Ellz Readz

Got INK? (34)

2012-02-03T07:01:00.000-05:00

There is a trend with books, particularly Urban Fantasy, to display inked models on the covers.

Got INK? features some of these titles.

Blood Rights (House of Comarré #1)

The lacy gold mapped her entire body. A finely-wrought filigree of stars, vines, flowers, butterflies, ancient symbols and words ran from her feet, up her legs, over her narrow waist, spanned her chest and finished down her arms to the tips of her fingers.

Born into a life of secrets and service, Chrysabelle’s body bears the telltale marks of a comarré—a special race of humans bred to feed vampire nobility. When her patron is murdered, she becomes the prime suspect, which sends her running into the mortal world…and into the arms of Malkolm, an outcast vampire cursed to kill every being from whom he drinks.

Now Chrysabelle and Malkolm must work together to stop a plot to merge the mortal and supernatural worlds. If they fail, a chaos unlike anything anyone has ever seen will threaten to reign.(goodreads)

For more information, visit goodreads.

I am not a fan of this cover online. I am curious is the gold on the cover is embossed or if it is flat. Has anyone seen it in person?

Cover LOVE?

2012-02-02T22:17:00.002-05:00

I spy...with my little eyes.... The cover of Maggie Stiefvater's new book!

This will book 1 in a 4 book series. Isn't that exciting!!

Here is the summary from her LiveJournal page...

Filled with mystery, romance, and the supernatural, The Raven Boys introduces readers to Richard “Dick” Campbell Gansey, III and Blue Sargent. Gansey has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on the hunt to find Glendower, a vanished Welsh king. Legend has it that the first person to find him will be granted a wish—either by seeing him open his eyes, or by cutting out his heart.

Blue Sargent, the daughter of the town psychic in Henrietta, Virginia, has been told for as long as she can remember that if she ever kisses her true love, he will die. But she is too practical to believe in things like true love. Her policy is to stay away from the rich boys at the prestigious Aglionby Academy. The boys there—known as Raven Boys—can only mean trouble. When Gansey and his Raven Boy friends come into her life, Blue realizes how true this is. She never thought her fortune would be a problem. But she was wrong.

She also posted some songs that will be on The Raven Boys playlist, so go visit her LiveJournal page, check out the tunes and PREORDER your copy.

I like this cover. It is relatively simple, however bold and eye-catching. I love how the raven looks hand painted with the swirls in the wing and red in the center. Very intriguing!

So what do you think? Are you in Cover LOVE?

YA review: Scored

2012-02-02T07:28:00.000-05:00

Scored

by, Lauren McLaughlin

October 25, 2011

Set in the future when teenagers are monitored via camera and their recorded actions and confessions plugged into a computer program that determines their ability to succeed. All kids given a "score" that determines their future potential. This score has the ability to get kids into colleges, grant scholarships, or destroy all hope for the above. Scored's reluctant heroine is Imani, a girl whose high score is brought down when her best friend's score plummets. Where do you draw the line between doing what feels morally right and what can mean your future? Friendship, romance, loyalty, family, human connection and human value: all are questioned in this fresh and compelling dystopian novel set in the scarily foreseeable future.

My thoughts...Scored provides readers with a frightening glimpse into a foreseeable future. We live in an age that changes daily with new technology. Our phones can access the Internet, track our locations, and scan bar codes. There are machines that can scan our hands and eyes, check our brainwaves and track our sleep patterns. Keeping that in mind, machines that detect emotions, read facial cues, interpret body language, and track our social patterns are not that hard to imagine. In Scored, people live in such scenario and live based on the computers interpretation of their lives. Camera's hang from virtually everywhere in this small town, recording people's every move, choice of words, friends, even what they do in their free time.

The characters in this story are divided into scored and unscored. Just by associating with an unscored, a high score could be destroyed. Imani, the heroine of the story, finds herself making some hard decisions about her future. While reading, I immediately felt her anguish. The decisions she makes now could have a huge impact on her whole future. Many of the characters in the story struggle with the control the score has over their lives.

Lauren McLaughlin crafted an interesting dystopian world. I was instantly drawn in and devoured the book. The story integrated interesting characters, romantic dilemmas, social issues, and enough action to keep me turning pages. It was an interesting concept and McLaughlin presented it in a way that leaves you thinking. There were a few things I hoped would be explored more, so my fingers are crossed for a sequel!

For more information, visit Lauren at her official website!

Waiting on Wednesday

2012-02-01T06:39:00.000-05:00

Wings of the Wicked (Angelfire #2)

by Courtney Allison Moulton

January 31, 2012

Life as the Preliator is harder than Ellie ever imagined.
Balancing real life with the responsibility of being Heaven’s warrior is a challenge for Ellie. Her relationship with Will has become all business, though they both long for each other. And now that the secret of who she really is has come out, so have Hell’s strongest reapers. Grown bold and more vicious, the demonic threaten her in the light of day and stalk her in the night.

She’s been warned.
Cadan, a demonic reaper, comes to her with information about Bastian’s new plan to destroy Ellie’s soul and use an ancient relic to wake all the souls of the damned and unleash them upon humanity. As she fights to stay ahead of Bastian’s schemes , the revelations about those closest to her awaken a dark power within Ellie that threatens to destroy everything—including herself.

She’ll be betrayed.
Treachery comes even from those whom she loves, and Ellie is broken by the deaths of those who stood beside her in this Heavenly war. Still, she must find a way to save the world, herself, and her love for Will. If she fails, there will be hell to pay.

For more information, follow the links to Goodreads.

Review: Dead Head

2012-01-31T07:48:00.000-05:00

Dead Head (Dirty Business Mystery #3)

by Rosemary Harris

The talented Rosemary Harris continues to pick up steam, garner acclaim, and collect fans with her quirky, beloved Dirty Business Mystery series Fugitive Mom. That’s the tabloid headline that rocks Springfield, Connecticut when one of the town’s favorite ladies is discovered to be an escaped convict. With a little help from the always game Lucy Cavanaugh, Paula is hired to find out which of her neighbors is a fugitive from the law and why the long-kept secret has finally come out. (goodreads)

My thoughts... Let me begin by saying two things. One, this is not my usual genre, I wanted to read this book solely for the cover. Second, this is book three in the Dirty Business series, which I did not realize until I was part way through the book. Keeping those things in mind, I enjoyed reading Dead Head.

While having a bit more background on the characters may have made it more personal, Harris did a brilliant job of creating a world where readers can jump in and make friends. The characters are interesting, mysterious, and witty, which creates an easy bantor between them. I was lacking a touch of romance, which was implied, but probably built up from previous books. While you could tell these characters had a history, they were easy to fall for and relate to on many levels.

Dead Head had an interesting plot full of mystery, suspicious characters, and cunning villians. I often found myself trying to solve the mystery, but was frequently derailed as new clues were revealed. The story moved at a decent pace, keeping readers engaged in the story. I occasionally found myself a bit lost in the details, but Harris did a great job of wrapping it up in the end.

If you are looking for a great mystery for a rainy day, Dead Head is a great option. There is not any offensive language or explicit scenes that will offend. Fans of the series can continue reading with book 4 in the series, Slugfest.

For more information, visit Rosemary Harris at website or follow the links to Goodreads.

Melting Pot Monday

2012-01-30T08:05:00.000-05:00

Boyfriend from Hell

By E Van Lowe

Genre: Paranormal YA

Book 1

Aww, Hell No!

Fifteen year-old Megan Barnett and her single mom, Suze, have a special relationship—they are friends, close friends, who do almost everything together.

“But come on, guys, she’s my mother… Can I really tell her that while we’re snuggled up on the sofa watching Spider Man Three, I’m secretly undressing James Franco with my eyes? Of course not…”

The special bond takes a turn for the worse when Suze decides to start dating again. She hasn’t had a man in her life since Megan’s father left ten years ago.

Enter two mysterious young men, Megan’s new classmate, sinfully attractive bad boy, Guy Matson, and the dangerously handsome art dealer, Armando. Before long Megan and Suze both wind up in steamy relationships. But neither of the handsome guys is quite what he seems. In fact, one of them is Satan, with his sights set on a new bride. Megan has precious little time to figure out how to stop him. If she doesn’t, either Megan or Suze are quite literally going to HELL.

Boyfriend From Hell is the first book in the Falling Angels Saga from the author of the gruesomely hilarious, Never Slow Dance With A Zombie

www.whitewhiskerbooks.com

YouTube Trailer: http://youtu.be/39hI9rmwI5A

I am excited to be part of the E. Van Lowe Valentine Giveaway Tour. Stop back February 6th to enter to win a great prize package including three books and other goodies!

IMM (47)

2012-01-29T09:14:00.000-05:00

This week I got an E-Arc of Jessica Therrien's debut YA novel, Oppression. Also, I picked up a few titles that I missed during my extended absence. Lastly, from Paper Back Swap, I received two PNR books from Dakota Cassidy's Accidental Series.

Oppression comes out on February 28th 2012. Jessica will be here for an interview on March 7th! For more information find her on Goodreads or at her blog.

Possess by, Gretchen McNeil

Vanish by, Sophie Jordan

Sweetly by, Jackson Pearce

Accidentally Demonic by, Dakota Cassidy

The Accidental Human by, Dakota Cassidy

For more information on these great books, follow the links to goodreads.

*IMM is hosted by The Story Siren.

Sequel Saturday (9)

2012-01-28T08:29:00.002-05:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these exciting titles.

Blood Divided

(Soul Born Saga #2)

by Kevin James Breaux

November 27, 2011

here exists an ancient elven proverb, dating before the time of man. Life and death, like day and night, meet at a point where they blend into one. It is that brief moment when anything is possible.

There was a time when four sparks of life burned brighter than the sun itself. Megan was born with power, Lucien born with station. Autumn was born full of life, while Nathan was entwined with death.

Peace has come and gone… The conflicts of old have returned-rejuvenated and driven. This is the beginning of the end. The children of Karn have come of age, and now they will take part in shaping the fate of Illyia.

Will they join forces, or with blood will they be divided?

I really enjoyed the first book in this Epic Fantasy series (read my review of Soul Born). Kevin's second book takes readers on another journey, years later. I am very excited to see what Blood Divided will reveal about this incredible world. For more information, find Kevin on Goodreads or his official website.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

Got INK? (33) ....or jewelry

2012-01-27T15:38:00.001-05:00

There is a trend with books, particularly Urban Fantasy, to display inked models on the covers.

Got INK? features some of these titles.

A Perfect Blood (The Hollows #10)

by Kim Harrison

A Perfect Blood (The Hollows, #10)

February 21, 2012

Ritually murdered corpses are appearing across Cincinnati, terrifying amalgams of human and other. Pulled in to help investigate by the FIB, former witch turned day-walking demon Rachel Morgan soon realizes a horrifying truth — a would-be creator is determined to make his (or her) own demons. But it can’t be done without Rachel’s blood.

As a bounty hunter, Rachel has battled vampires, witches, werewolves, demons, and more. But humanity itself might be her toughest challenge. (goodreads)

I LOVE this series. Rachel is a KICK-BUTT heroine who offers readers exactly what they are looking for in a story. I have not read a while in this world, as I have been letting the books stack up, but this is one sequel I will not miss!!

I was checking back to see when the ink appeared. On the cover of 8 (Black Magic Sanction) Rachel is wearing a black studded band on her arm. On the cover of 9 (Pale Demon) I believe the tat is visible. I need to reread (or catch-up) to see if she got the ink in the story. Anyone know? I may have to send a message to Kim and see if I get a response.

** update.... not actually ink, but a silver bracelet. Kim says its much easier to tell its a silver bracelet on the actual cover of A Perfect Blood. Aw well, this book deserves tons of attention, ink or no ink.

YA review: Bloodrose

2012-01-26T21:57:00.002-05:00

Bloodrose (Nightshade #3)

by Andrea Cremer Bloodrose (Nightshade, #3)

The Ultimate Sacrifice.

Calla has always welcomed war. But now that the final battle is upon her, there’s more at stake than fighting. There’s saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay’s wrath. There’s keeping Ansel safe, even if he’s been branded a traitor. There’s proving herself as the pack’s alpha, facing unnamable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers’ magic once and for all. And then there’s deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

In the final installment of the Nightshade trilogy, New York Times bestselling author Andrea Cremer creates a novel with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until its final pages. A dynamic end to this breathtaking trilogy.(goodreads)

My thoughts...This review is going to be a conglomeration of the last two books because I read them back to back. I get nervous whenever I am reading a trilogy. The ending has to be just right. There is usually so much emotion involved in the story that three books just doesn't seem like enough time to provide closure for the reader. This wasn't the case for me. Andrea Cremer did a great job of wrapping everything up in a neat and tidy ending. The writing in the last book was outstanding. There was quite a bit of drama, but Calla has some tough decisions to make and the whole pack is dealing with some serious loss and conflicts.

Calla shows drastic changes in her personality. She exhibits quite a bit of personal and intellectual growth. The depth of Shay's purpose is fully revealed and the tasks set before him seem impossible. Ren deals with his own demons in more ways than one. Readers can also expect to find a handful of new characters that keep the story fresh and exciting.

Book three moved very fast. It was packed with action and adventure, the much anticipated battle scenes and resolution of the heart-wrenching love triangle. In regards to the love trio... we all knew it was going to end somehow. The drama was very well written and it is sure to tug your heartstrings.

For more information, visit Andrea Cremer at her website.

One for the ...MOVIES?

2012-01-25T20:01:00.000-05:00

If you are a fan of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series you know that One For the Money comes out Friday. Just in time for the premiere, GROUPON is offering tickets to the movie for only $6 each.

Get 'em quick! Follow this link to purchase your tickets!

GROUPON

Waiting On Wednesday

2012-01-25T08:03:00.000-05:00

The Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden #1)

by Julie Kagawa

April 24, 2012

In the dark days since the insidious Red Lung virus decimated the human population, vampires have risen to rule the crumbling cities and suburbs. Uncontested Princes hold sway over diminished ranks of humans: their "pets." In exchange for their labor, loyalty and of course, their blood, these pets are registered, given food and shelter, permitted to survive.

Unregistered humans cling to fringes, scavenging for survival. Allison Sekemoto and her fellow Unregistereds are hunted, not only by vampires, but by rabids, the unholy result of Red Lung-infected vampires feeding on unwary humans. One night, Allie is attacked by a pack of rabids, saved by an unlikely hero...and turned vampire.

Uncomfortable in her undead skin, Allie falls in with a ragtag crew of humans seeking a cure, or cures: for Rabidism and for Vampirism. She's passing for human...for now. But the hunger is growing and will not be denied. Not for friendship—not even for love. (goodreads)

VERY VERY VERY excited to see what Julie Kagawa puts out next. She does not disappoint when it comes to action, adventure and romance so I am sure The Immortal Rules will have us biting our nails in the near future. Another reason to look forward to Spring!! For more information, visit goodreads!

Hacked!

2012-01-24T15:47:00.000-05:00

During my extended absence, my twitter account was hacked. Someone took the liberty of finding me friends, about 1000 of them. That account is no longer active. If you would like to receive updates from this new account, I will follow you back.

https://twitter.com/#!/EllzReadz

I have also updated the Facebook page. You can follow updates here too!
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Ellz-Readz/131193430261050

Teacher Tuesday

2012-01-24T12:54:00.000-05:00

I have been getting quite a few education related books lately for review. This is good because, well, I'm a teacher. Hope a few others find it useful too!

