Wednesday, August 31, 2011




Bridget Duke is the uncontested ruler of her school. The meanest girl with the biggest secret insecurities. And when new girl Anna Judge arrives, things start to fall apart for Bridget: friends don't worship as attentively, teachers don't fall for her wide-eyed "who me?" look, expulsion looms ahead and the one boy she's always loved—Liam Ward—can barely even look at her anymore.

When a desperate Bridget drives too fast and crashes her car, she ends up in limbo, facing everyone she's wronged and walking a few uncomfortable miles in their shoes. Now she has only one chance to make a last impression. Though she might end up dead, she has one last shot at redemption and the chance to right the wrongs she's inflicted on the people who mean the most to her.

And Bridget's about to learn that, sometimes, saying you're sorry just isn't enough…
 
Why move in on Liam? Just to make Bridget jealous?


Nah, I just had to really get under Bridget’s skin. Had to push her to the edge. And I don’t think anyone can say that it didn’t work.

What is your exact job?


She was my first assignment. In general, I just have to try to look objectively at people’s lives, and see what the best move is. I got the job because I died young. Those of us who die young and haven’t accomplished much get the opportunity to make a difference in the lives—er, deaths—of others.

Can you appear in any form?


No. But I am a perfected version of myself. Plus my hair is short now—I was always too nervous to make the hack before.

How do you know someone is going to die before they actually do? Is it predestined?


It’s like an alarm goes off, and we slide down the pole and go to them.

What is the determining factor in one staying after limbo?


To stay in limbo you mean, and work like I do? It’s just an opportunity provided to those of us who haven’t done enough to be satisfied.
10:08 PM Unknown



Bridget Duke is the uncontested ruler of her school. The meanest girl with the biggest secret insecurities. And when new girl Anna Judge arrives, things start to fall apart for Bridget: friends don't worship as attentively, teachers don't fall for her wide-eyed "who me?" look, expulsion looms ahead and the one boy she's always loved—Liam Ward—can barely even look at her anymore.

When a desperate Bridget drives too fast and crashes her car, she ends up in limbo, facing everyone she's wronged and walking a few uncomfortable miles in their shoes. Now she has only one chance to make a last impression. Though she might end up dead, she has one last shot at redemption and the chance to right the wrongs she's inflicted on the people who mean the most to her.

And Bridget's about to learn that, sometimes, saying you're sorry just isn't enough…
 
Why move in on Liam? Just to make Bridget jealous?


Nah, I just had to really get under Bridget’s skin. Had to push her to the edge. And I don’t think anyone can say that it didn’t work.

What is your exact job?


She was my first assignment. In general, I just have to try to look objectively at people’s lives, and see what the best move is. I got the job because I died young. Those of us who die young and haven’t accomplished much get the opportunity to make a difference in the lives—er, deaths—of others.

Can you appear in any form?


No. But I am a perfected version of myself. Plus my hair is short now—I was always too nervous to make the hack before.

How do you know someone is going to die before they actually do? Is it predestined?


It’s like an alarm goes off, and we slide down the pole and go to them.

What is the determining factor in one staying after limbo?


To stay in limbo you mean, and work like I do? It’s just an opportunity provided to those of us who haven’t done enough to be satisfied.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011


Button from Bewitched Bookworms

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme by Breaking the Spine that allows us bloggers a chance to spotlight upcoming books that we are dying to read!


February 7th 2012, Balzer + Bray
480 pages, Hardcover
Young Adult

Humans and Demons and Elves


When Cameron Post’s parents die suddenly in a car crash, her shocking first thought is relief. Relief she’ll never have to tell them that, hours earlier, she had been kissing a girl.

But that relief soon turns to heartbreak, as Cam is forced to move in with her conservative aunt Ruth. She knows that from this point on, her life will forever be different. Survival in Miles City, Montana, means blending in and not making waves, and Cam becomes an expert at this—especially at avoiding any questions about her sexuality.

Then Coley Taylor moves to town. Beautiful pickup-driving Coley is a perfect cowgirl with the perfect boyfriend to match. To Cam’s surprise, she and Coley become best friends—while Cam secretly dreams of something more. Just as that starts to seem like a real possibility, her secret is exposed. Ultrareligious Aunt Ruth takes drastic action to “fix” her niece, bringing Cam face-to-face with the cost of denying her true self—even if she’s not quite sure who that is.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a stunning and unforgettable literary debut about discovering who you are and finding the courage to live life according to your own rules.


Why I can’t wait:

I’m gearing up for another year of a LGBT challenge and this year is going to be a general one so contemp counts. Plus it sounds FREAKING amazing!


10:03 PM Unknown

Button from Bewitched Bookworms

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme by Breaking the Spine that allows us bloggers a chance to spotlight upcoming books that we are dying to read!


February 7th 2012, Balzer + Bray
480 pages, Hardcover
Young Adult

Humans and Demons and Elves


When Cameron Post’s parents die suddenly in a car crash, her shocking first thought is relief. Relief she’ll never have to tell them that, hours earlier, she had been kissing a girl.

But that relief soon turns to heartbreak, as Cam is forced to move in with her conservative aunt Ruth. She knows that from this point on, her life will forever be different. Survival in Miles City, Montana, means blending in and not making waves, and Cam becomes an expert at this—especially at avoiding any questions about her sexuality.

Then Coley Taylor moves to town. Beautiful pickup-driving Coley is a perfect cowgirl with the perfect boyfriend to match. To Cam’s surprise, she and Coley become best friends—while Cam secretly dreams of something more. Just as that starts to seem like a real possibility, her secret is exposed. Ultrareligious Aunt Ruth takes drastic action to “fix” her niece, bringing Cam face-to-face with the cost of denying her true self—even if she’s not quite sure who that is.

The Miseducation of Cameron Post is a stunning and unforgettable literary debut about discovering who you are and finding the courage to live life according to your own rules.


