YA All The Way: An Epic Journey Through The World of YA

Dark Devine Teaser Trailer

2010-07-01T08:55:00.000-04:00

Hey have you guys seen the awesome teaser trailer for Bree Despain's The Dark Devine yet??? Well you should because it seriously rocks! :)

Don't you looooooooove it? I'm so glad the trailer is going to be so cool, because the book was one of my favorites of 2009, and I am currently dying to read the sequel, The Lost Saint!

Covers!

2010-06-29T14:10:00.002-04:00

I don't know if anyone else has seen these yet, but I have found some absolutely gorgeous covers I would like to share! Oh, and I am in no way sure if these are the final covers or not. Sorry;)

*all covers are linked to GoodReads' pages fyi:)

Darkest Mercy (Wicked Lovely #5) by Melissa Marr

Tempestuous (Wondrous Strange #3) by Lesley Livingston

Plague (Gone #4) by Michael Grant

Desires of the Dead (The Body Finder #2) by Kimberly Derting

Midnight (Vampire Diaries: The Return #3) by L.J. Smith

The Trust (Secret Society #2) by Tom Dolby

Rival by Sara Bennett Wealer

Steel by Carrie Vaughn

The Gathering (Darkest Powers #4) by Kelley Armstrong

All You Get Is Me by Yvonne Prinz

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Entwined by Heather Dixon

Viola in the Spotlight (Viola #2) by Adriana Trigiani

Vampire Crush by A. M. Robinson

Don't you just looooooooooooove some of these amazing covers? I do! Especially the ones for Rival, Steel, Unearthly, Tempestous, and Desires of the Dead (its pink)!!!!

And like I said, I have no idea if these are final covers so I'm very sorry if I get your hopes up. I'm pretty sure most of these covers are Harper Collins Canada so who knows they might even be different in the US? :)

Take 2: What I will be BUYING in 2010

2010-05-07T16:02:00.004-04:00

So as you may recall in my most recent post, What I Will Be Buying in 2010, I named the books that I was planning to buy in 2010 at the time. True, I did disclaim that I knew there were some I was missing, but after reconsulting my to-read list I realized I missed A TON. So in order to clear things up I have decided to do Take 2 of What I Will Be Buying in 2010. So without further adu...

Oh yeah, last time all the covers were linked to GoodReads pages, but I'm too lazy to do that right now, maybe later...

The Already Released/ Releases In May But Weren't In My Pre-Order:

June/July 2010:

because the one June book was lonely:)

August 2010:

in which I added a few more

(paperback)

September 2010:

in which I really realized how much I had forgotten

...And also, Personal Demons by Lisa Desrochers (there's no cover yet)

October 2010:

in which I'm not quite sure how I skipped over these

November 2010:

yeah, still a lot of books I forgot (sorry books!)

...And Fixing Delilah Hannaford by Sarah Ockler which doesn't have a cover yet

December 2010:

gahhhh, still books that I had forgotten, darn faulty memory!

And Because I'm Difficult...

The Ones That I Want To Buy But Am Not In A Super Hurry To Buy:

(Will buy sometime in 2010, but don't necessarily have to buy month it's released)

tho being perfectly honest, if THIS (<-- click link) is the new cover for Delilah, I probably won't buy it

So I think I'm pretty much done here.

You know, until I stumble upon a few other must-buy 2010 books. Not that my wallet could handle them as this post has officially made me broke:)

But, enough about me, what are YOU buying in 2010?

What I will be BUYING in 2010 (as of now)

2010-04-29T19:55:00.005-04:00

So I've compiled a list of all the books I plan to BUY in 2010, so far. Though, please note:

1.) This is BUY as in MUST HAVE for my collection. I plan on reading MUCH, MUCH more, just there is only so many I can buy.
2.) I know I will buy much more when I have more money, i.e. after my birthday and after Christmas, but so far this is the list of MUST-BUYS I have compiled.
3.) I know I'm forgetting some, but again this is just a frame of reference.

Also, in case you were wondering I pre-order books for the next month in the middle/end of the month before it so nothing past May is actually bought yet.
And if you were curious I usually buy all my books from B&N. It's really cheap to pre-order online from there, though the only draw back is that they don't ship (with free shipping) until all books are released so I only pre-order books in that same month so I don't have to wait an excessively long time. I loooove Borders in the store, but pre-ordering Hardcovers is much cheaper online at B&N. Though they have great online deals like buy 4 books get 5th (at lowest price) free, which is actually going on now, and so is great for buying paperbacks. Also, I like Amazon too, theres no waiting until all are released, but I always have gift cards to B&N so I just buy from there instead. :)

But NOW on to the fun stuff...

MAY 2010:
(which are already pre-ordered)

Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready & The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea Campbell

The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride & Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

(p.s.- check out the trailer!)

JUNE 2010:

(Which I am actually pre-ordering next week, just as a seperate order than May 2010 books)

Sea by Heidi R. Kling & A Love Story: Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily Horner

Tell Me A Secret by Holly Cupula & Raised By Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

So Many Boys by Suzanne Young & The Deathday Letter by Shaun David Hutchinson

JULY 2010:

(For which I am NOW trying to save up money for- hey, I don't even have a job)

Other by Karen Kincy & Jealousy by Lili St. Crow

Forget You by Jennifer Echols & The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade

AUGUST 2010:

(Yay! This is my birthday month which means I can get books as presents!)

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa & Winter Longing by Tricia Mills

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard & The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June by Robin Benway

SEPTEMBER 2010:

(For which I can pre-order these with my leftover birthday $)

The DUFF by Kody Keplinger & Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

OCTOBER 2010:

(In which money starts to get tight around this time)

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer & Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner & Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler

NOVEMBER 2010:
(These might have to be Christmas presents because if 2010 is anything like 2009 I will have no $ in Nov.)

Matched by Ally Condie & The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney

And finally...
DECEMBER 2010:
(Though I hope to get more as Christmas presents!)

Anna and The French Kiss by Stepahnie Perkins & The Lost Saint by Bree Despain {NO COVER YET}

That seems to be all, for now! Remember I am going to READ much more, but die to my limited cash flow this all I plan on buying at the moment! However if I get more $ than along the way that equals more books! :)

Now that you know what I'm buying in 2010, what do YOU plan on buying?
Let me know in comments:)

6 Books That Have Blown Me Away in 2010

2010-04-10T15:00:00.000-04:00

In honor of the Read-a-Thon going on, Eleni of La Femme Readers is having an activity in which you tell the top 6 books that have blown you away in 2010.

I had a lot of good books to choose from so my decision was hard, but here is what I have narrowed it down to:

1. Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta

2. Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

3. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

4. Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers

5. Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

6. All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

For more information on Eleni's activity go here.

So I'm sure by now...

2010-04-10T14:27:00.000-04:00

...You've all heard about Princess Bookie's AWESOME Contest Craze for the Read-a-Thon! But in case you haven't you should check it out as there are some pretty kick-butt books (mostly ARCs) up for grabs!

Take a look for yourself HERE.

Heyy

2010-02-21T20:30:00.000-05:00

So I have to take my little laptop into the shop tomorrow, (the disk drive isn't opening), so I shall not have internet access at all for how many ever days.

In preparation for that I have posted 4 reviews today. Marni, The Espressologist, The Dark Devine, and In A Heartbeat. So you can check those out! Note: I noticed that my reviews have all been for kind of "girly" books, but when I return that shall change! :)

Also, have any of you checked out my review with Emma Kinna?

Have a fantastic week, I have to start doing my homework now!

Review: In A Heartbeat

2010-02-21T16:50:00.003-05:00

Okay final review of day. Enjoy:)

In A Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth
Published: by Walker Books for Young Readers- 2/2/10
Pages: 195
Series or Standalone? Standalone.
Acquired From: Around The World Tours

Summary (from GoodReads):
When a small mistake costs sixteen-year-old Eagan her life during a figure-skating competition, she leaves many things unreconciled, including her troubled relationship with her mother. From her vantage point in the afterlife, Eagan reflects back on her memories, and what she could have done differently, through her still-beating heart.

When fourteen-year-old Amelia learns she will be getting a heart transplant, her fear and guilt battle with her joy at this new chance at life. And afterwards when she starts to feel different — dreaming about figure skating, craving grape candy —her need to learn about her donor leads her to discover and explore Eagan’s life,meeting her grieving loved ones and trying to bring the closure they all need to move on.

Told in alternating viewpoints, In a Heartbeat tells the emotional and compelling story of two girls sharing one heart.

In A Heartbeat was good, but I'm having trouble saying more than that. I think I was expecting a wonderful, heartfelt, have-me-balling-my-eyes-out book- and all I got was good.

I'm not trying to undermine the quality of the book, it was good, but I felt I had expected a lot more than I got.

I mean I'm a horribly over-emotional person, but I did not shed a tear though I fully expected to. (I mean come on, its about a heart transplant between two teens younger or a year older than myself. That definitely sounds tear worthy.) I feel as if my lack of tears comes from my lack of connection. Though even with a deep connection I still don't know if I would have cried because its not as gut-wrenching as I had anticipated.

Can I specifically pin-point my where my lack of connection came from? No. I think it was a combination of predictability and a little bit of being melo-dramatic.

In regards to characters, they were good. Again, I'm having trouble saying more than that.

Amelia. I liked her more than the other characters, including the other protagonist. Not quite sure why, but I think its because she seemed genuine.

Eagan. I liked seeing her remininces of her life. She was mostly a static character, but I think to an extent that might have been the author's point.

The Boy we come across. Yeah I forgot his name. Which in all honestly isn't that hard to do. But okay, who didn't see the ending coming as soon as we met him?

Overall, In A Heartbeat was a good/okay book, and despite all of the faults I have found in it, I truly encourage you to pick it up and decide for yourselves. (I have also seen some rave reviews for this book!) I recommend this one more so to girls.

When Hooked: Some Where in the Early Stages of Book.
Hookability: (8/10)
Writing: (9/10)
Characters: (8/10)
Plot: (8.5/10)
Originality: (9/10)
Romance: (5.5/10)
Ending: (7/10)
Remembarable: (8.5/10)
Recommendability: (8.5/10)
Enjoyability: (8/10)

Overall: (8.05/10)

(If you're a "letter person" 80/100= A-)

*To see others' reviews of this book who were a part of the Around The World Tour, go here.
**Cute cover though it is a bit cliche. Cover= 7.5/10

Want More Loretta Ellsworth? She is also the author of In Search of Mockingbird and The Shrouding Woman, which are both currently released.

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You can find Loretta Ellsworth on:
her website (http://www.lorettaellsworth.com/)
her blog (http://www.lorettaellsworth.com/journal/current.html)
or on GoodReads (where she is a member)

You can find In A Heartbeat at:
GoodReads / Borders / Barnes&Noble / Amazon / Indie

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Also, take a look at the book trailer for In A Heartbeat!

Review: The Dark Devine

2010-02-21T15:48:00.005-05:00

So that's 3 reviews in one day from me, pretty good. One more today and than I'm calling it quits. Sad thing is that I'm still not even going to be caught up until a couple more reviews though:(

The Dark Devine by Bree Despain
Published: by Egmont USA - 12/22/09
Pages: 375
Series or Standalone? 1st in a series. (I don't know how many books are planned but I know there is a sequel.)

Summary (from GoodReads):
Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared--the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in his own blood--but she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night held.

The memories her family has tried to bury resurface when Daniel returns, three years later, and enrolls in Grace and Jude's high school. Despite promising Jude she'll stay away, Grace cannot deny her attraction to Daniel's shocking artistic abilities, his way of getting her to look at the world from new angles, and the strange, hungry glint in his eyes.