Strategies for Writing in the Science Classroom is a comprehensive book that will benefit teachers of many grades. While it appears to be geared toward teachers of middle and high school students, elementary school teachers will find some of the strategies very helpful.

The book includes sections that include lab reports, data analysis, complete investigating, and recording observations. The others include the use of tools such as KWL charts, quick lists, key words, and word predictions. This is where adaptions to younger grades can be found. Teachers know the value of KWL charts at any age. The vocabulary activities can be adapted depending on the grade and depth of vocabulary instruction.

The methods in Strategies for Writing in the Science Classroom are based on national standards for grades 6-12. Some of my favorite features include:

Examples of completed projects
Adaptations for students including striving learners, ELL students, and accelerated learners
Technology sections that provide tips for including technology into the science lesson. They provide links to valuable websites for student and teacher use. She also promoted the use of blogs and twitter for educational purposes.
Reproducible pages that can be used for student instruction.

Strategies for Writing in the Science Classroom is a great tool for Science teachers. As a reading specialist, I have found many of the strategies provided to be very successful. When used in content areas, teachers can build a strong foundation for writing.

For more information, find this book on Library Thing.

*This book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Read any winners?

2012-01-23T10:50:00.004-05:00

The American Library Association announced some new winners today. Jack Gantos' "Dead End in Norvelt" has won the John Newbery Medal for the best children's book of 2011. Chris Raschka's "A Ball for Daisy" won the Randolph Caldecott award for best illustrated story.

Dead End in Norvelt

by Jack Gantos

Melding the entirely true and the wildly fictional, Dead End in Norvelt is a novel about an incredible two months for a kid named Jack Gantos, whose plans for vacation excitement are shot down when he is "grounded for life" by his feuding parents, and whose nose spews bad blood at every little shock he gets. But plenty of excitement (and shocks) are coming Jack's way once his mom loans him out to help a fiesty old neighbor with a most unusual chore—typewriting obituaries filled with stories about the people who founded his utopian town. As one obituary leads to another, Jack is launced on a strange adventure involving molten wax, Eleanor Roosevelt, twisted promises, a homemade airplane, Girl Scout cookies, a man on a trike, a dancing plague, voices from the past, Hells Angels . . . and possibly murder. Endlessly surprising, this sly, sharp-edged narrative is the author at his very best, making readers laugh out loud at the most unexpected things in a dead-funny depiction of growing up in a slightly off-kilter place where the past is present, the present is confusing, and the future is completely up in the air. Dead End in Norvelt is a Publishers Weekly Best Children's Fiction title for 2011. One of Horn Book’s Best Fiction Books of 2011.

Visit the Macmillan website for an audio clip read by Jack Gantos, a teacher's guide, and purchase information.

====================================================

A Ball for Daisy

by Chris Raschka

Here's a story about love and loss as only Chris Rashcka can tell it. Any child who has ever had a beloved toy break will relate to Daisy's anguish when her favorite ball is destroyed by a bigger dog. In the tradition of his nearly wordless picture book Yo! Yes?, Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka explores in pictures the joy and sadness that having a special toy can bring. Raschka's signature swirling, impressionistic illustrations and his affectionate story will particularly appeal to young dog lovers and teachers and parents who have children dealing with the loss of something special.

For more information, follow the links back to goodreads. Has anyone read or seen either of these? Were you pulling for a different title?

Melting Pot Monday

2012-01-23T08:12:00.000-05:00

Hushed by, Kelley York

Genre: YA Thriller

Publication Date: December 6, 2011

Entangled Publishing

“He’s saved her. He’s loved her. He’s killed for her.

Eighteen-year-old Archer couldn’t protect his best friend, Vivian, from
what happened when they were kids, so he’s never stopped trying to protect
her from everything else. It doesn’t matter that Vivian only uses him when
hopping from one toxic relationship to another—Archer is always there,
waiting to be noticed.

Then along comes Evan, the only person who’s ever cared about Archer
without a single string attached. The harder he falls for Evan, the more
Archer sees Vivian for the manipulative hot-mess she really is.

But Viv has her hooks in deep, and when she finds out about the murders
Archer’s committed and his relationship with Evan, she threatens to turn
him in if she doesn’t get what she wants… And what she wants is Evan’s
death, and for Archer to forfeit his last chance at redemption.”
For more information, visit Kelley York at her website.

***********************************************************************

Sunset Bridge (Happiness Key #3) by, Emilie Richards
Publication Date: June 28, 2011

Former socialite Tracy Deloche has nothing to her name but five ramshackle beach cottages and the unlikely friendships she’s formed with her tenants. Wanda, wise waitress turned popular pie-shop owner. Janya, the young Indian wife, whose arranged marriage surprises her every day. Alice, a widow raising her complex ’tween-age granddaughter. And Maggie, Wanda’s daughter, a former Miami cop with a love life as complicated as Tracy’s own.

As a tropical storm brews, the wind carries surprises and secrets over the bridge to the barrier island. Now, more than ever, five friends will discover just how much they need one another.

For more information, visit the author on Goodreads.

IMM (46)

2012-01-22T15:05:00.000-05:00

Here are some new books on my shelf. Some are old, some are new, some are borrowed and some are...well blue!

For more information, follow the link to goodreads!

Immortal Beloved by, Cate Tiernan

Kane Richards Must Die by, Shanice Williams

Pulse by, Kailin Grow

Dead Head by Rosemary Harris

Bloodrose by Andrea Kremer

Temptaton of Angels by Michelle Zink (arc 3/2012)

I have only completed Bloodrose so far. Currently I am reading Dead Head. Have you read any of these? Which should I read next?

*IMM is hosted by The Story Siren

Waiting On Wednesday

2012-01-18T11:47:00.000-05:00

This electrifying new trilogy blends the best of paranormal and dystopian storytelling in a world where the war is over. And the vampires won.

Humans huddle in their walled cities, supplying blood in exchange for safety. But not even that is guaranteed. Dawn has lost her entire family and now reluctantly serves as the delegate to Lord Valentine, the most powerful vampire for miles. It isn’t until she meets Victor, Valentine’s son, that she realizes not all vampires are monsters....(goodreads)

Despite the familiar cover, I am excited to get my hands on this one. The plot sounds great. I love a good vampire tale especially with a YA spin! This one comes out on May 29th from author J.A. London. It's on my wishlist!!

For more information, find this book on goodreads.

Teacher Tuesday (on Wednesday)

2012-01-11T16:37:00.001-05:00

I have been getting quite a few education related books lately for review. This is good because, well, I'm a teacher. Hope a few others find it useful too!

Math Bafflers: Logic Puzzles That Use Real-World Math (Grades 3-5)
by, Marilynn L. Rapp Buxton
June 1, 2011

"Math Bafflers" requires students to use creativity, critical thinking, and logical reasoning to perform a variety of operations and skills that align with state and national math standards. The book covers real-life situations requiring math skills, such as distance, liquid measures, money, time, weight, sequencing, comparison, age, area, and percentages, along with operations such as fractions, exponents, algebra, place value, and number lines. Students will make hypotheses, organize information, draw conclusions, and use syllogistic thinking. Teachers can feel confident that they are providing challenges and reinforcing important skills in a format that students enjoy! "Math Bafflers" builds essential critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills; develops logical thinking in a fun format; uses relevant, real-life mathematical situations; and provides opportunities for differentiation.

My thoughts...Math Bafflers would be a great tool for teachers of grades 3 and up. The book provides math problems that could easily be photocopied or copied to a board for students to solve. It would make a great "starter" for the day to get students into the math gear. The problems use a variety of skills that will reinforce lessons and challenge learners.

Problem solving is a key component to math instruction. These problems challenge the student to evaluate the problem, create a hypothesis, develop a strategy and discover the solution. The problems are designed to align with national and state math standards.

These problems are challenging. In my experience, third graders would find some of these problems extremely difficult. At the third (and maybe even fourth grade) levels, Math Bafflers would be perfect for differentiating for gifted students. Fifth grade (and even into middle school) teachers can use this as practice, as the student's should be proficient in the majority of skills needed. I would use this in my classroom as a "bell ringer". This is an activity that students complete in their math journals. They would be provided with several minutes to complete the problem, then we would discuss the solution together.

For more information, visit Goodreads.

Melting Pot Monday

2012-01-09T16:18:00.001-05:00

Memoirs of the Damned by, Vincent Autega

Genre – Horror/Fantasy/YA

Publisher - Nina Hobson - Hellicious Horrors Epublishing

“A Vampire epic set in a timeless gothic medieval backdrop with the palpable sensation of rage and loss.

Andross Ameliyo’s world is constantly beset by tragedy. On a stormy night he is given a choice that will ultimately spell damnation for himself or for those around him. Will he choose revenge or redemption?"

For more information, visit the author at the official website ! http://www.hellicioushorrors.com/

*******************************************************************************

Slayer's Kiss by, Cassi Carver

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Coming: February 14, 2012

For more information visit the Samhain website.

The Shadow Slayers, Book 1

Kara Reed is a supernatural failure. But where her magic falls short, her fists get the job done. The criminal element doesn’t stand a chance once she hits San Diego’s dark streets.

When two smoking-hot tenants move in next door, she thinks her love life might finally be heating up. Just being near Gavin and Julian is enough to make her want to offer her body on a platter.

Gavin and Julian know it’s only a matter of time before the truth comes out. They’re fallen angels sent to watch over the king’s daughter, one of the last females of her kind. Trouble is, she doesn’t seem to think she needs watching—unless they’re watching her shimmy out of her clothes.

No matter how tempting her guardians, Kara’s not about to let anything stop her from tracking down a sadistic killer who carves into his victims and leaves them for dead. Even when she realizes her target may be the very scourge of heaven from which her angels swore to protect her…

Product Warnings

Contains a kick-ass heroine with a foul mouth, a kind heart and a raging libido, and two fallen angel warriors who wouldn’t have her any other way. Watch out for sex in the clouds, a magical island of hedonism and a love triangle that gives new meaning to the term “hot-wings”.

The Way We Fell trailer!

2012-01-04T18:32:00.001-05:00

Author Megan Crewe is getting reading to release The Way We Fall on January 24, 2012. That's only a few weeks away. She is giving you the opportunity to win a copy plus some other goodies. Visit her on livejournal for more details!!

In the meantime, enjoy the trailer. The book looks exciting...achoo.

YA review: The Death Catchers

2011-10-13T07:18:00.000-04:00

On her fourteenth Halloween, Lizzy Mortimer sees her first death-specter.

Confused at first, Lizzy soon learns from her grandmother Bizzy that as Death Catchers, they must prevent fate from taking its course when an unjust death is planned-a mission that has been passed down from their ancestor, Morgan le Fay. Only, Lizzy doesn't expect one of her first cases to land her in the middle of a feud older than time between Morgan le Fay and her sister Vivienne le Mort. Vivienne hopes to hasten the end of the world by preventing Lizzy from saving King Arthur's last descendant-humanity's greatest hope for survival. It's up to Lizzy, as Morgan's earthly advocate, to outwit fate before it's too late.

With its unique spin on Arthurian legend, this fresh, smartly written story will stand out in the paranormal genre. (goodreads)

My thoughts...The Death Catchers was an unexpected surprise for me for several reasons. First, I did not read the summary prior to reading, so I did not know this was a tale based on an old story. Secondly, I really enjoyed the characters. Lizzy, the heroine finds herself in a few precarious situations and her emotions felt very real. I understood what she was feeling and sympathized with her often. Bizzy, her grandmother, had great character and added a hint of humor the the story. This memorable character was written so vividly, I could imagine meeting her.

The Death Catchers was a fast-paced story. It was not overrun with subplots, dialogue, or endless rambling. I enjoyed Kogler's writing style. She used vivid language and kept me engaged. I enjoyed the romance that brewed between Lizzy and Drake. It was written in an innocent way that built-up, allowing the reader to be part of the relationship. Another aspect of the story worth mentioning is the method of storytelling. The format is done letter form (Lizzy addressing her teacher, Mrs. Tweedy). Overall, the whole story was very well done. I will be looking for more from this author!

For more information, visit Jennifer at her official website.

*ARC provided by publisher for review.

Review: Soul Born

2011-10-12T15:00:00.000-04:00

All Opal wanted was to be respected as a wielder of magic, but her teachers passed her over time and time again. When a mysterious warlord embarks on a conquest to destroy the lands of Illyia Opal seizes an opportunity to step out from the shadows of her instructors and take her rightful spot among them.
Tala, an alluring young elf, was banished from her tribe, hunted and nearly killed by the beasts that dwell in the deep forests, but more than anything else she is a survivor. Joining forces with an ancient elemental power Tala finds herself in the center of an unrelenting human war. She never wanted any of this.

Flesh like leather and bone as strong as steel Karn, a veteran from the first kingdom to fall, is fueled by vengeance. While pushing ever headlong into battle Karn

Through death of soul, their world is born. (goodreads)

My thoughts... Welcome to a world of good and evil, right and wrong, dark and light. Kevin James Breaux has created a high fantasy world full of mystery, action, violence, love, and deceit.

Readers are introduced to the characters, Opal and Karn in the beginning of the story. Opal is a powerful mage and Karn is a warrior. They seem to be the perfect pair, in love, with a deep respect and passion for each other. However things are not always what they seem to be. When the enchanting elf Tala comes into the picture many paths change course. Another memorable character in the story was Zian, a powerful creature with an iron will and a soft side. The characters were very unpredictable. I found myself switching allegiances often and frequently angered by their actions.

Soul Born takes readers on an animated adventure. The pages of this 306 page novel are packed with action. There is something for everyone. The battle scenes are violent and bloody. The romance is steamy and sultry. The plot is mysterious and will leave you guessing. Breaux did a phenomenal job of world building. I could vividly imagine the lands these characters explore.

I could not end this review without mentioning the end of the story. I was shocked and overwhelmed by the actions of the characters and the results it produced. Hang on to your seats readers, it's gonna be a wild ride.

For more information, visit Kevin James Breaux at his official website.

YA review: The Frenzy

2011-10-11T08:36:00.000-04:00

Liv has a secret.

Something happened to her when she was thirteen. Something that changed everything. Liv knows she doesn’t belong anymore—not in her own skin, not in her family . . . not anywhere. The only time she truly feels like herself is when she’s with her boyfriend, Corey, and in the woods that surround her town.

But in the woods, a mysterious woman watches Liv. In the woods, a pack of wild boys lurks. In the woods, Liv learns about the curse that will haunt her forever. The curse that caused the frenzy four years ago. And that may cause it again, all too soon.

While Corey and Liv’s love binds them together, Liv’s dark secret threatens to tear them apart as she struggles to understand who—or what—she really is. And by the light of the full moon, the most dangerous secrets bare their claws. . . . (goodreads)

My thoughts... Wow, what a surprising read. I was not expecting this much POW out of this novel. I went in not knowing what the story was about. What I found was a lot of themes and characters that had quite a bit to offer. The heroine, Liv, is far from perfect. She struggles internally with emotional issues and insecurities that make her relatable, but set he apart from others. The other characters in the story keep it interesting, they too have traits that set them apart from their community.

