Alexia's Books and Such...

Welcome to BBRAW!

2012-02-13T06:00:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Book Blogger Reader Appreciation Week!

Inspired by Book Blogger Appreciation Week (hosted by My Friend Amy), Reagan over at Miss Remmers' Reviews came up with BBRAW in order to acknowledge how awesome our readers are!

Used to watching people's eyes glaze over when I started rhapsodizing about my latest read, I was thrilled when I discovered that there were others who loved books as much as I did! I'm eternally grateful to have a place where I can share my love of books with others, discover new authors, and act all fan-girly over my favorite authors without anyone rolling their eyes!

So this week is all about celebrating you, the blog reader! And to let you all know how much you're loved and appreciated! I'm still thrilled beyond measure when someone leaves me a comment to let me know what they thought about my latest post, so wanted to spread the love with a giveaway!

Going to make this as easy as possible: just leave your name and email address. That's it!

Thank you for reading! If you're new to my blog, hope you like what you see and will come back in the future!

US Only:

Mystery box of books, including ARCs, bookmarks, and various swag.

If you look at my past reviews, that's some of what will be in the box!

I love surprises, so hope you do too!

International:

Reader's choice:

$10 Barnes & Noble online gift certificate or

$10 Amazon online gift card or

Book of your choice from The Book Depository (up to $10 US)

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

Must be at least 13 years old to enter.

Giveaway will end on 2/17/12 at 11:59PM EST

Winner will have 48 hours to respond to the email notification or a new winner will be chosen.

Book Review: By a Thread

2012-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

By a Thread by Jennifer Estep

Expected publication: February 28th 2012

When killing people is your job, there’s no such thing as a vacation.

Poor Gin. Ever since her battle with Mab, people have been coming into the Pork Pit staring at her and/or trying to kill her. After all, what better way to make a name for yourself than by taking out the infamous Spider? So when Finn suggests a vacation, she reluctantly agrees. Looking at it as an opportunity to spend time with her sister, Gin shouldn't be surprised when trouble finds her.

Letting Bria choose, they decide to vacation in Bria's old hometown. A little jealous of the easy friendship between Bria and her BFF Callie, Gin is even more shocked when she sees her old flame Donovan! Turns out that Bria and Donovan had switched jobs, but nobody had mentioned that little detail to Gin.

Despite her best intentions, it isn't long before Gin finds herself smack dab in the middle of trouble. Turns out Callie is being strong-armed into selling her restaurant to some bad guys. Well, no one threatens Bria's best friend, much less a fellow cook, so Gin comes up with a plan. Only it seems that she bit off a little more than she could chew this time around....

Really, really loved this one, as Gin just keeps getting better and better! One of the things I really love about her is that she's human. She can get hurt. She feels jealous of the sisterly relationship Bria has with Callie. She isn't sure of her feelings for an old lover. Her plans aren't infallible. Love that while she's good, she's not Superassassin!

Another thing I love about this series is Gin's family and friends. While I'm not totally sure about Bria yet, I love Gin's foster brother Finn, lover Owen, and the Deveraux sisters! They all love Gin and will always be there for her. You couldn't ask for better friends!

And the descriptions of the food! I must have been hungry while reading this one, but the food that Callie served at her restaurant had me drooling! I really want to try the pineapple pudding that Gin had for dessert! Wonder if Jennifer has the recipe?

Sorry...where was I? Oh yeah....this is an awesome read and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves a strong heroine, a great plot, excellent writing, and outstanding characters! And food.... :)

eARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.

In My Mailbox (103)

2012-02-05T00:15:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Every now and again, I'll see a title on Amazon Vine that grabs my attention and, despite my teetering mountain of TBR titles, I just have to have it! This is one of those titles:

and she was by Alison Gaylin

On a summer afternoon in 1998, six-year-old Iris Neff walked away from a barbecue in her small suburban town . . . and vanished.

***

The blurb on this claims that this book is the Coffee, Tea, or Me? for the 21st century. I borrowed that book ages ago from the library and loved it, so how am I supposed to resist? Thanks William Morrow!

Cruising Attitude

by Heather Poole

Real-life flight attendant Heather Poole has written a charming and funny insider's account of life and work in the not-always-friendly skies. Cruising Attitude is a Coffee, Tea, or Me? for the 21st century, as the author parlays her fifteen years of flight experience into a delightful account of crazy airline passengers and crew drama, of overcrowded crashpads in "Crew Gardens" Queens and finding love at 35,000 feet.

***

Received an email request from the author to review her new book. I read the excerpt and was hooked!

Fire Baptized

by Kenya Wright

Since the 1970s humans have forced supernaturals to live in caged cities. Silver brands embedded in their foreheads identify them by species: a full moon for Vampires, a crescent moon for Shifters, a pair of wings for Fairies, and the list goes on, for each supernatural species has been tagged and categorized by humans.

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Leave me a link and I'll stop by to check it out!

Challenge - A Month of Letters

2012-02-03T23:00:00.001-05:00

Like receiving mail?

Want some?

I love mail! Letters, cards, books...just about anything non-junk or bill-related makes me happy! When I was in grade school, I had pen pals and loved corresponding with them. Then we all grew up, lost touch, and then it became easier just to send someone an email.

So I was very happy when I discovered that Mary Robinette Kowal decided to host a letter writing challenge! She even made a website for it!

The details:

In the month of February, mail at least one item through the post every day it runs. Write a postcard, a letter, send a picture, or a cutting from a newspaper, or a fabric swatch.
Write back to everyone who writes to you. This can count as one of your mailed items.

I'm committing to mailing 24 items, one per day. Why 24? Because there are four Sundays and one US holiday this month. If I have enough addresses and am having fun, I'll keep going.

Here's where you come in. Do you love receiving mail as much as I do? If so, I'd love to send you some! I need more people to write, so who better than my blogging buddies?

I promise not to send any fabric swatches, but do reserve the right to include possible goodies in the envelope. So....you game? I promise not to use your address for evil, but only for the goodness of receiving mail.

If interested, just leave your name and mailing address on the form below:

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

I've already sent a card and written a few fan letters. Haven't written a fan letter in ages. Forgot how much fun it is to gush and be all fan-girly!

This is fun!

Novella Review: Thread of Death (SPOILER ALERT)

2012-01-31T06:00:00.002-05:00

IF YOU HAVEN'T READ SPIDER'S REVENGE YET, AVERT YOUR EYES!!!

SYNOPSIS CONTAINS SPOILERS!

Thread of Death by Jennifer Estep

Gin Blanco, aka the assassin the Spider, might have finally killed her nemesis, Mab Monroe, but that doesn’t mean that it’s smooth sailing. Gin goes to Mab’s funeral to say her goodbyes and runs into some of Ashland’s most notorious underworld power players, including Jonah McAllister and Phillip Kincaid. McAllister wants her dead, and Kincaid has his own murky motives when it comes to the Spider, and Gin once again finds herself fighting for her life. Only this time, she might wind up in the cemetery right next to Mab ...

My Thoughts:

This story takes place shortly after Spider's Revenge, as Gin is recovering from her last big battle with her arch nemesis. While she's still not 100%, she knows that she has to make an appearance at Mab's funeral both for her own peace of mind and to show the rest of the city that she's still standing.

Mab being Mab and Gin being Gin, it should come as no surprise that the funeral doesn't run smoothly. With Mab gone, there is a power vacuum in Ashland. It's one thing to size up the competition, but who would have the sheer audacity to stage an attack during the ceremony?

This was a quick read, but didn't have an awful lot of substance. A nice story to keep us satisfied until the next book comes out. All of the main characters make an appearance, including my favorites, the Deveraux sisters! It does serve to give Gin a taste of what she can expect now that Mab is gone. And I'm curious about some of the characters introduced during the service, and wondering if they'll play a role in future stories?

This novella will be released January 31, 2012

My Fair Book Date

2012-01-29T18:00:00.001-05:00

Just signed up for My Fair Book Date, hosted by Down the Rabbit Hole & Books!!!!!!!!!. It's a great idea and sounds like a fun way to tackle that humongous TBR pile! As Amber explains:

Looking for that perfect read for February but have no idea what to read in that HUGE to be read pile? Why not let someone choose your perfect match for you?

When you sign up, you will become matchmaker to someone and will also be set up with a matchmaker of your own!

As a matchmaker, you will research from the list of books provided for you on the form and pick out your perfect match by checking up on reviews and/or recommending one that you read and loved from the list! Then, you will send us your book choice to set up your friend on a blind date with and a short description as to why you choose that match for them. You'll also provide a short paragraph as to why you choose that book for your friend which will be used later. The catch is that your friend won't know it's you till the end of the month!

Your secret matchmaker will pick a book and we'll email you with the title. Then you'll go on a blind date with that book through the entire month of February. At the end of the month, you'll fill out a survey rating your date (it will be about 10 questions) to see if your matchmaker did a good job. We'll send over the identity of your matchmaker and the reason why they choose your match to include in your post.

Then you link up your survey and are entered into a giveaway where two random picks will win a book of their choice from The Book Depository!

*Sign-ups will be open until February 4th and you will receive the information for your matchmaking February 5th.*

Sound like fun? Then head over to Down the Rabbit Hole or Books!!!!!!!!! to sign up today!

Book Review: Crossed

2012-01-26T12:00:00.031-05:00

Crossed by Ally Condie

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

My Thoughts:

This was the much anticipated sequel to Matched (see my review here). We pick up shortly after the end of Matched, with Cassia determined to find Ky instead of meekly following the path the Society has laid out for her. Have to admit that I liked the first book better, as I was really intrigued by the mysterious Society and how it worked. This one was mostly set outside the Society, and I found myself a little bored at times.

Cassia and Ky take turns narrating the story and the chapters are labeled so that there's no confusion. The plot was pretty smooth, despite the different voices. There were a couple of coincidences in the story that I found a little unbelievable, and I didn't really get one plot point and wasn't sure what Condie was aiming for.

Have to admit that I'm curious about what will happen next and where Cassia will end up. Xander surprised me a little, so I'm not as sure about him as I was in the first book. I liked this one okay, and will read the next book just because I'm curious how things will turn out. Middle books are tough, and this one was no exception. Gave it a 3/5 as it wasn't as good as the first one, but still okay.

ARC received from the publisher via BEA

Book Review: Delirium

2012-01-24T12:00:00.024-05:00

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the government demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy. But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is one of those titles that had so much buzz around it when it first came out, that I put off reading it as I didn't think it would be able to live up to the hype. I'm glad I put it off, because I think I would have been disappointed if I'd read it amid all of the hoopla. As it is, I came to the story fresh and without any expectations. Well worth the wait!

Lena is the main character, who is looking forward to receiving the Cure. Her family has a checkered history of being infected, so Lena has grown up afraid that she might succumb as well. She is counting down the days until she is old enough to be cured, until the unthinkable happens when she least expects it....

Lena was a likable enough character, but I didn't really care for her family. I understand her aunt and older sister being standoffish as they had been cured, but her younger cousins seemed a little strange. Really liked her friend Hana though! Was a little surprised at her attitude at times, but she seemed like a good friend.

And Alex! If you're going to be infected by the delirium of love, he's a good choice! I thought his history was a little too pat, and he seemed to have it a little easy for being what he was, but all in all he was very likable. And I really liked the ending, as it was believable. Can't wait to read the sequel and see what happens next!

ARC received from the publisher at BEA

In My Mailbox (102)

2012-01-21T23:00:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
I've cut back on the number of review requests I'm accepting in the hopes of catching up with my TBR piles, but I've worked with Tracee before on blog tours and this one looked like a good read!

Witch Woman

by Jeanette Baker

In two different centuries, four hundred years apart, the lives of Abigail March and her daughter, Maggie, play out along parallel lines, both women blessed and cursed by a selective birthright and marked with a startling mutation, heterochromia iridium, one brown eye, the other blue.

***

I admit that I had a little book envy last week when I saw this title pop up in several mailboxes. I resisted as long as I could, but caved in and requested it on NetGalley. So glad I was approved, as I really liked The Goddess Test!

Goddess Interrupted

by Aimee Carter

Kate Winters has won immortality. But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it.

Can't wait to visit everyone's mailboxes!

Blog Tour: Stories to Enjoy

2012-01-20T06:00:00.057-05:00

Stories to Enjoy

by Tom Mach

This unique collection of 16 short stories written by prize-winner Tom Mach includes stories such as "Real Characters," which is about a writer who gets his wish--that his characters come alive.... "Breakfast, Over Easy" makes you wonder about loyalty in the face of temptation.... "When Kansas Women Were Not Free" takes you to a time when women were less free than former males slaves.... "Son" make you think differently about compassion. One novelist describes STORIES TO ENJOY as "memorable and intriguing, with O. Henry twists that are sure to surprise and entertain." (book blurb)

My Thoughts:
Short stories are one of my favorite types of book, as it gives you a quick glimpse into a world you've never been before. They are remarkably hard to write, as you have a limited amount of space to draw the reader in and make you care about the characters and what happens next, so I've always admired the short story writer for their bravery.

This was an interesting collection, as the stories were all different instead of being the same theme. I enjoyed that difference. Some left me wanting more, and some were just the right length. Rather than give a synopsis of each story, I'll just discuss a couple that stood out for me.

"The Assassin" is about the President's press secretary who finds the President's behavior on Air Force One a bit odd, and has a funny feeling that she won't be returning home. I liked Kerry and wished that she had paid more attention to her hunches instead of being so accepting, but did like the twist at the end!

"Real Characters" is about an author who is told his characters are like stick figures and need to come alive. Enter a helpful genie, and you can guess what happens next! It's a fast, funny story that made me smile.

"Frozen History" wonders what if you could stop all the actions of the world by performing a special incantation while wearing a ring dating back centuries ago? What if there were a nuclear attack and you had that power but didn’t know it? I liked this story because it reminded me of an old TV show I saw once. Wasn't The Twilight Zone, but something similar.

So all in all, I enjoyed this collection. Love short stories as you can pick them up for a quick read without having to worry about remembering what happened previously! Gave a nice, little taste of Tom's work.

Tom will be giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour!

Free eBook: In The Dreaming

2012-01-18T06:00:00.001-05:00

Received an email from the author offering his eBook at no charge! In The Dreaming by Terrance Foxxe - a dark fantasy collection of short stories, bridged together by a larger narrative.

As per his email: Yes, this free e-book can downloaded by everyone! Not one, not a hundred, not even a thousand, but by everyone who wants a copy. Imagine a free copy downloaded in your favorite format! It's free, free, FREE! This message was brought to you by lonely and desperate authors everywhere.

Use the Smashwords.com links provided below, and find the format your reading device uses. It can be Kindled, Nooked, iPad and smart phoned. Please enter the Smashwords.com coupon code prior to completing your checkout, and please share this coupon code with everybody, and on your blogs or websites, and with your social networks. Spread the word far and wide and have fun! Write a review if you’re inclined.

www.smashwords.com/profile/view/terrancefoxxe
www.smashwords.com/books/view/85403
The coupon code is: JP54R (and is not case sensitive).
Promotional price: $0.00
Expires: March 1, 2012

I downloaded my copy already and it was easy! I love short stories and the sample I read seems fun, so figured why not give it a chance? I like the idea of helping an author out, and you can't beat free!

So spread the word and lets help Terrance out!

Short Story Review: Flidderbugs

2012-01-17T12:00:00.038-05:00

Flidderbugs by Jonathan Gould

Source: eBook provided by the author for review

As Kriffle the Flidderbug investigates why his fellow ‘bugs find it impossible to agree on the pressing issue of how many points there are on the leaves of the tree on which they live, he finds that the truth is more complicated, and ultimately more terrifying, than he ever could have imagined.

