click here.

2. There are four levels:
--The Mini – Check out and read 25 library books.
--Just My Size – Check out and read 50 library books.
--Stepping It Up – Check out and read 75 library books.
--Super Size Me – Check out and read 100 library books.
(Aim high. As long as you read 25 by the end of 2010, you are a winner.)

3. Audio, Re-reads, eBooks, YA, Young Reader – any book as long as it is checked out from the library count. Checked out like with a library card, not purchased at a library sale.

4. No need to list your books in advance. You may select books as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed.

5. Crossovers from other reading challenges count.

6. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

7. When you sign up under Mr. Linky, put the direct link to your post where your library books will be listed. Include the URL to this post so that other viewers can find this fun challenge. If you’d prefer to put your list in the sidebar of your blog, please leave your viewers the link to the sign up page. Again, so viewers can join the challenge too.
****You do NOT need to review your books. That is optional.****

To join for yourself or gain more info on the challenge, go here.

I'm just going to sign up for "The Mini" as of now. If I get more thats awesome, but I'm not really sure what my own-to-library reading ratio for 2010 is going to look like just like just yet!

My list shall be updated as library books are read, and will then be listed on this post and my Challenges post located on my link bar.

1. Saving Francesca (Melina Marchetta)
2. The Spectacular Now (Tim Tharp)
3. Project Sweet Life (Brett Hartinger)
4. Perfect Mistake (Kate Brian)
5. Swim The Fly (Dan Calame)
6. Scandal (Kate Brian)
7. Going Bovine (Libba Bray)
8. The Luxe (Anna Godbersen)
9. Fat Cat (Robin Brande)
10. The Knife of Never Letting Go (Patrick Ness)
11. Audrey, Wait! (Robin Benway)
12. The Summer I Turned Pretty (Jenny Han)
13. Spirit Bound (Richelle Mead)
14. The Lottery and Other Stories (Shirley Jackson)
15. Every Little Thing in the World (Nina de Gramont)
16. Break (Hannah Moskowitz)
17. After (Amy Efaw)
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.

(17/25)

100+ Author Challenge 2010

As far as I know no one is hosting this challenge, so as a personal goal I'm doing this one. (PLEASE let me know if someone is hosting this so I can give them credit!)

Basicly, the objective is to read 100 or more authors.
I attempted to do this one last year also, but this year I'm much more motivated! :]

<-- Real Original Button right? ;)

Here's my list. It shall be updated every time I read another author on this post, and on my Challenges post located on my link bar!

1. Maggie Stiefvater
2. Suzanne Young
3. Caroline Hickey
4. Melina Marchetta
5. John Green
6. David Levithan
7. Tim Tharp
8. Brett Hartinger
9. Teri Hall
10. Jen Nadol
11. Caragh O'Brien
12. Kate Brian
13. Don Calame
14. Sara Shepard
15. Carrie Ryan
16. Kristin Walker
17. Anna Jarzab
18. Kami Garcia
19. Margaret Stohl
20. Lauren Oliver
21. Courtney Summers
22. Rachel Hawkins
23. Elizabeth Eulberg
24. Libba Bray
25. Anna Godbersen
26. Robin Brande
27. Patrick Ness
28. Anastasia Hopcus
29. Robin Benway
30. Jenny Han
31. Richelle Mead
32. Jessica Brody
33. Shirley Jackson
34. Nina de Gramont
35. Hannah Moskowitz
36. Amy Efaw

The 2nd Challenge

Since I'm planning to read a lot of second in a series books anyways/ read more books by authors, I figured why not join a challenge for it.

Royal Reviews explain it better than me, so without further adu:
"The great thing about this challenge is that it's not just for your second in a series books, but the second time you've read an author as well. This encourages you to give authors another try if you haven't liked the book you've read or simply another excuse to read a book by an author you loved."


Here are the rules:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
--Non-Bloggers: Include your information in the comment section.

2. There are four levels:

-- Curious – Read 3 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.
-- Fascinated – Read 6 that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.
-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.
-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels 2nd in a series or second time you've read the author.