The closer Grace gets to Daniel, the more she jeopardizes her life, as her actions stir resentment in Jude and drive him to embrace the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind the boy's dark secret...and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it--her soul.

Awesome! Yes, that is how I'm going to start of this review because this book was awesome from start to finish! It has secured a place on my "favorite debuts" and "favorite books of all times" lists.

I'm seriously at a loss here on how to review this without just saying how awesome it is every other word or giving anything away.

One thing I will say though is that I was not aware going into this book that this this was a book with supernatural aspects, which I totally think made it ten times more awesome!

Let it be known though that once you start this book you will not be able to put it down until you have read every last word! I mean homework, cooking, cleaning? Forget about it- you're going to be too hooked!

In regards to characters, Bree Despain kicks some serious butt! They were all highly developed, dynamic, and well, awesome!

Grace. Such a wonderful protagonist/ heroine. She is the right mix of courageous and strong, and yet vulnerable to be a very "real"/believable character! And that is to be seriously admired by both Grace and Despain!

Daniel. Uhm, Best Bad Boy of '09 contender right here! He is also the right mix of things; bad boy and heart throb yet seriously hot because he can be sensitive too.

Jude. All I can say is that the evolution of him was quite a thing to see. (well, read.)

Also, I shall address the "religious" aspect of the book. While I personally don't have a problem with religion being mentioned in a book (as long as its not being preached at me), I know that some do. Yes, there is a religion mentioned and it is an aspect, but it is in no way preaching or advocating one religion over another. It is however adding depth (right word?) in that it really puts it in perspective the significance of some of the character's actions because of the religion.

Oh my word, I just seriously love this book! The story is so enthralling and captivating that time is almost at a standstill. I simply can't find a flaw in it.

Overall, The Dark Devine is a simply amazing debut that is now one of my all time favorite books. I highly recommend it to all- slightly leaning more towards girls- but I think all can find enjoyment in it.

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

Overall: (9.84/10)

(If you are a "letter person" 99.5/100 = A+)*

*This is a great example of how my scoring of the aspects doesn't necessarily correlate with the overall rating. Though they usually are close.
**Also: This cover is soooo cool! I absolutely adore the purple! Cover= (9.5/10)

Want More Bree Despain? The sequel to The Dark Devine (which doesn't have a determined title yet) is set to be released 2011, I think.

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You can find Bree Despain on:
her website (http://www.breedespain.com/)
her blog (http://www.breebiesingerdespain.blogspot.com/)
her twitter (@BreeDespain)
or on GoodReads (where she is a member)

You can find The Dark Devine at:
GoodReads / Borders / Barnes&Noble / Amazon / Indie

Review: The Espressologist

2010-02-21T14:55:00.003-05:00

After writing this review, I am seriously craving some coffee! :)

The Espressologist by Kristina Springer
Published: by Farrar, Straus, and Giroux - 10/27/09
Pages: 184
Series or Standalone? Standalone.

Summary (from GoodReads):
What’s your drink of choice? Is it a small pumpkin spice latte? Then you’re lots of fun and a bit sassy. Or a medium americano? You prefer simplicity in life. Or perhaps it’s a small decaf soy sugar-free hazelnut caffe latte? Some might call you a yuppie.

Seventeen-year-old barista Jane Turner has this theory that you can tell a lot about a person by their regular coffee drink. She scribbles it all down in a notebook and calls it Espressology. So it’s not a totally crazy idea when Jane starts hooking up some of her friends based on their coffee orders. Like her best friend, Em, a medium hot chocolate, and Cam, a toffee nut latte. But when her boss, Derek, gets wind of Jane’s Espressology, he makes it an in-store holiday promotion, promising customers their perfect matches for the price of their favorite coffee.

Things are going better than Derek could ever have hoped, so why is Jane so freaked out? Does it have anything to do with Em dating Cam? She’s the one who set them up! She should be happy for them, right? With overtones of Jane Austen’s Emma and brimming with humor and heart, this sweet, frothy debut will be savored by readers.

In the time before reading The Espressologist but having heard of it, I was seriously psyched for it- I mean the synopsis sounds sounds so cool! So going into this book I had really high expectations, and I think thats where I had my problem with this book. It was in no way a bad book, it was seriously cute, but altogether it wasn't my cup of tea, or coffee rather.

I have to give Springer props for the idea though because I am seriously in love with it! Hooking people up based on their coffee orders? That is so cool, especially for a coffee addict like myself.

The Espressologist was very fast paced as you were always wanting to know what happens next. It was never that you couldn't probably tell where the book was headed, but I still wanted to see how it would all play out. And it was a quite fun, cute ride getting there.

In regards to the characters, I felt that Jane might have been the only dynamic character. Not that is necessarily a bad thing, but it might have been nice to see a bit more sides to the other characters.

Also, the whole romance-drama thing- I totally called the ending as soon as the whole drama was being foreshadowed. Which again isn't exactly a bad thing, I just usually like a book that has me guessing a bit more. Though this is probably because I have become a sort of an expert on predicting later events after the 100s of books, movies, and TV I have watched/read.

All in all, a very cute, light but fun debut. While a bit predictable, it makes up in its coffee loving awesomeness. I would recommend this to girls looking for a fun, cute, COFFEE read (or just a fun, cute read in general!) Seeing as there really is zero sexual/inappropiate content I think this could be a YA-MG crossover.

When Hooked: Early On.
Hookability: (8/10)
Writing: (9/10)
Characters: (8/10)
Plot: (8.5/10) <-- I'm torn; concept is awesome but...
Originality: (9.5/10) <-- again, concept is awesome but execution...
Romance: (7/10) <-- About that...
Ending: (8/10)
Remembarable: (7/10)
Recommendability: (7/10)
Enjoyability: (7.5/10)

Overall: (7.97/10)

(If you're a "letter person" 79.5/100 = C+)

*I ♥ the coffee heart! It makes me want some coffee too! Cover= (8/10)

Want more Kristina Springer?
Her second book, My Fake Boyfriend is Better Than Yours, is due out from FSG on September 1st, 2010; and her third book, Pumpkin Princess will be out sometime in the Fall 2011.

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You can find Jackson Pearce on:
her website (http://www.kristinaspringer.com/)
her blog (http://kspringer.livejournal.com/)
her twitter (@TinaSpringer)
or on GoodReads (where she is a member)

You can find The Espessologist at:
GoodReads / Borders / Barnes & Noble / Amazon / Indie

Review: Marni

2010-02-21T13:40:00.008-05:00

It should be noted that as this is a non-fiction book, this is bit of an unconventional review for me. {P.S.- Marni=Book, and Marni=author}

Marni by Marni Bates
Published: by HCI Teens - 8/3/09
Pages: 159
Series or Standalone? Part if the Louder Than Words books, but they all stand as standalones.

Summary (from GoodReads):
Marni Bates has battled a stress-related disorder known as trichotillomania for roughly six years. The impulse to pull out all her hair (including her eyelashes and eyebrows), has been a source of much pain, frustration, and in rare moments, humor. It wasn't until Marni googled 'hair-pulling' that she discovered what she was doing had a name and an explanation. Hiding her condition took a lot of work, but being confronted with it was far more difficult. Unfortunately, the majority of high school students don't know how to react when faced with trich. Health courses tend to focus on already highly publicized conditions such as anorexia and bulimia, ignoring other stress-related disorders.

In Marni, author Marni Bates powerfully shares her journey, from the roots of her anxiety which was caused by her parents' messy divorce when she was eight, a dysfunctional relationship with her sister and father, and feeling like such a misfit that she convinced her mom to let her drop out of middle school to be homeschooled, to having her emotional turmoil give birth to trichotillomania. The urge to pull out all of her hair felt as uncontrollable and natural as breathing or cracking her knuckles. Unfortunately, her new habit led to social embarrassment, crushingly low self-esteem, and years of therapy.

First off, let me say that going into this book I was extremely nervous. I usually hate non-fiction books- I avoid them like the plague- but this one has left me to actual question that. It was that good.

Straight from the getgo Marni gets you immersed into the inner workings of her head, and its quite an interesting place to be. Like I said, I'm not an usual fan of non-fiction, and I'm not sure if it was because Marni is a teen or her story is just that awesome, but I loved this book!

I found Marni a really relatable book, though I personally don't have trichotillomania, or hadn't even heard of it before. I think this is a major reason why I loved this work of non-fiction while I usually hate the others; This one I could make a definite connection with , while the others I felt lacked that.

In any case, regardless of why I loved this book, the point is I did! The writing was fantastic and flowing, the story enthralling, and the narrator genuine. A fabulous book from page 1 to close. I recommend this to all, mostly girls though I guess, who want a good non-fiction read or want to learn more about trichotillomania. If Bates were ever to write anything else I would surely pick it up. Oh and as soon as I track them down, I'm definitely reading the other two Louder Than Words books!*

When Hooked: Immediately.
Hookability: (9/10)
Writing: (9.5/10)
Characters: (10/10) <--Marni was awesome!
Plot: (10/10) <-- Uhm its her life though, so its kind of hard to judge!
Originality: (10/10)
Romance: (--/10) <-- I loved how it ended, but once again with the real life thing.
Ending: (9.5/10)
Remembarable: (10/10)
Recommendability: (10/10)
Enjoyability: (10/10)

Overall: (9.21/10)

(If you are a "letter person" 87.5/90 = A+)

*There are a couple more Louder Than Words books to be released this year (?), and Chelsea (of the Page Flipper) is to be one of them! see here.
**Also: Thats not the real Marni on the cover, though she is shown on the back flap inside book, but the cover is quite gorgeous. Cover= (9/10)

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You can find Marni Bates on:
her website/blog (http://www.louderthanwordsbooks.com/marni/blog/)
or on GoodReads (though she isn't a member)

You can find Marni at:
GoodReads / Borders / Barnes&Noble / Amazon / Indie

Review: As You Wish

2010-02-13T21:56:00.012-05:00

I have no (good) reason why it look me so long to post this, sorry:(

As You Wish by Jackson Pearce

Published: by HarperTeen- 8/25/09

Pages: 304

Series of Standalone? Standalone

Debut? 2009 Deb

Summary (from GoodReads):

Ever since Viola's boyfriend broke up with her, she has spent her days silently wishing—to have someone love her again and, more importantly, to belong again—until one day she inadvertently summons a young genie out of his world and into her own. He will remain until she makes three wishes.

Jinn is anxious to return home, but Viola is terrified of wishing, afraid she will not wish for the right thing, the thing that will make her truly happy. As the two spend time together, the lines between master and servant begin to blur, and soon Jinn can't deny that he's falling for Viola. But it's only after Viola makes her first wish that she realizes she's in love with Jinn as well . . . and that if she wishes twice more, he will disappear from her life—and her world—forever.

Jackson Pearce spins a magical tale about star-crossed lovers, what it means to belong . . and how important it is to be careful what you wish for.