Why I can’t wait:

I’m gearing up for another year of a LGBT challenge and this year is going to be a general one so contemp counts. Plus it sounds FREAKING amazing!


Monday, August 29, 2011


There are so many great releases for this fall, and by fall I mean August on (what can I say I’m still a college student) , so this list is so amazingly hard to compile because there are WAY more books than 10 that I am dying to read.


10. Power of Six by Pittacus Lore

The sequel in the Lorien series. I haven’t read I am Number Four, but I watched the movie and adored it. Luckily this one is waiting on my nightstand (repurposed bookcase) for me to read.



9. Sweetly by Jackson Pearce

Have I mentioned my love for this girl! I have yet to read anything by her, but she is so amazingly awesome.




8. Ashfall by Mike Mullin

This book has gotten great reviews, so far and the premise sounds so good.





7. On the Fringe by Courtney King Walker

The premise here sounds so amazing. Umm…and look at this cover. It’s so amazingly beautiful. I love the drowning theme.





6. Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon

Leigh is awesome. If you don’t follow her on twitter you really should! I don’t know all that much about this book, but from what I do I adore.





5. Between the Sea and the Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore

I’ve already done a WoW on this one months ago. So yeah in love with this one.





4. Legend by Marie Lu

Dystopian. Must I say more? The hype on this one has been overwhelming, so I hope it can live up to it.






3. Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

This will probably be more of apocalyptic than dystopian, but it looks AMAZING. 






2. Angel Fire by L.A. Weatherly

I loved the first in this series. The love story is touching and seems like a serious adult relationship. I can’t wait to see what will happen next.






1. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
I seriously cannot wait for this book. It’s such an extraordinary premise. The cover seems a bit too happy for the book title and premise, but I’ve heard so much good about this book from people that have the same reading tastes as me.



And I may be the last one on the planet to see the trailer for Hunger Games, but for those that haven't seen it yet I wanted to share it! I can't wait. Are you anxious to see the movie or are you afraid it's going to ruin your image of what could easily be described as the masterpiece that began the dystopian trend.



10:10 PM Unknown

There are so many great releases for this fall, and by fall I mean August on (what can I say I’m still a college student) , so this list is so amazingly hard to compile because there are WAY more books than 10 that I am dying to read.


10. Power of Six by Pittacus Lore

The sequel in the Lorien series. I haven’t read I am Number Four, but I watched the movie and adored it. Luckily this one is waiting on my nightstand (repurposed bookcase) for me to read.



9. Sweetly by Jackson Pearce

Have I mentioned my love for this girl! I have yet to read anything by her, but she is so amazingly awesome.




8. Ashfall by Mike Mullin

This book has gotten great reviews, so far and the premise sounds so good.





7. On the Fringe by Courtney King Walker

The premise here sounds so amazing. Umm…and look at this cover. It’s so amazingly beautiful. I love the drowning theme.





6. Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon

Leigh is awesome. If you don’t follow her on twitter you really should! I don’t know all that much about this book, but from what I do I adore.





5. Between the Sea and the Sky by Jaclyn Dolamore

I’ve already done a WoW on this one months ago. So yeah in love with this one.





4. Legend by Marie Lu

Dystopian. Must I say more? The hype on this one has been overwhelming, so I hope it can live up to it.






3. Glow by Amy Kathleen Ryan

This will probably be more of apocalyptic than dystopian, but it looks AMAZING. 






2. Angel Fire by L.A. Weatherly

I loved the first in this series. The love story is touching and seems like a serious adult relationship. I can’t wait to see what will happen next.






1. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
I seriously cannot wait for this book. It’s such an extraordinary premise. The cover seems a bit too happy for the book title and premise, but I’ve heard so much good about this book from people that have the same reading tastes as me.



And I may be the last one on the planet to see the trailer for Hunger Games, but for those that haven't seen it yet I wanted to share it! I can't wait. Are you anxious to see the movie or are you afraid it's going to ruin your image of what could easily be described as the masterpiece that began the dystopian trend.



Sunday, August 28, 2011


February 1st 2010, Chicken House/Scholastic Inc.
325 pages, Paperback
Bought from Amazon
First in the Numbers Series
Young Adult

Ever since the day her mother died, Jem has known about the numbers. Numbers that pop into her head when she looks into someone's eyes. They're dates, the numbers. Dates predicting with brute accuracy each person's death. Burdened by such horrible knowledge, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. Maybe they can find happiness together, if only in the brief time that remains before his expiration date. But on a trip to London, Jem foresees a chilling chain of events: The city's a target. The clock's running out. The countdown is on to a blowup!
 
Opinion:

From the very first page this was an incredibly dark read that isn’t for the faint of heart. It was literally painful for me to read. I attempted to put it down several times because it was just too real, but I couldn’t. I had to know if Jem would find her happy ending.'

A drug addicted mother dies leaving her seven year old daughter alone with the knowledge that she sees when people are going to die. While in yet another foster care home Jem is cutting out of school and Spider a black boy that reeks attempts to talk to her, but when she sees his number is coming close she tries to leave. When he insists on continuing to talk to her it is the beginning of a beautiful friendship that turns to love.

Jem is a very complex character and Ward’s characterization is mostly why this book is so good. Left by everyone she has cared about Jem is a loner, and add the fact that she can see when everyone is going to die this throws her further into her own world.

Spider immediately grabbed my attention, as I had my own Spider in middle school. A violent boy that will protect you from all outside forces. He has his own issues, believing drug dealing and stealing is the way out of the slums, but he is also a partner that Jem needs to face the world.

This book will tear your hear apart and leave it that way. Characterization is very strong, the actions that Jem and Spider take aren’t always the smartest, but it fits within their characters.

One final note. Many say that it’s a cliffhanger. I don’t feel that way. I don’t even feel compelled to read the next one. The ending fit the book.