3. Any genre counts.

4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.

5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

To join the challenge yourself go here.

I myself am joining the "Addicted" level though I have a good feeling I'll make it to the Obsessed level. :]

I am not pre-writing the list because sometimes my reading selection is random. This list will be updated as I read my "2nd" books on this post and on my Challenges post located on my link bar.

1. Some Girls Are (Courtney Summers)
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

(1/12)

1st in a Series Challenge 2010

I loooooooooove this challenge! I participated in it last year and I had a lot of fun!
Here are the rules of the challenge:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
--Non-Bloggers: Include your information in the comment section.

2. There are four levels:

-- Curious– Read 3 novels that are first in a series.
-- Fascinated – Read 6 novels that are first in a series.
-- Addicted – Read 12 novels that are first in a series.
-- Obsessed – Read 20 novels that are first in a series.

3. Any genre counts.

4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.

5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

6. When you sign up under Mr. Linky, put the direct link to the post about the 1st in a Series Challenge. Include the URL so that other participants can find join in and read your reviews and post.
To sign yourself up for this challenge go here.

I'm going to participate in the "Obsessed" level seeing as I have 20 unread first in a series books on my shelves, and there are many more first in a series book I plan to read! :]

I'm not going to plan out my list ahead of time, but rather update it as I read them. This list will be updated on this post and my Challenges post located on my sidebar.



1. Shiver (Maggie Stiefvater)
2. The Naughty List (Suzanne Young)
3. The Line (Teri Hall)
4. Birthmarked (Caragh O'Brien)
5. The Forest of Hands and Teeth (Carrie Ryan)
6. Beautiful Creatures (Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl)
7. Hex Hall (Rachel Hawkins)
8. The Luxe (Anna Godbersen)
9. The Knife of Never Letting Go (Patrick Ness)
10. The Summer I Turned Pretty (Jenny Han)
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.

(10/20)

A-Z Author Challenge

Like the A-Z Title Challenge, I had joined when I first started my blog last year, but had no idea that this challenge was hosted by anyone.

The objective of this challenge is to read 26 books in 2010, one with an author's last name starting with a, another with b, and so on. Like with the A-Z Title Challenge, the letter X only has to be in the author's name. Due to this I think I will be able to finish this challenge, I know the perfect "X" book.

To sign yourself up and learn more info on the challenge, go to this post here.

This list will be updated on this post, my sidebar, and on my Challenges post located on my link bar as I read books with authors' last names that start with each letter:

A-
B- Brian, Kate
C- Calame, Don
D-
E- Eulberg, Elizabeth
F-
G- Green, John
H- Hickey, Caroline
I-
J- Jarzab, Anna
K-
L- Levithan, David
M- Marchetta, Melina
N- Nadol, Jen
O- O'Brien, Caragh
P-
Q-
R- Ryan, Carrie
S- Stiefvater, Maggie
T- Tharp, Tim
U-
V-
W- Walker, Kristin
X-
Y- Young, Suzanne
Z-

(14/26)

A-Z Title Challenge 2010

Last year I joined this and I didn't even know it was being "hosted" by someone, though I was just starting out so I was hopelessly clueless. :]

This challenge is one where you try to read 26 books, one with a title that starts with each letter of the alphabet.

To sign yourself up or to get more information (especially on what to do with the letter "X") go to this post here.

This list will be updated on this post, my sidebar, and on my Challenges post located on my link bar, as I read titles that start with each letter:


A- A Match Made In High School
B- Birthmarked
C- Cracked Up To Be
D-
E- Every Little Thing in the World
F- Forest of Hands and Teeth, The
G- Going Bovine
H- Heartless
I- Isabelle's Boyfriend
J-
K- Knife of Never Letting Go, The
L- Line, The
M- Mark, The
N- Naughty List, The
O-
P- Project Sweet Life
Q-
R-
S- Shiver
T-
U-
V-
W- Will Grayson, Will Grayson
X-
Y-
Z-

(15/26)

2010 Young Adult Reading Challenge

I plan on reading YA books anyway so why not just join a challenge for doing just that! :]

Rules:1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.