Flidderbugs is a political satire, a modern fable, or maybe just a funny little story about a bunch of insects with some very peculiar obsessions. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This story wasn't really to my taste, as I'm not a big fan of allegories. On the surface, it's a story of how bugs on two sides of the same tree see things differently. They are so caught up in defending their "truth" that they miss seeing the big picture, which may threaten them all.

Kriffle is the main character, who has been groomed by his father to be the next leader of his tribe. Young and idealistic, he dares to think outside of the box. When no one will listen to him, he goes to the experts. Surprisingly, they are not helpful and are focused on their own particular "truths".

I felt that the moral of the story was a little too heavy-handed and didn't enjoy this one as much as I did Doodling. It might be because I'm not a big fan of stories about animals/bugs, disguised as morality lessons. Check out the reviews on Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble, as other readers enjoyed it more than I did.

In My Mailbox (101)

2012-01-14T20:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
I'm a sucker for most stories with updated versions of the ancient gods, especially the Greek gods! Couldn't resist this one, which reminded me a little of the TV show Cupid. The god of love has to bring together the perfect couple, but without resorting to his usual bag of tricks. Will be interesting to see if he can pull it off!

Godsend: A Love Story for Grown-Ups

by Dalma Heyn and Richard Marek

Does love as we once knew it still exist? In our age of Twitter, Match.com. texting, sexting, iPhones and Facebook, can two adults - he a West Coast book anthologist, she a Vermont maple sugar farmer - fall in love the old-fashioned way, through meeting, attraction, lust, adversity, resolution? No, says Jove, God of Gods. Yes, says his son, the God of Love, whose career depends on it...

***

I've worked with Lou Aronica at The Story Plant before and have always been happy with their books, so thought I'd expand my boundaries a little and give this one a try.

Gods and Fathers

by James LePore

Matt DeMarco is an accomplished Manhattan attorney with more than his share of emotional baggage. His marriage ended disastrously, his ex-wife has pulled their son away from him, and her remarriage to a hugely successful Arab businessman has created complications for Matt on multiple levels. However, his life shifts from troubled to imperiled when two cops - men he's known for a long time - come into his home and arrest his son as the prime suspect in the murder of the boy's girlfriend.

Goodies:
Awhile back, I signed up to be a Frito Lay Fan at their website. I love potato chips and buy Tostitos in bulk at BJs, so was very excited when I received a Frito Lay Fan Pack in the mail! While I'm a Lay's Potato Chip fan from way back, I'd never tried the other two. The Lime Tostitos were a little too strong for my taste, but I'm a new fan of Sun Chips! And I love the tote bag they came in, and have already used it for groceries. Sweet!

Thank you Frito Lay!

What did you receive in your mailbox this week?

Reading Challenges: Good or Evil?

2012-01-13T12:00:00.000-05:00

An admitted challenge-a-holic, I love reading challenges and tend to sign up for way too many. Was only going to sign up for the Goodreads Challenge this year, but couldn't resist the Off The Shelf, eBook, and What's In A Name challenges. Frankly, I'm amazed that I was able to stop at four! Hope I don't jinx myself, as the year is still young!

Anyway....someone had a post not too long ago, asking if reading challenges had changed the way you read (I can't find the original post in my Reader, so if you have any idea what I'm talking about, please let me know so I can give credit where credit is due!). The thought must have stuck in the back of my mind and percolated a bit, because now it's front and center and won't leave me alone!

After blithely dismissing the idea that challenges were anything but a fun way to track my reading, I think that yes, they have affected my reading choices. This is bad.

My biggest reading challenge this year is for Goodreads. I was on a reading roll in December, so decided to shoot for 110 books in 2012. That's more books than I've ever read in a single year, but what's the point of a challenge if it's not challenging? My secret goal is 10 books a month so that I have a cushion, just in case. So far, I'm right on track with 5 books under my belt. This is where the bad part raises it's ugly head...

So there I am, staring at my bookshelves, deciding on my next read. Oh look, Stephen King's Under the Dome is sitting front and center! DH really liked the story and it sounds intriguing, yet I reached right past it for a smaller book. Have you seen that puppy? It's over 1000 pages long! I actually thought "too big" as I reached past it, then stopped myself in surprise.

When did I start letting the size of the book dictate my next read? I took a good look at my shelves and realized that there were quite a few large books sitting there, waiting to be read. So despite my best intentions, I guess that size does matter. *snicker* (sorry)

I don't want to abandon my challenges, as I need motivation. Yet I don't want to ignore books because of their size either. So I think I've come up with a solution....I'll read both! As I tend to read several books at the same time, I think I'll read the chunksters at home (so I don't have to lug them with me) and read the smaller, more manageable books at the same time.

So am curious if anyone else has found themselves ignoring the larger books in favor of small ones so you can have more notches on your reading challenge belt? How to you deal with this? And isn't there a reading challenge out there somewhere for ginormous books....

Threaded comments!

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the helpful hints from Emily at Emily's Reading Room, I updated my blog to enable threaded comments! I had to change from pop up comments to the embedded ones, but I think it's worth it.

I gave serious consideration to switching to wordpress because of the threaded comment option, so very happy that blogger finally made this possible! I want to change the font color of the comments, but am pleased overall.

Please let me know what you think, or if you have any problems with the update.

Thanks again Emily!

Featured Title: Stories to Enjoy

2012-01-12T13:00:00.001-05:00

Stories to Enjoy

by Tom Mach

About Tom Mach:
Tom Mach wrote two successful historical novels, Sissy! and All Parts Together, both of which have won rave reviews and were listed among the 150 best Kansas books in 2011. Sissy! won the J. Donald Coffin Memorial Book Award while All Parts Together was a viable entrant for the 2007 Pulitzer Prize Award. He also wrote a collection of short stories entitled Stories To Enjoy, which received positive reviews. Tom’s other novels include: An Innocent Murdered, Advent, and Homer the Roamer.

His poetry collection, The Uni Verse, won the Nelson Poetry Book Award. In addition to several awards for his poetry, Writer’s Digest awarded him ninth place in a field of 3,000 entrants. His website is: www.TomMach.com He also has a popular blog for writers of both prose and verse at http://tommach.tumblr.com

Author links:
http://twitter.com/kansasauthor
http://www.facebook.com/kansasauthor
http://www.linkedin.com/in/tommach
http://tommach.tumblr.com

Book Review: Every Other Day

2012-01-10T12:00:00.001-05:00

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Every other day, Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen-year-old girl. She goes to public high school. She attends pep rallies. She's human. And then every day in between . . .She's something else entirely.

My Thoughts:

This was a fun read by a talented author!

Kali knows that she isn't normal, but doesn't know much more than that. Living with her father, she does her best to stay under the radar and remain invisible, as she's learned that this is the safest course.

Despite her best efforts though, she makes a friend at her new high school. One thing leads to another and soon she has her own version of a Scooby Gang! And yes, that's a deliberate Buffy reference, as Kali reminded me a little of my favorite Slayer.

What exactly is Kali? Is she even human? And why did her mother leave when Kali was so young? This story leads us down roads I didn't really expect, but they are awesome roads! There's a bit of conspiracy and a hint of evil scientists, as well as supernatural forces you may or may not be familiar with. All in all, a very exciting read!

Loved Kali's friend Skylar, and even liked Skylar's obnoxious brother! All of Kali's new friends were interesting, and think they make a great new gang for her! Looking forward to reading more about them all and learning about Kali's abilities, so I really, really hope that this will be a series! Fingers crossed!

In My Mailbox (100)

2012-01-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
I love, love, love Gin Blanco, aka The Spider! Was beyond thrilled when the immensely talented and awesome Jennifer Estep agreed to let me review this novella, which takes place near the end of Spider's Revenge. And yes, I squeeeeeed!

Thread of Death

by Jennifer Estep

***

This one sounded too intriguing to pass up....scent can trigger memories of previous lives? I'm in!

Book of Lost Fragrances

by M.J. Rose

A sweeping and suspenseful tale of secrets, intrigue, and lovers separated by time, all connected through the mystical qualities of a perfume created in the days of Cleopatra - and lost for 2,000 years.

What did you receive in your mailbox this week? Leave me a link so I can stop by and check it out?

Book Review: Bumped

2012-01-05T12:00:00.003-05:00

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

When a virus makes everyone over the age of eighteen infertile, would-be parents pay teen girls to conceive and give birth to their children, making teens the most prized members of society.

My Thoughts:

This story felt a little been there, done that. Yet another tale of a future where young girls have a horrible fate in store for them when they grow up. Instead of dying at a young age, they simply become infertile. What exactly does the future have against teenage girls?

Despite the feeling of deja vu, I did like the story. Melody and Harmony are twins who were separated at birth; Melody to be raised to become the perfect surrogate and Harmony to be a wife and mother on a religious compound. Neither one is happy, but they aren't quite sure what they actually want.

The chapters alternated between the two girls, but were clearly labeled so there was no confusion over which twin was narrating. Of the two, I found myself liking Melody a little more, as Harmony seemed to act out of character with little provocation. And I didn't really buy the ending.

Gave this one a 3/5 as it was a likable read, but I didn't love it. I really liked some of the details, such as internet access via contact lenses and an earpiece. How cool would that be? If you read this one, am curious what you thought of it. And are you as tired as I am of the dreary future for teenagers trend in YA?

eBook from my personal library

Pick Your A Thon Wrap Up

2012-01-04T12:00:00.001-05:00

Aaaaaaaaand...it's a wrap! The end of the Pick Your A Thon hosted by The Book Monsters! I wasn't as productive as I had hoped, but I did get quite a bit done!
I took part in the following mini-challenges:#1 Goals, Goals, Goals#3 Organizing Upcoming Reviews#5 Join Some Challenges#6 Organizing Your Bookshelves
While I didn't write the 10 reviews I had planned, I did get three full reviews written and prepared nine more (everything done but My Thoughts). I also answered several email review requests and caught up on my Google Reader (procrastination can sometimes be a good thing!).
So guess it was a semi-productive semi-success! I had fun, learned a couple of things, and have a new goal of how to organize my reviews! Hope that Kate and Kristen decide to host this again, as I'm always up for a little push in the right direction!

Book Review: Immortalists

2012-01-03T12:00:00.000-05:00

The Immortalists by Kyle Mills

It's a question microbiologist Richard Draman thought he'd answered when he walked away from his career to focus on curing a genetic defect that is causing his daughter to age at a wildly accelerated rate. But now he and his wife Carly are being forced to come to terms with the fact that eight-year-old Susie's time is running out. Then they receive an unexpected gift: startling new research into the fundamental secrets of life that could be the miracle they've been looking for.

When Richard is arrested on a trumped-up charge of having stolen the data, he takes his family and runs, seeking out a retired special-forces operative and old friend to help dig up the truth behind the controversial experiments. Determined to either save Susie's life or die trying, the Dramans plunge into a bloody conflict between two powerful factions vying for control of a discovery that could change the face of humanity. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

At first glance, this didn't seem to be my sort of book. I don't care for medical thrillers, and the synopsis sounded like a medical thriller. May be shallow of me, but I usually get bored and don't really care if the doctor(s) are able to find a cure in time before the whole world dies of some new deadly disease strain!

Boy, was this a nice surprise! This is more a straight thriller, where the main character just happens to be a medical researcher. No boring details of the disease and no long, drawn-out explanation of how a cure is ultimately found.

Was drawn into the story of how Richard and his wife Carly are suddenly thrust into a life on the run and wind up smack in the middle of huge conspiracy! The poor researcher and his chef wife handle themselves surprisingly well, but nothing too over-the-top unbelievable and they are both likable characters.

Gave this one a 4/5 as it had interesting characters, was well-paced, had no gaping plot holes (that I noticed), and was well written. I even liked the ending. So lesson learned, and I won't automatically assume that something isn't my taste without at least reading the excerpt!

Review copy provided by Wunderkind PR in exchange for an honest review

2011 Wrap Up...and a look ahead

2012-01-02T12:00:00.001-05:00

2011 turned out better than expected challenge-wise! I completed 7 of the 9 challenges I signed up for! Yea me! One was a horrible fail, and the other I only missed by two (couldn't find books that I wanted to read starting with Q or V for the A-Z Challenge). So all in all, I did much better than expected! Here's my reading challenge recap:

100 Books In A Year Challenge
102/100 completed

Outdo yourself Challenge
102/100 completed

Off the Shelf Challenge

7/30 (FAIL)

Horror & Urban Fantasy Challenge

35/24 completed

What's In A Name 4 Challenge

6/6 completed

2011 eBook Challenge

38/20 completed

2011 Debut Author Challenge

13/12 completed

A-Z Reading Challenge24/26 (FAIL)
Goodreads Reading Challenge 102/100

Since I have a tendency to sign up for too many challenges (I have challenge-acceptitus), am going to try and limit myself to only 4 challenges this year:

What's In A Name 5

hosted by Beth Fish Reads

Had an awful lot of fun with this challenge last year, so looking forward to the new categories for 2012!

Off the Shelf Challengehosted by Bookish ArdourThis one was my major fail of 2011. Going to try it again in the hopes that I can whittle down my ginormous stacks of TBR books!

eBook Challenge

hosted by Workaday Reads

I surprised myself by reading so many eBooks last year, and want to try and break my old record. Love my new Simple Touch nook! And love that publishers are offering so many eARCs!

Also going to take part in the 2012 Goodreads Challenge again this year. Decided to shoot for 110 books in 2012, as I want to challenge myself.
Well, that's it. All the challenges I took part in during 2011, and the ones I'm going to attempt in 2012. Please don't tempt me with any exciting, new challenges, as they're sooooo hard to resist!Wish me luck!

2012 Ebook Challenge

2012-01-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

2012 eBook Challenge

hosted by Workaday Reads

This was a fun challenge last year, so was one of the few I wanted to sign up for again. I was surprised by how many eBooks I read, mostly thanks to netGalley. This challenge was hosted by The Ladybug Reads last year, but Workaday Reads was the lucky blogger who won the right to host it this time around (as The Ladybug decided not to host again).

Challenge Guidelines:

This challenge will run from Jan 1, 2012 - Dec 31, 2012.
Anyone can join, you don't need to be a blogger. If you don't have a blog, feel free to sign-up in the comments. You can post reviews to any book site (i.e. Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Smashwords, Goodreads, etc).
Any genre or length of book counts, as long as it is in ebook format.
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.
You can move up levels, but no moving down.
Sign-ups will be open until Dec 15, 2012, so feel free to join at any time throughout the year.

Levels:

Floppy disk - 5 ebooks
CD - 10 ebooks
DVD - 25 ebooks
Memory stick - 50 ebooks
Hard drive - 75 ebooks
Server - 100 ebooks
Human brain - 150 ebooks

I decided to go for the Memory Stick level of 50 eBooks! I managed to read 38 last year, so figured I'd go for broke! I know that I usually don't want to bite off more than I can chew, but I'm still in the honeymoon phase with my Simple Touch, so what the heck! Plus, I've got over 60 unread eBooks on my nook that I need to read (but at least they're not gathering dust!).

Off The Shelf Challenge 2012

2012-01-01T23:00:00.002-05:00

Off The Shelf Challenge

hosted by Bookish Ardour

This was a major fail for me last year, but I'm determined to do better! I have so many unread books crying out for my attention, yet I keep getting distracted by the bright, shiny new titles! Have decided to concentrate on my TBR piles and have resolved to cut back on any new review titles in the hope that I can catch up.

This challenge is to read those books you own a copy of, print, digital, and audio, you have been meaning to read, but never gotten to. If you don’t own enough books for the challenge, you can read your TBR list instead. And no, you do not need to get rid of your books afterwards, that’s completely your choice, this challenge is only to read them.