This story moved at a great pace; I finished it in just over a day. The writing is very smooth and has a great rhythm that keeps the reader engaged. The plot was interesting. It had elements common to other paranormal series, however the characters kept it fresh and exciting. I will be watching for more from this author!

For more information, visit Francesca at her official website.

Melting Pot Monday

2011-10-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

Sarah should have left Montgomery County when she had the chance, but now it's too late. She is trapped on the rooftop of her family home which is almost completely submerged by dark flood waters. The air smells of a mixture of sewage and mold and it’s still raining. Alone with only her thoughts Sarah is mad she did not leave town years ago when she was right out of high school, before she became the one things she dreaded most; her mother.

Haunted by the reoccurrence of an eerie thumping sound, Sarah is startled when she discovers a large hairy animal, almost the size of a cow, brushing against the corner of her house. What is it? Where did it come from? What other horrors are hiding in the dark water? (image & summary from Amazon.com)

Check it out, only $2.99 on Amazon.

Kevin Breaux James is the author of the Soul Born Saga. For more information, visit him at his official website.

YA review: Hades

2011-10-09T09:23:00.003-04:00

Heaven Help Her.

Bethany Church is an angel sent to Earth to keep dark forces at bay. Falling in love was never part of her mission, but the bond between Beth and her mortal boyfriend, Xavier Woods, is undeniably strong. But even Xavier’s love, and the care of her archangel siblings, Gabriel and Ivy, can’t keep Beth from being tricked into a motorcycle ride that ends up in Hell. There, the demon Jake Thorn bargains for Beth’s release back to Earth. But what he asks of her will destroy her, and quite possibly, her loved ones, as well.

The story that Alexandra Adornetto built in her New York Times-bestselling debut, Halo, comes alive in action-packed and unexpected ways, as angels battle demons, and the power of love is put to the test. (goodreads)

My thoughts...This is the second book by the young, but talented Alexandra Adornetto. If you have not read Halo yet, you can read my review here. In this second installment, I could see a lot of growth in the author. The book seems more focused, the action comes quicker, and the characters are more developed.

Readers will enjoy following Bethany in her adventure. Jake Thorn, gone but not forgotten, makes a startling appearance. Parts of the story were so shocking that it made me want to run to church. Some of the characters did some things that left me shaking my head, but they are young adults left in some pretty intense situations. Overall, I really enjoyed Hades. I am looking forward to more in this series.

For more information, visit Alexandra at her official website.

*ARC provided for review from publisher.

Read Pink

2011-10-07T13:43:00.001-04:00

PENGUIN GROUP (USA) IS IN THE PINK FOR

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

It’s time to think pink to shrink cancer

What’s black and white and pink all over? The initiative by the Penguin Group (USA) called Read Pink™ in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This literary embrace of a life-saving cause last year resulted in nearly 400,000 best-selling romances shipped with Read Pink seals and information about the charity it supports – the Breast Cancer Research Foundation®. In 2010 and 2011, some 12,000 floor displays also carried the Read Pink message. The result raised awareness for BCRF, the only cancer organization to receive A+ from the Institute for Philanthropy.

“We are delighted to be able to continue this initiative in support of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation for a second time. We hope that awareness for the Foundation’s work will only grow by bringing more attention to this important cause,” said Leslie Gelbman, President of Mass Market Publishing, Penguin Group (USA). To mark the occasion, Penguin Group (USA) is again making a $25,000 donation to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

“The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is very grateful to be part of Penguin’s Read Pink program again this year,” said Myra J. Biblowit, President, The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. “This visible initiative will certainly raise awareness about BCRF.”

The donation provides vital funds to support the mission of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. As Dr. Laura J. Esserman, director of the Carole Franc Buck Breast Cancer Center at the University of California at San Francisco said,. “[BCRF] awards support leaders in translational science and assume that they will be able to best dispense the funds. This is invaluable. Most grants require a year’s lead time before ideas can be funded. The BCRF funds allow you to plan ideas a few months ahead, and are flexible in support. The awards also come with the promise of continuity to explore new ideas as they arise. I also really appreciate the annual awards ceremony and the expression of thanks to the scientists. We don’t often get that and it really is rewarding and inspiring to see that people appreciate us, even if we don’t come up with all of the answers. It is an expression of thanks for the efforts we put forward to try to find answers.”

The novels chosen for Read Pink 2011 are eight bestselling mass market titles by some of Penguin Group (USA)’s most beloved female authors. Included this year are Nora Roberts, Catherine Anderson, Christina Dodd, Jillian Hunter, Lynn Kurland, Amanda Quick, Bertrice Small and Lauren Willig. More than 300,000 copies of the special editions will be printed featuring Read Pink seals on the covers. In addition, Penguin Group (USA) is including information in the back of each book in an effort to make readers aware of The Breast Cancer Research Foundation and encourage them to become actively involved in supporting the organization.

For more details about the Read Pink initiative and to view a complete list of the participating retail outlets, please visit www.penguin.com/readpink.

About The Breast Cancer Research Foundation®

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® was founded in 1993 by Evelyn H. Lauder as an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding innovative clinical and translational research. In October 2011, BCRF will award $36.5 million to 186 scientists across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia and China. Currently, more than 90 cents of every dollar donated is directed to breast cancer research and awareness programs. With exceptionally low administrative costs, BCRF continues to be one of the most efficient organizations in the country. BCRF has received an“A+” from The American Institute of Philanthropy. For more information about BCRF, visit www.bcrfcure.org.

About Penguin Group (USA)

Penguin Group (USA) Inc. is the U.S. member of the internationally renowned Penguin Group. Penguin Group (USA) is one of the leading U.S. adult and children's trade book publishers, owning a wide range of imprints and trademarks, including Viking, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, The Penguin Press, Riverhead Books, Dutton, Penguin Books, Berkley Books, Gotham Books, Portfolio, New American Library, Plume, Tarcher, Philomel, Grosset & Dunlap, Puffin, and Frederick Warne, among others. The Penguin Group (http://draft.blogger.com/) is part of Pearson plc, the international media company.

Iron Knight Sneak Peak!!

2011-09-22T16:22:00.001-04:00

I am pleased and honored to be part of the Sneak Peak Circle.

Enjoy the trailer...

I know, I know... it's not nice to tease. Never fear, you can watch the whole trailer September 28th on the Harlequin TEEN facebook page! Go like them now so you don't miss a thing!

Trailer Tuesday: Happy Release Day!

2011-07-12T09:49:00.001-04:00

Happy Release Day to Carrie Harris. Her book, Bad Taste In Boys hits shelves today!

For more information, including purchase links, visit Carrie at her website.

Cover Love?

2011-07-11T09:59:00.001-04:00

I am in the middle of reading Touch of Frost, which is the YA debut for author Jennifer Estep. I was very excited to see the cover for the sequel, Kiss of Frost. I think the cover is beautiful!

Here is the blurb... (keep in mind this is book 2, may contain spoilers)

Logan Quinn was trying to kill me. My Spartan classmate relentlessly pursued me, swinging his sword at me over and over again, the shining silver blade inching closer to my throat every time. A smile tugged up his lips, and his ice-blue eyes practically glowed with the thrill of battle …

I’m Gwen Frost, a second-year warrior-in-training at Mythos Academy, and I have no idea how I’m going to survive the rest of the semester. One day, I’m getting schooled in swordplay by the guy who broke my heart — the drop-dead gorgeous Logan who slays me every time. Then, an invisible archer in the Library of Antiquities decides to use me for target practice. And now, I find out that someone at the academy is really a Reaper bad guy who wants me dead. I’m afraid if I don’t learn how to live by the sword — with Logan’s help — I just might die by the sword …

(from J. Estep's website)

Kiss of Frost will be out on November 29th. Visit Jennifer at her website to read the first two chapters and to find purchase information.

BUT WAIT...

Don't forget Touch of Frost comes out July 26th!

Follow this link to preorder your copy!

Cover Love

2011-06-13T21:34:00.000-04:00

Being a huge fan of The Iron Thorn by Caitlin Kittridge, I swooned a bit of the cover to it's sequel...

The Nightmare Garden.

Not a lot of info yet, but here is The Iron Thorn cover...

Like the first cover, I love the steampunky feel. Her face is still a bit zombie looking, but I still love it.

For more information, visit Caitlin at her official website.

Orbit presents...Jaz Parks Shorts

2011-05-26T12:44:00.002-04:00

Fans of the late Jennifer Rardin will be pleased to hear that orbit will be releasing a series of "shorts". The first of these digital releases is titled Scouting Jasmine and can be purchased for $1.99.

This month, fans can read the second short, The Golum Hunt which takes place between Biting the Bullet (Book 3) and Bitten to Death (Book 4) of the Jaz Parks Series. In it a rabbi raises a terrifying ancient creature – the golem – to protect his congregation, but the results are far bloodier than he could ever have imagined. Now, Jaz and Vayl, the CIA’s top assassins, must hunt down the golem and end its reign of terror. (orbit)

According to Orbit, here is what fans can look forward to...

Next month, we’ll be releasing, An Evening for Vayl and Jaz. A romantic evening told from both their perspectives. We also have two stories outside of the Jaz Parks universe. In July, we’ll have the Minion Chronicles, a short stories about two college students who get involved with a voodoo queen. And in August, we have the upcoming Zombie Jamboree about a reality TV host who is unprepared for zomibies to take over her TV show.

This will be on my wishlist. Be sure to visit Orbit for all the details!

Sequel Saturday (8)

2011-05-21T08:25:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books. This week I chose Wolfsbane, book two in the Nightshade series by Andrea Cremer.

July 26th 2011

by Philomel

This thrilling sequel to the much-talked-about Nightshade begins just where it ended–Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemy, and she's certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer–one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack–and the man–she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.(goodreads)

Ok, so do you have a sequel that you are excited for or one that you love? It can be coming out or already released. Feel free to do your own post and leave me a link in the comments.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

Starcrossed Tour Stop + Giveaways!!

2011-05-18T00:00:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to bring host the third stop on the Starcrossed tour hosted by Kismet Book Touring.

Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it’s getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she’s haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they’re destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.

As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart. (goodreads)

I am excited to provide you with not only the next piece in the puzzle but the chance to win a GelaSkin of Starcrossed cover art for your own Kindle 3. (see image below)

Giveaway is open to residents of the US. To enter, please complete the form below...

How would you like to win a Kindle 3 WiFi?

Contest rules for the Kindle give-away

•In order to enter to win a Kindle3 WiFi, including a copy of Starcrossed, a personal letter from Josie to the winner and covered in a GelaSkin of Starcrossed's cover art, you must collect the pink highlighted words from Lucas's love letter to Helen that are provide each day at the individual tour stops. The daily words can be joined together in sequential order to create the winning secret message. Once you've constructed the winning secret message, you will need to enter that message on Starcrossed's tour home page (http://www.kismetbt.com/upcoming-tour/starcrossed-by-josephine-angelini-on-tour-mayjune).

•No purchase, affiliation, status as follower to a certain blog or any other association is required to enter.

•Full rules for the contest can be found at the Starcrossed tour home page (http://www.kismetbt.com/upcoming-tour/starcrossed-by-josephine-angelini-on-tour-mayjune).

•Winner of the Kindle give-away will be announced on Josie's homepage (http://www.josephineangelini.com/blog/) on Tuesday, June 7th.

Here is the next piece of the letter...

Be sure to visit the rest of the stops on the tour. Good luck!

Monday May, 16th - Bewitched Bookworms Tour Kick-off!
Tuesday, May 17th - Becky, Stories & Sweeties
Wednesday, May 18th - Elie, Ellz Reads
Thursday, May 19th - Heidi, YA Bibliophile
Friday, May 20th - See Scoot Read Character Interview with Helen's BFF Claire
Monday May, 23th - Missie, The Unread Reader "When I'm not Writing"
Tuesday, May 24th - Savanna, Books with Bite
Wednesday, May 25th - Natalie, The Mindful Musings Character Interview with Helen
Thursday, May 26th - Heather, Buried in Books Interview with Josie
Friday, May 27th - Nely, All about {n} "Josie's Bookcase"
Monday May, 30th - Candace, Candace's Book Blog Interview with Josie
Tuesday, May 31st (Starcrossed Book Birthday!) - Kristi, The Story Siren Vlog post by Josie
Wednesday, June 1st - Small Review
Thursday, June 2nd - Jenny, Supernatural Snark Character Interview with Lucas
Friday, June 3rd - Cynthia - A Book About Nothing
Tuesday, June 7th: Announcement of the big prize winner on Josie's Blog!

Prizes:

One Kindle 3 WiFi with a beautiful Starcrossed Skin – plus 10 lucky winners will recieve a Starcrossed Skin of their own personal Kindle3

Sequel Saturday (7)

2011-05-14T09:15:00.001-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

Dead Reckoning

by, Charlaine Harris

Southern Vampire #11

May 3, 2011

With her knack for being in trouble's way, Sookie witnesses the firebombing of Merlotte's, the bar where she works. Since Sam Merlotte is now known to be two-natured, suspicion falls immediately on the anti-shifters in the area. But Sookie suspects otherwise and she and Sam work together to uncover the culprit - and the twisted motive for the attack. But her attention is divided. Though she can't 'read' vampires, Sookie knows her lover Eric Northman and his 'child' Pam well - and she realises that they are plotting to kill the vampire who is now their master. Gradually, she is drawn into the plot -which is much more complicated than she knows. Caught up in the politics of the vampire world, Sookie will learn that she is as much of a pawn as any ordinary human - and that there is a new Queen on the board . . .(goodreads)

For more information, or to read the first chapter. Visit Charlaine Harris at her official website.

Ok, so do you have a sequel that you are excited for or one that you love? It can be coming out or already released. Feel free to do your own post and leave me a link in the comments.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

Interview/Giveaway: Jennifer Estep

2011-05-13T15:31:00.000-04:00

Greetings and salutations! First of all, I want to say thanks to Elie for having me on the blog today. Thanks so much, Elie!

So today, Elie asked me to talk a little bit about the rules that my heroine Gin Blanco follows in my Elemental Assassin urban fantasy series. For those of you not familiar with them, the books focus on Gin Blanco, an assassin code named the Spider who can control the elements of Ice and Stone. When she’s not busy killing people and righting wrongs, Gin runs a barbecue restaurant called the Pork Pit in the fictional Southern metropolis of Ashland. The city is also home to giants, dwarves, vampires, and elementals Air, Fire, Ice, and Stone.

Books in the series are Spider’s Bite, Web of Lies, and Venom. Tangled Threads, the fourth book, was published on April 26, while Spider’s Revenge, the fifth book, will be released in October.

Now, Gin is an assassin, but even she has rules that she follows – a code of conduct, if you will. Gin’s rules are pretty simple. She doesn’t kill kids or pets, and she doesn’t frame other people for the murders that she commits. But if an innocent person or someone that she loves is being threatened, well, Gin is more than ready to pull out her silverstone knives and solve the problem in the bloody, permanent fashion that she’s so very good at. Think of her as an assassin with a heart of gold – or something like that. LOL.

So why did I give Gin these rules to follow? Well, I knew that it would be somewhat difficult to write an assassin character and have her be the heroine and have folks actually like and even root for her. So that’s why I gave Gin her own sort of moral code and lines that even she won’t cross. I think with any sort of antihero character – assassins, thieves, spies, etc. – that you have to give them rules and reasons for doing the things that they do and you have to set boundaries for them.