Wow. I am writing this review with some time between the time I read this and now, and I am still in awe. What a great debut! And though 2009 was full of fabulous debut books, this is definitely a contender for my favorite 2009 debut!
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Before diving into more about the book, I'm going to give you a little back story. In early 2009 when I came across the 2009 Debs site, I also came across Jackson Pearce. I found her blog and it was so outstandingly funny that I had begun to "stalk" her. {Not in a creepy way- she lives to far away from me for that anyhow.} I began to check her blog everyday to see if there was a new post, and then continue to check it multiple times throughout the day. (Please note this is wayy before I started a blog of my own or had come across the wondrous book blogging community.) I then found her YouTube which was full of even more hilarities. Which led to my EXTREME ~~want~~ need for her book. (Closer to the release date I even checked my library's online catalog constantly to see when it was coming in- which took FOREVER btw.)
--
Needless to say going into this book I was extremely psyched and had high hopes for this book. And the best thing was that this book did not disappoint, but instead it made me aware of new levels of awesome I hadn't known of before.
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As You Wish is a fast-paced read that digs its claws into you with it's hook and will keep you immersed the whole time with its epicness of action.

Literally from start to finish I was utterly captivated, there was no way I was going to be able to put it down- not even for a minute.

In addition, the characterization used by Pearce was fantastic. Usually theres at least one character/ character fault I don't like in a book, and I'm not sure how she did this, but Pearce was able to make me love every single character. Even the characters who weren't designed to be "liked" I still loved.

Viola. Oh my word, I ♥ Viola. She was truly an exceptional character. I really identified with her (though not her situation) and due to her relatability was able to connect with the book on a whole new level.

Jinn. Dibs! I looooooooove Jinn! If I were to ever find out that jinns are real, he would be mine. I can't even put it into words why he's so awesome. Sure he's cute, hilarious, and oh so sweet, but theres also something I can't put my finger on that makes him so awesome.

Lawrence. Again, I looooove him! He was so cute, I want one of him for my self.

Now, the ending. Gahhh! I don't want to give anything away, but I was supremely happy with the ending. It was a happy ending minus the "Disney" style happily ever after that are so often correlated with happy endings. Basically, it ended happy but not in a predictable over-dramatised way.

All in all, As You Wish was a wonderful read, and debut nonetheless. I don't know if you got the picture already but everything- the plot, the romance, the writing, the characters, the originality, the ending, the EVERYTHING- was simply fantastic. I would recommend this to anyone who wants a good "light" fantasy read*, but leaning more towards girls than guys.

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

Overall: (9.23/10)

(If you're a "letter person" 96.5/100= A)

*I am in no way trying to say that this is a "light" book that is shallow and lacks depth, because this is certainly not the case. I am only saying that as a fantasy novel it is on the lighter side in regards to the fantasy aspects of it.

Want More Jackson Pearce? Her sophomore novel Sisters Red, the first of a series, is set to release in Hardcover on July 7th, 2010 from Little Brown for Young Readers. The sequel Sweetly will release on an undetermined date in 2011.

You can find Jackson Pearce on:
her website/blog (http://jacksonpearce.com/)
her twitter (@JacksonPearce)
or on GoodReads (where she is a member)

You can find As You Wish at:
GoodReads / Borders / Barnes&Noble / Amazon / Indie

Interview: Emma Kinna!

2010-02-12T17:48:00.003-05:00

So, for your friday enjoyment today, the lovely Emma Kinna, author of A House Afire, has graced us with her presence via this interview! :D

Before we get to the interview, let me introduce you to her debut A House Afire. (Note: I haven't read A House Afire yet, but I am dying to!)

A House Afire by Emma Kinna

Phyllis Sorin has seen all sorts of people. With two kind Aunts who rent out the rooms of their house to anyone in need, the people she calls family are a little different from most. There’s Bill, who takes on the personalities of movie characters. There’s Quincy, whose best friend is a drag queen. There’s Anna, an opera singer and kung-fu master.
And Phyllis, well, she’s not exactly normal herself. But even as she begins to navigate high school’s social jungle, Phyllis finds comfort and humor in her odd home.

When Dominick Siddons moves in, however, all of Phyllis's priorities become inferior to finding out his secret. A young lawyer with a vicious wit and ferocious temper, Sid may understand Phyllis in a way no one else can. And through truth and fiction, through the inevitable chaos of the house, Phyllis finds much more than she bargained for.

Now, for the wondrous questions Emma was so kind as to answer...

1.) In Kindergarten we all have a clear idea of what we want to be when we get older. When you were in Kindergarten (or sometime around there) did you know you wanted to be a writer, or did that come later on?

I did know that I wanted to write in kindergarten! In fact, I wrote a "book" about my grandma's dog when I was 6. My love of writing is one of the only things I've always known about myself, actually.

2.) How did you get the idea/ what was inspiration for A House Afire?

A lot of different things inspired me. I guess the biggest inspiration for it was the movie "Arsenic and Old Lace" with Cary Grant, but a lot of other things went into it. People I know, people I wish I knew... Phyllis and Sid, the main characters, actually showed up together before any of the others did, and as they evolved and I got to know them better the story kind of came along with them.

3.) What has been your favorite part of having your book published?

So far, my favorite part has been talking to book bloggers and fans. I mean, I like being able to say I'm published, too, but I didn't realize that it would give me such a great opportunity to talk to other people who love books. Maybe that should have been obvious, but I really had no idea what to expect.

4.) What do you hope readers take away from A House Afire?

I hope they have fun! I hope it helps entertain them and cheer them up, and that it lets them escape into another house. I really wanted to try and put the reader right in the house and get to know all the people who live there (especially Phyllis, obviously). I hope that some parts make them laugh, and other parts make them think.

5.) What are your plans? What do you plan to write/ are writing next?

Well, my first plan is to graduate from college. You've probably noticed that this book isn't well-publicized, and that has a lot to do with the way my life is right now. I plan to finish school and to slowly establish my presence in the YA realm. But I also plan to write the next story about Phyllis and other characters. I have a lot of ideas, it's just a matter of writing them down and finding out where they'll go. If all goes well there will be many more books in the future!

6.) If for some god awful reason writing books became banned, what would you do instead?

I would die. No, not really. Good question, though. If writing books became banned, I'd probably be some sort of artist. If I couldn't express myself in writing, I'd do it through photos or drawings. And, given that I'd be living in a world where writing books was banned, I'd probably become some sort of activist, too.

7.) If you were stranded on island and could only bring 1 book and 3 other (non-book) items what would they be?

Hmm...I have no clue what book I'd bring. Maybe "Hannibal," because there's so much to that book. Or a Sherlock Holmes volume, because I haven't read them yet. If I were stranded with no hope of ever leaving the island I'd bring a notebook and pen, and a snorkel set. Oh wait! One book I feel I can always go back to is "Necklace of Kisses" by Francesca Lia Block. It's like going on a beautiful vacation. Maybe I'd bring that one.

8.) So there has been much debate over Team Zombie vs. Team Unicorn. Which are you?

Team Unicorn. Way too many zombies out there right now— somebody needs to take a stand.

.........................................

Thank you so much Emma!

If you want to learn more about Emma's book A House Afire you can do so at it's GoodReads here. And if you want to learn more about Emma Kinna you can do so at her blog here.

Waiting On Wednesday (6)

2010-02-10T15:22:00.003-05:00

Waiting on Wedenesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine!

This week I'm waiting on a very highly anticipated book by one of my favorite authors Elizabeth Scott! And the book is...

The Unwritten Rule (!!!)

Everyone knows the unwritten rule: You don't like you best friend's boyfriend.

Sarah has had a crush on Ryan for years. He's easy to talk to, supersmart, and totally gets her. Lately it even seems like he's paying extra attention to her. Everything would be perfect except for two things: Ryan is Brianna's boyfriend, and Brianna is Sarah's best friend.

Sarah forces herself to avoid Ryan and tries to convince herself not to like him. She feels so guilty for wanting him, and the last thing she wants is to hurt her best friend. But when she's thrown together with Ryan one night, something happens. It's wonderful...and awful.

Sarah is torn apart by guilt, but what she feels is nothing short of addiction, and she can't stop herself from wanting more...

The Unwritten Rule (by Elizabeth Scott) will be released March 16, 2010!

Holy Smokes is this much awesome even allowed? (Outside contest)

2010-02-07T21:36:00.000-05:00

So I told myself I wasn't going to do full posts for outside contests atleast for a little while, but I had to make an exception for this one! Reggie of The Undercover Book Lover (Not Really) is having a huge contest for her 15th birthday!!! The prize(s) you ask, take a look...

Plus, Before I Fall (I couldn't fit it into the snip)

Oh yeah, did I mention the prize is for FINISHED COPIES of these books?!?!?!?!?!

Note again what the great Reggie has listed as the prizes:

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? GO ENTER HERE!

In My Mailbox: Feb. 7th (7)

2010-02-06T16:47:00.023-05:00

Okay so I had been planning on postponing doing IMM until I had a couple more reviews up, but this weeks goodies were wayy too awesome to resist. Also, technically this is 3 weeks of books, but only 2 came 3 weeks ago, and only 3 last week, 90% of them came this week and were bought by me! And yet again, sorry for the extreme length:)
Oh yeah, and credit for IMM goes to The Story Siren & Alea, thanks guys!

---------------------------------
The Won:

Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater

In this mesmerizing sequel to Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception, music prodigy James Morgan and his best friend, Deirdre, join a private conservatory for musicians. James' musical talent attracts Nuala, a soul-snatching faerie muse who fosters and feeds on the creative energies of exceptional humans until they die. Composing beautiful music together unexpectedly leads to mutual admiration and love. Haunted by fiery visions of death, James realizes that Deirdre and Nuala are being hunted by the Fey and plunges into a soul-scorching battle with the Queen of the Fey to save their lives.

--- I am super excited for this one! I loooooooved Shiver, so as soon as I track down a copy of Lament I shall have to devour both books immediately! Thanks Andrea! <---whos book might I add is one of the ones I am most looking forward to! :)

The next two are from Georgia from YA LIT CHAT, and from LEAP BKS. Thank you Georgia and all you over at Leap Books!

Freaksville by Kitty Keswick

High school is hard enough when you’re normal. There’s peer pressure, book reports, the in crowd and the enormous zit that has a life of its own. Having a family whose skeletons in the closet lean toward the paranormal is not a topper on anyone’s list. Sophomore Kasey Maxwell is busy juggling the typical teen angst. Add visions, ghosts and hairy four-legged monsters into the mix and you get FREAKSVILLE. It’s a wonder Kasey has survived.

Every woman in the Maxwell family has the gift of sight. A talent sixteen-year-old Kasey would gladly give up. All she wants is a normal life. Shopping and talking about boys with her best friend and long-time sidekick Gillie Godshall consume her days. Until Kasey has a vision about Josh Johnstone, the foreign exchange student from England. The vision leads her into new waters, a lead in a play, a haunted theater…and into the arms of the Josh. Yet, both Kasey and Josh have secrets lurking in dark corners. Can Kasey’s new romance survive FREAKSVILLE?

-- I've read mixed reviews about this one but I'm super excited to draw my own conclusions, I think it sounds really good, and have you seen this trailer.

Island Sting by Bonnie J. Doerr

Kenzie Ryan's New York know-how and private girls' academy education prove useless in the middle of an island wildlife refuge.

Upon arrival in the exotic Florida Keys, she is thrown into the midst of an ecological mystery involving the endangered Florida Key deer. How can she navigate this upside down world? A world deftly maneuvered by Angelo--island native and nerve-wracking hunk. The two team up to accomplish what perplexes law enforcement, but Angelo exposes Kenzie's insecurities, as well as her inexperience with nature and the opposite sex.

Danger and disagreement follow the pair wherever they go. Enamored with Angelo and his local savvy, Kenzie hopes to secure his loyal friendship. But how can she win Angelo's trust when what she must tell him will crush his ego?

Island Sting includes notes on the endangered Florida Key Deer and the National Key Deer Refuge.