The Details:

The Main Rule: Do not include books acquired during 2012, it defeats the purpose, read those books from before 2012 started!
Running Dates: 1st of January - 31st of December 2012
When Can I Sign Up: All the way up to the last two weeks of December 2012!
Crossover Genres: Anything! The name of the game is to turn those unread books into read ones.
Further Details: Crossover challenges are fine, you can change levels at any time, this is eBook, short story, and graphic novel friendly, and you don’t need a blog to join in

Challenge Levels:

Tempted– Choose 5 books to read
Trying – Choose 15 books to read
Making A Dint – Choose 30 books to read
On A Roll – Choose 50 books to read
Flying Off – Choose 75 books to read
Hoarder – Choose between 76-135 books to read
Buried – Choose between 136-200 books to read

I'm not sure what level to choose, as I only managed to read 7 books for this challenge last year. Think I'll double that and shoot for the Trying level of 15 books. Really want to do 30, but I'm worried about setting myself up for another major fail. Think I was too ambitious last time around, then got discouraged.

Fingers crossed that 2012 is my year!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:01:00.032-05:00

Happy New Year!

Can you believe that it's 2012 already? Seems like only yesterday that we were ringing in 2011! What are your plans for the year? Do you make resolutions, or just go with the flow? I've decided to make a few blog-related resolutions this year:

1. Leave at least 10 blog comments every day

2. Cut down on reading challenges (I tend to go overboard and sign up for way too many)

3. Accept fewer review copies (so I don't fall behind)

4. Catch up on my TBR piles

5. Commit to a posting schedule

What are your resolutions for 2012?

In My Mailbox (99)

2011-12-31T15:30:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's been a great year, and I've discovered several new authors thanks to the IMM posts! It's one of my favorite memes, and I'm looking forward to full mailboxes in 2012! I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Love the Elemental Assassin series by Jennifer Estep, so was thrilled when she sent me an eARC for the next title in the series! Can't wait to see what happens next with Gin and her friends!

By a Thread by Jennifer Estep

When killing people is your job, there’s no such thing as a vacation.

***

Really enjoyed Lori's Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor series, so was very happy when Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc offered me the opportunity to take part in a blog tour book #4!

A Perfect Storm by Lori Foster

Spencer Lark already knows too many secrets about Arizona Storm, including the nightmare she survived and her resulting trust issues. But in order to expose a smuggling ring - and continue avenging his own tragic past - the bounty hunter reluctantly agrees to make Arizona a decoy. Yet nothing has equipped him for her hypnotic blend of fragility and bravery, or for the protective instincts she stirs in him.

Swag:
Love Carolyn Crane's Disillusionist series, so was thrilled to receive trading cards featuring the main characters! I couldn't get a decent shot of the cards (too much flash glare) so copied a couple from her website. You can see all of the cards here. Trust me, they're awesome!

***

Got this gorgeous bookmark through the Holiday Bookmark Exchange hosted by Missie at The Unread Reader. Thank you Felicia! I love Paris, so this bookmark is perfect for me!

Purchased:
Heard good buzz about this title around the blogosphere, so chose this when I needed another book to kick me over $25 for free shipping. Hey, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it!

Shaedes of Gray by Amanda Bonilla

In the shadows of the night, Darian has lived alone for almost a century. Made and abandoned by her former love, Darian is the last of her kind - an immortal Shaede who can slip into darkness as easily as breathing. With no one else to rely on, she has taught herself how to survive, using her unique skills to become a deadly assassin.

What did you receive in your mailbox?

Pick Your a Thon Mini-Challenge #3

2011-12-30T20:00:00.002-05:00

Organizing Upcoming Reviews

Mini-challenge #3: work on organizing your upcoming reviews of books you haven't read. Create an organizer... update... reorganize. The choice is yours. We'd like to see what you do to organize and how you think you'd improve it.

I'm not much of an organizer, as I tend pick up and read the next book in my TBR pile instead of sitting down and writing my review like a good, little reviewer. I've tried a spreadsheet with my requested and received books listed, but it's gotten a little unwieldy. I tried writing the titles for review in a notebook, but that didn't work either.

Right now, I'm setting up a rough draft of the review with the book synopsis and then scheduling them. This serves as a reminder that I need to write the review before a certain date. That seems to work a little better, but still depends on me checking my unpublished blog posts.

Kate mentions a blog calendar, which I think I might try. If I schedule them in a calendar, maybe that will remind me to get busy! I know I depend heavily on my Outlook calendar at work, so maybe the Google calendar for my blog would work just as well.

Curious to hear what works for others, so please let me know if you've got any helpful hints!

Pick Your a Thon Mini-Challenge #1

2011-12-30T15:30:00.001-05:00

Goals, Goals, Goals!

What is an event without some goals? While we all may be focusing on different things, our main goal is the same: to get that pile down.

For the first mini-challenge, we are focusing on getting ready for the New Year. But before we get to the big picture, let's start off with our plans for this week.

What book(s) are you starting with?
Going to start with the books I read but never got around to reviewing over the summer

I hope to review:
At least 10 books

Books I hope to review (or at least will try to get to):
Haven't made up my mind yet, as I'm embarrassed to admit that I have a whole stack of unreviewed books!

Wish me luck!

Pick Your A Thon

2011-12-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

Kristen and Kate over at The Book Monsters have been debating and debating... read-a-thon or review-a-thon? After much discussion, they decided: why can't we have our cake and eat it too? I mean we both need to work on something: Kristen with reading. Kate with reviewing. And what a better time than now to do it!

Date: December 28th to January 3rd

Goal: You pick! You can participate in a review-a-thon... a read-a-thon.. or BOTH, if you are feeling really adventurous.

I'm horribly behind on my reviews, so will be participating in the review portion of this Pick Your A-Thon. Want to join me? You can sign up here.

Wish me luck!

Review: The Future of Us

2011-12-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

The Future of Us

by jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler

It's 1996, and Josh and Emma have been neighbors their whole lives. They've been best friends almost as long - at least, up until last November, when Josh did something that changed everything. Things have been weird between them ever since, but when Josh's family gets a free AOL CD in the mail, his mom makes him bring it over so that Emma can install it on her new computer. When they sign on, they're automatically logged onto their Facebook pages. But Facebook hasn't been invented yet. And they're looking at themselves fifteen years in the future. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

This is one of those stories that is so incredibly good that you simply can't put it down! Loved the whole idea of seeing your future via Facebook posts! And how the smallest little thing can have huge ramifications on your future. Who knew that making a simple declaration would change who you would marry or where you would live? Emma doesn't want to live in Ohio? Done! Fascinating concept!

Really enjoyed how the chapters alternated between Emma and Josh, giving us their viewpoints as well as some of their Facebook posts. Facebook is such a normal part of life now that you forget how strange it would seem to someone from 1996.

Emma and Josh are both well drawn characters and I liked them both. While I was happy that Josh's future seemed to turn out great, I admit to being worried about Emma and her future(s). I understand how she would want to change what she perceived as an unhappy fate, but Josh was right in pointing out that it wasn't a game. The smallest little ripple could change everything, including future children! A little scary if you think about it! But would I be able to resist trying to change things? Probably not!

Gave this one a 5/5 as once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down! I really liked the characters, the plot was fascinating, it was well paced and well-written, and I really really loved everything about it! Can't wait to read more by these authors and have already added their previous books to my wishlist! Definitely a must read!

ARC received from BEA

It's Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:01:00.002-05:00

Happy Christmas!

Short Story Review: Doodling

2011-12-22T12:00:00.001-05:00

Doodling by Jonathan Gould

Neville Lansdowne fell off the world. Actually he did not so much fall off as let go. The world had been moving so quickly lately and Neville was finding it almost impossible to keep up. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is a short story and a fast read at only 37 pages. It's fast and fun and I was taken by the idea that the world is moving so fast that people are being flung off into space left and right!

While Neville first assumes that he's alone, he explores the asteroid field he's found and discovers an amusing assortment of other refugees. No mention is made of the fact that people are living on asteroids in the middle of space and are able to easily move between them, which was a fun twist.

There is the girl sunbathing on the aimless asteroid, the bikers, and the party couple. I really liked Helen, who must constantly tend her garden so she doesn't lose it. How can you stop and smell the roses if they need constant attention? And what's up with the toaster people?

You can read this book as a light romp, or look for the hidden depths and try to figure out any allegorical meanings behind Neville's adventures. Curious to see what others thought of this one, so please let me know if you've read it!

I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Secret Santa Goodies!

2011-12-20T12:00:00.001-05:00

I adore Secret Santas, so signed up for two this year!

I love shopping for fellow booklovers, and hope that they are as excited as I am to get book goodies in the mail! There's nothing like the feeling of seeing a box sitting at your doorstep, and I wanted to share with you the awesome gifts I received. Wish I had been as creative, but there's always next year... ;)

Surprise #1

I've been wanting a copy of Hold Me Closer, Necromancer for ages, so was thrilled when I received a copy in my first Secret Santa gift box! Love the name of this one, and the Elton John song runs through my head every time I see it. Every. Single. Time. And what can I say about Sirensong except that Jenna Black is made of awesome! There was major squeeing when I opened this box! And yes, there was a happy dance too. Not to mention the chocolate. Did you see the chocolate? I <3 chocolate! Thank you PNR Bookworm!

Surprise #2

Not familiar with Deceived by the Others or Under Attack, but I read the synopsis for both books and they look like great reads! I've heard of L.J. Smith but haven't read her yet. Dark Visions was a little scary looking at first because it's so huge, but it's actually 3 books in one, so think it will be a great introduction to her work. I love discovering new authors through my fellow bookaholics! Included in my gift box was a weekly planner for 2012, a gift box of Starburst, and awesome bookmarks. I love bookmarks! Love Jennifer Estep, so was happy to get four of hers. And the penguin bookmark is just too cute! Don't know how Kels at Kelsey's Book Corner knew I collected bookmarks, but thank you so much!

Surprise #3

As I may have mentioned once or twice, I love bookmarks. So when I saw that Missie B over at The Unread Reader was having a Holiday Bookmark Exchange, I couldn't wait to sign up! Received a cute Yertle the Turtle bookmark and a gorgeous one featuring the art of Jessica Hamilton. And how awesome is it that Missie has bookmarks for her blog? What a great idea! Thank you so much!

Had a blast with the Secret Santa and bookmark exchanges! Love getting surprises in the mail! Hope that my recipients are as happy with their surprises as I am. Let me know if you received any Secret Santa gifts, as I'd love to check them out!

Sneak Peek: Icarus

2011-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

Icarus

by J.S. Chancellor

Book Description:

“Don’t get me wrong; immortality does have its perks. Take dieting for example - kind of hard to do when you’ve only got two choices: fresh blood and slightly less fresh blood. The media makes it all out to be glamorous. Romantic, even. But the books, movies and witty television shows have it wrong. Especially the ones that make a big to-do about not being wrong (you know, the ones that spell vampire Vampyr, like it’s original).

And don’t think for a second that I was turned in some amazing, soul-binding, body-meshing way either. I don’t think my libido is damaged enough to forget that kind of rendezvous. Though, to be honest, I don’t recall anything about it. As soon as you’re turned, as soon as anyone is turned, the powers that be rush in like witness protection agents and whisk you off, never to see your family or friends again. Your life changes in ways you never imagined that it could.

Like the fact that I was kidnapped last night. Totally didn’t see that coming. Not being the Covenant-level assassin that I am (did I mention that already? I didn’t get much of a choice in that either—the profession I mean). Oh, and get this … the creeps who grabbed me claim that my mentor/should-have-kept-it-professional boyfriend Trinity is the vampire equivalent to the anti-Christ.

Nice. And to think it’s only Tuesday.

But wait, it gets better. See, there is one fact about vampirism that everyone gets correct - our bodies can’t biologically process natural light. Past that, all I know is that if I don’t partake of my usual dose of Icarus every seven days (provided via injection by the powers that be), I’ll lose my existence as I know it. It allows me to bask in the sunlight, keeps us from exploding into flames and I’ve heard rumors that it’s what makes us immortal. You know, little things.

Now, since Head Creep removed the dosing disc from my arm, whether I had anything to do with it or not, I’m guilty of betraying High Coven. This fact not only sucks (pun intended), it means I’ve been condemned to death.

An assassin … condemned to death. Seems like kind of shitty deal if you ask me.

I don’t care that Head Creep is hot enough that he gives Christian Bale a run for his money. He claims that Icarus is part of some massive conspiracy, that vampires are a perverse mutation of beings from another universe, and that Trinity (along with some dark army he’s supposedly in charge of) plans to exterminate the human race. Of course, he says this will occur in less than a week. And damn, wouldn’t you know he’d kidnap me on day six of my dose?”

Sound intriguing? Be sure to follow hashtag #Icarus today for Twitterview with author @Jschancellor to celebrate the book's release! You can ask questions and discuss the book and just basically hang out with the author. Should be fun!

J. S. Chancellor

Genre: Fiction | Fantasy | Paranormal | Romance

Paperback: 314 pages

ISBN: 9781936850372

In My Mailbox (98)

2011-12-17T20:42:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
I don't usually read medical thrillers, but the excerpt pulled me in and made me want to give it a try. It doesn't sound like the same-old same-old thriller. Will have to see if the whole story is as good as the excerpt. Fingers crossed!

The Immortalists

by Kyle Mills

It’s a question microbiologist Richard Draman thought he’d answered when he walked away from his career to focus on curing a genetic defect that is causing his daughter to age at a wildly accelerated rate. But now he and his wife Carly are being forced to come to terms with the fact that eight-year-old Susie’s time is running out. Then they receive an unexpected gift: startling new research into the fundamental secrets of life that could be the miracle they’ve been looking for...

New Additions:
I remember seeing this around the blogosphere, so decided to give it a try when I saw it on the loaner shelf at work. This is the second book in the series, but I think I'll be able to pick it up without reading book one. Shape shifting brothers? Sounds intriguing!

Tiger's Quest

by Colleen Houck

Back in Oregon, Kelsey tries to pick up the pieces of her life and push aside her feelings for Ren. But danger lurks around the corner, forcing her to return to India where she embarks on a second quest--this time with Ren's dark, bad-boy brother Kishan, who has also fallen prey to the Tiger's Curse. Fraught with danger, spellbinding dreams, and choices of the heart, TIGER'S QUEST brings the trio one step closer to breaking the spell that binds them. (Goodreads)

Get anything good in your mailbox this week?

Review: A Karma Girl Christmas

2011-12-16T22:42:00.000-05:00

A Karma Girl Christmas by Jennifer Estep

On Christmas Eve, Carmen, as Karma Girl, is assigned to guard toys, clothes, food, and more that are intended for needy children and their families. But an ubervillain also has his eye on the toys and plans to steal and then sell them to the highest bidder. Carmen will have to use all her empathic powers just to stay alive, not to mention make sure Christmas is a happy one for all the kids who are counting on her. It's all in a night's work for a superhero ...

My Thoughts:

Jennifer Estep is one of those authors who I'll read anything she writes, as she's incredibly talented with an awesome imagination! Love her Elemental Assassin series starring the Spider, and looking forward to starting her Mythos Academy YA series. This short story is from her Bigtime series, which is more humorous than the Spider books but just as good.

Karma Girl is the newest member of the Fearless Five so as the rookie, she gets the job of guarding the giant charity Christmas tree and presents on Christmas Eve. Expecting a dull, uneventful evening, she is surprised by an unexpected villain with dastardly plans of his own! (cue evil laughter)

Really enjoyed this one, as we get to know Carmen a little better and are introduced to a new villain (or two). Since it's a short story at only 14,000 words or so, it made for a fast, fun read. I don't usually like seasonal stories, but this one was too tempting to resist! While I was saddened to learn that the Bigtime series was dropped by Jennifer's publisher, I hope that she continues to write the further adventures of the Fearless Five in eBook form! Love these guys!