To go along with the rules, I put Gin in my fictional city of Ashland – a dark, gritty, violent, corrupt place. Ashland is the kind of city where it’s survival of the fittest, and Gin being an assassin blends in with the rest of my world building. Gin witnessed the death of her mother and older sister and was forced to live on the streets. She became the assassin the Spider more to survive than anything else – and now, she’s all grown up and looking for revenge against the person who murdered her family.

But even though she’s bent on revenge, Gin isn’t going to forget her rules. For example, in Tangled Threads, the latest book in the series, Gin searches for a kidnapped girl and puts her life on the line to save the girl’s – even though it would have been easier for Gin to not even search for the girl in the first place.

But that’s the kind of heroine Gin is – tough and cranky on the outside and a bit of a softie on the inside, whether she wants to admit it or not. Hopefully, readers will enjoy seeing how Gin reconciles her rules with taking down the bad guys in Tangled Threads and the rest of the books in the series. Fingers crossed, anyway. ;-)

What about you guys? Do you like rules when it comes to antiheroes? Why or why not?

Jennifer also writes the Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series for Kensington. The books focus on Gwen Frost, a 17-year-old Gypsy girl who has the gift of psychometry, or the ability to know an object’s history just by touching it. After a serious freak-out with her magic, Gwen is shipped off to Mythos Academy, a school for the descendants of ancient warriors like Spartans, Valkyries, Amazons, and more.

The first book, Touch of Frost, will be out in August, while the second book, Kiss of Frost, will hit shelves in December. First Frost, a prequel e-story to the series, will be out in July. Visit http://www.jenniferestep.com/ for excerpts and more.

Thanks Jennifer. This is a very exciting year for you!

Jennifer is kind enough to offer a copy of Tangled Threads to a lucky reader in the US or Canada. To enter...answer Jennifer's question in the comments below. Giveaway ends May 21st.

What about you guys? Do you like rules when it comes to antiheroes? Why or why not?

Trailer Tuesday: Die For Me

2011-05-10T09:07:00.000-04:00

Happy Release Day to Amy Plum. Die For Me hits shelves today!

Follow this link to purchase from Amazon. For more information, visit Amy at her official website.

Scholastic's Charity Auction

2011-05-09T15:28:00.001-04:00

Twelve top children’s book illustrators created original artwork for Scholastic’s month-long online charity auction (which just opened for bids) to benefit Reading Is Fundamental and Reach Out and Read, two amazing literacy organizations that have lost all federal funding, making it even more difficult for them to help the kids who need it the most.

To view the spectacular original artwork by all 12 artists, simply go to www.scholastic.com/readeveryday. From there pick a favorite, place a bid, and put books into the hands of the neediest kids - and they’ll have a piece of original art by a beloved children’s artist that illustrates the important role of books in all our lives.

Here's a example of what you'll find there...

Mary GrandPré, illustrator of the Harry Potter...

Trailer Tuesday: The Meowmorphois

2011-05-03T10:22:00.000-04:00

Ok, this is probably not something I would read, but the trailer was kind of funny in a "ewwww" sort of way. Any Quirk fans out there? I know there are. Enjoy.

For more information, visit Quirk Classics.

meow.

Divergent Trailer!!

2011-05-02T15:55:00.001-04:00

Ok, you have to follow the link until I can find the html to embed. Go watch! What do you think?

http://shelf-life.ew.com/2011/05/02/veronica-roths-divergent-gets-a-book-trailer-exclusive-video/

WoW: Torn

2011-04-27T14:59:00.000-04:00

June 28th 2011

Kensington

Everyone has secrets. Even best friends. Mo Fitzgerald knows about secrets. But when she witnesses her best friend’s murder, she discovers Verity was hiding things she never could have guessed. To find the answers she needs and the vengeance she craves, Mo—quiet, ordinary, unmagical Mo—will have to enter a world of raw magic and shifting alliances. And she’ll have to choose between two very different, equally dangerous guys—protective, duty-bound Colin and brash, mysterious Luc. One wants to save her, one wants to claim her. Which would you choose?(goodreads)

For more information, visit Erica at her official website.

Fairy Tale Fortnight Madlibs

2011-04-23T09:00:00.000-04:00

Misty is hosting Fairy Tale Fortnight on her blog Book Rat. A few weeks ago, she gave readers some blank Mad Libs to fill out and share. Well after several tries, I failed miserably. I have some sort of MadLib block. So I found this nifty site that asks you words and creates your own Fairy Tale MadLib.

Here is my MadLib from the Fairy Tale Mad Lib site. The colored words are my word selections.

The Story of Little Red sparkling Hood

Once upon a necklace, there lived a robust girl called "Little Red sparkling Hood". Little Red sparkling Hood just loved to float in the forest. One day, her sister called to her and said, "Little Red sparkling hood, would you please bring this basket of chickens to your colorful grandmother in the woods?" Little Red sparkling Hood started off down the painting, but on the way she met a big bad chocolate. "Where are you going?" the chocolate asked her. "Oh," she replied, "I am going to bring these chickens to my grandmother, so that she will become less colorful!" The chocolate quickly ran down the painting to grandma's house, and when he got there he withered her in one gulp! He quickly put on her panties and got in the eagle. When Little Red sparkling Hood walked in, she was flustered to see the chocolate in grandma's eagle. "Why grandma!" she said. "What big meatballs you have!" "The better to sprint you with, my dear!" he yelled, and jumped out of the eagle. Luckily, at that very moment a handsome book blogger happened to be walking along the painting and heard Little Red sparkling Hood fighting with the chocolate. He rocked the door down, then smacked the chocolate with his own vampire. The chocolate begged for mercy and ran away. Then Little red sparkling hood and the book blogger shared some chickens, and lived dramaticly ever after.

So there is my MadLib, big meatballs and all. If you want to make your own MadLib, use Misty's ouline or visit the MadLib generator. Don't like that one, here's another generator.

Have Fun!

YA Interview: Malinda Lo

2011-04-21T00:03:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to be part of the Huntress Blog tour and to have the opportunity to interview the talented Malinda Lo. Enjoy!

1. Huntress is a novel set in the same world as Ash, but at a completely different time. How would you describe the differences in the characters' worlds?
ML:At the very beginning of Ash, a little bit of the world's history is explained, specifically the arrival of philosophers from the Empire of Concordia. Some readers of Ash may also remember that the Queen in that book is actually Concordian.

Before the philosophers arrived with their version of science, magic was much more widespread in the Kingdom. Huntress is set in this time — well before Concordia made any inroads into the culture of the Kingdom, and during a time when magic was thoroughly institutionalized in the society.

Additionally, Huntress feels more Asian culturally, because that's what the Kingdom was like before the Concordians came.

2. A strong heroine makes a story worth reading. You offer readers two. How would you describe Kaede and Taisin?
ML: Kaede is the magic-less daughter of the King's Chancellor, the younger sister to three older brothers, and a tomboy. She is in training at the Academy of Sages because that's where all high-born girls are sent regardless of whether they have any talents with magic. I think she's self-aware and loyal, qualities I really admire.

Taisin is a farmer's daughter who was admitted into the Academy because she is so talented with magic. She's basically there on a scholarship, and because of that she feels that she has a responsibility to work hard and ultimately become a sage. Even though she is so gifted, she has never truly been asked to perform under pressure, and during Huntress she has to do just that.

3. At the conclusion of Huntress, you leave the door open for more exploration into this world. Do you plan on continuing with the journey of these characters?
ML: I don't have plans to write any more books set in this world right now, but I have written a short story called "The Fox," which is about Kaede and is set two years after the end of Huntress. It was just published by Subterranean Magazine and is now available online for everyone to read for free (http://subterraneanpress.com/index.php/magazine/summer-2011/fiction-the-fox-by-malinda-lo/). I think you can read it before or after reading Huntress, but if you're super concerned about spoilers you should read Huntress first.

4. Did you have to do much research for Huntress?
ML: I just love research, so I couldn't help reading a bunch of stuff I probably didn't need to read! I read about Chinese medicine, for example, thinking that I'd use a lot more of it in the book than I actually did. I read Zen in the Art of Archery, a book from the 1950s about a Westerner who learns the Japanese art of kyudo (archery). That came up quite a lot in Huntress.

The magic in Huntress is based in Taoism and qigong, so I read about Chinese philosophy (including the Dao De Jing) and the practice of qigong, which is a kind of martial art that involves the manipulation of qi (energy) through movement and breath. There's just endless amounts of stuff you could read about these things, and the hard part was knowing when I could stop researching and just write, since it's fiction, not an academic paper!

5. Lastly, what do you do in your free time? Any guilty pleasures?
ML: These days my free time has become very precious, and I can tell you exactly what I do with it: I watch The Vampire Diaries or Top Chef or Battlestar Galactica (the latter on Netflix — I'm rewatching BSG from the beginning and I'm now about halfway through season 1 again). I used to watch a lot more TV when I was a TV reporter, and for a long time I couldn't stand to watch it anymore. But now that I can choose what I watch, it's a lot more fun. I don't think I really feel guilty about it, though!

Malinda, thanks for taking the time to interview with me and congratulations on your new release!

For more information, visit Malinda at her official website or on goodreads.

But Wait...There's More. Visit these other blogs to read more from Malinda!

Monday, 4/18 – The Naughty Book Kitties
Tuesday, 4/19 – Manga Maniac Cafe
Wednesday, 4/20 – Mundie Moms

Friday, 4/22 – Steph Su Reads
Monday, 4/25 – Bibliophilic Book Blog
Tuesday, 4/26 – Reading in Color

Sequel Saturday (6)

2011-04-16T08:17:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

Crossed (Matched #2)

by Ally Condie

November 1st 2011

Dutton Juvenile

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.

Cassia’s quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander — who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia’s heart — change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

Ok, so do you have a sequel that you are excited for or one that you love? It can be coming out or already released. Feel free to do your own post and leave me a link in the comments. If there is some interest, I will put up a linky and come up with a snazzy button.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

WoW: Spellbound

2011-04-13T08:52:00.000-04:00

Spellbound

by, Cara Lynn Schultz

June 21st 2011

Harlequin Teen

What’s a girl to do when meeting The One means she’s cursed to die a horrible death?

Life hasn’t been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she’s irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.

But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can’t stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma’s been having the oddest dreams. Visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.(goodreads)

For more information, find Cara Lynn on goodreads or on her blog.

*WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine

Sequel Saturday (5)

2011-04-09T09:46:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

This week I am jumping out of the YA world and featuring on of my favorite UF authors, Chloe Neill.

HARD BITTEN

Chicagoland Vampires: Book Four

May 3, 2011

Times are hard for newly minted vampire Merit. Ever since shapeshifters announced their presence to the world, humans have been rallying against supernaturals--and they're camping outside of Cadogan House with protest signs that could turn to pitchforks at any moment. Inside its doors, things between Merit and her Master, green-eyed heartbreaker Ethan Sullivan are ... tense. But then the mayor of Chicago calls Merit and Ethan to a clandestine meeting and tells them about a violent vamp attack that has left three women missing. His message is simple: get your House in order. Or else.

Merit needs to get to the bottom of this crime, but it doesn't help that she can't tell who's on her side. So she secretly calls in a favor from someone who's tall, dark, and part of underground vamp group that may have some deep intel on the attack. Merit soon finds herself in theheady, dark heart of Chicago's supernatural society--a world full of vampires who seem to ready to fulfill the protesting human's worst fears, and a place where she'll learn that you can't be a vampire without getting a little blood on your hands...

For more information, including preorder links and the first chapter, visit Chloe at her website.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

Cover LOVE?

2011-04-07T21:20:00.002-04:00

Author Lia Habel shared the long awaited cover for her October debut novel.

I think the colors in the cover are striking!

October 2011 Release

Random House

As far as romantic pairings go in the year 2195, you don't get much more unlikely than an upper-class schoolgirl and a poor miner from enemy tribes. Filter in the fact that he's a zombie, and you're definitely talking about star-crossed love.

Dearly, Departed is a cyber-Victorian/steampunk romance that takes place in the shadow of a new ice age. Nora Dearly, a mouthy teenage girl and apparent orphan, leaves school for Christmas - only to be dragged into the night by the living dead. Luckily for her, though, the good ones got to her first. From her reanimated rescuers she learns not only that zombies are roaming the countryside, but that her father is one - and that he's in terrible trouble. She also meets Captain Bram Griswold, a noble, strong, and rather sweet undead boy for whom she starts to fall.

Meanwhile, her best friend, Pamela Roe, is just trying to carry on with life as best she can in the wake of Nora's disappearance - when she ends up killing an evil zombie in self-defense. Pam is galvanized into action, and ends up leading a group of survivors as the city of New London is thronged by the ravenous dead.

Upon hearing of Pamela's plight, Nora and Bram set out to rescue her friends, find her missing father, and maybe just save what's left of the world.(goodreads)

For more information, visit Lia at her website.

Are you in Cover LOVE?

Winners and a Note

2011-04-07T10:03:00.000-04:00

I am sorry for my recent absence. I have been busy with school but also more than a little frustrated with the drama in the blogging community. I try my best to ignore it, but when it pops up so frequently it's hard to ignore. Anyways, I have resolved myself to tighten my blinders and continue to blog for my own reasons. If someone doesn't like it, well tough jelly beans.

So how about some winners?

Review Me Giveaway

Stack 1 goes to...
Molly W (email starts with mol8)

Stack 2 goes to...
Farrah (email starts with farrae)

Winners, I will be emailing you today, so check your inboxes.
Stay tuned, I have arcs of Divergent and Exposed that could use another review.

Trailer Tuesday: Coming Soon!

2011-04-05T08:55:00.000-04:00

On my waiting list is book two in the Guardian Legacy series by Ednah Walters. No cover for Betrayed yet, but here is a trailer to tide us over.

For more information, visit Ednah Walters at her official website.

Didn't read the first book? Read my review here.

Sequel Saturday (4)

2011-04-02T09:05:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

This week I am featuring Passion, the third book in Lauren Kate's Fallen series.

Passion

by, Lauren Kate

June 14th 2011

Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Before Luce and Daniel met at Sword & Cross and fought immortals at Shoreline, they lived many lives. . . .

For more information, visit Lauren at her official website.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

Leah Clifford's vlog

2011-03-31T11:13:00.000-04:00

Have you seen this vlog by Leah Clifford. Check it out and be sure to enter her giveaway!

Follow this link for more information.

Cover Love?

2011-03-30T14:39:00.000-04:00

Jennifer Estep shared the NEW cover for her debut YA release, Touch Of Frost.

Here is what she had to say:

"I like both covers, but I think the girl cover is a better fit for the book/series. To me, it’s a little hipper and edgier and says young adult urban fantasy more than the gargoyle cover did. I think that’s important since Touch of Frost is all about my heroine, Gwen Frost, and is told from her first-person point of view."

(from back cover)

My name is Gwen Frost, and I go to Mythos Academy — a school of myths, magic and warrior whiz kids, where even the lowliest geek knows how to chop off somebody’s head with a sword and Logan Quinn, the hottest Spartan guy in school, also happens to be the deadliest.