--This one looks very inrtiguing. I haven't heard an awful lot about it so far, but I'm eager to find out!

Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder

As a glassmaker and a magician-in-training, Opal Cowen understands trial by fire. Now it's time to test her mettle. Someone has sabotaged the Stormdancer clan's glass orbs, killing their most powerful magicians. The Stormdancers—particularly the mysterious and mercurial Kade—require Opal's unique talents to prevent it happening again. But when the mission goes awry, Opal must tap in to a new kind of magic as stunningly potent as it is frightening. And the further she delves into the intrigue behind the glass and magic, the more distorted things appear. With lives hanging in the balance—including her own—Opal must control powers she hadn't known she possessed…powers that might lead to disaster beyond anything she's ever known.

-- I am DYING to read her Poison Study series, so I am very happy to have this book too! And squee! its signed & personalized! Thanks again Mandy & Maria!

And now all the WONDROUS books I bought(!!!):
They were either bought via Borders or Barnes & Noble, but all with my own money. Apparently when you order a pre-order from B&N they don't start shipping until all the books are in, so 17 books came to me yesterday even though I ordered them in December:p

All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

Carly: She was sweet. Smart. Self-destructive. She knew the secrets of Brighton Day School’s most privileged students. Secrets that got her killed.

Neily: Dumped by Carly for a notorious bad boy, Neily didn’t answer the phone call she made before she died. If he had, maybe he could have helped her. Now he can’t get the image of her lifeless body out of his mind.

Audrey: She’s the reason Carly got tangled up with Brighton’s fast crowd in the first place, and now she regrets it—especially since she’s convinced the police have put the wrong person in jail. Audrey thinks the murderer is someone at Brighton, and she wants Neily to help her find out who it is.

As reluctant allies Neily and Audrey dig into their shared past with Carly, her involvement with Brighton’s dark goings-on comes to light. But figuring out how Carly and her killer fit into the twisted drama will force Audrey and Neily to face hard truths about themselves and the girl they couldn’t save.

-- I have wanted this for sooooo long, and there have been sooo many good reviews, and well, squee!

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

Love can be a dangerous thing....

Hanna simply wants to be loved. With a head plagued by hallucinations, a medicine cabinet full of pills, and a closet stuffed with frilly, violet dresses, Hanna's tired of being the outcast, the weird girl, the freak. So she runs away to Portero, Texas in search of a new home.

But Portero is a stranger town than Hanna expects. As she tries to make a place for herself, she discovers dark secrets that would terrify any normal soul. Good thing for Hanna, she's far from normal. As this crazy girl meets an even crazier town, only two things are certain: Anything can happen and no one is safe.

-- Oh my word, how I have waited for this book! I was full of squees when I got it! It sounds and looks AMAZING!

Dirty Little Secrets by C.J. Omolulu

Everyone has secrets. Some are just bigger and dirtier than others.

For sixteen years, Lucy has kept her mother's hoarding a secret. She's had to -- nobody would understand the stacks of newspapers and mounds of garbage so high they touch the ceiling and the rotting smell that she's always worried would follow her out the house. After years of keeping people at a distance, she finally has a best friend and maybe even a boyfriend if she can play it right. As long as she can make them think she's normal.

When Lucy arrives home from a sleepover to find her mother dead under a stack of National Geographics, she starts to dial 911 in a panic, but pauses before she can connect. She barely notices the filth and trash anymore, but she knows the paramedics will. First the fire trucks, and then news cameras that will surely follow. No longer will they be remembered as the nice oncology nurse with the lovely children -- they'll turn into that garbage-hoarding freak family on Collier Avenue.

With a normal life finally within reach, Lucy has only minutes to make a critical decision. How far will she go to keep the family secrets safe?

-- Okay so seeing as this was the book that made me wait a month and a half to get the other 16 books you would think that I show some sort of resentment towards it, but I don't hold a shred of resentment because this looks absolutely fabulous!

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

Incarceron -- a futuristic prison, sealed from view, where the descendants of the original prisoners live in a dark world torn by rivalry and savagery. It is a terrifying mix of high technology -- a living building which pervades the novel as an ever-watchful, ever-vengeful character, and a typical medieval torture chamber -- chains, great halls, dungeons. A young prisoner, Finn, has haunting visions of an earlier life, and cannot believe he was born here and has always been here. In the outer world, Claudia, daughter of the Warden of Incarceron, is trapped in her own form of prison -- a futuristic world constructed beautifully to look like a past era, an imminent marriage she dreads. She knows nothing of Incarceron, except that it exists. But there comes a moment when Finn, inside Incarceron, and Claudia, outside, simultaneously find a device -- a crystal key, through which they can talk to each other. And so the plan for Finn's escape is born ...

-- THIS LOOKS SOOOOO COOL! Even my brother flipped out when he saw this one! (I'm going to have to hide this from him until I can read it first)

Heartless by Sara Shepard

The newest installment in Sara Shepard’s bestselling Pretty Little Liars series is packed with juicy drama and delicious surprises that will keep readers guessing to the very end.
Hanna, Aria, Emily, and Spencer have been telling some outrageous tales; only, the proof always seems to go missing. The friends insist they’re telling the truth, but all of Rosewood thinks they’re just out for attention—and nobody likes a girl who cries wolf. So when the big bad killer comes after them, will anyone believe the girls. . . or will they be the next to disappear?

-- Holy crap you have no idea how much I have wanted this one! I AM SO INCREDIBLY HAPPY TO HAVE THIS YOU DONT KNOW! The Pretty Little Liars series is of my 3 favorite series ever, and the only one that doesn't have to do with dystopia or fantasy!

Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston

17 year-old Kelly Winslow doesn’t believe in Faeries. Not unless they’re the kind that you find in a theatre, spouting Shakespeare—the kind that Kelley so desperately wishes she could be: onstage, under lights, with a pair of sparkly wings strapped to her shoulders. But as the understudy in a two-bit, hopelessly off-off-Broadway production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, wishing is probably the closest she’s going to get to becoming a Faerie Queen. At least, that’s what shethinks... In this fun, urban fantasy, Kelly's off-stage life suddenly becomes as complicated as one of Shakespeare’s plot twists when a nighttime trip to Central Park holds more than meets the mortal eye.

-- I have heard sooo much good things about this book! So excited to get this one:D

Darklight by Lesley Livingston

Much has changed since autumn, when Kelley Winslow learned she was Faerie royalty, fell in love with changeling guard Sonny Flannery, and saved New York City from a rampaging Faerie war band. When a terrifying encounter in Central Park sends Kelley tumbling into the Otherworld, her reunion with Sonny is joyful—but cut short. For they’ve been plunged into a game of Faerie deception and wavering allegiances in which the next move could topple a kingdom...or part them forever.

The fans who flocked to Lesley Livingston’s Wondrous Strange will fall hard for Darklight, the soaringly romantic second book in the trilogy. Breathless high stakes and vividly magical characters make this a can’t-miss fantasy for readers of Melissa Marr and Holly Black.

-- Yeah I buy sequels to books I have not even read the first one of, but it looks wayy to good to have to wait until I can track down the sequel! :)

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

Nimira is a music-hall performer forced to dance for pennies to an audience of leering drunks. When wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to do a special act - singing accompaniment to an exquisite piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it is the start of a new life. In Parry's world, however, buried secrets stir. Unsettling below-stairs rumours abound about ghosts, a mad woman roaming the halls, and of Parry's involvement in a gang of ruthless sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing young fairy gentleman is trapped inside the automaton's stiff limbs, waiting for someone to break the curse and set him free, the two fall in love. But it is a love set against a dreadful race against time to save the entire fairy realm, which is in mortal peril.

-- Yay! I've heard great things about this one! And I think the cover is gorgeous, even in alu of the contravercy surrounding it.

Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Material by Rosalind Wiseman

Looking for a new beginning after a terrible mean girl past, Charlie Healey realizes there’s no escaping high school drama

Charlie Healey thinks Harmony Falls is the beginning of a whole new life. Middle school was brutal. But high school is Charlie’s big chance to start over and stay out of drama, except that on her first day she runs into Will, her ex–best friend, who had moved away. Now a varsity athlete and hotter than Charlie
remembered, Will hangs with the crowd running the school. But Charlie doesn’t understand their power until an innocent delivery guy falls victim to a near-deadly hazing prank.

Torn between doing what’s right and her secret feelings for Will, Charlie must decide whether to turn in her very best friend or live with the guilt of knowing what he did.

Rosalind Wiseman’s first novel for young adults is a fresh, funny, and juicy read about friendship, betrayal, and how far some will go to be accepted.

-- Creator of Mean Girls and has a Tina Fey quote? Count me in!

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?

-- I do have the ARC too, but this was wayy too pretty to pass up! Also, I'm reading it right now and its really good!

Numbers by Rachel Ward

Whenever Jem meets someone new, no matter who, as soon as she looks into their eyes, a number pops into her head. That number is a date: the date they will die.

Burdened with such an awful awareness, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. But while they’re waiting to ride the Eye Ferris
wheel, Jem notices that all the other tourists in line flash the same number. Today’s number. Today’s date. Terrorists are going to attack London. Jem’s world is about to explode!

-- This looks awesome! As a huge sci-fi nerd I am super psyched for this! Oh and my mom saw this and just about flipped out in her want for this book- another one I am going to have to hide until I get a chance to read it!

The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard

Seventeen-year-old Colt has been sneaking out at night to meet Julia, a girl from an upper-class neighborhood unlike his own. They’ve never told anyone else about their relationship: not their family or friends, and especially not Julia’s boyfriend.When Julia dies suddenly, Colt tries to cope with her death while pretending that he never even knew her. He discovers a journal she left behind. But he is not prepared for the truths he discovers about their intense relationship, nor to pay the price for the secrets he’s kept.

-- Yay for Tenner books, especially ones that look as good as this book! :D

By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead by Julie Anne Peters

Daelyn Rice is broken beyond repair, and after a string of botched suicide attempts, she's determined to get her death right. She starts visiting a website for "completers"- www.through-the-light.com.

While she's on the site, Daelyn blogs about her life, uncovering a history of bullying that goes back to kindergarten. When she's not on the Web, Daelyn's at her private school, where she's known as the freak who doesn't talk.

Then, a boy named Santana begins to sit with her after school while she's waiting to for her parents to pick her up. Even though she's made it clear that she wants to be left alone, Santana won't give up. And it's too late for Daelyn to be letting people into her life. Isn't it?

National Book Award finalist Julie Anne Peters shines a light on how bullying can push young people to the very edge.

"23 Days and Counting

Dear
___mother
___father
___other

There was nothing you could do to stop me because:

___I’d already made up my mind
___I have been suffering my whole life
___ you were too slow to notice

I offed myself because:

___my life sucks
___the world sucks
___ you suck

Good-bye,
Daelyn"

-- This one looks good, maybe sad and depressing too, but good nonetheless.

Cracked Up to Be by Courtney Summers

What's the worst thing you've ever done?

When "Perfect" Parker Fadley starts drinking at school and failing her classes, all of St. Peter's High goes on alert. How has the cheerleading captain, girlfriend of the most popular guy in school, consummate teacher's pet, and future valedictorian fallen so far from grace?

Parker doesn't want to talk about it. She'd just like to be left alone, to disappear, to be ignored. But her parents have placed her on suicide watch and her counselors are demanding the truth. Worse, there's a nice guy falling in love with her and he's making her feel things again when she'd really rather not be feeling anything at all.

Nobody would have guessed she'd turn out like this. But nobody knows the truth.