Rating:



10:41 PM Unknown

February 1st 2010, Chicken House/Scholastic Inc.
325 pages, Paperback
Bought from Amazon
First in the Numbers Series
Young Adult

Ever since the day her mother died, Jem has known about the numbers. Numbers that pop into her head when she looks into someone's eyes. They're dates, the numbers. Dates predicting with brute accuracy each person's death. Burdened by such horrible knowledge, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. Maybe they can find happiness together, if only in the brief time that remains before his expiration date. But on a trip to London, Jem foresees a chilling chain of events: The city's a target. The clock's running out. The countdown is on to a blowup!
 
Opinion:

From the very first page this was an incredibly dark read that isn’t for the faint of heart. It was literally painful for me to read. I attempted to put it down several times because it was just too real, but I couldn’t. I had to know if Jem would find her happy ending.'

A drug addicted mother dies leaving her seven year old daughter alone with the knowledge that she sees when people are going to die. While in yet another foster care home Jem is cutting out of school and Spider a black boy that reeks attempts to talk to her, but when she sees his number is coming close she tries to leave. When he insists on continuing to talk to her it is the beginning of a beautiful friendship that turns to love.

Jem is a very complex character and Ward’s characterization is mostly why this book is so good. Left by everyone she has cared about Jem is a loner, and add the fact that she can see when everyone is going to die this throws her further into her own world.

Spider immediately grabbed my attention, as I had my own Spider in middle school. A violent boy that will protect you from all outside forces. He has his own issues, believing drug dealing and stealing is the way out of the slums, but he is also a partner that Jem needs to face the world.

This book will tear your hear apart and leave it that way. Characterization is very strong, the actions that Jem and Spider take aren’t always the smartest, but it fits within their characters.

One final note. Many say that it’s a cliffhanger. I don’t feel that way. I don’t even feel compelled to read the next one. The ending fit the book.

Rating:



Friday, August 26, 2011

Disclaimer: As always this is information that I have learned in my blogging experience. Everyone’s blogging experience is different and you should only take what advice you want and leave the rest.






One of the most frequent questions is: “How did you get your publishing contacts for ARC’s?”

For me (and the vast majority of bloggers) this was a mixture of a ton of factors. I requested some, some got my contact information from my netgalley, some I got from them putting contact information within books I’d won. My most common way was from author contacts. Twitter is a great place to begin a conversation with authors. (Do not use twitter to request a book. Use twitter to begin relationships with authors you admire.)

When I first began requesting ARC’s (about 5 months after I’d began the blog) I put together a list of my favorite publishers and their publicity contacts that were listed on their website. Whenever I heard of a book I was dying for through Waiting on Wednesday or their catalog I would e-mail my contact or the contact on the list.

Here is this list: Publicity Contacts

It does not hold any of my personal contacts and is only those contacts you can find on their website, but is compiled into one centralized place.

I’ve already done a post on tips on contacting, but some further do’s and don’ts.

Do:
  • Request one book to start. Explain why this book from their catalog of upcoming releases is a good match for your blog.

  • Include any information you’d like them to know for them to determine whether or not to send you a book. Blog stats, klout, number of social media followers, etc.

  • Do request another title further down the line from the same publisher if you haven’t heard back. Sometimes you start trying to build these relationships too early and if you wait until you’ve built a bigger following or been blogging longer they will then accept your request.

  • Only request books after you have been blogging for awhile. Six months is a good time to start.

  • Include your address with the request.

  • At all times keep a balance between friendliness and professionalism.

  • Do send links of reviews of other books you’ve reviewed by them and send links of reviews of books you’ve received after building a relationship with them.

Don’t
  • Get discouraged. I have had books arrive without notice 4 months after I sent in a request. Publicity often makes a list of people that requested that book and when the time comes for mailing of the ARC’s they’ll send it your way.

  • Don’t request the same book multiple times. Even if you have not heard back, they likely have your contact information on file.

  • Don’t be afraid to contact an author for an ARC (usually in conjunction with a interview request) they will usually forward this to their publicist.

  • Be unprofessional.


Happy blogging!

Submit questions for future blogger helpers.





10:01 PM Unknown
Disclaimer: As always this is information that I have learned in my blogging experience. Everyone’s blogging experience is different and you should only take what advice you want and leave the rest.






One of the most frequent questions is: “How did you get your publishing contacts for ARC’s?”

For me (and the vast majority of bloggers) this was a mixture of a ton of factors. I requested some, some got my contact information from my netgalley, some I got from them putting contact information within books I’d won. My most common way was from author contacts. Twitter is a great place to begin a conversation with authors. (Do not use twitter to request a book. Use twitter to begin relationships with authors you admire.)

When I first began requesting ARC’s (about 5 months after I’d began the blog) I put together a list of my favorite publishers and their publicity contacts that were listed on their website. Whenever I heard of a book I was dying for through Waiting on Wednesday or their catalog I would e-mail my contact or the contact on the list.

Here is this list: Publicity Contacts

It does not hold any of my personal contacts and is only those contacts you can find on their website, but is compiled into one centralized place.

I’ve already done a post on tips on contacting, but some further do’s and don’ts.

Do:
  • Request one book to start. Explain why this book from their catalog of upcoming releases is a good match for your blog.

  • Include any information you’d like them to know for them to determine whether or not to send you a book. Blog stats, klout, number of social media followers, etc.

  • Do request another title further down the line from the same publisher if you haven’t heard back. Sometimes you start trying to build these relationships too early and if you wait until you’ve built a bigger following or been blogging longer they will then accept your request.

  • Only request books after you have been blogging for awhile. Six months is a good time to start.

  • Include your address with the request.

  • At all times keep a balance between friendliness and professionalism.

  • Do send links of reviews of other books you’ve reviewed by them and send links of reviews of books you’ve received after building a relationship with them.

Don’t
  • Get discouraged. I have had books arrive without notice 4 months after I sent in a request. Publicity often makes a list of people that requested that book and when the time comes for mailing of the ARC’s they’ll send it your way.