This eBook is from my personal nook library

Holiday Gift Ideas

2011-12-12T12:00:00.005-05:00

There's nothing more enjoyable than Christmas shopping...except maybe a root canal. Ha! Gotcha! Thought I was going to get all mushy and Christmasy on you, didn't you? Truth be told, I'm not a big fan of shopping. Especially around the holidays, as the crowds really annoy me. I seem to be more Grinch than Santa if I have to fight my way through the malls this time of year, so thank the gods for online shopping! No crowds, no pushing and shoving, no annoying muzak...nirvana for the Christmas shopper! So in the interest of helping out my fellow Grinches, thought I'd share some awesome online finds with you!

Etsy is an incredible find for the online shopper! One of my favorite shops is Haut Totes, where I ordered this gorgeous necklace. Loved it so much that I got one for myself! Melissa, the designer, is incredible! She did a custom design for my mother last year that earned me Favorite Child status! I've ordered tote bags and cosmetic cases from her as well, and they're all gorgeous!

Found a unique site for personalized gifts when I was approached by Easy Canvas Prints to review their product. You can choose from stock photos like the one above, or upload one of your pictures and have it turned into a canvas print. I've ordered two personalized prints as Christmas gifts and couldn't be happier with the results! And Trafalgar Square is one of DH's favorite places, so am considering buying the above print for his birthday. Shhhh, don't tell him!

I recently won some shirts from Crazy Dog T-Shirts and I love them! They are soft and comfortable and there are so many different designs that it will be hard to pick just one! Hey, I wonder if they have a Mom Likes Me Best shirt???

Cafe Press is another great site for finding unique gifts! I love this Dark Side mug! You can choose from a wide variety of shirts, mugs, totes, and other gifts, or you can create your own! Several authors have offered designs thru Cafe Press as well, so it's perfect for the book lover!

An eReader! I love, love, love my new nook Simple Touch from Barnes and Noble! It's funny because I was very anti-eReader when they first came out, but I've gone to the dark side....hey, they had cookies! Sorry, I couldn't resist. *snicker* Anyway...I'll never give up my love of physical books, but an eReader is awesome for travel and to review eARCs. NetGalley and Galley Grab have an incredible number of eARCs for review. And with my nook in my tote, I'll always have something handy to read!

Hope this has given you some ideas for the holidays. And if you know any other great stores out in the blogoverse, please share!

In My Mailbox (97)

2011-12-10T22:05:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. This is one of my favorite memes, as I'm always discovering new, drool-worthy books thru IMM posts! I've included links if you want more information.

For Review:

Received a copy of Stories to Enjoy by Tom Mach for a blog tour next year. I really like short stories, so am looking forward to reviewing this one! Received a copy of the eBook from Goddess Fish Promotions.

Contest Wins:

Was thrilled when I won a copy of The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer from Sheila at Book Journey! This was one of the hot titles at BEA this year, but I never got hold of a copy. Can't wait to read it, as I've heard nothing but good buzz about this one! Thanks Sheila!

Purchased:

Love Kelly Meding's books, so bought Trance, book one of her newest series! I've been on a book buying ban and was doing really well, but I needed something to push me over the $25 total so I could get free shipping. The book was cheaper than the shipping and all of the other books were presents, I swear! *blinks innocently*

Couldn't resist this Recycled Woven Journal when I saw it on the shelf at Barnes & Noble! I love journals and am always on the lookout for new ones, and I love the idea that this is 100% recycled! The cover is from old newspapers and the pages are printed on recycled writing paper. Very cool!

Looking forward to seeing what everyone received this week!

Still plenty of time for sending Santa updated book wishlists!

Book Review: In The Forests of the Night

2011-12-06T21:58:00.000-05:00

In The Forests of the Night by Kersten Hamilton

Source: eARC provided by the author, via NetGalley and ARC via Amazon Vine

Rating: 4/5

Teagan, Finn, and Aiden have rescued Tea's and Aiden's father and have made it out of Mag Mell alive, bringing a few new friends with them. But The Dark Man's forces are hot on their heels. Back in Chicago, Teagan soon realizes that she is not the target of the goblins. In fact, the goblins call her princess, and call her to come out and play. Something is happening to her, and she suspects it’s an infection she picked up in Mag Mell. An infected cat-sídhe becomes her test subject, and Teagan is determined to cure it of the sickness that seems to rot its flesh. If she can find a cure for the cat-sídhe, then maybe there is hope for her.

Meanwhile, Kyle and Isabeau, Teagan’s goblin cousins, show up in her school, disguised as a substitute teacher and a foreign exchange student. They are sure she will come back to Mag Mell, as goblin blood is never passive. Once awoken, it will burn away every other aspect of her being, leaving her pure and solely goblin. When the process is complete, she will belong to Fear Doirich, the Dark Man. It is just a matter of time. In the meantime, Kyle and Isabeau are happy to entertain themselves by trying to seduce, kidnap, or kill Teagan’s family and friends.

Tea knows she doesn’t have much time left, and she refuses to leave Finn to be hunted to the death or her family to be tortured and killed. A wild Stormrider, born to rule and reign, is growing stronger inside her, but as long as she can hold on, she’s still Teagan Wylltson, who plans to be a veterinarian and who heals the sick and hurting. The disease that’s destroying her - that’s destroying them all - has a name: Fear Doirich.

And Teagan Wylltson is not going to let him win. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
I received this book as both an eBook and a physical copy. Glad I did, as this one is a keeper! This is the sequel to Tyger Tyger, which I reviewed here. The story picks up shortly after the end of the first book, with Teagan trying to come to terms with what she learned in Mag Mell.

Teagan is an interesting character. She is kind and caring, as shown by her love of family and work at the zoo. But she is also a teenage girl with a boyfriend and is not perfect, which is a huge relief! I really like her BFF Abby, who provides much needed comic relief but is fiercely protective of Tea! And Finn! What can we say about Finn except *sigh* what a cutie! A true hero in the making!

Afraid that she has evil growing inside her now that her goblin self has awaken, Teagan isn't sure who she is any longer. Desperate to protect those she loves, she comes up with a dangerous plan. Can Finn stop her in time? Will he even find out what she's planning? Hey, this would make a great movie!

Gave this one a 4/5 rating as I loved the characters, the writing was awesome, and it was never boring! The ending was satisfying, yet I sincerely hope that there's more as I can't wait to find out what happens next!

In My Mailbox (96)

2011-12-03T20:00:00.002-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Really excited to receive this one! I had requested it from NetGalley, but it expired before I could read it. Thank goodness it was available from Amazon Vine, as it sounds like an awesome read!

Every Other Day

by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Every other day, Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen-year-old girl. She goes to public high school. She attends pep rallies. She's human.

And then every day in between . . .She's something else entirely.

Contest Wins:
Was really excited when I found out I won Melissa's Crazydog T-Shirt contest over at Must Read Faster! The designs are awesome, and it was incredibly hard to pick which one I wanted! Had my eye on the Zombie Outbreak Response Team shirt, but they were having a Cyber Monday sale so I got the two shirts below instead. I simply can't resist a deal! Of course, I'll probably go back and order my original choice as well, as these shirts are incredibly soft and comfortable and well-made! I'm in love! *L*

What do you think?

From the Library:

The Affair

by Lee Child

This one was a surprise! I was dropping off some movies and saw it sitting there in the new arrivals section. I hadn't put one on hold because I thought it would be months before I could read it, so grabbed it before anyone realized it was sitting there! I love, love, love Jack Reacher, and can't wait to read this one!

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Leave me a link so I can check it out!

Book Review: Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick

2011-11-29T12:00:00.048-05:00

Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick by Joe Schreiber

Source: ARC provided by the Amazon Vine Program

Rating: 4/5

Perry Stormaire is a normal high school senior - he is busy applying to college and rehearsing with his band - until he agrees to go to the prom with the Lithuanian exchange student who is staying with his family. It turns out that Gobi Zaksauskas is not the mousy teenager that she seems but rather an attractive, confident trained assassin. Instead of going to the prom, Perry finds himself on a wild ride through the streets of New York City as Gobi commandeers the Jaguar his father lent him for the prom in order to take out her targets. Perry learns a lot about himself - and ends up with some amazing material for his college application essays. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts
This was one of the "hot" titles at BEA this year, and was featured on one of the Editor's Buzz Panels. I wasn't able to snag a copy at BEA, so was very happy to be able to get an ARC of my very own!

The narrator is Perry, a high school senior whose family is hosting a foreign exchange student named Gobi. Unfortunately for Perry and his friends, Gobi is not a hot Swedish model wannabe, but a plain Lithuanian wall flower. Gobi doesn't seem interested in making friends or fitting in, but content to remaining invisible at school. Until she gets it in her head that she wants to attend senior prom. And Perry is nominated as her escort. Poor Perry.

Unable to worm his way out of the date, Perry is resigned to escorting Gobi to the prom and does his best to see that she has a nice time. Perry is a genuinely nice guy, and couldn't be more surprised when Gobi turns out to be much more than the shy wall flower she pretended to be!

Taken along on a wild ride through Manhattan, Perry acts as Gobi's chauffeur while she crosses names off of her hit list. Literally. It's a crazy adventure, yet the author keeps things fun and almost believable. A much more enjoyable ride than Collateral (or any of the hit man/innocent bystander movies out there)!

Gave this one a 4/5 as it's a fast, fun read. Really got a kick out of the college application questions at the start of each chapter, as they tied things together nicely. Liked Perry and even grew to like Gobi, once we got to know her and her motivations. Looking forward to reading more from the author, as he's an original talent with a good sense of humor!

ARC received in exchange for an honest review

In My Mailbox (95)

2011-11-26T20:00:00.002-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. Was good this week and stuck to my book buying ban (free eBooks don't count, right?). I've included a link to Goodreads if you want more information on the book.

Purchased:
This was a free title at Barnes & Noble so couldn't resist downloading a copy on my nook! Looks like an awesome read!

Tiger Eye

by Marjorie M. Liu

Long ago they roamed the earth -- dragons, tigers…shapeshifters -- men who wore the forms of beasts. Their world was magic. Now it is gone. But some remain…

He looks out of place in Dela Reese's Beijing hotel room -- exotic and poignant, some mythic, tragic hero of an epic tale. With his feline yellow eyes, he's like nothing from her world,. Yet Dela has danced through the echo of his soul, and knows this warrior will obey her every command.

Hari has been used and abused for millennia. But he sees, upon his release from the riddle box, that this new mistress is different. There is a hidden power in Dela's eyes -- and with her, he may regain all that was lost to him. Where once he savaged, now he must protect; where before he knew only hatred, now he must embrace love. Dela is the key. For Dela, he will risk all.

Black Friday Score:

This was by far my best Black Friday purchase - a nook Simple Touch Limited Edition! It's incredibly lightweight and easy to navigate and was love at first sight! The below is a stock photo as I've temporarily misplaced my camera cable, but I'll take pictures of him once I decide on a cover. Now I just need a name....

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T06:00:00.015-05:00

This is wrong on so many levels, but it makes me laugh....

Happy Thanksgiving!

What's In A Name 5 Challenge

2011-11-23T12:00:00.017-05:00

Looking forward to participating in this challenge again, so very happy that Beth Fish Reads decided to host it once again. And there are exciting, new categories for 2012!

Details:

Between January 1 and December 31, 2012, read one book in each of the following categories:

A book with a topographical feature (land formation) in the title: Black Hills, Purgatory Ridge, Emily of Deep Valley
A book with something you'd see in the sky in the title: Moon Called, Seeing Stars, Cloud Atlas
A book with a creepy crawly in the title: Little Bee, Spider Bones, The Witches of Worm
A book with a type of house in the title: The Glass Castle, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest, Ape House
A book with something you'd carry in your pocket, purse, or backpack in the title: Sarah's Key, The Scarlet Letter, Devlin Diary
A book with a something you'd find on a calendar in the title: Day of the Jackal, Elegy for April, Freaky Friday, Year of Magical Thinking

(The book titles are just suggestions, you can read whatever book you want to fit the category.)

Other Things to Know:

Books may be any form (audio, print, e-book).
Books may overlap other challenges.
Books may not overlap categories; you need a different book for each category.
Creativity for matching the categories is not only allowed but encouraged.
You do not have to make a list of books before hand.
You do not have to read through the categories in any particular order.

Really like the categories, and looking forward to completing this one!

Interested? You can sign up for the challenge here.

Book Review: Dreamland

2011-11-21T12:00:00.001-05:00

Dreamland by Alyson Noel

Riley’s finding that the afterlife can be a lonely place when all you do is focus on work. So she goes to the place where dreams happen, hoping to find a way to contact her sister, Ever. She meets the director, who tells her about the two ways to send dreams.

As a Dream Jumper, a person can jump into a dreamer’s dream, share a message, and participate. As a Dreamweaver, an entire dream can be created in a studio and sent to the dreamer. But Dreamweaving was outlawed decades ago, and the studio was boarded up.

Thinking it’s her only way to reach out to her sister, Riley goes in search of the old studio. There she finds a ghost boy, who’s been creating and sending nightmares to people for years. In order to stop him and reach out to Ever, Riley is going to have to confront and overcome her own fears. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is a nice story about Riley and her desire to fit in and grow up. She desperately needs her big sister's advice, and decides that the only way to make that happen is to visit Ever in her dreams. Making her way to Dreamland, she learns the ins and outs of Dream Jumping, but then runs out of time when Dreamland closes for the day. Sneaking back in to try and reach Ever, Riley may have finally found herself in over her head.

I really like Riley. She's convinced that she'll be twelve forever and, while she's good at her job, she realizes that she has no friends or hobbies and that her family has moved on. Not knowing what else to do, she turns to Ever in the hope of getting much needed advice.

Despite all she's been through, Riley is still basically a kid who makes mistakes. She doesn't realize that some of her actions may have unintended repercussions, and that sometimes rules are not made to be broken!

Gave this one a 3/5 as it's a nice story. A fast read, I think you probably need to read the books in order so you can get the full benefit of Riley's journey so far. Looking forward to seeing what happens next with Riley, her dog Buttercup, and guide Bodhi. Riley has potential, and I'd love to see her fulfill it!

Review copy provided by Zeitghost Media in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Darkness of Perfection

2011-11-19T18:00:00.069-05:00

The Darkness of Perfection by Michael Schneider

He desired perfection. She already was perfect. Can two people build a love forged in the fires of hell?

Nicholas comes from a world of darkness where women are no better than slaves. He believes the secret to true happiness is for his wife to be molded to perfection.

Jayden escaped from a life of terror and found security in her new home. Given a loving home and raised with all the normal expectations of college, career, love and happiness her memories of her earlier life fade into darkness...Jayden is taken from her perfect life and thrust back into a past she'd long forgotten. Broken of spirit, she is given to Nicholas to be his bride. Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This story was oddly compelling, in that it was all too easy to believe that Nicholas could view his life as normal and see nothing wrong with kidnapping Jayden and forcing her to marry him. After all, his family are human traffickers! Given to him as a child, he firmly believes that Jayden belongs to him and has no choice in the matter. He has built her up in his mind as the perfect mate, and is determined that they will have the perfect life together.

Rescued from a horrible future by her mother, they find sanctuary in a small town and build a new life. I found it a little difficult to believe that once they found safety, Jayden's mother didn't raise her to be able to protect herself. It's understandable that they would want a normal life, but shouldn't you provide the tools to protect your child just in case she was ever found? Have her learn self-defense, take karate classes, or something! At least have a talk with her before she leaves for college, don't just send her off on her own! Seemed irresponsible and unrealistic. If Jayden's mother was so fiercely protective and risked so much to rescue Jayden from a life of slavery, then she should have done a better job of preparing her for going off to college on her own.

It also bothered me how Nicholas found Jayden after all these years. Didn't ring true, as I couldn't see him taking the same sort of cruise that Jayden's parent would be able to afford. If his family was so rich and powerful, he would probably have chartered a private yacht if he wanted to go cruising. Seemed forced.