Something horrible has happened, and it just might be her fault.

-- I've heard so many good things about Courtney Summers! And of course before I read Some Girls Are I had to read this one!

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers

Climbing to the top of the social ladder is hard--falling from it is even harder. Regina Afton used to be a member of the Fearsome Fivesome, an all-girl clique both feared and revered by the students at Hallowell High... until vicious rumors about her and her best friend's boyfriend start going around.

Now Regina's been "frozen out" and her ex-best friends are out for revenge. If Regina was guilty, it would be one thing, but the rumors are far from the terrifying truth and the bullying is getting more intense by the day. She takes solace in the company of Michael Hayden, a misfit with a tragic past who she herself used to bully. Friendship doesn't come easily for these onetime enemies, and as Regina works hard to make amends for her past, she realizes Michael could be more than just a friend... if threats from the Fearsome Foursome don't break them both first.

Tensions grow and the abuse worsens as the final days of senior year march toward an explosive conclusion in this dark new tale from the author of Cracked Up To Be.

-- This one I've had since the release day and have been drooling over, but I had to wait until I read Cracked Up to Be first:D

Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols

All Meg has ever wanted is to get away. Away from high school. Away from her backwater town. Away from her parents who seem determined to keep her imprisoned in their dead-end lives. But one crazy evening involving a dare and forbidden railroad tracks, she goes way too far... and almost doesn't make it back.
John made a choice to stay. To enforce the rules. To serve and protect. He has nothing but contempt for what he sees as childish rebellion, and he wants to teach Meg a lesson she won't soon forget. But Meg pushes him to the limit by questioning everything he learned at the police academy. And when he pushes back, demanding to know why she won't be tied down, they will drive each other to the edge - and over...

-- I don't know how many times I saw this as a "Favorite Read of 2009", but I was convinced I had to read it!

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

Meghan Chase has never fit in at her small-town high school, and now, on the eve of her 16th birthday, she discovers why. When her half brother is kidnapped, Meghan is drawn into a fantastical world she never imagined--the world of Faery, where anything you see may try to eat you, and Meghan is the daughter of the summer faery king. Now she will journey into the depths of Faery to face an unknown enemy . . . and beg the help of a winter prince who might as soon kill her as let her touch his icy heart. The Iron King is the first book in the Iron Fey series.

-- Insert 100 squee's here! Soooooo excited!

Hearts At Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

The Blakes are rather different to your usual neighbours. They are vampires and some of the members of the family date back to the twelfth century. One of the children, Solange, is the only born female vampire known and, as such, she poses a direct threat to the vampire queen. Her best friend Lucy is human, and when Solange is kidnapped Lucy and Solange's brother, Nicholas, set out to save her. Lucy soon discovers that she would like to be more than just friends with Nicholas. But how does one go about dating a vampire? Meanwhile, Solange finds an unlikely ally in Kieran, a vampire slayer on the hunt for his father's killer.

-- Also, VERY excited for this one too! Despite the hype I still looooove vampires, and havent read a vamp book in like 4-5 months! OH NO!

Stupid Cupid by Rhonda Stapleton

Felicity's no ordinary teen matchmaker...she's a cupid!
Felicity Walker believes in true love. That's why she applies for a gig at the matchmaking company Cupid's Hollow. But when Felicity gets the job, she learns that she isn't just a matchmaker...she's a cupid! (There's more than one of them, you know.)

Armed with a hot pink, tricked-out PDA infused with the latest in cupid magic (love arrows shot through email), Felicity works to meet her quota of successful matches. But when she bends the rules of cupidity by matching her best friend Maya with three different boys at once, disaster strikes. Felicity needs to come up with a plan to set it all right, pronto, before she gets fired...and before Maya ends up with her heart split in three.

-- This looks adorable! Can't wait!

Firespell by Chloe Neill

As the new girl at the elite St. Sophia’s boarding school, Lily Parker thinks her classmates are the most monstrous things she’ll have to face…

When Lily’s guardians decided to send her away to a fancy boarding school in Chicago, she was shocked. So was St. Sophia’s. Lily’s ultra-rich brat pack classmates think Lily should be the punchline to every joke, and on top of that, she’s hearing strange noises and seeing bizarre things in the shadows of the creepy building.

The only thing keeping her sane is her roommate, Scout, but even Scout’s a little weird—she keeps disappearing late at night and won’t tell Lily where she’s been. But when a prank leaves Lily trapped in the catacombs beneath the school, Lily finds Scout running from a real monster.

Scout’s a member of a splinter group of rebel teens with unique magical talents, who’ve sworn to protect the city against demons, vampires, and Reapers, magic users who’ve been corrupted by their power. And when Lily finds herself in the line of a firespell, Scout tells her the truth about her secret life, even though Lily has no powers of her own—at least none that she’s discovered yet…

-- I LOVE books about Boarding Schools, and I LOVE fantasy, so I supsect I will quite enjoy this book!

Stake That by Mari Mancusi

Two sisters—as different as the sun and the rain. For one, getting into the Blood Cover is to die for, but it seems destiny has something else in mind...

Rayne McDonald had it all figured out. Get turned into a vampire, become the mate of the Blood Coven leader, and live the high-life for all eternity. Too bad the head vamp took a bite out of her twin sister by mistake. Now, not only is Rayne still not a vampire, but she learns she's a slayer instead—destined to destroy vamps gone bad.

After being recruited by a secret organization, Rayne is given her first mission: infiltrate a seedy bar downtown and expose its vampire owner, Maverick, for purposely spreading a nasty blood virus. Luckily the Blood Coven sends some help—in the form of sexy vampire Jareth. Will vampire and slayer be able to settle their differences and work together to bring down the evil Maverick? Or will they find their own hearts on the line?

-- I have heard good things about this series, and now I own them all, yay!

Girls That Growl by Mari Mancusi

Rayne McDonald thought getting into the Blood Coven was the hard part. But now there's a new breed of trouble in town...and the former slayer and her vampire boyfriend may be the only ones who can stop it.

Now that she's an official vampire and full-fledged member of The Blood Coven, Rayne assumes her vampire slaying days are over. Sure, she doesn't have any vampire powers, thanks to a mutated blood virus, but she and Jareth can go out in the sun, which is a pretty good trade-off.

But just when Rayne's starting to enjoy her afterlife, she's contacted by Slayer Inc once again. It seems that a member of her high school's football team has disappeared—and the powers-that-be think the cheerleaders had something to do with it. Now Rayne has to infiltrate the squad before the cheerleaders have a chance to sink their teeth into someone else...

-- Yay for Vampire books! :D

Bad Blood by Mari Mancusi

Sunny McDonald is in the ultimate forbidden relationship. Her boyfriend Magnus is a vampire, and the leader of the Blood Coven. Their differences have never been an issue, until now…

When the Blood Coven decides that Magnus needs a mate to be his co-ruler, Sunny’s humanity puts her out of the running. The Coven’s chosen candidate is Jane Johnson, a magna cum laude graduate of Oxford University who just happens to look like a vampiric celebutante.

Sunny is suspicious of a Rhodes Scholar who can’t answer the most basic poly-sci questions, but Magnus brushes it off as petty jealousy. Still, when the Blood Coven goes to Las Vegas for a vampire convention—where Magnus and Jane’s bonding ceremony will be the main event—Sunny and her sister Rayne secretly tag along. And Sunny’s not going home before she learns the truth about Jane. Because not everything stays in Vegas—especially bad blood…

-- Oh my word, how gorgeous is this cover???

The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school...again. And that's the least of his troubles. Lately, mythological monsters and the gods of Mount Olympus seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology textbook and into his life. And worse, he's angered a few of them. Zeus's master lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect.

Now Percy and his friends have just ten days to find and return Zeus's stolen property and bring peace to a warring Mount Olympus. But to succeed on his quest, Percy will have to do more than catch the true thief: he must come to terms with the father who abandoned him; solve the riddle of the Oracle, which warns him of betrayal by a friend; and unravel a treachery more powerful than the gods themselves.

-- I've been wanting to read this series for awhile now, and with the movie coming out it seemed like the perfect time! :D

From Library:

Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta

MOST OF MY friends now go to Pius Senior College, but my mother wouldn’t allow it because she says the girls there leave with limited options and she didn’t bring me up to have limitations placed upon me. If you know my mother, you’ll sense there’s an irony there, based on the fact that she is the Queen of the Limitation Placers in my life.

Francesca battles her mother, Mia, constantly over what’s best for her. All Francesca wants is her old friends and her old school, but instead Mia sends her to St. Sebastian’s, an all-boys’ school that has just opened its doors to girls. Now Francesca’s surrounded by hundreds of boys, with only a few other girls for company. All of them weirdos—or worse.

Then one day, Mia is too depressed to get out of bed. One day turns into months, and as her family begins to fall apart, Francesca realizes that without her mother’s high spirits, she hardly knows who she is. But she doesn’t yet realize that she’s more like Mia than she thinks. With a little unlikely help from St. Sebastian’s, she just might be able to save her family, her friends, and—especially—herself.

-- I read this and it is now one of my ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOKS EVER! I loooove it so much, I want to read everything Melina Marcchetta has ever written now!

The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp

In the last months of high school, charismatic eighteen-year-old Sutter Keely lives in the present, staying drunk or high most of the time, but that could change when starts working to boost the self-confidence of a classmate, Aimee.

-- {I couldn't find a longer summary} Anyway, I read this one and liked it, it was very, uhm, peculiar though.

Project Sweet Life by Brent Hartinger

For most kids, fifteen is the year of the optional summer job: Sure, you can get a job if you really want one, but it isn't required or anything. Too bad Dave's dad doesn't agree! Instead of enjoying long days of biking, swimming, and sitting around, Dave and his two best friends are being forced by their fathers into a summer of hard labor.

The friends have something else in mind, though: Not only will they not work over the summer, but they're determined to trick everyone into believing they really do have jobs. So what if the lifeguard doesn't have a tan or the fast-food worker isn't bringing home buckets of free chicken? There's only one problem: Dave's dad wants evidence that his son is actually bringing in money. And that means Dave, Curtis, and Victor will have to get some . . . without breaking the law and without doing any work!

Project Sweet Life is designed for the funny and lazy bone in all of us—a true comedy of errors (without any effort!) from seasoned storyteller Brent Hartinger.

-- Reading right now- not very far, but seems like a funny read!

The Great Linger Giveaway (Outside Contest)

2010-02-02T21:59:00.000-05:00

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.

Comes out in stores everywhere July 20th. Pre-order here.

Enter to win an advanced review copies of LINGER, Sisters Red, The Dead-Tossed Waves, and The Replacement on Maggie's blog.

Review: Skinned

2010-01-30T22:00:00.002-05:00

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.)

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

Cover Undercovered: Losing Faith by Denise Jaden

2010-01-29T11:20:00.006-05:00

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?

2010-01-29T10:42:00.005-05:00

*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

2010-01-28T20:36:00.006-05:00

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)

2010-01-28T11:39:00.000-05:00

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

2010-01-26T14:02:00.005-05:00

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

2010-01-25T17:26:00.011-05:00

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)

2010-01-25T17:04:00.003-05:00

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

2010-01-24T20:40:00.007-05:00

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

2010-01-08T22:39:00.004-05:00

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)

2010-01-05T01:13:00.014-05:00

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)

2010-01-04T21:55:00.015-05:00

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

2010-01-02T05:06:00.008-05:00

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

2010-01-02T04:31:00.011-05:00

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

2010-01-02T03:17:00.007-05:00

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

2010-01-02T02:53:00.013-05:00

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

2010-01-02T02:23:00.010-05:00

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

2010-01-02T01:16:00.017-05:00

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

2010-01-02T00:34:00.011-05:00

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...