But lately, things have been weird, even for Mythos. First, mean girl Jasmine Ashton was murdered in the Library of Antiquities. Then, someone stole the Bowl of Tears, a magical artifact that can be used to bring about the second Chaos War. You know, death, destruction and lots of other bad, bad things. Freaky stuff like this goes on all the time at Mythos, but I’m determined to find out who killed Jasmine and why – especially since I should have been the one who died …

Here is the old cover...

Which one do you like better?

I agree with Jennifer, I like the new one, it's more attention grabbing. Wonder if they'll change it again? For more information, visit Jennifer at her website.

YA review: Divergent

2011-03-30T11:41:00.002-04:00

Divergent
by, Veronica Roth
May 3rd 2011
HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books

One choice

One choice decides your friends, defines your beliefs, and determines your loyalties . . . forever.

Or, one choice can transform you.

In Veronica Roth's debut novel, Divergent, a perfect society unfolds into a dystopian world of electrifying decisions, stunning consequences, heartbreaking betrayals, and unexpected romance. (goodreads)

My thoughts....Wow, Divergent is perhaps one of the most intense, edge-of-your-seat, heart stopping books I have ever read. I got a huge adrenalin rush just reading it.

I devoured this book. The advanced reader's copy came in just shy of 500 pages and I could not turn them quick enough. Divergent introduces readers to a world where society is divided into factions. You are born into a faction, then once you reach your sixteenth birthday, you have the difficult choice of staying with your family and current lifestyle, or leaving it behind to join another. Sounds easy, right? As fans of dystopian literature know, nothing is ever easy. The heroine, Beatrice, learns this the hard way.

This book is centered around society and the characters' positions within the society. Readers will meet some people who they would want to call their friends, and others that make you want to watch your back. The heroine, Beatrice is incredibly strong. Her bravery and commitment take readers on a wild ride.

Divergent in non-stop action. Roth's writing takes readers to the edge and leaves them gasping for air. The world building leaves a vivid image. The plot keeps readers on their toes trying to answer questions. There is also a touch of innocent romance. Definitely something for everyone.

Read this book, you will not be disappointed.

For more information, visit Veronica Roth at her blog. Follow this link to purchase Divergent from your favorite bookseller.

*This arc was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.

Trailer Tuesday: Release Day

2011-03-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Release Day to Cindy Pon.

Check out the trailer for Fury Of The Phoenix, the sequel to Silver Phoenix.

For more information, visit Cindy at her official website.

*******************************************************************

Another book hitting shelves today is Born At Midnight by, CC Hunter.

For more information, visit CC at her website.

Congratulations ladies!

Melting Pot Monday

2011-03-28T10:33:00.000-04:00

Tattoo: The Awakening
by, Toni Leland
Young Adult
March 2011

TATTOO: THE AWAKENING is a contemporary story with supernatural overtones.
Biracial Danielle Clark never dreamed she’d spend her senior year in a hick school full of farmers. Still reeling from the shock of her parents’ separation, Danielle discovers that being neither black nor white in a small rural town makes her a prime target for adolescent cruelty. When she meets Meli, a fearless Native American girl, Danielle becomes mesmerized by her new friend’s WTF outlook on life, and makes an impulsive decision to get a tattoo. Through a series of frightening events, belief in the spiritual power of her tattoo instills Danielle with new insight into human nature, the courage to face the future, and the revelation that she’s the only one in charge of her happiness. TATTOO: THE AWAKENING is a contemporary story with supernatural overtones.

For more information, including purchase links, visit Toni Leland's official website.

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Do Not Be Awake
by, Sergio Mendoza
February 2011

—This is not a prize at all —he corrected me—. If you are tired of the world, the world is more tired of you. It is your ineptitude and unpleasant. That is the reason why we have decided that your life ends here.
This is the story of Daniel Boom, and you need read it.

For more information, visit Sergio at his official website. Follow this link to read the first chapter.

Sequel Saturday (3)

2011-03-26T10:07:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

This week I am featuring:

City of Fallen Angels (the 4th book in The Mortal Instruments series)

City of Fallen Angels

by, Cassandra Clare

April 5, 2011

“City of Fallen Angels takes place two months after the events of City of Glass. In it, a mysterious someone’s killing the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine’s Circle and displaying their bodies around New York City in a manner designed to provoke hostility between Downworlders and Shadowhunters, leaving tensions running high in the city and disrupting Clary’s plan to lead as normal a life as she can — training to be a Shadowhunter, and pursuing her relationship with Jace. As Jace and Clary delve into the issue of the murdered Shadowhunters, they discover a mystery that has deeply personal consequences for them — consequences that may strengthen their relationship, or rip it apart forever. Meanwhile, internecine warfare among vampires is tearing the Downworld community apart, and only Simon — the Daylighter who everyone wants on their side — can decide the outcome; too bad he wants nothing to do with Downworld politics. Love, blood, betrayal and revenge: the stakes are higher than ever in City of Fallen Angels.” (goodreads)

For more information, visit Cassandra at her official website.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

YA review: Exposed

2011-03-25T10:30:00.000-04:00

Exposed
by, Kimberly Marcus
February 22nd 2011
Random House Books for Young Readers

In the dim light of the darkroom, I'm alone, but not for long.

As white turns to gray, Kate is with me.
The background of the dance studio blurred, so the focus is all on her
legs extended in a perfect soaring split.
The straight line to my squiggle,
my forever-best friend.

Sixteen-year-old Liz Grayson is photogirl—sharp, focused and ready to take the world by storm with her camera. But Liz's entire life is called into question when her brother is accused of a crime—and the accuser is Liz's own best friend. As the aftershocks from that accusation rip through Liz's world, everything she thought she knew about photography, family, friendship and herself, shifts out of focus. And for the first time in her life, Liz finds herself unable to trust her own point of view. Told in stunning, searingly raw free verse, Exposed is Kimberly Marcus's gut-wrenching, riveting debut and will appeal to fans of Ellen Hopkins, Laurie Halse Anderson and Virginia Euwer Wolff.(goodreads)

My thoughts...This is one of those stories that will leave you thinking about right and wrong.

Liz finds herself in an agonizing situation when her best friend accuses her brother of a horrible crime. As she tells the story, she experiences feelings like guilt, shame, fear, anger, and frustration. As the reader, you really experience each of these feeling with her.

The story is told in verse, which makes the book interesting in several ways. First, it is a very quick read. Once you start, it's hard to stop reading. Secondly, the pages are short and to the point. You don't get a lot of filler or side stories. This really drove the emotions home.

I noticed quite a bit of character development, but not in the traditional sense. Liz's passion is photography. It is through her pictures, or at times the lack of content in her pictures, that I really noticed the changes in her character.

Exposed is an emotional story. It deals with tough issues and leaves the reader feeling raw and emotional. Exposed is also a powerful story, one that I would recommend.

For more information, find Kimberly at goodreads or at her website.

*I received this ARC from Random Buzzers.

YA review: Fins Are Forever

2011-03-25T09:22:00.001-04:00

On Lily Sanderson’s eighteenth birthday she’ll become just a girl—still a mer girl, true, but signing the renunciation paperwork will ink Princess Waterlily of Thalassinia out of existence. That leaves plain old Lily living on land, dating the boy she loves, and trying to master this being human thing once and for all.

Now that Lily and Quince are together, mer-bond or not, she’s almost content to give up her place in the royal succession of Thalassinia. But just when she thinks she has everything figured out, Lily’s father sends a certain whirlpool-stirring cousin to stay with her on land. What did Doe do to get herself exiled from Thalassinia and stuck in terraped form, when everyone knows how much she hates humans? And why why why is she batting her eyelashes at Lily’s former crush, Brody?

The seafoam on the surf comes when a merboy from Lily’s past shows up. Tellin asks Lily for something that clouds her view of the horizon. There’s a future with Quince on land, her loyalty to the kingdom in the sea, and Lily tossing on the waves in the middle. Will she find a way to reconcile her love, her duty, and her dreams?(goodreads)

My thoughts...Fins are forever is a fun continuation of the first book, Forgive My Fins.

Remember Doe from the first book? She is the evil cousin who despises all humans. Well, she's back and commands attention in Fins Are Forever. She was exiled and now it is Lily's responsibility to help her see the error of her ways. On top of that, Lilly has to deal with the fact that she will be forever relinquishing her title of Princess to be with her true love.

This installment started off a bit slow, but then wrapped me up in Lily's dilemmas. The story was fun and humorous at times. The most impressive part was the amount of character development. All of the characters showed growth. As in the first book, I really enjoyed the visual effects provided by the Tera Lynn Child's writing style. I could imagine myself visiting the underwater land of Thalassinia.

If you have not read Forgive My Fins, I would recommend you start there. Fins Are Forever is a fun read for kids of all ages.

For more information, visit the author's website or find her on goodreads.

*This ARC was provided by Around The World Tours for review.

Winners!

2011-03-24T11:44:00.001-04:00

Big thanks to author Kevin James Breaux for taking the time to interview with me and offering a signed copy of his book for a lucky reader.

Also, thanks to everyone who entered and left comments for Kevin.

As decided by Random.org, the winner of the signed Soul Born is...

donnas
signed swag winners are:
Rosie
Bethany C
Ricki

Big congrats and watch your inbox (if your email is available), I will be emailing you for your addy. If no email is available, please email me at zenfoxflowerATyahoooDOTcom

Didn't win, Soul Born is Now on KINDLE! And the publisher listed it on SALE for $0.99!!!!

Follow this link to purchase or search Soul Born Breaux!

YA review: Chime

2011-03-24T09:00:00.000-04:00

Chime
by, Franny Billingsley
March 17th 2011
Dial

Before Briony's stepmother died, she made sure Briony blamed herself for all the family's hardships. Now Briony has worn her guilt for so long it's become a second skin. She often escapes to the swamp, where she tells stories to the Old Ones, the spirits who haunt the marshes. But only witches can see the Old Ones, and in her village, witches are sentenced to death. Briony lives in fear her secret will be found out, even as she believes she deserves the worst kind of punishment.

Then Eldric comes along with his golden lion eyes and mane of tawny hair. He's as natural as the sun, and treats her as if she's extraordinary. And everything starts to change. As many secrets as Briony has been holding, there are secrets even she doesn't know. (goodreads)

My thoughts...Chime is a unique story full of folklore and magic. I have mixed opinions of the book, while there were some strong elements, another huge part left me at a loss.

The plot and character development in Chime were brilliantly done. The characters were very unique. The heroine, Briony is convinced she is an evil witch. She does not allow herself to experience happiness, pride, or anything that a normal girl her age would experience. She carries around a block of grief and regret that practically sinks her into the swamp she is surrounded by. Her sister Rose has the traits of an autistic learner, and Briony is her keeper. Readers will fall for the charming Eldric. He has the bad-boy appeal with a worldly knowledge. It is no wonder Briony quickly falls for him, despite her best efforts. The other characters in the book are mainly magical beings. While there isn't much direct interaction with them, they play a significant role. The beings are complex and mysterious. I would love to read more in this world to learn more about the beings and their legends.

The plot of Chime is very well crafted. While there is some predictability, I was amazed at how everything came together in the end. The legends of the swamp really made for an interesting story. These legends are real to the characters; the witches can be seen doing "witchy" things, and waves seemingly come out of nowhere. There was quite a bit of mystery infused with the characters lives. Readers will also find a touch of romance, and a few scenes that are a bit scary. Overall, the story is very well rounded and interesting.

My only issue with Chimed was I really struggled with the dialect of the characters. The story takes place in Old England in a time of witch hunts and persecution. The language in the book fits, but it took me a long time to adjust to it. It was distracting and I found myself rereading to understand the conversations. It just seemed the disrupt the flow of the story (in my opinion). However, this did not keep me from continuing to read and enjoying the story.

For more information, visit Franny Billingsley at her website or at goodreads.

Check out these great reviews of Chime:
Mundie Moms
Pure Imagination
Vamps, Weres, and Cassay OH My!

*ARC provided by the publisher for my honest opinion.

WoW: Forbidden

2011-03-23T09:02:00.000-04:00

September is my birthday month and I get to share it with some exciting titles. The sequel to The Demon Trappers by Jana Oliver will be available September 2nd.

Forbidden (The Demon Trappers #2)

by, Jana Oliver

September 2nd 2011

MacMillan Children's Books

No blurb yet, but you can find Jana on Goodreads or on her blog.

*WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine.

YA review: Wither

2011-03-22T21:53:00.001-04:00

Wither (Chemical Garden #1)
by, LaurenDeStefano
March 22nd 2011
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.
When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.
But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.(goodreads)

My thoughts...Wither, the debut novel by Lauren DeStefano took me on an emotional journey. This is on my list of favorite books of the year. It will not disappoint fans of dystopian novels.

After creating a super being, who is free of disease and lives to old age, the human race was handed a horrible fate. The offspring generation is sentenced with an incredibly short life span. Men live to age 25, while the women only survive until the age of 20. This makes marriage and childbirth a necessity for the human population to survive. Girls are abducted, sorted by their genetic strengths and then sold to the highest bidders for breeding purposes. They are harrowing times.

Despite trying to avoid detection, Rhine is caught. She is forced to be one of the brides to a young man. While in his care Rose faces many trials of her strength, morals, and beliefs. Wither takes readers on a journey. Along the way you meet some incredible wonderful characters and some that will leave you cringing. The writing is fantastic. Despite the extreme circumstances, the characters are all believable.

Wither will leave you gasping for air, cheering, crying, and cowering from fear. I definitely recommend this to fans of YA literature. The ending... well let's just say I will be buying the next book in the series.

READ THIS BOOK!

For more information, visit Lauren at her official website. She can also be found at goodreads and twitter.

*I won this ARC in a giveaway.

Trailer Tuesday

2011-03-22T08:53:00.000-04:00

Here is the trailer for The Sweetest Thing by, Christine Mandelski

For more information, visit her website.

Don't forget, I am giving away an arc of The Sweetest Thing in the Review Me giveaway.

Melting Pot Monday

2011-03-21T08:42:00.000-04:00

The Family That Wasn't

by, Gene Twaronite

August 24th 2010

iUniverse.com

The Family That Wasn't is a humorous fable of how our families live inside us and how easily they can be lost. It will appeal to both teen and adult readers. The 13-year-old narrator, John Boggle (whose real name is John Bazukas-O'Reilly-Geronimo-Giovanni-Li Choy-Echeverria), finds his family so impossibly crazy that he cannot stand living with them another moment. He invents a new perfect family so convincing that he suddenly finds himself living inside this imaginary world.

But John soon finds that he too has changed. He sees his too perfect image in the mirror and begins to wonder if it is all some kind of mistake. Only trouble is, now he can't remember who he is. He only knows that he must leave this family at once. His sole clue is the name, John Boggle.

To find his true family he embarks on a cross country quest. Along the way he encounters other characters who have also lost touch with their families. Together they must find a way to reconstruct the connections to bring back the family that one was.

Despite its absurd premise, The Family That Wasn't conveys both the strength and fragility of our families. It also poses questions about the power of words and the imagination, and the very nature of reality. (summary from author's website)

Follow this link to visit the author's official website and to read the first chapter.

*****************************************************************

Pleasures Untold
by, Lisa Sanchez
February 2011
Omnific Publishing

Hell hath no fury like a witch done wrong. Pissed off and packing an arsenal of witchy mojo, Martha is on the warpath. Determined to avenge the murder of her mother and grandmother, her mission is simple: kill every vampire, demon and underworld bastard she comes across, because one of those hell beasts might be the monster that stole her childhood from her. But when a sexy Latin vamp literally falls from the sky, saving her from becoming an undead Happy Meal, she has no choice but to reassess everything she thinks she knows.