Don't mean to suggest that I didn't enjoy the story, as I really did! The narration switched back and forth between Jayden and Nicholas, so we could see things from both of their perspectives. I think that Nicholas really loved her (or at least the idea of her) and honestly didn't understand that what he was doing was wrong in any way. Jayden cried way too much in my opinion, but she was only 18 and had led a sheltered life.

Was torn between giving this book a 3/5 or 4/5, as some of the inconsistencies bothered me. Ultimately decided it was worth a 4/5 as I really enjoyed he story while reading and it was only afterwards that some of the plot points started to bother me. The author does a fantastic job of giving us a glimpse into the life of a human trafficker, as well as the confusion Jayden experienced while coming to grips with her situation. Will be looking for more from Michael the future, as he's very talented!

eBook received from The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House in exchange for an honest review

Do gaping plot holes bother you?

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

Every now and again I'll finish a book that I really enjoyed, without even noticing gaping plot holes. If a story pulls me in, is fast-paced, and/or has interesting characters, I tend to get caught up in the action and read happily along, totally oblivious.

I write my review, then go blog hopping to find others who have read the book so we can gush back and forth about how awesome it was! Only to discover that others weren't as impressed because they, unlike me, noticed incongruities.

For instance, there was a hot book not too long ago that several readers, me included, absolutely loved. However, there were also bloggers who couldn't get past certain plot holes that I never even noticed until I read their reviews. Once pointed out, I realized that yeah, that didn't really make sense and what the heck was the author thinking? I still thought it was a good book, but it sort of cast a pall over my excitement and I felt a little bad that I never noticed.

So I was curious about what bothers other readers about books, plots, characters, etc?

As already mentioned, I don't seem to have a problem with gaping plot holes, so long as the bulk of the book is strong. But I can't stand typos and wrong words, as they slam into my face at 100 mph and pull me right out of the book.

For instance, transposed or missing letters seem to be common errors. I understand if your fingers can't keep up with your muse, but please go back and re-read what you wrote! Aren't there drafts and rewrites and copy-edits and other boring writer stuff you're supposed to do?

And I hate it when we're talking about a male and the author refers to them as "she", or someone I thought was dead walks through the door (and they're not a ghost/zombie/vampire). I go back and re-read that bit to make sure I didn't miss something. Movies have Continuity Editors, so why don't books?

Please let me know if I'm the only one who doesn't notice when there are plot holes large enough to drive a semi through! Do typos bug you enough that you can't enjoy the story? How about unlikable, hateful characters? What will pull you out of the story and annoy you enough to set the book aside?

In My Mailbox (94)

2011-11-12T22:00:00.013-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Only one book this week, which snuck in at the last minute but sounded too good to resist! Galley Grab is dangerous for my TBR piles!

Unraveling Isobel

by Eileen Cook

Isobel’s life is falling apart. Her mom just married some guy she met on the internet only three months before, and is moving them to his sprawling, gothic mansion off the coast of nowhere. Goodbye, best friend. Goodbye, social life. Hello, icky new stepfather, crunchy granola town, and unbelievably good-looking, officially off-limits stepbrother.

But on her first night in her new home, Isobel starts to fear that it isn’t only her life that’s unraveling - her sanity might be giving way too. Because either Isobel is losing her mind, just like her artist father did before her, or she’s seeing ghosts. Either way, Isobel’s fast on her way to being the talk of the town for all the wrong reasons.

What did you receive in your mailbox this week?

Book Review: Matched

2011-11-11T12:00:00.049-05:00

Matched by Ally Condie

4/5 rating

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate... until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is one of those books that generated so much buzz when it came out that I put it aside to read later. Sort of forgot about it until I saw that the sequel was coming out, so decided to go back and read it. I'm a little quirky in that I don't like to read the "hot" books that everyone else is reading, as the blogosphere tends to get over-saturated with reviews of the same titles. Glad I finally picked this one up, as I enjoyed it!

Cassia has been raised in a very strict society, where the government makes all major decisions for it's citizens. They decide what you eat, your job, who you will marry, and even when you will die. They've also destroyed almost all art, leaving only the 100 "best" books, music, poetry, and art. That in itself is somewhat terrifying. The Society is Big Brother squared!

As this is all she has ever known, it never crosses Cassia's mind to question the Society. Then she sees another boy's face pop up on the microchip holding her Match's information. How can this be? Xander, her BFF since childhood, is supposed to be her perfect match, so why did she see Ky's face as well? Cassia begins to wonder... and begins to question whether the Society is as perfect as it claims. Why can't people decide who to love and marry? Why did they destroy so many books, music, poems, and artwork? And what exactly is going on in the Outer Provinces?

Overall, I really enjoyed this story! I liked seeing Cassia slowly open her eyes and start to notice the small cracks in the Society all around her. I found it a little hard to believe that Ky would be so reckless, but teenage boys in love tend to be a little reckless, so it didn't bother me too, too much.

Gave this one a 4/5 as I really liked the characters, enjoyed the story, and found the plot so believable that it was scary! Revolution is hard and most people don't seem to want to fight if most of their needs are taken care of. Found this world very believable, which made me enjoy Cassia's "awakening" even more! Looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy to find out what happens next!

Blog Tour: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

2011-11-09T06:00:00.084-05:00

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

Source: Review copy provided by Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc.

Rating: 4/5

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his home, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl… and all for nothing. Unless he can earn a soul. (Goodreads)

Excerpt:
I don’t know why I haven’t killed him yet. Maybe because Puck is Meghan’s closest friend, and she would mourn him terribly if he were gone (though I can’t understand why). Or, maybe, deep down, I’m tired of being alone. In any case, it matters little. With every ruin we search, every dragon we slay, or every rumor we unearth, I’m one step closer to my goal.

My Thoughts:
Despite being a loyal member of Team Puck, I found myself really enjoying Ash's story. After pledging to Meghan that he would find a way to return to her side, Ash finds himself on a quest to become human. Joined on his journey by Puck (yea!), Grimalkin, and a few surprise travelling companions, Ash must overcome obstacles he never imagined. One of his companions is right - this is an epic tale that will survive the ages!

And make no mistake - this is an epic journey! Despite the constant bickering, Ash and Puck make excellent traveling companions. From their search for information, to their journey to the end of the world, to the obstacles they must overcome, and eventually to the trials Ash must survive, this story has all the classic elements of an Epic with a capital E!

I really enjoy this series and love the characters, so hate for it to come to an end. Despite having lived for so long, Ash really seems to grow up during this journey. And I found the trials he has to endure interesting, especially the final one. I keep hoping that Julie will decide that she needs to tell Puck's tale, and that the jester gets a chance for a happy ending of his very own!

Gave this one a 4/5 as Julie manages to keep the story fresh, brings back old favorites, keeps the action interesting, and throws in a few twists along the way. The writing is as good as ever, and it's nice to see the characters grow in unexpected ways. And you can't go wrong with Grim as one of your guides! After all, he IS a cat. :)

Please be sure to stop by and check out Candace's Book Blog for another stop on the blog tour!

Book Review: Spider's Revenge

2011-11-07T12:00:00.074-05:00

Spider's Revenge by Jennifer Estep

rating: 4/5

Old habits die hard. And I plan on murdering someone before the night is through.

Killing used to be my regular gig, after all. Gin Blanco, aka the Spider, assassin-for-hire. And I was very good at it. Now, I’m ready to make the one hit that truly matters: Mab Monroe, the dangerous Fire elemental who murdered my family when I was thirteen. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This is the fifth book featuring Gin Blanco, one of the most feared assassins around. Retirement is not working out like Gin planned, especially as she's still at war with Mab Monroe. Mab has no idea that Gin is the Spider, but that's one of the few advantages Gin has, as Mab is just plain evil.

Mab's newest plan for getting rid of the Spider is putting a bounty on her head. This brings all kinds of bounty hunters to town. But what really forces Gin's hand is when she learns there's also a bounty on her sister's head. They've just recently found each other again, so no way will Gin let anything happen to Bria!

Really like Gin. She's one of those kickass heroines that make urban fantasy one of my favorite genres! But she's not a superhero, makes mistakes, and can get hurt. Not only can she get hurt, but it takes awhile for her to heal, even with Jo-Jo's healing air magic. I can't stand perfect heroes, and Gin is anything but!

Gin's friends and family are important to her, and she's determined to protect those she loves. And what friends they are! From the Deveraux sisters to her foster brother Flynn to lover Owen, they are all strong characters on their own, but made even more interesting by their association with Gin. Loved learning more about the Deverauxs, though it was terribly sad.

Jennifer Estep is one of my favorite writers! Gave this one a 4/5 as Gin is an awesome character and the series is holding up really well. Great characters, an excellent evil villain, and a strong plot! I love both her Elemental Assassin and Bigtime series, and am looking forward to reading Mythos Academy. Jennifer is an incredibly talented author and if you haven't read any of her books yet, what are you waiting for?

eBook from my personal library

In My Mailbox (93)

2011-11-06T06:00:00.016-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Received a review request about The Informationist, which didn't seem like my type of book at first. I try to check out review requests online, and was hooked after reading the excerpt! Looking forward to this one!

The Informationist

by Taylor Stevens

“Stevens’s blazingly brilliant debut introduces a great new action heroine, Vanessa Michael Munroe, who doesn’t have to kick over a hornet’s nest to get attention, though her feral, take-no-prisoners attitude reflects the fire of Stieg Larsson’s Lisbeth Salander….Thriller fans will eagerly await the sequel to this high-octane page-turner.” - Publishers Weekly

Swag:
Received a surprise package for the upcoming blog tour for The Iron Knight. It's a press pass! Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc. will be sending out press passes for future blog tours as well, so looking forward to starting a new collection!

How cool is this???

What did you receive in your mailbox this week?

Please leave a link so I can stop by and check it out!

Poll Results: What Do You Like in Reviews

2011-11-05T15:12:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I was playing around with my review format and decided to see what others thought. I know what I look for in a review but was curious about what others prefer, so posted an inquiry and poll. Was happy to discover that others look for most of the same things I do.

Synopsis - This was the most popular preference, and I couldn't agree more! While a link to Goodreads or Amazon is fine, sometimes I don't want to click and just want a quick overview. I used to post the entire synopsis from Goodreads, but sometimes that's longer than my actual review! I decided to just post a quick overview and include a link in case anyone wants the full details.

Rating - The second most popular choice. Everyone seems to have a different rating system, but I've decided to stick with a 5 point system like the ones Amazon and BN.com use. I might tweak them in the future, but for now a 3/5 is an okay read and a 5/5 is exceptional. I spelled them out on the sidebar, as I know reviewers have different thoughts on what makes a "3" vs a "5" rating.

Goodreads link - I like using a link to Goodreads instead of linking to Amazon or BN.com, as Goodreads is like the Switzerland of books and is neutral. I'm not an affiliate of either site, and I'm still a little shaky on what's permitted by the FTC, so better safe than sorry. Goodreads is one of my favorite book sites and a great place to discover more about a title, so I like including the link!

Genre - I've done this a few times in the past, but don't think I'll be including it in general reviews in the future. Don't want to scare anyone off if the book happens to be a genre they don't like. I know that there are certain genres I don't read, so I'm hesitant to try something listed as one of those genres even if the synopsis sounds good. For instance, I don't like medical thrillers, so might miss out on a great read because of my preconceived notions. May include the genre on books received for review, but not my personal copies.

Source - Doesn't seem to matter much to readers, but I'll still include it for my review copies for FTC purposes. Maybe put it at the end of the review, out of the way, instead of at the beginning....

Link to author's website - Not in high demand, but I may include links for new authors.

Publisher's name - Again, not a high demand request. The publisher doesn't really matter to me, which is why I still read some self-published titles every now and again. So long as the story is good, I don't care where it's published. Think I'll let the Goodreads link take care of this and not make a separate entry.

Number of pages - Some readers keep track of the number of pages they read and some don't. I'm one who doesn't, but at the same time, I'm hesitant to pick up a doorstop of a book. I resisted reading Outlander for a long time because of it's size, but glad I did! Will eventually read Under the Dome for the same reason. Think I'll let the Goodreads link take care of this one too and not make a separate entry.

Publication date - The least popular of all the choices, and I have to say I agree. Unless the book hasn't come out yet, when it was published doesn't really matter much. Maybe I'll just include it for not-yet-released titles?

Final Results:
source (37%)
rating (62%)
publication date (18%)
publisher's name (31%)
Goodreads link (50%)
synopsis (87%)
link to author's website (37%)
genre (YA, urban fantasy, etc) (50%)
number of pages (31%)

Thanks for the feedback!

2012 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

2011-11-02T06:00:00.003-04:00

As some of you may or may not know, I'm a bit of a reading challenge addict. Despite repeated promises to myself that I won't sign up for any more challenges (due to my large failure rate), there are some that I simply can't resist! The Book Vixen's Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge is one of the irresistible ones! Even though I set my goal at 100, I've already outdid myself and beat my 2010 total number of books read. Am having such a good time that I decided to sign up for the 2012 event! Here are the details:

Details:

Runs January 1, 2012 – December 31, 2012 (books read prior to 1/1/12 do not count towards the challenge).
You can join at anytime. Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2012 than you did in 2011. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.
Grab the reading challenge button and post this reading challenge on your blog to track your progress.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate; you could track your progress on Goodreads or LibraryThing.

Levels:

Getting my heart rate up – Read 1-5 more books
Out of breath – Read 6-10 more books
Breaking a sweat – Read 11-15 more books
I’m on fire! – Read 16+ more books

I am going to start out with the Getting My Heart Rate up level. I've read 82 books so far in 2011 and I'm still hoping to make my goal of 100 by New Year's Eve. My goal for 2012 is to read 1 more book than my 2011 final total. Hey, if I keep my goal reasonable, maybe I'll be able to surpass it! *L*

Wish me luck!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:00:00.007-04:00

Would love to bring this little guy home as a Halloween treat!

In My Mailbox (92)

2011-10-30T11:00:00.002-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

Out of Oz

by Gregory Maguire

A nice surprise from the publisher! Love getting surprises in the mail! I've read other books by this author, but not his Wicked series. Not sure if I want to read the last book in a series, but I know that Maguire is good. This one may wind up as a giveaway.

The Night Eternal

by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan

This was another nice surprise in my mailbox this week! I read the first book in the series and have #2 in my TBR pile, so don't need to wait to see what happens. The first one was a little scary and very visual, so am looking forward to seeing how it all turns out!

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Please leave me a link and I'll stop by to check it out!

Review: Love Lies Bleeding

2011-10-28T12:00:00.059-04:00

Love Lies Bleeding by Jess McConkey

To what lengths would you go to keep a past buried?

Samantha Moore is the golden girl - with a perfect job, a perfect man, a perfect life - until a random act of violence changes everything. Unconscious for two months, Sam awakens from her coma a different person - bitter, in constant pain, and forced to endure medications that leave her nauseous, paranoid, and struggling to keep a grip on reality. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This is one of those books that caught my eye because of a promising synopsis, but didn't turn out the way I expected. I didn't really care for Sam, the main character. I was sympathetic towards her at first, but her behavior eventually turned me off. Didn't care for her family or fiance either, but some of the secondary characters were okay. And I really liked Roxy!

Sam has nightmares because of her attack. Horrible nightmares. In pain, she lashes out at her fiance and anyone who tries to get too close. Jackson, her fiance, seems like a nice guy at first. And he only wants whats best for her, right? Or does he? And what about Sam's parents? Did they send her away to recover in the peace and quiet of the country, or because she was no longer their perfect little girl? Honestly, Sam annoyed me so much at this point that I didn't really care.

While I've never been the victim of a violent attack, Sam's reaction felt off to me somehow. I could understand her medication affecting her behavior, but she didn't come across as a very nice person to begin with, so it was hard for me to care about her story. And by the time strange things started happening, it was a little too late for me.