2010-01-01T20:48:00.006-05:00

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! :]

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

Waiting On Wednesday (5)

2009-12-30T16:13:00.006-05:00

5? Ugh, yet again with the low number, I really need to change this! :)

The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea Campbell

Summary (from GoodReads):

Damien Locke knows his destiny--attending the university for supervillains and becoming Golden City's next professional evil genius. But when Damien discovers he's the product of his supervillain mother's one-night stand with--of all people--a superhero, his best-laid plans are ruined as he's forced to live with his superhero family.

Going to extreme lengths (and heights), The Rise of Renegade X chronicles one boy's struggles with the villainous and heroic pitfalls of growing up.

Are you hearing the epicness? I have an obession of all things superhero, (my folders for school are all Batman), so of course I want to read this one. But beyond that the plot seems so well developed and awesome, not to mention totally original! Oh, and look at that cover, I loooooooooove it! :)

Review: Beautiful Disaster

2009-12-30T08:51:00.008-05:00

Woah, this is like the 4th "chick-lity" book I've reviewed in a row. Later today there will be 1-2, maybe more depending on how fast I type, reviews that non-chick lit! :)

Beautiful Disaster by Kate Brian
Published: by Simon & Schuster- 6/2/09
Pages: 278
Series or Standalone? 2nd in a series.

Summary (from GoodReads):
She's Back....

After wasting away in a mental institution for a year and a half, Ariana Osgood is finally back where she belongs. She has a new look, a new name, and a new life -- all thanks to her former friend Briana Leigh Covington.

Now enrolled as a junior at the exclusive Atherton-Pryce boarding school just outside of D.C., Ariana sleeps in Frette sheets, flirts with the captain of the crew team, and gossips with the most beautiful girls on campus. She killed to get back her life of privilege. Just how far will she go to keep it?

From the author of the bestselling Private novels comes a series about the dark world of wealth, secrets, and privilege.

My Review: Oh how my love grows for Kate Brian! Only she could make me love a serial killer, (well if were not counting Dexter.) The plot was so different from the previous, yet just as amazing, this book has confirmed that this series shall be deemed an official favorite of mine.
When Hooked. Immediately. Surprisingly, the previous novel didn't end with that "Kate Brian cliff-hanger" I'm accustomed too. Having said that, I was still just as eager to read it as if that cliff-hanger was in it, they are addicting, and have you hooked from the first page.
Hookability: (9.5/10) I was not released from the hook until I had read the very last word. And even then I was not actually let go of the hook because I am itching to get my hands on the next installment.
Writing: (9.5/10) Brian's writing is completely engrossing and addicting- I can't get enough! Everything flows together effortlessly, and totally engages you into it.
Characters: (9/10) I am still shocked at myself for liking Arielle so much, I absolutely hated her in the Private series. I do like her though, and root for her, and sympathesize with her. What is wrong with me? She's a serial killer!!! Everyone else is very confusing and I need one more book before I make my brutal assumptions about them.
Plot: (9/10) Like I said before, very different than the jail break plot of the previous book. I do like that Brain went back to her element of exclusive houses, and living among the pristige, I eat that stuff up!
Originality: (9/10) Brian has an excellent way of spinning things that may have been done before and making them her own. She has quite the talent, and even though some elements are along the same lines of the Private books, there is no denying she has created something not quite like anything else out there.
Romance: (---/10) Definitely has the promise for a nice little romance in the next book, but this one wasn't about romance, it was about how Arielle was adjusting, and so it would be unfair to count romance.
Ending: (9.5/10) Ahhhh, the Kate Brian cliff-hanger returns! I need the next book, what the flip is going to happen next?
Remembrable: (9/10) I have a feeling that eventually all the events will form one big timeline rather than being remembered which specific book an event took place. For the time being though, I definitely find the events of this book to be remembrable, they are essential, and just so juicy and mysterious you can't help but to remember.
Recommendability: (9.5/10) I recommend to all mid to older teen girls who are in need of a chick-lit esk book! Especially fans of Private! Going by those guidelines, this series won't dissapoint!
Any particular graphic/violence/inappropiate content? No, no and no. There might have been a couple implied references, but besides that it was totally clean! (10+)
Overall: (9.79/10) A great sequel of a series that will leave you begging for more! Time will pass very quickly from start to finish because it is so enthralling you just want to read it!

Cover Comments: While I was reading the first book I was imaging what Arielle's new makeover would look like, and this literally exactly how I imagined it to be! Kudos to you over at Simon & Schuster! (10/10)
Want More "Privilege"? There are currently 2 other books out in the series; (in order) Privilege, and Perfect Mistake. The 4th book Sweet Deceit, is set to June 8th, 2010.
Want More by Kate Brian? Kate Brian also has another series which is called the Private series, (and is quite good also!) The Private series currently has 10 books released; (in order) Private, Invitation Only, Untouchable, Confessions, Inner Circle, Legacy, Ambition, Revelation, Last Christmas (Private prequel), and Paradise Lost. The 11th book Scandal, is set to release March 9th, 2010, and the 12th book Vanished, to release August 31st, 2010
Want more by Author? You may not be aware but Kate Brian is a pseudonym that Kieran Scott uses. Kieran Scott writes books under her name also. She is the author of the Non-Blonde Cheerleader series, which is a cute, funny series aimed towards more a slightly younger age books include; (in order) I Was A Non-Blonde Cheerleader, Brunettes Strike Back, and A Non-Blonde Cheerleader In Love. She also has many other books out including Geek Magnet, and Jingle Boy. I am eagerly looking forward to her newest book She's So Dead to Us to be released May 25, 2010, which is a first in a trilogy and sounds really good.

10 in '10 Chick Lit Challenge

2009-12-30T05:45:00.018-05:00

Soooooo, Kay Cassidy, author of upcoming book The Cinderella Society, and Jessica of Chick Lit Teens, are having this really cool chick lit challenge, and I'm participating!

Here are the rules:

1) Grab the official 10 in '10 Teen Chick Lit Challenge logo above and put it on your site with a link back to this page to let people know you're playing.

2) Choose 10 teen chick lit books to read in 2010. Or select the ones you know you want to read and leave the rest of your list open to see what comes your way in 2010. (We'll be talking about the great teen chick lit books we've read each month, so you may find some new ones that catch your eye!)

3) Click on the Mr. Linky button below to share your list if you've posted it on your blog. If you don't have a blog, simply comment below with your choice of books and let us know you're in like Flynn.

4) Each month, Jessica and Kay will alternate hosting the official check-in post where you can share the books you've read for the challenge. And be sure to let us know what you thought of them!

To sign up for yourself, and to get more info on the challenge visit Kay's post here and Jessica's post here.

This post shall be updated on this post and on my Challenges post located on my link bar.

Now for my list:
1.) The Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy
2.) Scandal by Kate Brian
3.) Perfect Mistake by Kate Brian
4.) Sweet Deceit by Kate Brian
5.) Vanished by Kate Brian
6.) She's So Dead To Us by Kieran Scott
7.) The Naughty List by Suzanne Young
8.) Stupid Cupid by Rhonda Stapleton
9.) A Match Made In High School by Kristen Walker10.) So Many Boys by Suzanne Young
11.) A Good Boy is Hard to Find by Suzanne Young
12.) Flirting with Disaster by Rhonda Stapleton
13.) Pucker Up by Rhonda Stapleton
14.) Secrets of My Hollywood Life: Paparazzi Princess by Jen Calonita
15.) Secrets of My Hollywood Life: Broadway Lights by Jen Calonita
16.) Isabelle's Boyfriend by Caroline Hickey
17.) The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg
18.) Going Too Far by Jennifer Echols
19.) Heartless by Sara Shepard
20.) Wanted by Sara Shepard

(7/10)

Pink= Linked to Review
Bold= Read
Italicized= Own/Not-Read
Regular= To-Read
--More will be added later, I'm a fan of this genre! :)

Review: Suspicion

2009-12-29T16:08:00.044-05:00

Woah, sorry this review was posted so late today. I didn't even wake up until 2 pm, and that 5 Challenge post took me forever to post!

Suspicion by Kate Brian
Published: by Simon & Schuster- 9/8/09
Pages: 212
Series or Standalone? 10th book in a series.

Summary (from GoodReads):
Forbidden fruit...

Reed, Noelle, and former Billings Girls Kiran and Taylor have been living it up on St. Barths over winter break. The tropical sun has melted away all the tensions of last semester, and for the first time in months, Reed is happy. She's got her best friends by her side, she has a palatial suite with an ocean view, and she's landed Upton, the most sought-after guy on the island.

Reed is falling in love.

But dating Upton makes Reed St. Barths' highest-profile guest -- and not in a good way. Upton has a dark past, and he's broken a lot of hearts. One of his exes still wants him. And she'll do whatever it takes to get Reed out of the picture.

My Review: Yet another awesome book in the addicting Private series. While this book felt a little like a bridge, or filler, from one book to another, I still loved every second of it!
When Hooked: Immediately. The last book Paradise Lost left us with such an unbelievable cliff-hanger that as soon as you flip open the first page of Suspicion you are hooked.
Hookability: (9.5/10) This series is one where you pick the book up, read, and about an hour to two hours later, you find that you just finished the book. They are so completely engrossing and addicting!
Writing: (9.5/10) Brian's writing is 100% engaging, and everything flows really well. It is also very easy to feel as if all of what Reed sees and thinks are happening to you too, it very descriptive.
Characters: (9.5/10) For the most part I love all of the characters, wait thats not entirely true, some of the minor characters are so annoying I want to punch. Reed. Loooove her! Even more so now that she isn't afraid to speak whats on her mind. Shes just so completely awesome, no wonder everyone tries to kill her due to jealousy! Noelle. I just love her! I kind of have this unconventional thing where I always love the mean girl, as long as shes not a total b*tch, but even so, Noelle is portrayed in a way that makes the reader sympathetic to her and just love her attitude! Upton. You're no Josh buddy. I want to like you, but its not really happening.
Plot: (8.5/10) Like I mentioned before, this book felt a bridge from one book to the next. I still really liked it, it just wasn't my favorite out of all the books. I do admire Reed's fighting spirit though, especially on the island.
Originality: (8.5/10) This is hard one to determine. Some aspects of the books aren't original per se, but the twist Scott puts on them makes them original. But in this particular installment, without giving away too much, the whole island thing was an element that was very "been there, done that."
Romance: (--/10) I'm not going to count romance in this particular installment because it doesn't really focus on it, its more focused on specifically just Reed. Even with Upton taken into account, hes no Josh, or even Thomas for that matter.
Ending: (9.5/10) Kate Brian is the master of the cliff-hanger. I can't really say what it is without ruining a lot of the book, but let me tell you it will make you go "WHAT??? I NEED the next book NOW!" March 9th can't come soon enough!
Remembrable: (9/10) To me, the events of this series kind of just blend into one timeline instead of "this happened in this book, while this happened in another" kind of thing. I do however think that the events that took place within this book are very remembrable.
Recommendability: (9.5/10) I looooooooooove this series so much! Does that mean I think its right for everybody? Nope. This series is a fun, keeps-you-on-your-toes one. I think that most will categorize it under chick-lit, which is fine as long as that isn't directly correlated with being "fluffy", because its not "fluffy", though its not really deep either. Girls will definitely like this more than boys, and early to mid teens are probably the target age.
Any particular graphic/violent/"inappropiate" content? Pretty PG stuff for the most part, maybe PG-13. Drinking? Yes, there is underage drinking but its totally not a big deal at all. Seriously they could have said pop (or soda for you non-Michigander/Ohio-ers) instead and it totally would not have made a difference. Drugs? Nope. Violence? Someone tries to kill Reed, but its totally PG stuff. Sexual content? In this one I do believe no. Unless you count kissing, which I totally do not. (10+)
Overall: (9.8/10) A nice addition into a wonderful series. At the end you will cry out for the next book, and be left with your suspicions as to who really has killer in them.