Xan is an anomaly --a vampire born, not turned. A powerful warlock who walks in daylight, Xan spends his days, and nights, watching over Martha, protecting her from Lucian, the blood-sucking monstrosity whose sole mission in death is to drain her dry. Undeniable attraction and the promise of pleasures untold draw the two lovers into a frustrating dance of one step forward, two steps back. When Lucian throws down a deadly ultimatum, Martha is forced to choose between relying on her own mystical woo woo to save the lives of her stolen friends or succumbing to the lure of dark, voodoo magic. Xan and Martha must work together to save those closest to her and put an end to Lucian's reign of terror before it's too late.(goodreads)

For more information, visit Lisa at her official website.

Review Me Giveaway (5)

2011-03-20T20:53:00.002-04:00

I have a stack of advanced readers copies that could use an extra review. Here is what I have to share:

Stack 1

Wither by, Lauren DeSteffano

Chime by, Fanny Billingsley

Blood Thirsty by, Flynn Meaney

Red Moon Rising by, Peter Moore

Anthrology of an American Girl by, Hilary Thayer Hamann

Stack 2

Leminscate by, Jennifer Murgia

The Sweetest Thing by, Christina Madelski

Kat, Incorrigible by, Stephanie Burgis

Extraordinary by, Nancy Werlin

Zitface by, Emily Howse

Subway Girl by, PJ Converse

To be entered:

1. Must promise (scouts honor please) to review the book. Reviews can be shared on your blog (if you have one), amazon, barnes and noble, goodreads, ect. You are even welcome to do a guest post here if you like.

2. US only please (due to shipping)

3. One entry per person, ends 3/31

4. There will be two winners.

Please complete the form.
Following is not required, but always appreciated.

YA review: Lemniscate

2011-03-20T18:33:00.000-04:00

Leminiscate (Angel Star #2)
by, Jennifer Murgia
March 21st 2011
Lands Atlantic Publishing, LLC

For Teagan, these last few months have been heaven on earth- especially now that Garreth, her boyfriend and guardian angel, is earthbound. But perhaps Garreth is becoming a little more human than either of them expected.

Now, Teagan must realize that her world is once again about to shift, as she questions the faith she held in others against those once considered enemies.

In this continuation of Angel Star, Lemniscate will draw you even deeper into the world of dark and light as Teagan realizes the angel who could possibly save them all is the one angel she feared the most.(goodreads)

My thoughts... Lemniscate, the second book in the Angel Star series, took an interesting turn. In the first book, I felt very devoted to Garreth. His strength and goodness was like a beacon to Teagan. This book definitely left me second guessing my judgement of his character. He is faced with tough decisions and makes some poor choices that effect the lives of all the characters. Many of the same people play an important role, including the evil Brynn. Teagan discovers more about her fate, as it is tied to Garreth and Hadrian and she must overcome several challenges, some emotional and very personal ones.

Once again I am impressed with the plot development skills of Jennifer Murgia. The lives of the characters, while full of chaos and confusion, always make perfect sense in the end. I was also impressed with the use of symbolism in the book, another sign of great planning. There was quite a bit of character development in Lemniscate. Readers will also find suspense, mystery, and a bit of a love triangle. I was impressed the strength Teagan showed in the face of evil. She is come a long way since the first book and I look forward to reading her again in future installments.

Overall, this was a great sequel. If you have not read Angel Star, I definitely recommend starting there. Fans of the series will be entertained and possibly swayed to the dark side.

For more information, visit Jennifer Murgia at her website. Follow this link to purchase Leminscate from your favorite bookseller.

*This ARC was provided by the author for my honest review.

Ending soon...

2011-03-20T13:47:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the entry deadline. Have you entered yet?

Sequel Saturday (2)

2011-03-19T09:18:00.000-04:00

I recently started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out.

Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

This week I am featuring the sequel to The Line by, Terri Hall.

Away (The Line #2)

by, Teri Hall

September 15th 2011

Dial Books for Young Readers

When Rachel crosses The Line she leaves behind everything she has ever known and enters a strange new world: Away. Life there is hard, and survival is never guaranteed. Bizarre, wild creatures roam the forests, and people—the same people she’s always been told are dangerous and untrustworthy—have gifts she’s never thought possible.

Rachel has to rely on Pathik, the boy she risked her own life for, to help her navigate the strange customs. He’s exasperating, but she thinks she can trust him, and she hopes he’ll lead her to answers about her father. As it turns out, he leads her to more than she bargained for, and Rachel finds herself on an adventure filled with life and death choices, dark conspiracies, and unthinkable sacrifice.

In a place with no technology, no electricity, no medicine, and very little hope, Rachel discovers that only one thing makes life worth living. If only it’s not too late.(goodreads)

To learn more, visit Teri at her website. Away is available for preorder at Amazon. Didn't read book one, The Line yet? Here is my review.

**If you are an author and your sequel needs some LOVE, email me and I will be glad to feature you.

Happy Reading!

YA review: The Sweetest Thing

2011-03-18T10:19:00.001-04:00

The Sweetest Thing
by, Christina Mandelski
May 10, 2011 (Egmont USA)

In the world of Sheridan Wells, life is perfect when she's decorating a cake. Unfortunately everything else is a complete mess: her mom ran off years ago, her dad is more interested in his restaurant, and the idea of a boyfriend is laughable.
But Sheridan is convinced finding her mom will solve all her problems - only her dad's about to get a cooking show in New York, which means her dream of a perfect family will be dashed.

Using just the right amount of romance, family drama, and cute boys, The Sweetest Thing will entice fans with its perfect mixture of girl-friendly ingredients.(goodreads)

My thoughts...If you are looking for a sweet, young adult contemporary story, then look no further.

Readers meet Sheridan, also know as "Cake Girl", and quickly identify her as a regular girl. Sheridan is an average girl who I found very easy to like and easy to relate to. She is raised by her Father, a well-known chef, and her Grandmother, a popular baker. It is not a perfect situation, but one that many readers will sympathize with. The only character missing from this equation is her mother, who is the object of Sheridan's obsession. Readers journey with Sheridan on her quest to find her mother, which is no easy task. Her best friend Jack helps her along the way, but she still gets lost and inevitably, someone gets hurt.

The Sweetest Thing is a heart-warming story. Aside from lovable characters, the story will make readers laugh and cry. I often became frustrated with some of the characters actions, but they were honest mistakes. While lighthearted, the story deals with some tough, emotional issues.

Readers beware, especially if you have a sweet-tooth. Sheridan isn't named "Cake Girl" for no reason. The story is full of imaginative cakes and other fancy cooking. This is a fun, quick read for readers of all ages.

For more information, visit Christina Mandelski at her official website or find her at Goodreads.

Luck O' The Irish

2011-03-17T09:02:00.000-04:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Someone has some Irish luck today. The winner of Wynter Chelsea by Becca Ritchie is...

Nancye D.

Congrats! I will be emailing you shortly. Special thanks to Becca for taking the time guest post and for donating the prize. Thanks to everyone who entered.

Don't forget to enter to win a signed copy of Soul Born by, Kevin James Breaux. Also, stay tuned for another review me giveaway. Have a great day!

WoW:

2011-03-16T08:53:00.000-04:00

I want a reason to wear a dress like this! What a pretty cover.

The Mephisto Covenant (The Mephisto Covenant #1)

by, Trinity Faegen

September 27th 2011

EgmontUSA

No official blurb yet, but you can visit the author at her official website or click here to read the first chapter. Trinity can also be found at goodreads. It is available for preorder on Amazon.

*WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine

Interview/Giveaway: Kevin James Breaux

2011-03-14T21:27:00.004-04:00

Please help me welcome author Kevin James Breaux. Not only is Kevin a talented author, he has become a blogging buddy of mine. I had the pleasure of interviewing him. Enjoy!

1. Please tell us about your epic fantasy Soul Born.
KJB: Well, when I started writing fantasy, back in the late 1990s, I would look up agents to submit to, and back then it felt like 85-90% of the agents had a line in their profile stating, “I don’t read/represent fantasy.”

I didn’t understand why and worse, I felt very singled out. What was going on? In the 1980s, fantasy books were super popular and amazing reads, why in the late 90s were they suddenly frowned upon in the industry?

I wanted to write a fantasy novel I would’ve enjoyed back in the 1980s, and at the same time have some twists and turns that would knock the genre on its side. As I wrote SOUL BORN, my goal was to write a novel that would bridge the gap between fantasy and non-fantasy fans. One for the people out there who loved to play video games more than read, or the people who read comics because they liked being stimulated by all the fun action.

Soul Born is my vision of an entry into a world that is becoming more fantastical with each year within the story that passes. It begins as not much more than medieval Europe with few elements of fantasy like Elves, Fairies and Lizardmen (no not Sleestaks). The existence of magic is where Soul Born begins to really stand out from reality and is one of the tying subjects of the series.

What I felt I did was wrote a story of several people trying to make the best of their bad situations. They will bend rules, manipulate others and situations, just to reach their selfish goals. Who is good? Who is evil? It’s hard to tell in the real world some days, and so it is in the world of Soul Born. Each of my characters have admirable and heinous qualities. It’s the reader’s choice how they wish to judge them.

That being said, in book two, I tell an entirely new chronicle. A much more straightforward story that really begins to feel like a Princess Tale… then I turn it upside down.

2. For many readers, a strong heroine makes the story worth reading. How would you describe Opal?
KJB: She’s one mean mutha…. Oh, wrong interview, sorry.

Opal is a powerful mage driven by the forces of desire. She wants what she wants and will do whatever is needed to get it. As you read through Soul Born you will be taken on a roller coaster ride side by side with her. You will see Opal make good and bad decisions and you will experience the repercussions. Her life can be chaotic, so be prepared.

Paranoid and fearful at times; Opal can also be unstoppable force of nature. True to life, she has her ups and down, but in the end, she is the one person you don’t want to mess with.

Sometimes I think, hey, I could rewrite Soul Born like one of those 1980s “chose your own adventure” books. That might be fun!

3. Soul Born is book one in your trilogy. Any word on when the second book will hit bookstores?
KJB: Book two of the Soul Born Saga, will be out this Fall, 2011. Dark Quest Books, the publisher, is reading it now and Dan Dos Santos and I will be working on the cover in about a month. When the cover is done I will announce the title. I am very excited about book two, and I know readers of Soul Born, can’t wait.

On a side note, I’m writing book three at the moment, and it will be a little longer than the first two.

4. GI Joe once said "Knowing is half the battle". If you could put your younger self in the "Know" what advice would you give yourself when you began this journey in 1998?
KJB: I would’ve prevented myself from making the mistakes I did back in the early 2000s. I was so passionate about my work and wanted it to be out there for people to read and enjoy so bad I would’ve done anything to make it happen. I rushed myself and put out half finished works and made bad decisions. I also allowed myself to be taken advantage of, which was a bad moment I thought would end my career as a writer before it even started.

I’ve written 4 novels now; each one better than the last. Over the years I’ve learned that just because my work is done, doesn’t mean it’s ready. A lot can be learned by moving on to a fifth, sixth or seventh draft.

YO JOE!

5. Kevin, not only are you a published author, but you are a staff writer for Fantasy-Fiction. Do you still have time for your other passion~art?
KJB: I’m a perfectionist and drawing really brings out the worst in that trait. I cannot tell you how many times I have sat down and drawn for two-three hours only to rip up and trash my project. I don’t draw much anymore because it’s just too mentally painful. Anyway, writing gives me the creative release that drawing used to back in the good old days. Of course, I would love to take another figure drawing class in the future; those were always the most fun in college.

6. Are you working on any other projects you can share with us?
KJB: Oh yes. Where do I begin? As a writer I feel it’s extremely important to write within your genre/genres daily. My goal for 2011 is to write, and finish, two books. I started one of them, a Viking Sci-Fi book. I also plan on finishing book three in the Soul Born saga, and a YA urban fantasy I started during the 2010 NaNoWriMo.

At the moment my top priority is finding a literary agent. Call me old fashion, but I feel I need one to help guide me in the future of my writing. I have a lot to offer, and will be writing another 20 or more books in my life, at least, so having an agent would be beneficial.

I’m currently querying my favorite project to date, an Urban Fantasy series I want to start with a book called ONE SMOKING HOT FAIRY TAIL. It’s the story of a foul-mouthed fairy princess after a devastating fall from grace. It’s set in the near future, in the real world. It’s so much fun to write, with characters that are witty, with contemporary problems.

7. A beautiful woman in a long black trench coat approaches yes, whips open her jacket and you see...vials. She is selling magic potions for things such as wealth, power, beauty, just about anything you could imagine. What type of potion would you buy?
KJB: You tricked me into thinking I was gonna get flashed. Nice one, Elie.

To be honest, after much thought, I would take probably take wealth.

It’s a hard decision. Don’t get me wrong. I could get a lot of things done looking like Jason Statham or Christian Bale. I mean that would be great! But I would probably waste all my time looking and feeling cool. Like Bale, in American Psycho, I would get overly focused on my daily skin care and never get my writing done! Darn! Not to mention all those slow motion entries into expensive restaurants and fancy clubs… they take up a lot of time!

So I would probably take the wealth. All my life I have been a giver. When I was younger I would make sure I got both the GI JOES and the TRANSFORMER toys I wanted and my buddy Andy wanted, so he could play with his favorites too. Later, I would buy video games I knew my friends would enjoy, sometimes ones I knew I would hate, but just knowing they would love them was enough reason to make the purchase. I always lent my comics, and games to my friends with wild abandon…

To this day I still feel the need to give to people and with a massive amount of money I could give more to my friends, family and all the cute baristas all over the PAC NW (they need to pay for college, duh). I’m teasing… maybe….

Seriously, I would be able to make larger and more frequent donations to animal charities, and would pay Sarah McLachlan to never ever play her music in sad animal commercials ever again. Oh, that one kills me.

Not having to worry about my own bills would be a major plus too. Those kinds of stressors kill the creativity of beings like me…. You know, warlocks from the ultra-slick dimensions.

8. Your book is filled with many magical beings. Given the choice, which type would you want to be?
KJB: I tend to pick magic using classes in video games, and role-playing games, so I guess I would want to be some cool mega-mage. It’s easier for me to pick a mutant power I think, than pick what fantasy being. Unless I was picking something like a Were-Liger… you know, a man who can change into one of those mythic leopard-tiger hybrids. I mean if I was one of those, then all the ladies would want to take their pictures with me. That sounds cool… at least until someone like Paris Hilton buys me and keeps me chained up in her hotel. That would suck!

9. Lastly, what do you do for fun? Any guilty pleasures?
KJB: I like to fill out registration cards on the products I buy in the name of super heroes. Peter Parker just got a new Canon Elph camera the other day and Clark Kent registered his new PS3. So much fun!!!

I tease, I tease… I play video games. I split my time between current gen stuff on the Xbox 360, and some old school NES and Atari 2600 on emulators I have loaded on my PSP and laptop. I love watching movies, and get caught up in a lot of TV shows. Trust me when I say my TV show picks are all over the board. I loved, with all my heart, that Spartacus Show on STARZ, but was equally addicted to BridalPlasty on E!. I’ve been known to watch Glee and Vampire Diaries too. Don’t hate!