This was an okay story with a strange twist, but my main objection was that I didn't really care for any of the characters. Maybe it's just me, but it's hard for me to enjoy a story when I don't really like the characters. Gave this one a 3/5 as there was nothing wrong with the writing and overall, it was okay. Would love to hear from anyone who has read this one for a different point of view!

Review copy received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Confessions of a Call Center Gal

2011-10-26T12:00:00.077-04:00

Confessions of a Call Center Gal by Lisa Lim

Source: eBook won from The Book Vixen

Rating: 4/5

Madison Lee is a fresh college grad, ready to take on the world of print media. But she has zero luck landing a job.... Desperate and left with no other options, she accepts a position as a service rep at a call center in Pocatello, Idaho.

At the Lightning Speed call center in Spudsville, Maddy plunges into the wild and dysfunctional world of customer service where Sales is prided over Service and an eight hour shift is equivalent to eight hours of callers bashing her over the phone. Oh sure, the calls are bad. But Maddy manages to find humor on the phone and off the phone. And with all the salacious drama behind the calls, there is never a dull moment at the Lightning Speed call center.... Working at a call center has never been this garish . . . or this delightful.

***DISCLOSURES: If you find politically incorrect shows like The Office, South Park and Chelsea Lately detestable, childish and offensive, then this book is probably NOT for you. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
As a fellow call center gal, I have to confess that I really loved this book! Like Maddy, I've dealt with team leads and AHT, but instead of the Not Ready button we have ACW (after call work). Are call centers dysfunctional? Of course they are! So many rules and regulations and having to deal with angry callers, yet Lisa has managed to put a humorous spin on it while still remaining true to the life.

Maddy is a smart woman who, like many others, cannot find a job in her chosen field. She takes what she hopes is a temporary job in a call center and enters the weird, wild world of customer service. Lisa's characters are fun and interesting and will be familiar to anyone who has worked in this environment. There are the lifers who have been there seemingly forever, as well as the agents just passing through. To her surprise, Maddy not only survives, but is promoted! So is her hunky crush Mika and BFF Kars.

This story is definitely for adults with a sense of humor. Lisa shows that it's a tough life that can reduce agents to tears, so a healthy dose of humor is needed to survive. Some of the scenes that seem too over the top to be true are the ones that had me laughing the hardest and thinking been there, done that! The crazy email addresses. The hard to decipher accents. The strange requests. The excessive cursing. All of these rang true!

This is a very funny, original book that gives a glimpse into the life of a customer service agent at a call center. It's about time that someone told our story! Whether you've worked in a call center or not, you need to read this book! If you've never been an operator, maybe you'll be a little more sympathetic next time you call with a problem. And if you have been an agent, this is your story! Go! Buy it! And high fives to all the call center gals out there!

Book Review: When She Woke

2011-10-24T12:00:00.067-04:00

When She Woke by Hillary Jordan

Source: ARC provided by the Amazon Vine Program

Rating: 5/5

When She Woke is, in its simplest terms, a futuristic retelling of The Scarlet Letter. This sophomore novel from Mudbound author Hillary Jordan takes Hawthorne's classic several steps further, turning it into a pointed, blunt warning about the consequences of an America run by the church, not the state.

Hannah Payne is sentenced to sixteen years of melachroming for aborting her child. Instead of bearing a scarlet "A" like Hester, Hannah's pigment is dyed a stop sign red, leading her to endure an ostracizing societal punishment as well... While some readers may balk at Jordan's political and religious messages, the story of owning our decisions and actions is the focus of this engaging tale of redemption. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This book was amazing! Kept calling to me until I finally picked it up, and then I couldn't put it down! The story really grabbed me, and I wound up staying up much too late in order to finish it. The whole idea of literally dying people different colors is both unbelievably cruel, yet strangely fascinating.

While I've seen several reviews referencing The Scarlet Letter, this story actually reminded me of The Handmaid's Tale, where women had their rights stripped away and the country was taken over by self-righteous male hypocrites.

Hannah was raised a "good girl" and made to feel as though her natural feelings were somehow wrong. A gifted seamstress, she was reduced to designing and sewing gorgeous outfits in secret in order to feed her artistic side. Repressed in every possible way, she engages in an affair with a married man and chooses to have an abortion rather than risk her lover's career.

Her punishment is severe. Kept in solitary confinement for 30 days after the procedure, with her every move televised to the public, Hannah is then released to survive as best she can. Forbidden to return home by her scandalized mother, Hannah's father finds her a place in a halfway house called The Straight Path Center. Technically a religious organization to help women find their way back to redemption, it's actually worse than prison.

Hannah finds that she's stronger than she ever believed possible, as she takes a stand and refuses to take any more of the abusive treatment and leaves the halfway house. Her journey to freedom is fascinating, and I loved watching Hannah grow and discover that there's a whole other world out there. While there are several strong secondary characters who help her along the way, this is ultimately Hannah's story.

This was a fascinating story, with fully developed characters, an interesting plot, and a totally fascinating premise. Jordan is an amazingly talented writer, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next! Definitely one for the Keeper Shelf!

Poll: What Do You Like in Reviews?

2011-10-23T08:00:00.011-04:00

I've been playing around with my review format lately and was wondering if anyone had any preferences for what they like or don't like? For instance, what's the general feeling on including a synopsis? Do you care about the page count? Does publisher matter?

Personally, I want to know a little about the book before reading a review, so like a short synopsis. I tend to use the synopsis from Goodreads, but noticed that some reviewers write their own. Any preferences?

The publisher and publication date don't really matter to me, unless it's a book that hasn't come out yet. And I don't mind seeing the genre, but it's not necessary. I also like some sort of rating system, but not too complicated, I think we have to include the source now because of the FTC rules, but should it be at the beginning or the end or who cares?

To help me improve my reviews, could you please answer the poll over on the right side, or leave a me a quick comment? I'd really appreciate feedback, suggestions or helpful hints. Thanks!

In My Mailbox (91)

2011-10-22T12:00:00.013-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

What Happens in Vegas, Dies in Vegas

by Mark Everett Stone

Really enjoyed the first book of the Bureau of Supernatural Investigation, so was thrilled to get the chance to review the sequel! Kal was their best agent, and I'm looking forward to seeing how he handles his quest on his own, without official backup. Great series!

The Iron Knight

by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Fey series is one of my favorites! Even though I'm firmly on Team Puck (who can resist a man who can make you laugh?), I see the appeal of Ash and am looking forward to his story.

Purchased:

Wild & Steamy

by Meljean Brooks, Jill Myles, Carolyn Crane

Downloaded this free eBook on my nook, mainly for the Carolyn Crane story. Have already finished reading it and, while the other two stories weren't bad, Carolyn's was my favorite!

Looking forward to seeing what everyone received in their mailboxes this week!

Review: Commune of Women

2011-10-19T12:00:00.000-04:00

Commune of Women by Suzan Still

On an ordinary Los Angeles morning, the lives of seven women are about to become inextricably entangled, as they converge upon LA International Airport for various purposes. Suddenly, the morning erupts into chaos, as black-clad terrorists charge into the terminal, guns blazing. As the concourse becomes a killing field, six of the women dodge a hail of bullets to find refuge in a tiny staff room.

At the same time, in a similar small room close by, the sole female terrorist, dubbed simply X by her so-called Brothers, has the task of watching a bank of surveillance monitors. Apparently forgotten by her co-conspirators, she nevertheless is the best informed of the happenings in the outside world--happenings that are not easily understood.

Why are the police and FBI so slow to respond? What has motivated this attack? Who are these terrorists and what do they want? And will the women survive to tell their tale? Answers to these questions slowly reveal the terrible web of conspiracy and deceit into which they all have fallen. But the most profound revelation of all is how each has betrayed herself. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This was a tough book to read at times, as I found myself wondering how I would react in a similar situation. Different women, from different walks of life, find themselves trapped in a small break room after a terrorist attack at the Los Angeles International Airport. We meet them as they arrive at the airport and watch as they find sanctuary in the break room, then try to survive.

There is Sophia, a strong "mountain woman" who takes charge and whose medical training comes in handy. Pearl, an old homeless woman who was napping in the room when the attack occurred. Heddi, a therapist who comes up with the idea of sharing stories to help pass the time. Betty, one of Heddi's patients who drove her to the airport to pick up Ondine, another of Heddi's patients. And Erika, a business woman shot in the shoulder, who Sophia tends to during their ordeal.

In a separate room is X, the only female terrorist, who is holed up in a control room where she can monitor both the airport and the local news. We learn her story as well, and watch as she tries to make sense out of how she got there and wonders what might happen next.

This is a powerful story, as the women share very personal stories. Not knowing if they will survive or not, the stories become more intimate and soul searching as the days pass. I found myself caring about these women, and marveling at their strength and perseverance. I was especially impressed with Sophia and Pearl, who had very different histories, but were both incredibly strong women.

Gave this one a 4/5 as I really enjoyed getting to know these characters, was immediately pulled into the plot, and found myself really caring about what would happen to the women. Still is a very gifted writer, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future!

Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Double Cross

2011-10-17T12:00:00.061-04:00

Double Cross by Carolyn Crane

Review copy provided by Untreed Books

Rating: 4/5

SOME SECRETS COME BACK TO HAUNT. OTHERS COME TO KILL.

Justine Jones lived her life as a fearful hypochondriac until she was lured into the web of a mysterious mastermind named Packard, who gifts her with extraordinary mental powers - dooming her to fight Midcity’s shadowy war on paranormal crime in order to find the peace she so desperately craves.

But now serial killers with unheard-of skills are terrorizing the most powerful beings in Midcity, including mastermind Packard and his oldest friend and worst enemy, Midcity’s new mayor, who has the ability to bend matter itself to his will.

As the body count grows, Justine faces a crisis of conscience as she tests the limits of her new powers and faces an impossible choice between two flawed but brilliant men - one on a journey of redemption, the other descending into a pit of moral depravity.

My Thoughts:
I'm always a little wary of the second book in a series, as they usually don't live up to the first or meet my expectations. Especially when I really loved book one. Well, no worries here, as this is another great story featuring Justine and her fellow Disillusionists!

Justine is not enjoying her job, and is beginning to have doubts about her mission of rebooting the criminals that Mayor Otto has imprisoned. If the Disillusionists reboot the bad guys, Otto won't have to expend so much energy to keep up all of the prisons, thus relieving his awful headaches and reducing the pressure. But what if the imprisoned are really innocent? Who made Otto judge and jury? Is he infallible? Justine begins to doubt her boyfriend and, in her confusion, finds that Packard might not be as bad as she thought.

On top of her job dissatisfaction, someone is targeting highcaps and both Otto and Packard are at risk. How the killers are able to track down the highcaps is a mystery, and pretty clever once discovered. Crane is nothing if not original, and I love her sense of humor!

Poor Justine has to deal with a tangled love life, a confusing work situation, and the fact that someone wants to kill all highcaps, including the two men in her life. Doesn't help that she's a major hypochondriac who can only find relief through disillusioning someone. No wonder she's worried about a star vein bursting in her head!

The ending took me by surprise and made me rethink a few things. Really looking forward to the finale of this trilogy, Head Rush, and finding out what happens next!

Review: Loose Diamonds

2011-10-16T15:30:00.000-04:00

Loose Diamonds by Amy Ephron

Source: Review copy received from publisher, via Shelf Awareness

Rating: 3/5

In Loose Diamonds, an engaging collection of essays and observations, Amy Ephron, the acclaimed, award-winning author of the One Sunday Morning and A Cup of Tea, paints a rich, vivid, and comic portrait of modern living from a modern woman’s perspective. Fans of the writings of Amy Sedaris and Joan Didion’s Slouching Toward Bethlehem will enjoy Ephron’s funny, incisive take on the intricate weave of a woman’s world. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This is an amusing collection of essays, mostly about Amy's life. And it's not exactly a typical cookie-cutter life either, as she was raised in Beverly Hills by a pair of Hollywood screenwriters. Not many people I know had a childhood neighbor who transformed his home into an exotic bird sanctuary, has an alcoholic mother who insists on putting all condiments in their own serving dish, or is asked to confront a possible terrorist by an airline pilot. Strange tales all, but Amy makes them interesting!

Amy is a talented writer, and this is a good book to have while waiting for an appointment as you can pick it up and read at will. I like collections like this for that very reason, as all of the essays are stand-alone stories and can be read in any order. Gave it a 3/5 as I liked the book, but it didn't set my world on fire.

Review: Zombie Mommy

2011-10-12T08:00:00.005-04:00

Zombie Mommy by M. T. Anderson

Source: eBook provided by Simon & Schuster Galley Grab

Rating: 3/5

Our intrepid heroes are home from their Delaware crime-stopping excitement, only to discover that Lily’s mom has become possessed by a menacing zombie who wants to take over the world! (Or, at least, the world of stage and screen.) Thank goodness Lily’s friends Katie, Jasper, and foxy Blue-Hen-State monk Drgnan Pghlik are around - accompanied by Jasper’s Astounding High-Pressure Holy Water Extruder Gun, of course - to help save the day. But not before some truly scary things happen, things involving stuff like killer tarantulas, web-footed teen vampire boys, bad weather (it’s a horror novel, remember?), and, well, I can’t really go on. It’s TOO TERRIFYING FOR WORDS! (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This is one of those books that I picked mainly because of the title, as who could resist something called Zombie Mommy? Turns out that it was a little young for my tastes, but still an okay read.

Lily and her friends have various adventures, and publishers contact them periodically to see what they've been up to and then publish their stories. Lily's mother gets it into her head that something awful is going to happen to her as mothers never seem to survive in YA books (she has a point), so goes off to hide. Trouble is, she picked the worst possible place to hide as the town is full of vampires, ghosts, and other creatures that go bump in the night.

Lily's mother comes home after a few days, but it's obvious to everyone (except the adults) that she isn't her usual self. Lily and her friends head up to the creepy town to find out what happened, then have to figure out how to get Lily's mom back to her old self.

This is a slightly amusing story, but seemed to be geared for a much younger crowd. Lily and her friends had all these adventures, while the adults sat on the sidelines and didn't seem too bright. I never cared for that, even when I was still in grade school, as it just wasn't realistic. I could handle vampires and magic and werewolves, but I knew even then that there needed to be at least some helpful adults. Gave it a 3/5 as it wasn't a bad story, just too young and silly for my taste.

This title will be released October 25, 2011

In My Mailbox (90)

2011-10-09T06:00:00.005-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

When She Woke by Hillary Jordan

When She Woke is, in its simplest terms, a futuristic retelling of The Scarlet Letter. Hannah Payne is sentenced to sixteen years of melachroming for aborting her child. Instead of bearing a scarlet "A" like Hester, Hannah's pigment is dyed a stop sign red, leading her to endure an ostracizing societal punishment as well. (Goodreads)

Dreamland by Alyson Noel

Riley’s finding that the afterlife can be a lonely place when all you do is focus on work.

In The Forests of the Night by Kersten Hamilton

Teagan, Finn, and Aiden have rescued Tea's and Aiden's father and have made it out of Mag Mell alive, bringing a few new friends with them. But The Dark Man's forces are hot on their heels.

Thanks to Amazon Vine, Shelf Awareness, and Kersten Hamilton for the review copies!
Looking forward to seeing what everyone received this week!
Leave me a link and I'll be sure to stop by!

Book Review: Before Ever After

2011-10-06T08:00:00.000-04:00

Before Ever After

by Samantha Sotto

Three years after her husband Max's death, Shelley feels no more adjusted to being a widow than she did that first terrible day. That is, until the doorbell rings. Standing on her front step is a young man who looks so much like Max; same smile, same eyes, same age, same adorable bump in his nose; he could be Max's long-lost relation. He introduces himself as Paolo, an Italian editor of American coffee table books, and shows Shelley some childhood photos. Paolo tells her that the man in the photos, the bearded man who Paolo says is his grandfather though he never seems to age, is Max. Her Max. And he is alive and well.