Cover Comments: As a whole, this series is pretty cool together, with the whole Private box, and all the spines aline really nice together. However, for this particular book I absolutely hated the cover! The girl scared the living daylight out of me with her menacing stare, and I just flat-out refused to look at her when I was reading this book. (6/10)
Want More "Private"? There are currently 10 other books out in the series; (in order) Private, Invitation Only, Untouchable, Confessions, Inner Circle, Legacy, Ambition, Revelation, Last Christmas (Private prequel), and Paradise Lost. The 11th book Scandal, is set to release March 9th, 2010, and the 12th book Vanished, to release August 31st, 2010.
Want More by Kate Brian? Kate Brian also has another series which is called the Privilege series, (and is quite good also!) The Privilege series currently has 3 books released; (in order) Privilege, Beautiful Disaster, and Perfect Mistake. The 4th book Sweet Deceit, is set to June 8th, 2010.
Want more by Author? You may not be aware but Kate Brian is a pseudonym that Kieran Scott uses. Kieran Scott writes books under her name also. She is the author of the Non-Blonde Cheerleader series, which is a cute, funny series aimed towards more a slightly younger age books include; (in order) I Was A Non-Blonde Cheerleader, Brunettes Strike Back, and A Non-Blonde Cheerleader In Love. She also has many other books out including Geek Magnet, and Jingle Boy. I am eagerly looking forward to her newest book She's So Dead to Us to be released May 25, 2010, which is a first in a trilogy and sounds really good.

The 5 Challenge

2009-12-29T16:08:00.031-05:00

So, if you weren't aware, the lovely Adele from Persnickety Snark has been hosting a 5 challenge from the 21st until the 31st. She explains it better than I would, so here she is describing the challenge: "For the remaining days of December I have decided to post daily on different elements of YA. I will choose my top five titles/series/moments for each day and you can give your two cents worth and tell me what I forgot. It's purely subjective and completely opinion based but I thought it might be fun."

I myself have decided to join in on the merriment and I shall post all my 5's collaborated in this one post. I am not going to list 5 for each category, I skipped around. Make sure to check out Adele's post here for the whole list of topics! Please note, while my challenges are numbered, they are in no particular order.

5 Great Debuts

1.) As You Wish by Jackson Pearce
Ever since Viola's boyfriend broke up with her, she has spent her days silently wishing—to have someone love her again and, more importantly, to belong again—until one day she inadvertently summons a young genie out of his world and into her own. He will remain until she makes three wishes.

Jinn is anxious to return home, but Viola is terrified of wishing, afraid she will not wish for the right thing, the thing that will make her truly happy. As the two spend time together, the lines between master and servant begin to blur, and soon Jinn can't deny that he's falling for Viola. But it's only after Viola makes her first wish that she realizes she's in love with Jinn as well . . . and that if she wishes twice more, he will disappear from her life—and her world—forever.
Jackson Pearce spins a magical tale about star-crossed lovers, what it means to belong . . . and how important it is to be careful what you wish for.
Absolutely amazing debut! It was funny, fun, and soooo cute! Also, the nice little romance in there was really good too!

2.) Willow by Julia Hoban
Seven months ago, on a rainy March night, sixteen year- old Willow’s parents died in a horrible car accident. Willow was driving. Now her older brother barely speaks to her, her new classmates know her as the killer orphan girl, and Willow is blocking the pain by secretly cutting herself. But when one boy—one sensitive, soulful boy—discovers Willow’s secret, it sparks an intense relationship that turns the “safe” world Willow has created for herself upside down.
Told in an extraordinary fresh voice, Willow is an unforgettable novel about one girl’s struggle to cope with tragedy, and one boy’s refusal to give up on her.

Heartbreaking, raw, and simply amazing. Alomost a little surprising this a debut! Review here.

3.) The Dark Devine by Bree Despain
Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared--the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in his own blood--but she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night held.

The memories her family has tried to bury resurface when Daniel returns, three years later, and enrolls in Grace and Jude's high school. Despite promising Jude she'll stay away, Grace cannot deny her attraction to Daniel's shocking artistic abilities, his way of getting her to look at the world from new angles, and the strange, hungry glint in his eyes.

The closer Grace gets to Daniel, the more she jeopardizes her life, as her actions stir resentment in Jude and drive him to embrace the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind the boy's dark secret...and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it--her soul.

Oh my word, I looooved this book! I think the synopsis is a little misleading because about half-way there is a turn of events that made me go, "Woah!" But I mean this in a totally good way, because I was totallt stunned and couldn't stop until every last page was devoured.

4.) Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along.
With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment.
But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.
For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

I know theres a lot out there that agree with me when I say, "Holy smokes, this is a debut? It was awesome!" Very well developed and will leaving you in desperate need of sequel.

5. Candor by Pam Bachorz
Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape
Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.

Completely en-grossing! This was a totally mind-blowing, 100% unique debut that left me speechless. I loved it!

5 Best Covers of 2009

Hush, Hush--- Uhm, do I need to elaborate? Just look at that winged fallen angel of awesome! I looove the feathers, too.

Shiver--- That design is beautiful! And fitting, especially with the wolf! B-e-a-u-tiful!

Beautiful Creatures--- Sooooooo pretty! Its so unlike anything I've seen before too!

Ash--- I saw this in Borders the other day and my jaw literally dropped, so stunning! (Haha, even the ARC is gorgeous!)

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies--- Epic! There is no other word to describe it, it is just the epitomy of epicness.

5 Great Series

The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
Read these! They are awesome, definitely one of my all time favorite series! I have never seen anyone not like this book, and its not surprising because it is absolutely amazing!

The Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead
Soooooo good! About the only rival for The Hunger Games to take the place as my favorite series! These books are chalk full of action, romance, heartbreak, friendship, and an awesome strong female protagonist!

The Pretty Little Liars Series by Sara Shepard
Awesome, awesome series! These are literally the most addicting books I've ever read! While reading one, you are in absolute need to find out what happens next, and will most likely finish in one sitting! Don't even get me started on the wait between books, it is so agonizing, it is almost like pure and brutal torture!

Private Series by Kate Brian
Another totally addicting series! Over the summer I got the first nine books and the prequel and I read them in 3 days! I could not stop, they leave you wanting more. Also, I love trying to find out who attempted to kill Reed next, I would like to put it on record that I am amazing at getting these gut feelings of whos bad and whos genuine!

Mortal Instruments Series by Cassandra Clare
Completely original series, that it addicting and wonderful in its fantasy embarks. Oh, and Jace, the leading male, is totally awesome, I am in love with his sense of humor!

Most Anticipated 2010 Titles

---Debut Releases

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus {July 13th}

Since her sister’s mysterious death, Persephone “Phe” Archer has been plagued by a series of disturbing dreams. Determined to find out what happened to her sister, Phe enrolls at Devenish Prep in Shadow Hills, Massachusetts—the subject of her sister’s final diary entry.

After stepping on campus, Phe immediately realizes that there’s something different about this place—an unexplained epidemic that decimated the town in the 1700s, an ancient and creepy cemetery, and gorgeous boy Zach—and somehow she’s connected to it all.

But the more questions she asks and the deeper she digs, the more entangled Phe becomes in the haunting past of Shadow Hills. Finding what links her to this town…might cost her her life.

Want, want, want! No scracth that, I need, need, need this book!

The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea Campbell {May 11th}

Damien Locke knows his destiny--attending the university for supervillains and becoming Golden City's next professional evil genius. But when Damien discovers he's the product of his supervillain mother's one-night stand with--of all people--a superhero, his best-laid plans are ruined as he's forced to live with his superhero family.

Going to extreme lengths (and heights), The Rise of Renegade X chronicles one boy's struggles with the villainous and heroic pitfalls of growing up.

This sounds sooooo good! I am in love with all things superhero and this basically looks like the epitomy of all awesome!

Other by Karen Kincy {July 1st}

Seventeen-year-old Gwen hides a dangerous secret: she’s Other. Half-pooka, to be exact, thanks to the father she never met. Most Americans don’t exactly roll out the welcome mat for Others, especially not the small-town folks of Klikamuks, Washington. As if this isn’t bad enough, Gwen’s on the brink of revealing her true identity to her long-time boyfriend, Zack, but she’s scared he’ll lump her with the likes of bloodthirsty vampires and feral werewolves.

When a pack of werewolves chooses the national forest behind Gwen’s home as their new territory, the tensions in Klikamuks escalate-into murder. It soon becomes clear a serial killer is methodically slaying Others. The police turn a blind eye, leaving Gwen to find the killer before the killer finds her. As she hunts for clues, she uncovers more Others living nearby than she ever expected. Like Tavian, a sexy Japanese fox-spirit who rivals Zack and challenges her to embrace her Otherness. Gwen must struggle with her own conflicted identity, learn who she can trust, and-most importantly-stay alive.

This sounds amazing, totally original, and I love saying "pooka"!!!!!!

Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken {Mar. 23rd}

Sydelle Mirabil is living proof that, with a single drop of rain, a life can be changed forever. Tucked away in the farthest reaches of the kingdom, her dusty village has suffered under the weight of a strangely persistent drought. That is, of course, until a wizard wanders into town and brings the rain with him.

In return for this gift, Wayland North is offered any reward he desires—and no one is more surprised than Sydelle when, without any explanation, he chooses her. Taken from her home, Sydelle hardly needs encouragement to find reasons to dislike North. He drinks too much and bathes too little, and if that isn’t enough to drive her to madness, North rarely even uses the magic he takes such pride in possessing. Yet, it’s not long before she realizes there’s something strange about the wizard, who is as fiercely protective of her as he is secretive about a curse that turns his limbs a sinister shade of black and leaves him breathless with agony. Unfortunately, there is never a chance for her to seek answers.

Along with the strangely powerful quakes and storms that trace their path across the kingdom, other wizards begin to take an inexplicable interest in her as well, resulting in a series of deadly duels. Against a backdrop of war and uncertainty, Sydelle is faced with the growing awareness that these events aren’t as random as she had believed—that no curse, not even that of Wayland North, is quite as terrible as the one she herself may carry.

This already sounded amazing and I couldn't wait to read it, then some bloggers started to review this raving on and on about it, and now I am literally dying to read it!

Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White {Mar. 2nd}

When someone leaves three mystery flowers outside her dorm door, Laurel thinks that maybe the Avondale School isn't so awful after all — until her own body starts to freak out. In the middle of her English presentation on the Victorian Language of Flowers, strange words pop into her head, and her body seems to tingle and hum. Impulsively, Laurel gives the love bouquet she made to demonstrate the language to her spinster English teacher. When that teacher unexpectedly and immediately finds romance, Laurel suspects that something — something magical — is up. With her new friend, Kate, she sets out to discover the origins and breadth of her powers by experimenting on herself and others. But she can’t seem to find any living experts in the field of flower powers to guide her. And her bouquets don't always do her bidding, especially when it comes to her own crush, Justin. Rumors about Laurel and her flowers fly across campus, and she's soon besieged by requests from girls — both friends and enemies — who want their lives magically transformed — just in time for prom.