  • Don’t request the same book multiple times. Even if you have not heard back, they likely have your contact information on file.

  • Don’t be afraid to contact an author for an ARC (usually in conjunction with a interview request) they will usually forward this to their publicist.

  • Be unprofessional.


Happy blogging!

Submit questions for future blogger helpers.





Thursday, August 25, 2011



GFC is acting wonky so if you stop by and comment I'll come by and comment and follow!



Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by Parajunkee's View.


This week's question:

In books like the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series the paranormal creature in question "comes out of the closet" and makes itself known to the world. Which mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet, for real?


Answer:



The child inside of me immediately screamed unicorns! I was quite obsessed with unicorns as a child, but adult me wants more study on the magnetic field theory of telepathy. This theory basically states that the mental waves can be picked up by the waves in the atmosphere and be carried to another allowing others to read your thoughts. It’s a very scientific approach to the paranormal.




This week’s question:



Book Associations: Which genre, authors, or particular books do you think people associate with your reading style?

Answer:



Immediate answer would have to be Twilight. Twilight has to be the most well known book within paranormal YA. The hubby is always making fun of the sparkling vampires I’m reading about. Although seriously Edward is the ONLY sparkly vampire I’ve ever read about.


Harry Potter would also be included, but it’s more middle grade than YA.


Adult paranormal would be Sookie Stackhouse series or perhaps Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost.


10:35 PM Unknown


GFC is acting wonky so if you stop by and comment I'll come by and comment and follow!



Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by Parajunkee's View.


This week's question:

In books like the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series the paranormal creature in question "comes out of the closet" and makes itself known to the world. Which mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet, for real?


Answer:



The child inside of me immediately screamed unicorns! I was quite obsessed with unicorns as a child, but adult me wants more study on the magnetic field theory of telepathy. This theory basically states that the mental waves can be picked up by the waves in the atmosphere and be carried to another allowing others to read your thoughts. It’s a very scientific approach to the paranormal.




This week’s question:



Book Associations: Which genre, authors, or particular books do you think people associate with your reading style?

Answer:



Immediate answer would have to be Twilight. Twilight has to be the most well known book within paranormal YA. The hubby is always making fun of the sparkling vampires I’m reading about. Although seriously Edward is the ONLY sparkly vampire I’ve ever read about.


Harry Potter would also be included, but it’s more middle grade than YA.


Adult paranormal would be Sookie Stackhouse series or perhaps Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost.


Wednesday, August 24, 2011


September 27th 2011, Harlequin Teen
304 pages, E-copy
Netgalley
Young Adult

Humans and Demons and Elves

I’m Juliet.


At least, I wanted to be.


So I did something stupid to make it happen.

Well, stupid and wonderful.

I wanted the role of Juliet more than anything. I studied hard. I gave a great reading for it—even with Bobby checking me out the whole time. I deserved the part.

I didn’t get it. So I decided to level the playing field, though I actually might have leveled the whole play. You see, since there aren’t any Success in Getting to Be Juliet in Your High School Play spells, I thought I’d cast the next best—a Fame spell. Good idea, right?

Yeah. Instead of bringing me a little fame, it brought me someone a little famous. Shakespeare. Well, Edmund Shakespeare. William’s younger brother.

Good thing he’s sweet and enthusiastic about helping me with the play...and—ahem—maybe a little bit hot. But he’s from the past. Way past. Cars amaze him—cars! And cell phones? Ugh.
Still, there’s something about him that’s making my eyes go star-crossed....

Will Romeo steal her heart before time steals him away?

Opinion:

Despite my love/hate relationship with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, I found this book to be entertaining and informing about what really happens behind the scenes.

Miranda Hoberman accidentally conjures up Edmund trying to cast a spell in hopes of being Juliet in the school play. Imagine her surprise finding a boy four hundred years in the past and his surprise that his brother's plays are still popular. As both try to figure out the complicated situation, Edmund is also involved in the play and becomes a vital part.  Who else could make a better Romeo than Shakespeare's brother?

The book is a modern take on R&J and Miranda is cast as the star role, Edmund's Juliet. But this story was always meant to be a tragedy. 

This book has great focus on Shakespeare's works and I enjoyed learning some things I missed when I originally read the play. I could really get into what Juliet thought of her doomed love.

Douglas's characters were relatable although I found their "Hey, dude" dialogue a bit strange. The romance was like every high school love and cute. I found the ending was satisfying although I had thought the book had more potential.

Overall, The Juliet Spell was a fun, quick read.


Rating:




10:05 PM Unknown

September 27th 2011, Harlequin Teen
304 pages, E-copy
Netgalley
Young Adult

Humans and Demons and Elves

I’m Juliet.


At least, I wanted to be.


So I did something stupid to make it happen.

Well, stupid and wonderful.

I wanted the role of Juliet more than anything. I studied hard. I gave a great reading for it—even with Bobby checking me out the whole time. I deserved the part.

I didn’t get it. So I decided to level the playing field, though I actually might have leveled the whole play. You see, since there aren’t any Success in Getting to Be Juliet in Your High School Play spells, I thought I’d cast the next best—a Fame spell. Good idea, right?

Yeah. Instead of bringing me a little fame, it brought me someone a little famous. Shakespeare. Well, Edmund Shakespeare. William’s younger brother.

Good thing he’s sweet and enthusiastic about helping me with the play...and—ahem—maybe a little bit hot. But he’s from the past. Way past. Cars amaze him—cars! And cell phones? Ugh.
Still, there’s something about him that’s making my eyes go star-crossed....

Will Romeo steal her heart before time steals him away?

Opinion:

Despite my love/hate relationship with Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, I found this book to be entertaining and informing about what really happens behind the scenes.