As outrageous as Paolo's claims seem; how could her husband be alive? And if he is, why hasn't he looked her up? Shelley desperately wants to know the truth. She and Paolo jet across the globe to track Max down; if it is really Max and along the way, Shelley recounts the European package tour where they had met. As she relives Max's stories of bloody Parisian barricades, medieval Austrian kitchens, and buried Roman boathouses, Shelley begins to piece together the story of who her husband was and what these new revelations mean for her "happily ever after." And as she and Paolo get closer to the truth, Shelley discovers that not all stories end where they are supposed to.(Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This was an interesting premise that really delivered! Shelley is still trying to recover from her husband's death. Barely hanging on three years later, her entire life changes when Paolo shows up at her door, claiming that her late husband was actually his grandfather. Is he crazy? Could it be true? If so, why hasn't Max tried to contact her?

During their journey to track Max down, Shelley recounts how they met. Piecing together the tales he told to his European tour groups with their memories of life with Max, Shelley and Paolo try to figure out the man they both loved. I found the stories told to the tour group more fascinating than Shelley's and Paolo's journey, but the entire book was enthralling!

Really liked Max and his stories. From the doomed Isabelle to the lusty Adrien to the mad Uri, all the way back to pregnant Livia, their stories really came alive. Just who was Max anyway? And how did he know all of these stories? Was he a fan of history, or just a talented storyteller with a great imagination?

Gave this one a 4/5 as it was well written, kept me guessing, and was full of believable characters. I enjoyed the history as well, and who knew that chickens played such an important part in so many major events? This is a remarkable story by a very talented writer, and I can't wait to read more!

Review: Things To Do in Denver When You're Undead

2011-10-04T08:00:00.000-04:00

Things To Do in Denver When You're Undead by Mark Everett Stone

Source: Review copy provided by the publisher

Rating: 4/5

For ten years Kal Hakala has been the Bureau of Supernatural Investigation's top man, the longest surviving agent in its blood-soaked history. There has been no case he couldn't crack, no monster he couldn't kill. Until a plague of zombies in Denver turns into an investigation of a vicious serial killer dubbed The Organ Donor. Fueled by rage and a hatred of all things supernatural, he dives headlong into the one mystery that could finally kill him. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
Really enjoyed this book and the main character, Kal. Kal is a hardcore veteran monster hunter who is very, very good at his job. Full of wise-cracking, cynical black humor, I had a hard time putting this one down! Wanted to find out what drove Kal, why he hadn't quit the Bureau yet, and how he beat the average 3 year life expectancy of an agent.

The Bureau itself is an interesting idea - a worldwide agency that fights the monsters that the rest of the world doesn't believe exist. But Kal is even more interesting as he is an driven man, full of rage, yet somehow remains sane.

While there is some adult language, it fits the characters perfectly and never feels gratuitous. With a short life expectancy and harsh job, you shouldn't expect tea and crumpets from these guys. Usually Kal and his team are in and out of town pretty fast, dispatching the monsters and moving on to the next gig. But this assignment is different in that they seem to be the targets. Sort of like the hunters being hunted for a change.

Gave this one a 4/5 as I really enjoyed the characters, the storyline, the writing, and the dark humor. Love cynical characters, and Kal delivered! This story was original enough that I didn't see some of the twists coming, which is always appreciated. Will keep an eye out to see what the author comes up with next!

Book Review: until again

2011-10-02T06:00:00.001-04:00

until again

by Lou Aronica

Reviewers have called Lou Aronica’s novel BLUE “compelling,” “beautifully written,” “a story to remember and cherish,” and “one of those books that everyone should find a moment to read.” Readers have said it was “a great inspiration,” “I’ve never been more moved or inspired,” and “one of the best books I’ve read.”

Now comes this prequel novella, a short work that provides the essential story behind the story. UNTIL AGAIN tells of a decidedly real-world event: the final weekend in the breakup of a marriage. For Chris Astor, the divorce is not something he wants, primarily because of the distance it will put between his ten-year-old daughter Becky and himself.

Juxtaposed against this is a critical event in Tamarisk, the bedtime-story fantasy world that Chris and Becky created when Becky was much younger. Miea, the university-age princess of Tamarisk fears that her world has become a terribly dangerous place...but she could not possibly have imagined where that danger will lead her and the people she loves.

These parallel stories converge, in a most unusual way, in a tale of change and new tomorrows. A powerful revelation for those who have read BLUE, and an emotionally charged introduction to these deeply relatable characters for those who haven’t, UNTIL AGAIN is a warm, engaging, and bittersweet work that promises to speak to your heart. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This is a prequel to Blue, which I reviewed at the beginning of the year. Really enjoyed Blue and it was such a powerful story that it brought tears to my eyes. You can see my review here if interested.

This novella gives us a little background on Chris and Polly's split, and some insight into why Becky is so angry. We also learn more about Meia, who is at university during this period.

As it's a novella, it's a quick read at only 85 pages. I'm not sure if this should be read before or after Blue. As I had already read the book, this filled in some background for me. I think that if I had read this one first, it might have made the full length story a little more well rounded. Either way, it's a good story.

This time around, I found myself more captivated by Meia's story. I enjoyed seeing her before she became queen, and learning more about her relationship with her parents. Still don't care for Polly, Becky's mother. I never got a feel for why she wanted the divorce, as Chris was more sympathetic in this one. Maybe I missed something, but she came off as a real witch.

All in all, this is a nice companion to Blue.

In My Mailbox (89)

2011-10-01T13:00:00.018-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. Only one book this week, but I'm still on my book buying ban and I've cut down on the number or review copies I'm accepting since my TBR pile is threatening to topple over and bury me! I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information.

For Review:

Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick

by Joe Schreiber

This was one of the hot titles at BEA 2011 and, since I couldn't get my hands on one, I was very happy when it showed up on the Amazon Vine review list! Looks like a quirky, fun read!

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

What's In A Name 4 Challenge - Completed!

2011-09-27T18:01:00.000-04:00

I did it!

I completed a challenge!

Finished the What's In A Name 4 Challenge, hosted by Beth Fish Reads.

Woo hoo!

My books:

A book with a number in the title: XVI
A book with jewelry or a gem in the title: Ruby Red
A book with a size in the title: A Long, Long Sleep
A book with travel or movement in the title: Turn of Mind
A book with evil in the title: Pale Demon
A book with a life stage in the title: A Lonely Death

Guidelines:

Books may be any form (audio, print, e-book).
Books may overlap other challenges.
Books may not overlap categories; you need a different book for each category.
Creativity for matching the categories is not only allowed, but encouraged.
You do not have to make a list of books before hand.
You do not have to read through the categories in any particular order

In My Mailbox (88)

2011-09-25T10:45:00.000-04:00

First off, a big thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren, who hosts In My Mailbox every week! I always find new books and authors thanks to this meme! I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Received a couple of eBooks from the author for review. These both look like fun reads!

doodling

by Jonathan Gould

Neville Lansdowne fell off the world. Actually he did not so much fall off as let go. The world had been moving so quickly lately and Neville was finding it almost impossible to keep up.

***

Flidderbugs

by Jonathan Gould

Flidderbugs is a political satire, a modern fable, or maybe just a funny little story about a bunch of insects with some very peculiar obsessions.

Contest Wins:
It's been awhile since I've won anything, so was very excited when I heard from Suey at It's All About Books that I won her BBAW contest!

I Am Not a Serial Killer

by Dan Wells

John Wayne Cleaver is dangerous, and he knows it. He’s spent his life doing his best not to live up to his potential. He’s obsessed with serial killers, but really doesn’t want to become one. So for his own sake, and the safety of those around him, he lives by rigid rules he’s written for himself, practicing normal life as if it were a private religion that could save him from damnation.

Looking forward to seeing what everyone received this week!

Book Review: Aggie's Nine Heroes

2011-09-19T06:00:00.053-04:00

Aggie's Nine Heroes by Diana Laurence

Source: eBook provided by the author

Rating: 4/5

Meet the little girl who decided superheroes didn't live only in comic books. Then learn how she - and nine other amazing people - proved it. Aggie Borkowski is only ten when she realizes the world needs help, and she can't do the job alone. For the next dozen years, Aggie pursues her extraordinary goal: to gather a team of nine talented, dedicated people who want to be heroes.

Number one on that roster is Aggie's remarkable grandfather, Bernie. His indomitable spirit - undaunted by personal tragedy and a sometimes-terrifying handicap - is key to the realization of Aggie's dreams.

The Borkowskis' story spans five decades, from Korea's Demilitarized Zone to the high-tech minefield of life in the 21st Century, including a sojourn in that fearful place called middle school. With Bernie's loving guidance, Aggie develops exceptional coping skills, all the while facing the conventional challenges of growing up and finding true love.

Aggie is just one girl trying to make a small difference...but like Bernie taught her, "A good deed is never too small." And it works even better when you can do it with a team. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This was an amazing story! I liked Aggie from the very beginning, but fell in love with her when she discovered Neil Gaiman's Sandman and developed a crush on Morpheus. Who could you not love a girl like that?

Really enjoyed getting to know Aggie, her grandfather Bernie, and watching them change over the years. Bernie sounds like an awesome grandfather, even if he did have the occasional issue. Really got a kick out of his fascination with fads, from the hula hoop to beanie babies. And I loved learning the story behind his collection!

Aggie was a great character, as she never let go of her dreams as she grew up. Most children lose faith in superheroes, but not Aggie! She not only keeps the faith, but makes her dream come true! Thought she was lucky in finding her heroes and a little surprised that there were no missteps, but was pleased with the team she eventually put together.

My only complaint is that there were no mistakes. Granted, Bernie does make an error in judgement with serious ramifications, but the Nine Heroes are pretty awesome right out of the gate. Think there should have been a learning curve of some sort, as I'm sure that even Superman couldn't up, up and away perfectly the first time he tried to fly! To have every plan work perfectly was a little unrealistic, but that might just be because I'm a little on the cynical side. Still a great story with great characters!

Gave this one a 4/5 as it's a great story with interesting characters, a well developed plot, and excellent writing!

About the Author:
You can learn more about author Diana Laurence at her website, and read an excert of Aggies Nine Heroes here. And I was fascinated to learn of her relationship with Kiva. Here are the details from the author's website:

Aggie's Nine Heroes explores themes related to responsible living, charity, and benevolent entrepreneurship. So, the author wanted to use the proceeds of this book in a manner that Aggie and her grandfather Bernie would approve.

Kiva.org is an 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that allows people to lend money via the Internet to microfinance institutions in developing countries around the world in the U.S., which in turn lend the money to small businesses and students. Kiva enables people who otherwise would be "unbankable" to start businesses and become productive members of their local communities, while bringing themselves and their families out of poverty.

25% of the proceeds of the sales of Aggie's Nine Heroes will be donated outright to Kiva for ongoing administrative expenses. 75% of proceeds will be provided to investments through Kiva.

In My Mailbox (87)

2011-09-17T21:00:00.002-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

Received a copy of Loose Diamonds from the publisher for review, via Shelf Awareness. I've read some of Amy's work before and enjoyed it enough to give her book a try.

Loose Diamonds

by Amy Ephron

Purchased:

Went to Borders for one last goodbye and was surprised how many good books were left! Could easily have filled up a shopping cart with books as I wanted to give them all a good home, but contented myself with this batch (still on a book buying ban, but this was a mission of mercy!)

Green-Eyed Envy by Kasey MacKenzie

Forgotten Truth by Dawn Cook

Magic to the Bone by Devon Monk

Darkest Edge of Dawn by Kelly Gay

Rosemary and Rue by Seanan McGuire

Mob Rules by Cameron Haley

Dark Jenny by Alex Bledsoe

Bewere the Night anthology

Looking forward to seeing what everyone got in their mailboxes this week! Think there will be more than one mailbox full of Border books!

Book Review: Girl vs. Ghost

2011-09-15T12:00:00.001-04:00

Girl vs. Ghost by Kate McMurry and Marie August

Source: eBook provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

Rating: 4/5

Isabel Lindley doesn’t believe in magic, but her best friend is obsessed with witchcraft. Strictly as a favor, Isabel agrees to help with a spell and is shocked when the ghost of a teenage boy splat-lands in her bedroom. Her friend is thrilled - even though only Isabel can see or hear the ghost - but Isabel is horrified. She’s the most ordinary sixteen-year-old girl on the planet. What is she supposed to do with a ghost who doesn’t know his own name, how he died, or why the heck he’s tied to Isabel with a psychic chain? Her only hope to take back her life is to help him solve the mystery of his demise so he can go to the Light. Or wherever. She’s not particular, as long as the ghost is gone. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
This was a fast, fun read about an ordinary girl who finds herself tied to the ghost of a teenage boy...literally. There is a magical cord binding them together, allowing only a few feet of space, which annoys them both. It affects the ghost more then Isabel, as he's the one yanked off his feet if they get too far apart. They manage, but it makes going to the bathroom and taking a shower interesting!

Desperate to get rid of the ghost, Isabel and BFF Tripp try to figure out who Teen Ghost is and how he died. They do pretty well for a couple of unprepared teenagers, one who just wants to keep a low profile and the other a little ditsy. I really enjoyed Tripp's zest for life and passion to try new things. Even if she sometimes drove Isabel crazy, I think Tripp would make a great friend! Really enjoyed the interaction between the two girls and getting to know them.

While I'm not crazy about the cover, this was a fun book with interesting characters, a good plot, and excellent writing! Looking forward to finding out what Isabel and Tripp get up to next!

Review: Spell Bound

2011-09-10T21:36:00.000-04:00

Spell Bound

by Kelley Armstrong

Savannah Levine is in terrible danger, and for once she's powerless to help herself. At the heartbreaking conclusion of Waking the Witch, Savannah swore that she would give up her powers if it would prevent further pain for a young orphan. Little did she know that someone would take her up on that promise.

And now, witch-hunting assassins, necromancers, half-demons, and rogue witches all seem to be after her. The threat is not just for Savannah; every member of the Otherworld might be at risk. While most of her fellow supernaturals are circling the wagons at a gathering of the council in Miami, Savannah is caught on the road, isolated from those who can protect her and unable to use her vast spell-casting talent, the thing she counts on most. In a story that will change the shape of the Otherworld forever, Armstrong gathers Elena, Clay, Paige, Lucas, Jamie, Hope, and other beloved characters, who soon learn that the greatest threat to supernaturals just may come from within. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

It's no secret that I adore Kelley Armstrong and that she's one of my favorite writers. I love everything she's ever written and, while Elena and Clay are my favorites, I've really enjoyed watching Savannah grow up over the years.

This story starts up right where we left off in Waking the Witch, with Savannah's discovery that she no longer has her powers. It's a huge blow to someone who has relied on her powers for more or less everything. After all, why bother to learn how to pick a lock when she can just use an unlock spell? Good thing Paige and Lucas insisted she learn various skills. Too bad she didn't really pay attention during their lessons...

Suffering from a serious case of denial, Savannah is afraid that without her powers, no one will want her. Surprisingly, Clay is the one to give her a serious wake-up call by slapping her in the face with the fact that powers or no, she is still Savannah. Even without her powers, she's a force to be reckoned with!

This story was amazing! While definitely Savannah's story, almost everyone makes an appearance as Kelley sets the scene for Something Big. Gave it a 4 out of 5 rating as it's a great story with great characters! Can't wait to see what happens next!

ARC received from Wunderkind PR in exchange for an honest review.