Kevin, thanks for the interview and good luck on your upcoming releases!

For more information you can find Kevin at these hotspots:

Kevin James Breaux's official Website

SoulBorn.net

Kevin's author blog (here you'll find purchase links + link to download a sample chapter)

Twitter

Giveaway Time!

Kevin graciously donated a SIGNED copy of Soul Born + signed bookmarks for a lucky reader. Plus he sent along some signed bookmarks for 3 other winners!

To enter, please complete the form AND leave some love (questions/comments) for Kevin in the comments section!

US only please
One entry per person
4 winners (1st-book/swag, 2nd-4th-swag)
Enter by March 22, 2011
Winner will be selected using Random.org and notified via email
Good Luck!

It is coming...

2011-03-13T21:23:00.000-04:00

Author Kevin James Breaux will be visiting.

Be sure to come back for your chance to win a SIGNED copy of his book Soul Born.

Learn more, visit the official Soul Born website.

Sequel Saturday (1)

2011-03-12T08:10:00.000-05:00

After a recent email from a 2010 debut author, I started thinking about all the great sequels that are coming out. The debuts get so much attention (which is great), but what about those much desired sequels? Are they forgotten? Are they pushed down our wish lists for new, shiny debuts? Sequel Saturday is a special post to celebrate these books.

To kick things off I have chosen Lemniscate, the sequel to Angel Star by, Jennifer Murgia.

March 21, 2011

Angel Star #2

For Teagan, these last few months have been heaven on earth- especially now that Garreth, her boyfriend and guardian angel, is earthbound. But perhaps Garreth is becoming a little more human than either of them expected.

Now, Teagan must realize that her world is once again about to shift, as she questions the faith she held in others against those once considered enemies.

In this continuation of Angel Star, Lemniscate will draw you even deeper into the world of dark and light as Teagan realizes the angel who could possibly save them all is the one angel she feared the most.(goodreads)

Learn more by visiting Jennifer at her website. You can preorder this book from Amazon. (great price!)

Didn't read Angel Star yet, or need a refresher? Here is my review.

Happy Reading!

MG review: Kat, Incorrigible

2011-03-10T09:16:00.005-05:00

Kat, Incorrigible
The Unladylike Adventures of Kat Stephenson #1
By, Stephanie Burges
April 5, 2011

Twelve-year-old Kat Stephenson may be the despair of her social-climbing Step-Mama, but she was born to be a magical Guardian and protector of Society--if she can ever find true acceptance in the secret Order that expelled her own mother. She’s ready to turn the hidebound Order of the Guardians inside-out, whether the older members like it or not. And in a society where magic is the greatest scandal of all, Kat is determined to use all her powers to help her three older siblings--saintly Elissa, practicing-witch Angeline, and hopelessly foolish Charles--find their own true loves, even if she has to turn highwayman, battle wild magic, and confront real ghosts along the way!(goodreads)

My thoughts...Kat, Incorrigible will be a hit for readers of all ages.

Filled with magic, mystery, and mischief, young Kat will steal the hearts of readers and have them cheering her on by the end of the story. Kat, while only twelve years old is very feisty. She is very believable and true to her age. Her decisions are sometimes impulsive and there is a vulnerability to her character that feels genuine. We also meet Kat's older sisters. Elissa is the oldest. She loves Gothic novels and has a strong sense of duty when it comes to her family. The middle child, Angeline, is just as headstrong, but she has some interests that could cause her to get into big trouble. All of the characters, good and wicked, were memorable and enjoyable.

One of the most unique aspects about this book was the time period. Old England was a time of proper manners, fancy dresses, arranged marriages, and dowries. The characters live within a set of rules and not following etiquette was simply frowned upon. These social rules would be hard for anyone, especially a twelve year old tomboy. Women especially had a hard time due to what was "expected" of them and their behaviors. Another great aspect of the plot was the magic. The world felt well developed and thought out. The magic seemed to jump off the page and bring you along for the fun.

While Kat, Incorrigible is a middle grade book, I recommend it to readers of all ages. Fans of Harry Potter or Jane Austin should be especially delighted with the story. I can not wait to read book two, KAT, INCORRIGIBLE: RENEGADE MAGIC coming in April of 2012 to the US.

For more information, visit Stephanie on Goodreads or her official website.

*Disclaimer: This book was provided by the publisher for my honest opinion.

WoW: Breath Of Angel

2011-03-09T08:33:00.000-05:00

This week's WoW is a YA debut by author Karyn Henley.

June 21, 2011

Waterbrook Press

The stranger’s cloak had fallen back, and with it, a long, white, blood-stained wing.

When Melaia, a young priestess, witnesses the gruesome murder of a stranger in the temple courtyard, age-old legends recited in song suddenly come to life. She discovers wings on the stranger, and the murderer takes the shape of both a hawk and a man.

Angels. Shape-shifters. Myths and stories—until now.

Melaia finds herself in the middle of a blood feud between two immortal brothers who destroyed the stairway to heaven, stranding angels in the earthly realm. When the feud turns violent and Melaia becomes a target, she finds refuge with a band of angels attempting to restore the stairway. But the restoration is impossible without the repayment of an ancient debt—the “breath of angel, blood of man,” a payment that involves Melaia’s heart, soul, and destiny. (goodreads)

For more information, visit Karen at her website. Find her and a list of preorder links on goodreads.

**WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine

Author guest post/Giveaway: Becca Ritchie

2011-03-08T09:23:00.000-05:00

Today we are joined by Becca Ritchie, author of the Wynter Chelsea series. Book 1, Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy, introduces readers to her magical world of creatures. Becca is here to give us a better look into her wild imagination...

At 14, I sat hunched over my computer and researched different demons in demonology that I thought I could make a scene around. Late nights reading these scary demonic beings left me in cold chills … and I hadn’t even written them yet. So in order to sleep at night, I added in creatures, half demons, spirits, and the unexplained which diverge from demonology. Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy is where Amanda Chelsea witnesses the supernatural on a firsthand account, and the sequel is where the true horrors come to play. Until then, here’s the scary, the not so scary, and the truly horrifying.

A Field Guide to Wynter Chelsea’s Demonic Beings

CREATURES

Threat Level: Moderate

Classification: The easiest to kill but the hardest to distinguish. Creatures come in a variety of forms. These shape shifters can turn into something as docile as a cat to something as fierce as a tiger.

Weakness: Bullets, knives, etc. Once killed, they leave an ashy residue behind.

SPIRITS

Threat Level: Moderate

Classification: Invisible entities full of rage. They refuse to pass on and leave Earth and can produce an extreme strength in their fury.

Weakness: Their bones or an object that keeps their soul stuck on Earth. The spirit will disappear from Earth’s plane once the object is destroyed.

HALF DEMONS

Threat Level: Moderate

Classification: Demons in human form. Super senses, super strength, super everything makes them extremely hard to catch.

Weakness: Salt, holy items, and a blood red serum. This serum’s content remains secret, but once injected into the heart, a half demon will disappear out of thin air.

DEMONS

Threat Level: High

Classification: Varies with each type.

Weakness: Salt, holy items, and different weapons depending on the type of demon.

THE UNEXPLAINED

Threat Level: High

Classification: Unknown. They’re not demons, not creatures, not spirits, or anything outwardly demonic. Trevor Wynter would try and put aliens under this category (even though they have not been proven).

Weakness: Also unknown.

THE MARATHACA

Threat Level: Extreme

Classification: A creature that cannot be destroyed by guns, knives, etc. This creature has returned from Hell twice, and nothing known can vanquish him completely.

Weakness: To be determined…

Thanks Becca! You have quite an imagination.

As you can see, these creatures are not to be taken lightly. I was on the edge of my seat reading Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy. You can find my review here.

For more information, visit Becca at her website. She is also on Goodreads.

Becca has kindly offered a lucky reader a chance to win a copy of book one,

Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy.

To enter, complete the form and leave some love for Becca in the comments section below (required). US only please, one entry per person. Please enter by March 15th. Winner will be chosen using Random.org and notified by email.

Cover LOVE?

2011-03-07T23:53:00.000-05:00

How pretty is this?

Lisa Albert shared the cover for her October debut Mercy Lily.

A poetic, moving story about a teen who must make an unimaginable choice

Mama has slowly been losing herself to MS. After traditional treatment fails, she takes bee sting therapy, administered by Lily, to alleviate her pain. Lily is trained as a veterinary assistant, so she can easily handle the treatments. What she can't handle is what happens when the bee sting therapy fails and it becomes clear that Mama wants to die.

One beautiful summer day, Lily's mother asks her for the most impossible thing of all—mercy. They live in Oregon, where the Death with Dignity Act allows a patient to make the decision to end their own life.

While navigating first love, friendship, and the other normal worries faced by high school sophomores, Lily also has to choose: grant Mama's request, or cling to Mama's fading life for all it's worth.(goodreads)

Visit goodreads for preorder links. For more information, visit Lisa at her website.

YA review: Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy

2011-03-07T21:49:00.001-05:00

Four hundred years ago a creature descended upon the Earth. The supernatural hunted innocent lives wanting blood and vengeance. Two families, the Wynters and the Chelseas, knew of the darkness that reigned over the world. For thousands of years they hunted and killed to protect those who knew nothing of the dangers.

Amanda Chelsea vies to be a part of the Wynter Chelsea legacy, constantly craving the thrill of a lifetime that her older brother, Jack, and the two Wynter boys experience. At seventeen, Amanda’s passion to fight is overwhelming, and she cannot come to grips with why the boys are protecting her. Abilities are cast upon the new generation of Wynters and Chelseas, only in hopes of guiding them to vanquish the impenetrable creature. Even as Amanda Chelsea receives the power of empathy, feeling other people’s emotions, it brings more harm than a vital potency. Through the turmoil in New Jersey, Dustin Wynter is the only one able to relate to Amanda with a similar gift. As Jack’s rage boils over the edge, Dustin must put the pieces back together and hold the legacy up with a shaking arm and a quirky brother by his side.

When the world couldn’t seem to become anymore dangerous, both parents of each family go missing. Now with no choice but to bring Amanda along, she finally is able to fight without hassle, but is it worth it? Is the disappearance of the ones she loved a price that she has to pay for her dream to join the legacy? Traveling across the United States, the four young adults must confront their hidden emotions and ultimate reason for living.

Wynter Chelsea is a novel about finding truth in oneself and truth in the world amid the darkness that follows. Readers of the young adult genre will connect with Amanda’s coming of age story, where life seems to be at the tip of her fingers but she can’t hold on to it. Wynter Chelsea has a spark of comedy with Trevor Wynter and love with the bubbling young romance of Amanda and Dustin. With a strong sense of love, loss, and sacrifice, Wynter Chelsea connects the sentiment of the reader to the page. When the reader closes the novel, their heart will surely be left within the lines.(goodreads)

My thoughts...Welcome to an original world complete with paranormal creatures, magical powers, and magical legends.

In this first book in the series, we meet some interesting characters. First, we get to know the heroine Amanda. Initally, readers experience her frustration. She is treated by her family like a porcelian doll, incapable of making decisions, or defending herself. This causes her to make some decisions that seem irrational and wreckless. Amanda posseses the gift of empathy and she often finds helfself vulnerable in more ways than one. Other characters that are central to the story are her brother and the two boys that live next door. Each character has the strengths and weaknesses, and they all show growth by the end of the first book.

Wynter Chelsea is full of action and excitement. These characters do not experience a dull moment. There is constant danger lurking around every corner and a mystery to solve. On a mission to find their missing parents, they discover secrets about themselves, their family, and their legacy. Readers can expect plenty of fighting, mysterious creatures, and some romantic interest.

At times, I did become a bit frustrated with the characters and some of the events seemed a bit to convient, but overall this did not take away from the story. I had a hard time putting the book down and I did not want to leave the world when I finished the story. Thankfully, book two, Wynter Chelsea: The Sublimity is already available for purchase!

For more information, visit Becca Ritchie at her official website. Follow this link to purchase a copy from your favorite bookseller.

Winner and UPdates

2011-03-05T21:45:00.001-05:00

The winner of A Hellion In Her Bed is...

Isalys from Book Soulmates

I will be emailing you shortly. I have a stack of arcs to give away (a few YA debuts), so watch for that coming up soon!

Also, I am almost on break from school, but I have been having horrible problems with blogger. Majority of the time, it says I don't follow any blogs and when it does show my list, it only goes back one hour. I tried the refresh thing...doesn't work. I have also tried another computer...same thing. So I feel like I am missing everything going on with the exception of twitter and my sidebar. (sniff)

I am going to try to clean up my follow list (when it lets me on). If a blog has not posted in a few months, I am going to unfollow. Maybe this will help?

Anyone else ever have this issue?

Cover LOVE? x2

2011-03-05T13:11:00.003-05:00

I found this over at Karen Mahoneys blog. What do you think?

(click image to enlarge)

August 2011 (US)

September 2011 (UK)

Here’s the full line up: Francesca Lia Block, Brenna Yovanoff, Lesley Livingston, Jessica Verday, Rachel Caine, Seanan McGuire, Jackson Pearce, Martin Millar, Lisa Mantchev, Sophie Jordan, Tera Lynn Childs, Karen Mahoney, and Sharon Ashwood.

What an exciting list! I see some of my favorites here, do you?

Also spotted...

Witchlanders by, Lena Coakley

August 30, 2011

High in their mountain covens, red witches pray to the Goddess, protecting the Witchlands by throwing the bones and foretelling the future.

It’s all a fake.

At least, that’s what Ryder thinks. He doubts the witches really deserve their tithes—one quarter of all the crops his village produces. And even if they can predict the future, what danger is there to foretell, now that his people’s old enemy, the Baen, has been defeated?

But when a terrifying new magic threatens both his village and the coven, Ryder must confront the beautiful and silent witch who holds all the secrets. Everything he’s ever believed about witches, the Baen, magic and about himself will change, when he discovers that the prophecies he’s always scorned—Are about him.

For more information, visit Lena's website.

More to look forward to!

Cover LOVE?

2011-03-02T08:42:00.002-05:00

Jennifer Estep, author of the Elemental Assassin series, is debuting her YA series in July. The first book, Touch of Frost will be on shelves July 26. The second, Kiss of Frost will be available in November! Love this scenario, no waiting years for more action!

Here is the cover for book one in the Mythos Academy series....

I am not bowled over by this cover. I like the blue, but it just doesn't jump out at me. However,if you've read any of Jennifer's books (which I have) you know her writing is top notch. I am sure this book is going to be great!

For more information, including preorder links, visit Jennifer Estep at her blog.

Trailer Tuesday: Huntress

2011-03-01T21:24:00.003-05:00

Hi Friends! I am still trying to get out from under my grad work, but I do have something exciting to share with you. Remember that incredible book Ash by Malinda Lo? Well the companion novel is coming soon. Here is the trailer...

HUNTRESS is set in the same fantastical world but hundreds of years earlier. Two young women fated to go on a dangerous journey to Tanlili, the city of the Fairy Queen, to seek answers about their dying world. The girls barely know each other – Kaede is a fighter, chafing under her father’s expectations, while Taisin is a born sage, dedicated to her magic. And yet, as members of their party are lost to unearthly attacks, the two come to rely on each other, and even begin to fall in love. But their quest’s final step demands only one huntress to save the kingdom, and what it takes could tear Kaede and Taisin apart.
(summary from publicist)

Another great reason to look forward to April!
Don't wait, follow this link to preorder a copy from Amazon.