Miranda Hoberman accidentally conjures up Edmund trying to cast a spell in hopes of being Juliet in the school play. Imagine her surprise finding a boy four hundred years in the past and his surprise that his brother's plays are still popular. As both try to figure out the complicated situation, Edmund is also involved in the play and becomes a vital part.  Who else could make a better Romeo than Shakespeare's brother?

The book is a modern take on R&J and Miranda is cast as the star role, Edmund's Juliet. But this story was always meant to be a tragedy. 

This book has great focus on Shakespeare's works and I enjoyed learning some things I missed when I originally read the play. I could really get into what Juliet thought of her doomed love.

Douglas's characters were relatable although I found their "Hey, dude" dialogue a bit strange. The romance was like every high school love and cute. I found the ending was satisfying although I had thought the book had more potential.

Overall, The Juliet Spell was a fun, quick read.


Rating:




Tuesday, August 23, 2011


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme by Breaking the Spine that allows us bloggers a chance to spotlight upcoming books that we are dying to read!




February 7th 2012, ATOM
384 pages, Paperback
Young Adult


Humans and Demons and Elves


Exiled from her home, the enclosed city of Reverie, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland—nicknamed The Death Shop—are slim. If the cannibals don’t get her, the violent, electrified energy storms eventually will. In this dystopia, even the very air she breathes could kill her. Then Aria meets an Outsider named Perry. He’s wild, dangerous—a savage. He’s also her only hope.

Perry needs Aria, too. She alone holds the key to his redemption. And their unlikely alliance will determine the fate of all who live under the never sky.


Debut author Veronica Rossi is accumulating fans from all over the globe—the book has already sold to more than twenty countries. It’s not surprising that foreign rights for this title have been flying off the shelf. It’s a tantalizing romance in any language.

Why I can’t wait:

Sounds so good, right? A dystopian where even the air is toxic. Umm, yes. Plus this cover!

10:00 PM Unknown

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme by Breaking the Spine that allows us bloggers a chance to spotlight upcoming books that we are dying to read!




February 7th 2012, ATOM
384 pages, Paperback
Young Adult


Humans and Demons and Elves


Exiled from her home, the enclosed city of Reverie, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland—nicknamed The Death Shop—are slim. If the cannibals don’t get her, the violent, electrified energy storms eventually will. In this dystopia, even the very air she breathes could kill her. Then Aria meets an Outsider named Perry. He’s wild, dangerous—a savage. He’s also her only hope.

Perry needs Aria, too. She alone holds the key to his redemption. And their unlikely alliance will determine the fate of all who live under the never sky.


Debut author Veronica Rossi is accumulating fans from all over the globe—the book has already sold to more than twenty countries. It’s not surprising that foreign rights for this title have been flying off the shelf. It’s a tantalizing romance in any language.

Why I can’t wait:

Sounds so good, right? A dystopian where even the air is toxic. Umm, yes. Plus this cover!

Monday, August 22, 2011



Today’s top ten is over those books you’ve read and loved but never reviewed. As I compiled the list I am finding a trend. Books set in Ireland or Scotland have a much higher chance of me loving me. This list is very historical romance centric as it’s my other favorite genre and don’t want to combine them on the blog.

10. Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead – While I reviewed the rest of the series in my hurry to read the next in the series I forgot to review the third book. Oops!

9. Harry Potter Series- I read this series before I started blogging. Long before I started blogging. The wrap up of review would be. Loved 1-6 and utterly hated 7.

8. Montgomery Series by Jude Deveroux- This series was the beginning of my obsession with historical romance.

7. Born in Trilogy by Nora Roberts- This series has a ton of family mystique.

6. Lord Trilogy by Sabrina Jefferies- Anything at all by her is going to be on my favorites list. Not only is she a writing genius she is super nice.

5. The Scandlous Series by Julia London- I’ve only read the first two, but this series is incredibly good!

4. . Catching Fire and Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins- I wouldn’t have done these books justice had I reviewed them. They were simply too good to review.

3. Little House in the Highlands- I loved all of the Little House on the Prairie books, but this one supposedly about Laura’s great grandmother was the first book that made me joyously happy as I read it. So good.

2. Castles by Julie Garwood- Seriously anything by Julie Garwood, but Castles is one of my favorites some more of my favorites are The Bride and The Secret.

1. Christy by Catherine Marshall- One of the best examples of who you should choose vs. who you love.
10:00 PM Unknown


Today’s top ten is over those books you’ve read and loved but never reviewed. As I compiled the list I am finding a trend. Books set in Ireland or Scotland have a much higher chance of me loving me. This list is very historical romance centric as it’s my other favorite genre and don’t want to combine them on the blog.

10. Shadow Kiss by Richelle Mead – While I reviewed the rest of the series in my hurry to read the next in the series I forgot to review the third book. Oops!

9. Harry Potter Series- I read this series before I started blogging. Long before I started blogging. The wrap up of review would be. Loved 1-6 and utterly hated 7.

8. Montgomery Series by Jude Deveroux- This series was the beginning of my obsession with historical romance.

7. Born in Trilogy by Nora Roberts- This series has a ton of family mystique.

6. Lord Trilogy by Sabrina Jefferies- Anything at all by her is going to be on my favorites list. Not only is she a writing genius she is super nice.

5. The Scandlous Series by Julia London- I’ve only read the first two, but this series is incredibly good!

4. . Catching Fire and Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins- I wouldn’t have done these books justice had I reviewed them. They were simply too good to review.

3. Little House in the Highlands- I loved all of the Little House on the Prairie books, but this one supposedly about Laura’s great grandmother was the first book that made me joyously happy as I read it. So good.

2. Castles by Julie Garwood- Seriously anything by Julie Garwood, but Castles is one of my favorites some more of my favorites are The Bride and The Secret.