In My Mailbox (86)

2011-09-04T12:30:00.030-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I received two books this past week; a prequel to a book I loved from The Fiction Studio, and one courtesy of the Amazon Vine program. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

until again

by Lou Aronica

A prequel novella to Blue, this short work provides the essential story behind the story. Until Again tells of a decidedly real-world event: the final weekend in the breakup of a marriage. For Chris Astor, the divorce is not something he wants, primarily because of the distance it will put between his ten-year-old daughter Becky and himself. Juxtaposed against this is a critical event in Tamarisk, the bedtime-story fantasy world that Chris and Becky created when Becky was much younger.

***

Before Ever After

by Samantha Sotto

Looking forward to seeing what everyone received this week!

Review: Jane Jones: Worst. Vampire. Ever

2011-08-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

Jane Jones: Worst. Vampire. Ever. by Caissie St. Onge

Source: ARC provided by Amazon Vine

Rating: 3/5

For Jane Jones, being a vampire is nothing like you read about in books. In fact, it kind of sucks. She's not beautiful, she's not rich, and she doesn't "sparkle." She's just an average, slightly nerdy girl from an ordinary suburban family (who happens to be vampires.)

Jane's from the wrong side of the tracks (not to mention stuck in the world's longest awkward phase), so she doesn't fit in with the cool vampire kids at school or with the humans kids. To top it all off, she's battling an overprotective mom, a clique of high school mean girls (the kind who really do have fangs), and the most embarrassing allergy in the history of the undead, she's blood intolerant.

So no one's more surprised than Jane when for the first time in her life, things start to heat up (as much as they can for a walking corpse, anyway) with not one, but two boys. Eli's a geeky, but cute real-live boy in her history class, and Timothy is a beautiful, brooding bloodsucker, who might just hold the key to a possible "cure" for vampirism.

Facing an eternity of high school pressure, fumbling first dates, or a mere lifetime together with Timothy, what's a 90-something year-old teen vampire to do?

My Thoughts:
The synopsis of this one caught my eye and it sounded different enough that I thought I'd give it a chance. Was a little disappointing, but still an okay read.

Jane's family was turned during the 1930s and are not independently wealthy, suave, or sophisticated. Nice change of pace, as most vampires sound too good to be true. I always wondered why vampires had so much money at their disposal. Even with their long lives, you still have to have money in order to benefit from all that lovely compound interest. And wouldn't the banks eventually get suspicious? Jane's father works for a living, and they are anything but wealthy. Maybe the rich vampires rob their victims? Sorry..l digress.

Poor Jane is forever stuck as an awkward teenager, but her younger brother has it worse as he will be ten years old forever. Poor guy! But the family is close-knit and love one another, which is another nice change of pace. Most vampires are moody and dysfunctional, and this is only the second vampire family I've ever read about.

Liked that Jane knew she was different but still acted like a typical teenager, even though she had close to a century under her belt. No one is more surprised than she is to have the attention of not one, but two boys! She's such a little nerd that I couldn't help but like her!

This was just an okay story; nothing earth shattering but still an overall pleasant read. Appreciated the sense of humor woven throughout the story, which wasn't snarky or mean. Jane moans about her situation, but everyone loves and supports each other and I never got the sense of any real jeopardy. Think this would be a good story for middle grades, as it was a cute, fast read.

This ARC was provided by the Amazon Vine Program in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Ruby Red

2011-08-22T06:00:00.003-04:00

Ruby Red

by Kerstin Gier

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts

Really enjoyed this one, and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series!

After a lifetime of watching her cousin Charlotte be groomed for time travel and knowing that she was nothing special in comparison, imagine everyone's surprise when it turns out that Gwyneth has the time travel gene, not Charlotte! Had to be a little like Jan Brady being elected prom queen over Marcia! In your face Charlotte! Ha! {Sorry....middle child syndrome rearing it's ugly head again... ;)}

When everyone finally accepts that Gwyneth is The One, she has a lot of catching up to do. Often on the fly, while travelling back and forth in time, and on top of keeping up with her schoolwork. Despite a lifetime of low expectations, Gwyneth proves to be a fast learner and I found myself being proud of her, as though she were a good friend instead of a character in a book. And speaking of good friends, Gwyneth's best friend Lesley is a huge help! So accepting and eager to research the past to try and help untangle the mess Gwyneth finds herself in.

No one really addresses why Gwyneth's mother lied about her birth date and didn't insist that she receive training along with Charlotte. I can understand her desire to give Gwyneth a normal childhood, but she left her horribly unprepared in case she turned out to have the time travel gene (which she did). I have an inkling of the explanation and hope that it's addressed further in the next book, but still....

Yes, I understand that Grace wanted to protect her child, but she wound up unintentionally harming her instead. If nothing else, Grace should have prepared Gwyneth herself if she didn't want to bring her to the attention of the mysterious secret society. While she doesn't explain why, I agree with Grace's mistrust and her warning to Gwyneth. Any secret society that doesn't permit female members in their Inner Circle cannot be trusted! Just you wait and see....I bet the Count is evil and that Gwyneth will wind up saving the day!

Anyway, in case you couldn't tell, I really enjoyed this book. Thought it set up the series nicely, yet still managed to tell a good story. I really liked Gwyneth. Didn't care for her time travel partner Gideon, her cousin Charlotte, or Charlotte's mother. Haven't made up my mind about the rest of Gwyneth's family, but really looking forward to seeing what happens next! Definietely an enjoyable read!

Review copy provided by Zeitghost Media in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Awaken

2011-08-17T06:00:00.041-04:00

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky

Source: ARC provided by Amazon Vine

Rating: 4/5

Maddie lives in a world where everything is done on the computer. Whether it’s to go to school or on a date, people don’t venture out of their home. There’s really no need. For the most part, Maddie’s okay with the solitary, digital life - until she meets Justin. Justin likes being with people. He enjoys the physical closeness of face-to-face interactions. People aren’t meant to be alone, he tells her.

Suddenly, Maddie feels something awakening inside her - a feeling that maybe there is a different, better way to live. But with society and her parents telling her otherwise, Maddie is going to have to learn to stand up for herself if she wants to change the path her life is taking.

In this not-so-brave new world, two young people struggle to carve out their own space.

My Thoughts:
This story really struck a chord with me, as I can easily see our society moving in this direction. So much is done online now that some prefer to live through their avatars rather than deal with people face to face. Life online is easier, and there's always the delete button!

Despite being raised immersed in the digital life, Maddie is still able to think for herself and has a rebellious, independent streak. While her father is a firm advocate of Life Is Better Online, Maddie isn't so sure. There's something to be said for human interaction, especially interaction with the cute and charismatic Justin! What Justin says makes sense, and the more Maddie learns, the more she's dissatisfied with her current life.

Really enjoyed this one, and it makes you think. Yes, life is easier online....you can present yourself however you like and avoid the awkwardness of small talk and having to talk to strangers. But we shouldn't give up on real life, no matter how tempting, because it's dangerous to lose touch with our fellow man. Sounds a little silly, but how else to explain flash mobs starting riots instead of pillow fights? It's too easy to disconnect when you're online all the time.

Don't mean to sound preachy, but this book does make you wonder. Katie is a very talented writer, and I really liked Maddie! Can't wait to see what Katie comes up with next!

This ARC was provided by the Amazon Vine program in exchange for an honest review.

Blog Tour: Savor the Danger

2011-08-15T06:00:00.044-04:00

Savor the Danger

by Lori Foster

She may be aloof, and more pretty than gorgeous, but Alani Rivers is the kind of woman a hot-blooded mercenary can't forget, no matter how hard he tries. So when Jackson Savor wakes up next to the naked, sleeping beauty - with no memory of what happened - he knows he's been drugged…even if Alani doesn't.

After she was kidnapped, Alani vowed never to trust another man again. Still, something about this strong, sexy hero with the tender touch makes her want to believe him. As Jackson hunts down a mysterious intruder, he swears he'll move heaven and earth to keep Alani safe. But what really happened that night? And will the truth bring them closer than they ever thought possible - or put Alani squarely in harm's way again? (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:

This was my least favorite of the trilogy, as I just couldn't connect with either Jackson or Alani. Jackson was just too cocky for my tastes. There's a difference between cocky and confident, and he didn't measure up to either Dare or Trace in my eyes. Didn't care for Alani either, as she didn't seem as strong as Molly or Priss. All presented different personalities, but I connected with the others more.

The story starts off with a bang, with Jackson waking up in bed with Alani, but having no memory of their night together. He assumes he was drugged, but no one is sure why or how, or if the target was Jackson or Alani. So Jackson is determined to protect Alani, and over-protective brother Trace seems to give in a little too easily. I didn't buy it.

Simply couldn't get into this one, as there were too many plot points that I felt were unbelievable. For instance, most of the scenes with Alani's ex-boyfriend didn't ring true. I did enjoy the Arizona scenes, and I would love it if Lori took a chance and gave Chris his own story!

Gave this one a 3/5 as even though it wasn't my favorite, it wasn't bad. The bar was set pretty high with Dare and Trace, so two out of three isn't bad.

And now, one last time, one of my favorite book trailers of 2011:

Review copy provided by Meryl L. Moss Media Relations, Inc., in exchange for an honest review.

In My Mailbox (85)

2011-08-14T06:00:00.074-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:
Received a surprise package from William Morrow Publishing this week. While I've read Laura Lippman and Charles Todd before, Simon Toyne is new to me. Love discovering new authors and reading outside my comfort zone!

Sanctus

by Simon Toyne

REVELATION OR DEVASTATION?

The certainties of the modern world are about to be blown apart by a three thousand year-old conspiracy nurtured by blood and lies … (Goodreads)

***

The Most Dangerous Thing

by Laura Lippman

Years ago, they were all the best of friends. But as time passed and circumstances changed, they grew apart, became adults with families of their own, and began to forget about the past - and the terrible lie they all shared. But now Gordon, the youngest and wildest of the five, has died and the others are thrown together for the first time in years. And then the revelations start. Could their long-ago lie be the reason for their troubles today? Each one of these old friends has to wonder if their secret has been discovered - and if someone within the circle is out to destroy them. (Goodreads)

***

A Bitter Truth

by Charles Todd

...acclaimed author Charles Todd upped the ante by introducing readers to a wonderful new series protagonist, World War One battlefield nurse Bess Crawford. Featured for a third time in A Bitter Truth, Bess reaches out to help an abused and frightened young woman, only to discover that no good deed ever goes unpunished when the good Samaritan nurse finds herself falsely accused of murder. (Goodreads)

Amazon Vine:
Love Sandman Slim!

Aloha from Hell

by Richard Kadrey

All hail Sandman Slim, author Richard Kadrey’s ultra-extreme anti-hero and recent escapee from Lucifer’s overheated Underworld playground. Legendary author William Gibson (Neuromancer) called Kadrey’s first deliciously twisted Slim adventure “an addictively satisfying, deeply amusing, dirty-ass masterpiece,” and in number three, Aloha from Hell, the ruthless avenger, a.k.a. Stark, finds himself trapped in the middle of a war between Heaven and Hell. With God on vacation, the Devil nosing around in Paradise, and an insane serial killer doing serious damage on Earth, Stark/Slim is ready to unleash some more adrenaline-surging, edgy and violent supernatural mayhem - and even pay another visit to Hell if necessary... (Goodreads)

Gifted:
Friend is clearing out her shelves and as I can't resist anything by Luna, I'm the lucky recipient! Now I need to cull my shelves so they fit....

Silver's Edge, Silver's Bane, and Silver's Lure

by Anne Kelleher

For Camelot's Honor and Under Camelot's Banner

by Sarah Zettel

Looking forward to seeing what everyone else received this week!

Short Story Review: And Jacki, Of Course

2011-08-13T16:00:00.001-04:00

And Jacki, Of Course

by Amy Gerstin Coombs

Nora's grandchild is due to be born any minute. The occasion is marred by her son's mother-in-law, who never accepted Nora's partner, Jacki, as his other parent. Jacki tells Nora to stop dwelling in the past and dismisses her fears for the future. Can Nora forgive and forget? Should she? What will a mother do to hold onto her family? A short story from our Nibs short story line.(Untreed Reads)

My Thoughts:
Short stories are not easy to write. Without the luxury of a full length novel to establish a backstory and build characters, the author has to present well-rounded characters and a believable plot within a limited framework. They're not easy to write, which is why I'm so impressed with how good this story is! We're immediately plunged into the story, and Nora and Jacki soon feel like old friends! Coombs effortlessly gives us their history with Ben's mother-in-law while we're in the waiting room with them.

Nora is Ben's birth mother, and her partner Jacki adopted him at birth. They are an established couple, yet Ben's mother-in-law has never accepted them as partners. Nora is afraid that there will be a barrier between them and their new grandchild due to distance and the fact that evil MIL lives closer and may influence the child. Legitimate concerns based on their past interactions, yet Jacki is laid back and confident that their grandchild will love and accept them with no problem.

This story left me wanting to learn more about Nora and Jacki. I sympathized with Nora and her fears, and was impressed that Jacki was so accepting of others and didn't seem to let anything phase her. Wanted to learn more about Ben and his wife, and why he allowed his mother-in-law to behave so badly. Coombs is a very talented writer, and I'd love to read more!

Book Review: The Tower

2011-08-09T06:00:00.036-04:00

The Tower by J.S. Frankel

Source: eBook received from the publisher for review

Rating: 4/5

Bill Lampkin doesn't have much of a life. He's in the hospital, abandoned by his father and decides to take a walk one night to escape the grim confines of his existence. During that nighttime stroll, he literally finds himself in another world.

And what a world it is! He is found by a group of very unusual people who take him in and teach him everything he needs to know. As he lives among them, he shares their lifestyle and even falls in love for the first time. What more could anyone ask?

However, the reality is far from what he first imagined. Bill begins to question this ideal existence and, when he realizes the truth, discovers that someone is out there who could destroy his new world-and all others. (Goodreads)

My Thoughts:
What if you were a 13 year old boy, diagnosed with leukemia, abandoned to die by your neglectful father in the children's ward of a hospital? Taking refuge in comic books, only to stumble through a portal into a parallel world where super heroes and magic actually exist? Pretty cool, right? William Lampkin thinks so, especially when the Ultras (the superheroes) save his life! Sure, part of the cure aged him several years, but at least he's healthy again!

Really enjoyed this story! Will develops a serious case of hero worship, settles into his new life, finds that he enjoys his job, and even starts dating one of the Ultras! A perfect new life for a boy who never caught a break until now! Or is it?

Will starts noticing that things are not quite as they seem, and starts digging for answers. Will he be happy with what he finds, or will it jeopardize his new life and love? Sounds a little like a soap opera when put like that, but it's actually a fun story with a great main character! I really enjoyed watching Will grow up and mature from a sickly child to a confident young man.

Telling his own story, Will has a sly sense of humor and isn't afraid to lay it on the line, even when it doesn't present him in the best light. He breaks the "fourth wall" and addresses the reader directly, which I really enjoy when done right. This one does it right!

Looking forward to reading more by this author, as he's a talented writer with a good imagination and a great sense of humor! I'm a sucker for a sense of humor. :)

In My Mailbox (84)

2011-08-07T06:00:00.002-04:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. My wishlist always grows after checking out everyone's mailboxes each week! I've included links to Goodreads if you want more information on the books.

For Review:

Received a beautifully wrapped copy of The Night Circus from the publisher. Even came with a bookmark, and you know how much I love bookmarks! This one is almost too pretty to open! Have read nothing but good things about this one, so looking forward to reading it.

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

Received an autographed review copy of Commune of Women from the author, via the Fiction Studio. Read an excerpt of this one and was immediately hooked!

Contest Wins:

Won an eBook copy of Confessions of a Call Center Gal by Lisa Lim from the lovely Book Vixen!

Described as Bridget Jones meets The Office, this one sounds like a fun read!

Looking forward to seeing what everyone received in their mailboxes this week!