Have you ever heard of something quite like this? Me either. I really want to read it. I love the sound of it!

---Sophmore Releases

Sing Me to Sleep by Angela Morrison {Mar. 4th}

THE TRANSFORMATION
Beth has always been “The Beast”—that’s what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Beth’s only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she’s selected to be her choir’s soprano soloist, and receives the makeover that will change her life forever.
THE LOVE AFFAIR
When Beth’s choir travels to Switzerland, she meets Derek: pale, brooding, totally dreamy. Derek’s untethered passion—for music, and for Beth—leaves her breathless. Because in Derek’s eyes? She’s not The Beast, she’s The Beauty.
THE IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE
When Beth comes home, Scott, her best friend in the world, makes a confession that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet, steady Scott or follow the dangerous, intense new feelings she has for Derek?
THE HEARTBREAK
The closer Beth gets to Derek, the further away he seems. Then Beth discovers that Derek’s been hiding a dark secret from her …one that could shatter everything.

I read the first few chapters online about a month ago, and I've been pining over it ever since! It was sooooo good!

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers {Jan. 5th}

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater {July 20th}

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'm reading Shiver right now and its amazing! I can't wait to read Linger! Lucky for me its *cough, cough* sitting on my shelf! :)

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce {June 7th}

Scarlett March lives to hunt the Fenris-- the werewolves that took her eye when she was defending her sister Rosie from a brutal attack. Armed with a razor-sharp hatchet and blood-red cloak, Scarlett is an expert at luring and slaying the wolves. She's determined to protect other young girls from a grisly death, and her raging heart will not rest until every single wolf is dead.

Rosie March once felt her bond with her sister was unbreakable. Owing Scarlett her life, Rosie hunts fiercely alongside her. Now Rosie dreams of a life beyond the wolves and finds herself drawn to Silas, a young woodsman who is deadly with an ax-- but loving him means betraying her sister and has the potential to destroy all they've worked for.

Twenty-five-year-old Jackson Pearce delivers a dark, taut fairy tale with heart-pounding action, fierce sisterly love, and a romance that will leave readers breathless.

I looooooved As You Wish, so its natural that I am dying for her next book (which is part of a series, yay!) especially when it sounds as good as this one does! And look at the cover---- cover love for this one right here!

Scorch Trials by James Dashner {Oct. 2010}

Technically its not his sophomore release, but in the YA genre rather than MG genre I guess it is! Also, there is no cover or synopsis yet, but the cliff-hanger of the previous novel has me dying for it!

---Established Author Releases

Hunger Games #3 by Suzanne Collins {Aug. 24th}

If you've read this book you know that no other words are needed to express my want for this book!

Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead {May 18th}

Dimitri gave Rose the ultimate choice. But she chose wrong…

After a long and heartbreaking journey to Dimitri’s birthplace in Siberia, Rose Hathaway has finally returned to St. Vladimir’s—and to her best friend, Lissa. It is nearly graduation, and the girls can’t wait for their real lives beyond the Academy’s iron gates to begin. But Rose’s heart still aches for Dimitri, and she knows he’s out there, somewhere.

She failed to kill him when she had the chance. And now her worst fears are about to come true— Dimitri has tasted her blood, and now he is hunting her. Only this time, he won’t rest until Rose joins him…forever.

I neeeeeeeeeeeeeed to know what happens next! Rose, Dimitri, Adrian... need to know! So heartbreaking!

Heartless by Sara Shepard {Jan. 19th}

The newest installment in Sara Shepard’s bestselling Pretty Little Liars series is packed with juicy drama and delicious surprises that will keep readers guessing to the very end.
Hanna, Aria, Emily, and Spencer have been telling some outrageous tales; only, the proof always seems to go missing. The friends insist they’re telling the truth, but all of Rosewood thinks they’re just out for attention—and nobody likes a girl who cries wolf. So when the big bad killer comes after them, will anyone believe the girls. . . or will they be the next to disappear?

Yeah these series are addicting, I never know whats going to happen next. I need this one, I need to know what happens!

Scandal by Kate Brian {Mar. 9th}
After her harrowing kidnapping, Reed returns to Easton to find the worst thing she can think of—Billings has been torn
down. Finally, after years of controversy, the school’s wealthiest female alumni have been overruled, and the historical dorm is gone from Easton Academy.

How will Reed and the rest of the Billings Girls handle it? Will they still be as powerful, as popular, and as wicked—with literally no ground to stand on?

No Billings? What the heck is going to happen? How bad will Noelle flip out? These are the questions that have been haunting me!

Sweet Deceit by Kate Brian {June 8th}
Kate Brian's Privilege series shows what happens when the really rich and the really crazy will do anything to get what they want.

Not really the best summary, but trust me Kate Brian's Privilege series is just as addicting as her Private series! Except this one is more eerie because the main character is a murderer! Love it!

Teaser Tuesday: Dec. 29th

2009-12-29T05:24:00.007-05:00

First off, props to MizB from Should be Reading for bringing us Teaser Tuesday.
The rules for Teaser Tuesday are as follows:
1) Grab your current read
2) Open to a random page
3) Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
4) BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
5) Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Today, you get a lovely little teaser from the amazing book Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater.

" "I guess I have to go," I said. "I don't want to."

Sam's eyes opened the rest of the way and focused on me.

"I'll be here when you come back, promise." "

-Page 100

Review: Notorious

2009-12-29T02:10:00.010-05:00

Note: This is another re-read of mine, so I would like to have it noted that I liked it better the first time, though I have read, in my opinion of course, a lot more "worthwhile" books!

Notorious by Cecily von Ziegesar
Published: by Poppy- 6/6/06 <=Ahhh, day of the devil, lol.
Pages: 288
Series or Standalone? 2nd in a series

Summary (from GoodReads):
Popular Gossip Girl character Jenny Humphrey is making a splash at Waverly Academy, an elite boarding school in New York horse country where glamorous rich kids don't let the rules get in the way of an excellent time.It's less than a week into school, but Jenny's already been caught with her roommate's boyfriend (in bed!), flashed the whole school at a field hockey game, and gone up against the Disciplinary Committee. She's become notorious, just like Tinsley Carmichael, Waverly's former It Girl, who was expelled last year and is rumored to be jet-setting around the world.So what happens when Tinsley arrives back on campus and moves in with Jenny? After all, there can only be one It Girl.

My Review: The It-Girl series are fun, slightly leaning towards trashy, guilty pleasures. Notorious in particular is a drama-packed sequel, that while in my opinion not as good as first, holds the promise for the series to get better.
When Hooked: Immediately. The cliff-hanger from the previous book draws you in and has you captured until the final page is turned.
Hookability: (8.5/10) I'll give the series props for it's hookability, when it hooks you it hooks you. You need to know what the heck those crazy Dumbarton girls are going to do next.
Writing: (8/10) The writing is very engaging and flows quite well, but it is not anything really original or set apart. Though I am a fan of the multiplte character's thoughts portrayal this book contains, I like hearing all the sides to the story!
Characters: (7.5/10) There are times when I loved certain characters, and times when I wanted jump into this book just so I could yell and scream at them. They took me on a rollercoaster. Jenny. Shes the most likeable character, and the one that I definately root for. I have to admit she was pretty awesome in this book with that cheer, I wish I had that much courage! Brett. Are you really surprised at the aftermath with your scandalous affair? Honey, you're supposed to be the smart one, it was obvious as to what was gonna happen! Callie. Hey, get a backbone! Don't be such a spineless person who just tries to top someone else, but won't stand up to anyone. And seriously get over your pathetic love life already! Tinsley. I find it funny that the first time I read this I liked Tinsley, and this time I found her a complete and total b*tch. Hahaha, I do tend to love the "mean girl." Easy. I'm torn, I wanna love you, which is mostly what I feel for you, but you can be a total jerk-off sometimes. Brandon. Grow some! Eeeerrrrrgh, thats about all I have to say!
Plot: (8/10) I have found that with this series there really isn't a central "plot" but rather just a string drama-filled events that occur and somehow flow together in the end. However, I do like how chalk-filled of drama goodness they are!
Originality: (7.5/10) Nothing is quite original about this book per se, but I definitely don't think its a copy of anything either.
Romance: (8/10) I wouldn't read this book/series specifically for its romantic appeal but it is a nice little addition, that as long as your not seeking it out, will leave you content! Jenny and Easy are so cute together!
Ending: (9/10) Cecily is a master of the cliff-hanger endings. They will leave you in need to pick up the next installment to find out what happens next! You can't help it!
Remembrable: (6/10) Yeah, not so much on that one. Basics you might/will remember, but its not the kind of book where you remember every little detail, or even just the specifics.
Recommendability: (7/10) Check out the section below of the graphic/violent content, if none of that bothers you and you are in need of a guilty pleasure than I will recommend this to you! Fans of Gossip Girl will probably like this. Also, I'm definitely going to say girls will like this a whole lot better than boys.
Any Particular Graphic/Violent/"Inappropriate" Content? Drinking? YES! Drugs? Yes, not heavy or descriptive of anything but the references are still there. Swearing? YES! Not potty-mouth kind of swearing per se, but there is definitely swearing every couple pages or so. Sexual Content? HECK YES! You've hit the mother load with this one. Not really a fade-to-black kind of book, but not really graphic either, lets just say things don't really stop at making out. Also, there is a heck of a lot od sexual innuendos and implied sexual occurances. I personally think that basicly you can read anything, well besides erotica or whatever, when your over the age of 12. But I totally get that others might say this should be read by older teens only. (12+)
Overall: (8.06/10) Notorious is a drama-filled sequel that will have in need of the next installment. I feel there are better books to be your main source of reading, but as a guilty pleasure, this series is a good pick.

Cover Comments: I like the single girl on the cover thing this series has going on, simple and pretty. It doesn't blow my mind but I'm content with it. Oh, I've mentioned it before but if you do have the whole series, or even a few of the books in the series, the spines look really cool all lined up together! (8/10)
Want more of the It-Girl series? There are currently 8 other books released in the series; The It-Girl, Reckless, Unforgettable, Lucky, Tempted, Infamous, Adored, and Devious. The 10th book Classic will be released June 1, 2010!
Want more Cecily von Ziegesar? Try her Gossip Girl series; (in order) Gossip Girl, You Know You Love Me, All I Want Is Everything, Because I Worth It, I Like It Like That, Nobody Does It Better, Nothing Can Keep Us Together, Only In Your Dreams, It Had To Be You (prequel), Would I Lie To You, Don't You Forget About Me, I Will Always Love You. Or her Carlyles series: (in order) The Carlyles, You Just Can't Get Enough, Take A Chance On Me, Love The One You're With. Also, you can try the popular CW show Gossip Girl which is based off the GG books, even though mostly they improv all the stuff.

100+ Challenge 2010

2009-12-29T01:59:00.016-05:00

Sooooo, I've joined the 2010 100+ Reading Challenge hosted by J Kaye Book Blog! I didn't do uhm too well on this challenge this year, but I'm more motivated now, and there was a span of a couple months earlier this year where I really wasn't reading. Plus I've made it my goal to read atleast 100, though I'm hoping to read wayyy more! I'm ambitious!

To sign yourself up for the 100+ Reading Challenge check out this post: http://j-kaye-book-blog.blogspot.com/2009/11/new-2010-reading-challenge-100-reading.html

Besides here, list will be updated on my Challenges post which can be found on my LinkBar! :)

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)