IMM (44 ) Vlog

2011-02-27T12:25:00.002-05:00

For Review:

The Iron Thorn by, Caitlin Kittredge

Wynter Chelsea: The Legacy by, Becca Ritchie (interview and giveaway coming soon!)

Angel Burn by, L.A. Weatherly (e-arc)

The Goddess Test by, Aimee Carter (e-arc)

Die For Me (Revenants #1) by, Amy Plum (e-arc)

Starcrossed by, Josephine Angelini (e-arc)

Bumped by, Megan McCafferty (e-arc)

Purchased from another blogger and bookstores:

The Iron Daughter by, Julie Kagawa

The Iron Queen by, Julie Kagawa

Vesper (Deviants #1) by, Jeff Sampon

Emily the Strange: Dark Times by, Rob Reger and Jessica Gruner

Wyter Chelsea: The Sublimity by, Becca Ritchie (digital copy)

Won and Gifted:

Soul Born by, Kevin James Breaux (extra copy for upcoming giveaway too!)

Lark by, Tracey Porter

Rhymes With Cupid by, Anna Humphrey

The Sweetest Thing by, Christina Mandelski

Would-Be-Witch by, Kimberly Frost

Hunted By The Others by, Jess Haines

Heavenly by, Jennifer Laurens

Red-Headed Stepchild (Red Headed Stepchild #1) by, Jaye Wells

Matters Of The Blood by, Maria Lima

Eat, Prey, Love (Love At Stake #9) by, Kerrelyn Sparks

Prom Dates From Hell by, Rosemary Clement-Moore (not Maggie Quinn as I said in the blog-Maggie Quinn is the character in the book-whoops)

Special Thanks to:

Netgalley, Bitten By Books, Jess Haines, Cindy, Becca Ritchie, Random House, Jennifer Laurens, Kimberly Frost, and The Story Siren for hosting In My Mailbox.

(big hugs)

YA review: The Iron Thorn

2011-02-24T20:53:00.000-05:00

In the city of Lovecraft, the Proctors rule and a great Engine turns below the streets, grinding any resistance to their order to dust. The necrovirus is blamed for Lovecraft's epidemic of madness, for the strange and eldritch creatures that roam the streets after dark, and for everything that the city leaders deem Heretical—born of the belief in magic and witchcraft. And for Aoife Grayson, her time is growing shorter by the day.
Aoife Grayson's family is unique, in the worst way—every one of them, including her mother and her elder brother Conrad, has gone mad on their 16th birthday. And now, a ward of the state, and one of the only female students at the School of Engines, she is trying to pretend that her fate can be different. (goodreads)

My thoughts...The Iron Thorn was my first journey into the world of Steampunk and I have to say I like what I saw.

This novel was impossible for me to put down. I was immediately drawn in by the characters. Aoife (Ee-fah) is in a race against time as she tries to help her brother. A cryptic message sends her and her friend Conrad on a journey outside the safe confines of their city. The dangers are great, as are the people. As their journey begins, they meet a guide named Dean who quickly became my favorite character. This world they live in is full of secrets, as are the people. I enjoyed the character development and the unfolding of various mysteries surrounding the characters. These become people you would want to have your back: strong, determined, and steadfast. No matter what challenges they face, these friends stick together.

There are so many words I could use to describe the action in The Iron Thorn. The first one that comes to mind is scary. Parts of this book had me checking the locks and under the bed before I went to sleep. It was full of things that go bump in the night. There was some violence and gore, as well as plenty of magic. The best part was the mystery. The Iron Thorn is full of riddles and secrets for the reader to puzzle.

Initially I was a bit intimidated by the length of The Iron Thorn. The advanced reader's copy came in at 492 pages. However, Caitlin Kittredge did a brilliant job of reeling me and holding my attention to the very end. The only problem is now I want more. Days later I am still thinking about this magical world.

For more information, visit Caitlin at her official website.

ARC giveaway

2011-02-24T12:52:00.000-05:00

I have an advanced readers copy of A Hellion in Her Bed by Sabrina Jeffries that could use a review. This is not my usual genre and usually I would read it just to mix things up, but I just don't have the extra reading time.

Please note, this is not a YA title. If you are interested in reviewing it, please leave your name and contact info in the form and I will draw a US reader on February 28th.

1. Must have a US mailing addy.

2. Must commit to reviewing it on your blog, goodreads, B&N, ect.

3. Must understand that this is NOT a YA novel.

4. Enter by February 27th.

Melissa Marr Event tonight

2011-02-23T17:11:00.001-05:00

Just a reminder about the Melissa Marr/Wicked Lovely livestream event TONIGHT at 5PM Pacific /8PM Eastern!

http://www.vivolive.com/harpercollins/melissamarr.

RSVP for the event on Facebook.

Check out a great offer to purchase a signed first edition of DARKEST MERCY!

(If you haven't tried Bookperk yet, you must check it out!)

See you there!

WoW: Half Blood

2011-02-23T09:02:00.000-05:00

I have been having really good luck with books written by adult authors making their YA debut. Darkness Becomes Her was great and I am consumed with the Iron Thorn at the moment. So I am very excited to read Half-Blood by Jennifer Armentrout.

Half Blood

by, Jennider L Armentrout

September 15, 2011

The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi—pure-bloods—have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals—well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures.

Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1:

Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden.

Unfortunately, she’s crushing hard on the pure-blooded Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn’t her biggest problem--staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden. And that would kind of suck.(goodreads)

For more infomation, including preorder links, find Jennifer at Goodreads. For more information on all of her books, visit her official website.

*WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine

Huge Giveaways Ending soon!

2011-02-21T16:21:00.008-05:00

Ending Tomorrow (January 22nd)...

$150 cash+prizes giveaway at Sarah's Blog of Fun! Just think of all the books you could buy! Other prizes include: $50 Gift Certificate to Restaurant.com, Spa Naturals Gift Set valued at $45, Bath & Body soaps, Scentsy bricks and plug in warmer!

Ending February 27th...

The Epic Rat is giving away the first three books in a series of your choice.

(If you tell her I referred you, we both get an extra entry!)

Ending February 28th...

The Secret Adventures of Writer Girl's Epic Giveaway

(Please tell her Ellz Readz referred you! I am only 3 referrals away from winning 3 books.

*You don't have to do your own referrals to enter. There is going to be an URBER winner chosen from following entrants. If you mention me, it just helps me out in the referral part of the contest.

**OH, and 35 more followers and she is going to add more books, including signed copies to the prize pile!

Also Ending February 28th...
You can win ARCs of Invincible Summer! and Suzanne Young's book A Need So beautiful! And some other stuff too from Invinsible Summer- Very Exciting!

Good Luck!

More Cover LOVE?

2011-02-18T10:23:00.003-05:00

OK, so as I was waiting for an email from my professor, I just happened to see this cover posted by the talented Kiersten White. (SQUEE) this must be the day of amazing covers. LOOK at this...

Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2)

September 2011

Go visit her at her blog to hear what she had to say about this amazing cover. Follow this link to preorder from Amazon.

In case you live on Mars and have forgotten, here is the first cover in the series...

I love both covers. Are you in Cover LOVE?

Cover Love?

2011-02-18T09:25:00.003-05:00

OK, I know I am supposed to be on break, and I am....really. But I saw this and was WOWed. What a pretty cover. Have you seen this one yet?

Virtuosity

by, Jessica Martinez

October 2011, Simon Pulse

Now is not the time for Carmen to fall in love. Two weeks before the most important violin competition of her career, she has bigger things to worry about—like growing out of that suffocating “child prodigy” label, and not disappointing her mother. But it isn’t just the wrong time. It’s the wrong guy. Jeremy is Carmen’s most talented rival, and according to her mother, he’s only interested in one thing: winning.

He isn’t the only one.

Carmen is so desperate to win she takes anti-anxiety drugs to control performance nerves. But what started a year ago as an easy fix is now a hungry addiction. Her mother insists now is not the time to quit, but Carmen is sick of not feeling anything on stage and even more sick of doing what she’s told.

When the darker side of the classical music industry and her mother's ambition collide, Carmen must choose between her career and her love for music.(goodreads)

I am still looking for a website for Jessica, but you can fan her on Goodreads. Here is an interview with her on the Elevensies site.

*Celebrity Author In the HOUSE!! Jessica just commented saying that her website will be up soon, but for now you can visit her blog! Here is the LINK!

I think this cover is beautiful. The pink is shocking and the bold silhouetted really pops off he cover. What do you think? OK, back to the books.

Buried

2011-02-17T22:22:00.001-05:00

As the semester is in full swing and we are battling pre-Spring colds, I am once again buried. So, since I am not being graded on my blogging skills, I am going to have to take a few days off. Hopefully a long weekend will give me a chance to catch-up on homework and emails.

See you Tuesday!

WoW: Tris and Izzie

2011-02-16T07:52:00.000-05:00

Love the cover of this book and I love retelling of love stories. So excited!

Tris & Izzy

by, Mette Ivie Harrison

October 11, 2011

Edgemont

A modern retelling of the German legend "Tristan and Isolde", "Tris and Izzy", is about a young witch named Izzie who is dating Mark King, the captain of the basketball team and thinks her life is going swimmingly well. Until-- she makes a love potion for her best friend Brangane and then ends up taking it herself accidentally, and falling in love with Tristan, the new guy at school.

Light, contemporary romantic fantasy for teens.(goodreads)

(not the official blurb)

WoW is hosted by Breaking The Spine

Follower Love GH Winner

2011-02-14T20:43:00.000-05:00

Wow, I am amazed at the number of entries in just a few short days.

Thanks to everone who entered and a big welcome to my new friends. I hope everyone is having a great Valentines Day. I am about to make someones day a whole lot sweeter...

(like our Valentine's Day cupcakes?)

So after 405 entries (I am so glad I didn't have extra entries) the winner was #276 as determined by random.org.

The number belongs to ...Jane Jakins

Congrats and check your inbox!

Stick around, more great giveaways coming your way!

With LOVE...

2011-02-14T07:14:00.000-05:00

Whether you are celebrating with someone special, hangin' with your family,

or if you are just curling up with a good book...

Happy Valentine's Day!

IMM (43)

2011-02-13T14:21:00.000-05:00

I got another stack of great books this week. A few are e-books and I have having Nook drama. So a few of them I will be reading on my laptop (which isn't really that bad, at least I can take it to bed with me).

For Review:

Tangled Threads by, Jennifer Estep (not shown)

Leminiscate (Angel Star #2) by. Jennifer Murgia

Angel Burn (Angel Trilogy #1) by, L.A. Weatherly (not shown)

Purchased:

Unearthly by, Cynthia Hand

Halfway Hexed (Southern Witch #3) by, Kimberly Frost

Absolutely, Positively by, Heather Webber

Reign Check (Demon Princess #2) by, Michelle Rowen

Captivate (Need #2)by, Carrie Jones

Bleeding Violet (Portero #1) by, Dia Reeves

Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices #1) by Cassandra Clare

Other:
Pretty Starstruck Bookmarks from Cyn Balog
Tote won from Handmade With Love Giveaway

I really need another bookshelf. What did you get this week?

*IMM is hosted by The Story Siren

**Links go back to Goodreads

Review: Venom

2011-02-12T12:27:00.001-05:00

What kind of assassin works pro bono?

It’s hard to be a badass assassin when a giant is beating the crap out of you. Luckily, I never let pride get in the way of my work. My current mission is personal: annihilate Mab Monroe, the Fire elemental who murdered my family. Which means protecting my identity, even if I have to conceal my powerful Stone and Ice magic when I need it most. To the public, I’m Gin Blanco, owner of Ashland’s best barbecue joint. To my friends, I’m the Spider, retired assassin. I still do favors on the side. Like ridding a vampire friend of her oversized stalker—Mab’s right-hand goon who almost got me dead with his massive fists. At least irresistible Owen Grayson is on my side. The man knows too much about me, but I’ll take my chances. Then there’s Detective Bria Coolidge, one of Ashland’s finest. Until recently, I thought my baby sister was dead. She probably thinks the same about me. Little does she know, I’m a cold-blooded killer . . . who is about to save her life. (summary from goodreads)

My thoughts...If you are looking for a fierce, no-nonsense character, then you will love Gin Blanco.

This is the third book in the Elemental Assassin series, so if you have not read Spider's Bite or Web of Lies, you should definitely start there. This third book feels pivotal to me. Gin has reached an edge. She has lost so much in her short time and she has been defeated by love. This fact makes her character, while still tough as nails, very vulnerable. I developed a new appreciation for her character in this installment. She became so much more likable and relatable. Don't get me wrong, she is still just as fierce, even more so than before. But that vulnerability makes me like her more.

I am pleased with the other characters in Venom as well. We get to read more about the handsome Finn. We see more of Owen Grayson, who I love compared to that close-minded detective. A bit more is revealed about the mysterious sisters and Bria.

The action is once again non-stop. Estep leaves readers little time to catch their breath between scenes. It is still violent, bloody, and gritty, but retired or not, Gin is still the Spider. There were more world details revealed, as well as more fuel to the fire against Mab Monroe. As usual, I enjoyed reading the magic Gin created in the kitchen as well as the development of her elemental magic. I can't wait to see what happens in the fourth book.

For more information, visit Jennifer Estep at her website. Don't forget to add her books to your goodreads list. The fourth book in the Elemental Assassin series will be released in May under the title Tangled Threads.

*I purchased this book for my digital library.

Melissa Marr Event!!

2011-02-11T17:52:00.000-05:00

Melissa Marr is making 1 special appearance to promote DARKEST MERCY, the eagerly anticipated, thrilling, and satisfying conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Wicked Lovely series !

The event will take place February 23rd at 5PM Pacific Time. Fans can virtually attend Melissa’s book signing, ask Melissa questions, and interact with other fans here: http://www.vivolive.com/harpercollins/melissamarr.

RSVP for the event on Facebook

Melissa Marr burst onto the Young Adult literature scene in June 2007. Her debut novel, WICKED LOVELY, instantly became a New York Times bestseller, as well as a Los Angeles Times bestseller, and Marr was selected as a Publishers Weekly Flying Starts author. WICKED LOVELY also won the Romance Writers of America RITA award for Young Adult books and was named a finalist for Borders Original Voices award.

Don't forget to RSVP! See you there.

The Amateur Vegan

2011-02-11T15:25:00.000-05:00

I am not the only blogger in the family. My little sis has blog called The Amateur Vegan. Here, she shares her favorite dishes and experiences with her Vegan lifestyle. She is celebrating one year of Vegan eating. Congrats Honey.

Here is a pic of the Chocolate Cupcakes she made-the recipe is on her site!

Stop by and say HI!

My sweetie sis also runs a yoga studio in the Cleveland, Ohio area called The Yoga Space. If you live in the Cleveland (Berea) area, check out their website to see the class schedule!

The Yoga Space

Love Bites

2011-02-11T09:16:00.000-05:00

I did a guest post today at Book Rat for the Love Bites event. Fans of True Blood will enjoy this one. Drop by and say HI.