1. Christy by Catherine Marshall- One of the best examples of who you should choose vs. who you love.

Author | Facebook | Publisher
Furnace Penitentiary: the world’s most secure prison for young offenders, buried a mile beneath the earth’s surface. Convicted of a murder he didn’t commit, sentenced to life without parole, “new fish” Alex Sawyer knows he has two choices: find a way out, or resign himself to a death behind bars, in the darkness at the bottom of the world. Except in Furnace, death is the least of his worries. Soon Alex discovers that the prison is a place of pure evil, where inhuman creatures in gas masks stalk the corridors at night, where giants in black suits drag screaming inmates into the shadows, where deformed beasts can be heard howling from the blood-drenched tunnels below. And behind everything is the mysterious, all-powerful warden, a man as cruel and dangerous as the devil himself, whose unthinkable acts have consequences that stretch far beyond the walls of the prison.
Together with a bunch of inmates—some innocent kids who have been framed, others cold-blooded killers—Alex plans an escape. But as he starts to uncover the truth about Furnace’s deeper, darker purpose, Alex’s actions grow ever more dangerous, and he must risk everything to expose this nightmare that’s hidden from the eyes of the world.


Finished: Winner Tabitha Jensen
12:27 PM Unknown

Author | Facebook | Publisher
Furnace Penitentiary: the world’s most secure prison for young offenders, buried a mile beneath the earth’s surface. Convicted of a murder he didn’t commit, sentenced to life without parole, “new fish” Alex Sawyer knows he has two choices: find a way out, or resign himself to a death behind bars, in the darkness at the bottom of the world. Except in Furnace, death is the least of his worries. Soon Alex discovers that the prison is a place of pure evil, where inhuman creatures in gas masks stalk the corridors at night, where giants in black suits drag screaming inmates into the shadows, where deformed beasts can be heard howling from the blood-drenched tunnels below. And behind everything is the mysterious, all-powerful warden, a man as cruel and dangerous as the devil himself, whose unthinkable acts have consequences that stretch far beyond the walls of the prison.
Together with a bunch of inmates—some innocent kids who have been framed, others cold-blooded killers—Alex plans an escape. But as he starts to uncover the truth about Furnace’s deeper, darker purpose, Alex’s actions grow ever more dangerous, and he must risk everything to expose this nightmare that’s hidden from the eyes of the world.


Finished: Winner Tabitha Jensen

Sunday, August 21, 2011

September 12th 2011, Houghton Mifflin Books
314 pages, E-galley
Netgalley
Young Adult

Princess Wisdom, known as Dizzy, longs for a life of adventure far beyond the staid old kingdom of Montagne.

Tips, a soldier, longs to keep his true life secret from his family.
Fortitude, an orphaned maid, longs only for Tips.

These three passionate souls might just attain their dreams while preserving Montagne from certain destruction, if only they can tolerate each other long enough to come up with a plan. Tough to save the world when you can't even be in the same room together.

Magic, cunning, and one very special cat join forces in this hilarious, extraordinary tale by the author of Dairy Queen and Princess Ben. An incredibly creative tale told with diaries, memoirs, encyclopedia entries, letters, biographies, even a stage play, all woven together into a grand adventure.


Opinion:

Wisdom’s Kiss is one of the most unique books I’ve ever read and matched with it’s charming voice make it one of my favorite reads. There were some plot issues that annoyed me, but over all I loved this book.

You can learn to appreciate classic works with a with a mfa degree in English Literature.

This was a book written through encyclopedia entries, letters, a memoir, and a diary. There are multiple POV’s that all are integral to the story. This can get confusing at times, but since each have their own voice once you have all of characters down it is no longer confusing.

Trudy, Fortitude, was my favorite character as she was the most endearing. Trudy has the gift of precognition which has helped her save people from a early age.

Dizzy character arch is the most dramatic. When we meet her she is superficial and more than a little bit spoiled. She grows up a lot throughout the story.

If I ever have a boy I want him to be just like Tips. He is the most quintessential boy character. Adventurous, mischievous balanced with a great heart makes him a great character.

The grandmother and her cat are my two favorite secondary characters. That cat is one of the funniest I’ve ever read about. The grandmother is snarky and so down to earth. Dizzy drives her nuts which I find even more endearing to her.

The plot gets slow at times, but this made up for with great characterization. I will be buying this book when it comes out. In my mind it is an instant classic that should be read by mothers to their small children. In my mind it’s more of a new fairytale.

Rating:


10:22 PM Unknown
September 12th 2011, Houghton Mifflin Books
314 pages, E-galley
Netgalley
Young Adult

Princess Wisdom, known as Dizzy, longs for a life of adventure far beyond the staid old kingdom of Montagne.

Tips, a soldier, longs to keep his true life secret from his family.
Fortitude, an orphaned maid, longs only for Tips.

These three passionate souls might just attain their dreams while preserving Montagne from certain destruction, if only they can tolerate each other long enough to come up with a plan. Tough to save the world when you can't even be in the same room together.

Magic, cunning, and one very special cat join forces in this hilarious, extraordinary tale by the author of Dairy Queen and Princess Ben. An incredibly creative tale told with diaries, memoirs, encyclopedia entries, letters, biographies, even a stage play, all woven together into a grand adventure.


Opinion:

Wisdom’s Kiss is one of the most unique books I’ve ever read and matched with it’s charming voice make it one of my favorite reads. There were some plot issues that annoyed me, but over all I loved this book.

You can learn to appreciate classic works with a with a mfa degree in English Literature.

This was a book written through encyclopedia entries, letters, a memoir, and a diary. There are multiple POV’s that all are integral to the story. This can get confusing at times, but since each have their own voice once you have all of characters down it is no longer confusing.

Trudy, Fortitude, was my favorite character as she was the most endearing. Trudy has the gift of precognition which has helped her save people from a early age.

Dizzy character arch is the most dramatic. When we meet her she is superficial and more than a little bit spoiled. She grows up a lot throughout the story.

If I ever have a boy I want him to be just like Tips. He is the most quintessential boy character. Adventurous, mischievous balanced with a great heart makes him a great character.