--Non-Bloggers: Post your list of books in the comment section of the wrap-up post. To learn how to sign up without having a blog, click here.

2. There are four levels:
--The Mini YA Reading Challenge – Read 12 Young Adult novels.
--Just My Size YA Reading Challenge – Read 25 Young Adult novels.
--Stepping It Up YA Reading Challenge – Read 50 Young Adult novels.
--Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge – Read 75 Young Adult novels.

3. Audio, eBooks, re-reads all count.

4. No need to list your books in advance. You may select books as you go. Even if you list them now, you can change the list if needed.

5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010.

6. When you sign up under Mr. Linky, put the direct link to your post where your Young Adult novels will be listed. Include the URL so that other viewers can find this fun challenge. If you’d prefer to put your list in the sidebar of your blog, please leave your viewers the link to the sign up page. Again, so viewers can join the challenge too.
****You do NOT need to review your books. That is optional.****
-->To sign yourself up go here.


Its kind of a no-brainer that I am signing up for the "Super Size Me" portion seeing as YA is basicly all I read and I have also signed up for the 100+ Challenge. This list will most likely be a copy and paste of my 100+ Reading Challenge list/ Books Read in 2010 list, but I will still update it! :] Also, this post will be updated via this post and on my Challenges post located on my link bar.

1.) Shiver (Maggie Stiefvater)
2.) The Naughty List (Suzanne Young)
3.) Isabelle's Boyfriend (Caroline Hickey)
4.) Saving Francesca (Melina Marchetta)
5.) Will Grayson, Will Grayson (John Green & David Levithan)
6.) The Spectacular Now (Tim Tharp)
7.) Project Sweet Life (Brett Hartinger)
8.) The Line (Teri Hall)
9.) The Mark (Jen Nadol)
10.) Birthmarked (Caragh M. O'Brien)
11.) Perfect Mistake (Kate Brian)
12.) Swim The Fly (Dan Calame)
13.) Heartless (Sara Shepard)
14.) The Forest of Hands and Teeth (Carrie Ryan)
15.) A Match Made In High School (Kristin Walker)
16.) All Unquiet Things (Anna Jarzab)
17.) Beautiful Creatures (Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl)
18.) Before I Fall (Lauren Oliver)
19.) Cracked Up To Be (Courtney Summers)
20.) Some Girls Are (Courtney Summers)
21.) Hex Hall (Rachel Hawkins)
22.) Lonely Hearts Club (Elizabeth Eulberg)
23.) Scandal (Kate Brian)
24.) Going Bovine (Libba Bray)
25.) The Luxe (Anna Godbersen)
26.) Fat Cat (Robin Brande)
27.) The Knife of Never Letting Go (Patrick Ness)

Its 2010! Someone get the noise makers...

I know this is extremely late, but...

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

This year has already started out awesome and I have a feeling its only going to get better!

To make sure of this, I have a few goals/New Years Resolutions for 2010! I am only going to share the ones that are in regards to blogging and reading seeing as I don't think you want to know things such as "score higher on an AP test than the current smartest kid, Scott." :]

1.) Post everyday.
2.) Post a review atleast every three days, I am actually really aiming for every two days but I'm being reasonable with myself.
3.) Finish atleast one book every 2 days. (For this one there may be certain exceptions such as finals week, or an unreasonably long book)
4.) Read atleast 150 books, though I think it would be extremely awesome if I was able to read 200 (Please don't let the results of how many books I read '09 doubt me, I'm very motivated)
5.) Complete all the Challenges I've joined for 2010, and with the goal I set for myself when joining. (The only exception might be the Debut Author Challenge '10- I signed on for like 70+ books, and while I plan to read all of them, I dont know if it will all be '10)
6.) Learn how to change my background layout/ Change layout so it fits my liking.
7.) Connect more with other book bloggers/authors. I'm a little shy sometimes but I would really like to connect more with all you wondrous book lovers out there! :]

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Heres to hoping I can complete all of them! Have a Happy New Year!