The grandmother and her cat are my two favorite secondary characters. That cat is one of the funniest I’ve ever read about. The grandmother is snarky and so down to earth. Dizzy drives her nuts which I find even more endearing to her.

The plot gets slow at times, but this made up for with great characterization. I will be buying this book when it comes out. In my mind it is an instant classic that should be read by mothers to their small children. In my mind it’s more of a new fairytale.

Rating:


Friday, August 19, 2011



Design


I've started a new feature. Great Design is a way for me to showcase other book bloggers that have put the effort forward to learn how to do great design work. If you would like to be considered for this feature please fill out the form!

Today I’m excited to have Lindsay from The Violet Hour. I adore her so very much!



What resources have you used in your design? Are there any websites you'd recommend for resources?


I pretty much Google EVERYTHING I have a question about. There are countless tutorials available for just about anything. Just type in "how to" along with your design need, and BAM! Anything from making a 'grab button' or 'contact me' widgets can be found that way. I also get advice from friends about their blog design and how they've done certain things. 

What do you like most about your design? 

The color! ;) I wanted it to look clean and professional, more like a website than a blog and I think I'm on the right road to achieve that. I hate having to search through a site to find something specific, so I try to keep mine as clutter-free as possible. It's all about what YOU like and don't like. Be comfortable with yourself and go with your own style.

What has been the biggest difficulty in getting your design to be how you want it?


Probably the fact that I had very little experience using HTML, and learning almost drove me mad. Still does, sometimes! One piece of advice I always give and am adamant about is to download/back up your current template!! I cannot stress enough how important that is. Doing that will ensure that no matter how badly your design gets messed up while tweaking it, you've got your original design saved and can revert back to it. I let my husband try to design a new layout for me, and he didn't save my template. It was a very, very frustrating time for me, especially when his design didn't work out. 

Have you enjoyed learning about design?


I really have! I like being able to do things myself, and I like having the ability to help other bloggers with any questions. It can be really hard to get started, so I like to help any way I can. I still have a long way to go, and I will be continuously learning..and having fun while I do it! =)

Some great buttons designed by Lindsay!





My personal favorite is Lindsay’s Waiting on Wednesday. How gorgeous is this!?

10:05 PM Unknown


Design


I've started a new feature. Great Design is a way for me to showcase other book bloggers that have put the effort forward to learn how to do great design work. If you would like to be considered for this feature please fill out the form!

Today I’m excited to have Lindsay from The Violet Hour. I adore her so very much!



What resources have you used in your design? Are there any websites you'd recommend for resources?


I pretty much Google EVERYTHING I have a question about. There are countless tutorials available for just about anything. Just type in "how to" along with your design need, and BAM! Anything from making a 'grab button' or 'contact me' widgets can be found that way. I also get advice from friends about their blog design and how they've done certain things. 

What do you like most about your design? 

The color! ;) I wanted it to look clean and professional, more like a website than a blog and I think I'm on the right road to achieve that. I hate having to search through a site to find something specific, so I try to keep mine as clutter-free as possible. It's all about what YOU like and don't like. Be comfortable with yourself and go with your own style.

What has been the biggest difficulty in getting your design to be how you want it?


Probably the fact that I had very little experience using HTML, and learning almost drove me mad. Still does, sometimes! One piece of advice I always give and am adamant about is to download/back up your current template!! I cannot stress enough how important that is. Doing that will ensure that no matter how badly your design gets messed up while tweaking it, you've got your original design saved and can revert back to it. I let my husband try to design a new layout for me, and he didn't save my template. It was a very, very frustrating time for me, especially when his design didn't work out. 

Have you enjoyed learning about design?


I really have! I like being able to do things myself, and I like having the ability to help other bloggers with any questions. It can be really hard to get started, so I like to help any way I can. I still have a long way to go, and I will be continuously learning..and having fun while I do it! =)

Some great buttons designed by Lindsay!





My personal favorite is Lindsay’s Waiting on Wednesday. How gorgeous is this!?

Thursday, August 18, 2011

 



July 26th 2011, Kensington Publishing
350 pages, Paperback
Teen {Scene} Book Tour Copy
First in Mythos Academy Series
Young Adult

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

So today, Rie asked me for the inside scoop on Logan Quinn, the Spartan bad boy who is as cute as he is deadly in Touch of Frost, the first book in my Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series. So here’s a little more about Logan, in his own words:

Why did you help pick up Gwen's stuff after the collision? Chivalry or did you find Gwen attractive?

Logan: A little bit of both. Helping her pick up her stuff was just the right thing to do, even if she did run into me on the quad. As for Gypsy girl, she’s cute with her freckles and those big violet eyes. And I am always interested in talking to a cute girl.

Do you like to maintain the bad boy rep? Or is it something you are simply stuck with?
Logan: I gotta say that I don’t mind being known as a bad boy. I am a Spartan after all. We’re pretty fierce warriors, so the bad boy rep fits in nicely with that.

In the beginning of your attraction to Gwen was it simply the thrill of the chase or something deeper?

Logan: I’ll admit that most girls like me right from the start, so I was curious as to why Gypsy girl didn’t. It made me want to know more about her, and now that I do, well, let’s just say that I want to know even more.

You have impressive fighting skills. Who would you say trained you the most?

Logan: Coach Ajax at the academy has really helped me hone my fighting skills since I’ve been going to Mythos. Coach Ajax is one of the best fighters that I’ve ever seen, and I want to be just as tough and deadly as he is someday.

When was the first moment you knew you truly liked Gwen?

Logan: When she threatened to have her grandma curse me. You gotta love a girl with attitude.


Website | Facebook | Twitter

Jennifer Estep 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 his tory 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.

Touch of Frost, the first book in the series, was published July 26. First Frost, a prequel e-story to the series, is available now as a 99-cent download. Kiss of Frost, the second book, will hit shelves on Nov. 29. Visit www.jenniferestep.com for excerpts and more information.

For contests, extra content and more info about Kteen books, please visit: www.facebook.com/kteenbooks
10:00 PM Unknown
 



July 26th 2011, Kensington Publishing
350 pages, Paperback
Teen {Scene} Book Tour Copy
First in Mythos Academy Series
Young Adult

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

So today, Rie asked me for the inside scoop on Logan Quinn, the Spartan bad boy who is as cute as he is deadly in Touch of Frost, the first book in my Mythos Academy young adult urban fantasy series. So here’s a little more about Logan, in his own words:

Why did you help pick up Gwen's stuff after the collision? Chivalry or did you find Gwen attractive?

Logan: A little bit of both. Helping her pick up her stuff was just the right thing to do, even if she did run into me on the quad. As for Gypsy girl, she’s cute with her freckles and those big violet eyes. And I am always interested in talking to a cute girl.

Do you like to maintain the bad boy rep? Or is it something you are simply stuck with?
Logan: I gotta say that I don’t mind being known as a bad boy. I am a Spartan after all. We’re pretty fierce warriors, so the bad boy rep fits in nicely with that.

In the beginning of your attraction to Gwen was it simply the thrill of the chase or something deeper?

Logan: I’ll admit that most girls like me right from the start, so I was curious as to why Gypsy girl didn’t. It made me want to know more about her, and now that I do, well, let’s just say that I want to know even more.

You have impressive fighting skills. Who would you say trained you the most?

Logan: Coach Ajax at the academy has really helped me hone my fighting skills since I’ve been going to Mythos. Coach Ajax is one of the best fighters that I’ve ever seen, and I want to be just as tough and deadly as he is someday.

When was the first moment you knew you truly liked Gwen?

Logan: When she threatened to have her grandma curse me. You gotta love a girl with attitude.


Website | Facebook | Twitter

Jennifer Estep 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 his tory 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.

Touch of Frost, the first book in the series, was published July 26. First Frost, a prequel e-story to the series, is available now as a 99-cent download. Kiss of Frost, the second book, will hit shelves on Nov. 29. Visit www.jenniferestep.com for excerpts and more information.

For contests, extra content and more info about Kteen books, please visit: www.facebook.com/kteenbooks

Wednesday, August 17, 2011


October 1st 2008, Harcourt Children's Books
471 pages, Hardcover
Personal Copy
First in the Seven Kingdoms series
Crossover

Humans and Demons and Elves

Katsa has been able to kill a man with her bare hands since she was eight—she’s a Graceling, one of the rare people in her land born with an extreme skill. As niece of the king, she should be able to live a life of privilege, but Graced as she is with killing, she is forced to work as the king’s thug.

When she first meets Prince Po, Graced with combat skills, Katsa has no hint of how her life is about to change. She never expects to become Po’s friend. She never expects to learn a new truth about her own Grace—or about a terrible secret that lies hidden far away . . . a secret that could destroy all seven kingdoms with words alone.
Aside:

Have you seen the channel by some of the most fabulous bloggers TotallyBooksessed? Harmony from Radiant Reads has professed her love for this book repeatedly and she is not wrong! It’s amazing.

Opinion:

Astonishing, touching, real. I was blown away by the plot, writing, characterization of this book. I can’t believe it took me this long to read it.

This book had me smiling throughout as Katsa fell in love despite her reluctance for all things domestic. In a world where men rule it is impossible for one to get married and remain any part of your freedom. Katsa understands this and the book makes you understand the goodness of Po.

Maybe I loved this romance so much because I could see myself within Katsa. (I may have married young, but I hate the idea of marriage. Everything about it seems unnatural.) Katsa is so amazingly strong, but her weakness resides within her strength. The strength it takes to control your emotions when in a fit you could kill everyone that surrounds you.

Po’s family is great, even if they are a bit blind to what is going on around them. Lliend is a place within the Seven Kingdoms that Grace’s are honored not feared.

The plot will not allow you to put it down even for a moment. I read the entire book in one night and loved every moment of it.

So in conclusion, this book is simply to die for and you should pick it up immediately.

Rating:



10:00 PM Unknown

October 1st 2008, Harcourt Children's Books
471 pages, Hardcover
Personal Copy
First in the Seven Kingdoms series
Crossover

Humans and Demons and Elves

Katsa has been able to kill a man with her bare hands since she was eight—she’s a Graceling, one of the rare people in her land born with an extreme skill. As niece of the king, she should be able to live a life of privilege, but Graced as she is with killing, she is forced to work as the king’s thug.

When she first meets Prince Po, Graced with combat skills, Katsa has no hint of how her life is about to change. She never expects to become Po’s friend. She never expects to learn a new truth about her own Grace—or about a terrible secret that lies hidden far away . . . a secret that could destroy all seven kingdoms with words alone.
Aside:

Have you seen the channel by some of the most fabulous bloggers TotallyBooksessed? Harmony from Radiant Reads has professed her love for this book repeatedly and she is not wrong! It’s amazing.

Opinion:

Astonishing, touching, real. I was blown away by the plot, writing, characterization of this book. I can’t believe it took me this long to read it.

This book had me smiling throughout as Katsa fell in love despite her reluctance for all things domestic. In a world where men rule it is impossible for one to get married and remain any part of your freedom. Katsa understands this and the book makes you understand the goodness of Po.

Maybe I loved this romance so much because I could see myself within Katsa. (I may have married young, but I hate the idea of marriage. Everything about it seems unnatural.) Katsa is so amazingly strong, but her weakness resides within her strength. The strength it takes to control your emotions when in a fit you could kill everyone that surrounds you.

Po’s family is great, even if they are a bit blind to what is going on around them. Lliend is a place within the Seven Kingdoms that Grace’s are honored not feared.

The plot will not allow you to put it down even for a moment. I read the entire book in one night and loved every moment of it.

So in conclusion, this book is simply to die for and you should pick it up immediately.

Rating: