Bring Me Another Book...

New Release Tuesday

2011-05-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

Something Deadly This Way Comes by Kim Harrison

I'm Madison Avery, in charge of heaven's hit squad . . . and fighting it all the way.

When Madison died the night of her prom, she knew her life would never be the same. Now she has a powerful amulet, a team of rogue angels by her side, and the ability to flash forward into the future to see the shape of destiny. And of course, now she's finally with Josh—a perfect boyfriend who doesn't even mind that she's dead.

But being dead has its disadvantages, too. Madison feels caught between the light and the dark, and between her real life and her timekeeper status. When Madison has the opportunity to get her body back—to be alive again—she faces her most difficult decision yet. If she claims it, she could return to being a normal girl—and have a chance at a real relationship with Josh. But would having the one thing she wants most in the world also mean giving up everything she's worked so hard for?

Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

For Nick Pardee and Silla Kennicot, the cemetery is the center of everything.

Nick is a city boy angry at being forced to move back to the nowhere town of Yaleylah, Missouri where he grew up. He can’t help remembering his mom and the blood magic she practiced – memories he’s tried for five years to escape. Silla, though, doesn’t want to forget; her parents’ apparent murder-suicide left her numb and needing answers. When a book of magic spells in her dad’s handwriting appears on her doorstep, she sees her chance to unravel the mystery of their deaths.

Together they plunge into the world of dark magic, but when a hundred-year-old blood witch comes hunting for the bones of Silla’s parents and the spell book, Nick and Silla will have to let go of everything they believe about who they are, the nature of life and death, and the deadly secrets that hide in blood.

New Release Tuesday

2011-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen

Another town. Another school. Another Mclean. Ever since her parents' bitter divorce, Mclean and her father have been fleeing their unhappy past. And Mclean's become a pro at reinventing herself with each move. But in Lakeview, Mclean finds herself putting down roots and making friends—in part, thanks to Dave, the most real person Mclean's ever met. Dave just may be falling in love with her, but can he see the person she really is? Does Mclean herself know?

New Release Tuesday

2011-05-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

So Much Closer by Susane Colasanti

When Brooke's crush, Scott, moves from their suburban town to New York City, she decides to follow him there. Living with her formerly estranged dad and adapting to a new school are challenging, and things go from bad to worse when Brooke learns that Scott already has a girlfriend. But as she builds her new life, Brooke begins to discover a side of herself she never knew existed. And as she finds out, in the city that never sleeps, love can appear around any corner...

Shift by Jeri Smith-Ready

Aura’s life is anything but easy. Her boyfriend, Logan, died, and his slides between ghost and shade have left her reeling. Aura knows he needs her now more than ever. She loves Logan, but she can’t deny her connection with the totally supportive, totally gorgeous Zachary. And she’s not sure that she wants to.

Logan and Zachary will fight to be the one by her side, but Aura needs them both to uncover the mystery of her past—the mystery of the Shift.

As Aura’s search uncovers new truths, she must decide whom to trust with her secrets…and her heart.

Divergent by Veronica Roth

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.

Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

2011-04-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

Another great YA series for Kelley Armstrong! This book has been on my to-read list since it was announced. I devoured the companion series “Darkest Powers” last year and I have been anxiously awaiting The Gathering since then. This is not a continuation on The Darkest Powers series so don’t worry if you have not read them. There is a whole new bunch of characters and even some new paranormal abilities being explored. There are a few names dropped here and there and some info that those who have read the other books will pick up on but it doesn’t affect the comprehension or flow of this book if you haven’t.

This series takes place in Canada on Vancouver Island in a tiny medical-research community. I think this series will be a lot like Darkest Powers in the sense that they can almost be slapped together and read as one book. The plot is ongoing and you cant really read them out of order.

The main character is sixteen-year-old Maya. She is average by all intensive purposes. She was adopted when she was a baby and brought up in a stable home. She has two loving parents and a close-knit group of friends. Maya has always felt connected to the wildlife that surrounds her home. When she is not hanging out with her best friend Daniel, Maya is helping to rehabilitate and reintroduce injured animals back into the wild. Sure the animals seem to heal faster when she cares for them but that doesn’t mean anything...right? Things start to get complicated for Maya when Rafe enters the picture.

I love Rafe, then again who doesn’t love the bad boy? Well...Maya, she is unimpressed (unlike every other girl at their school) by his smooth talking. He is going to have to try a new approach if he wants to win her over. Then there is the best friend, Daniel, I’m sure some will be rooting for him. I think there is a lot more to learn about Daniel in the rest of the series because you only get a touch in The Gathering. Buts its enough for you to wonder…

With mountain lions seeming to test their boundaries, it’s unclear who’s to blame for the unexplained deaths that are popping up around Vancouver Island? There are a lot of questions at the end of this book and I am bummed that I have to wait a year for The Calling. But I do recommend this book if you liked The Darkest Powers. I have a feeling that the two series will collide more in later books too, which means fans may get to see more of there favorite characters again. :-)

New Release Tuesday

2011-04-26T00:01:00.001-07:00

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

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

Sixteen-year-old identical twins Melody and Harmony were separated at birth and had never met until the day Harmony shows up on Melody’s doorstep. Until now, the twins have followed completely opposite paths. Melody has scored an enviable conception contract with a couple called the Jaydens. While they are searching for the perfect partner for Melody to bump with, she is fighting her attraction to her best friend Zen, who is way too short for the job.

Harmony has spent her whole life in religious Goodside, preparing to be a wife and mother. She believes her calling is to bring Melody back to Goodside and convince her that “pregging” for profit is a sin. But Harmony has secrets of her own that she is running from.

When Melody is finally matched with the world-famous, genetically flawless Jondoe, both girls’ lives are changed forever. A case of mistaken identity takes them on a journey neither could have ever imagined, one that makes Melody and Harmony realize they have so much more than just DNA in common.

Babe in Boyland by Jody Gehrman

2011-04-25T11:01:00.000-07:00

I actually picked this book up to browse while drinking my coffee at my local bookstore. I figured I would read a chapter to kill time. I ended up sitting there for hours until I finally left because I kept laughing out loud and people were starting to glare at me. This book is very similar to the plot of “She’s the Man” but don’t necessarily let that deter you if you have seen it. The characters are well developed and easy to relate to. I think that any woman reading this will have no choice but to laugh out loud at some of the situations that Natalie “Nat” gets herself into.

Natalie is a journalist for her high school newspaper, not that anybody knows what her contribution is (except for her two best friends and her editors). Natalie is Dr. Aphrodite, the relationship guru behind the very popular advice column. When Dr. Aphrodite is accused of knowing nothing about what guys really think/want Natalie decides to do a little investigating into the minds of the teenage boy. After many failed attempts at getting straight answers out of her male classmates she has the brilliant idea to disguise herself as a guy and enrolls in the near buy all-boy boarding, Underwood Academy.

This is wear the real hilarity ensues. Her and her two best friends contrive an alter identity for Natalie, “Nat.” This identity comes complete with a drastic haircut and a well-placed roll of socks. ;-) It turns out that being a guy is not as easy as it seems, especially when you are really a girl. Having to dodge her arch nemesis that will surely blow her cover isn’t helping either. Worst of all, when she is escorted to her new dorm room she is shocked to discover she has a roommate. And Emilio is probably the most gorgeous guy she has ever seen; too bad he thinks she’s a “he.”

I think you can imagine all the possibilities for catastrophe. From locker rooms, to wardrobe closets, and even a date with Emilio’s sister, Natalie has her hands full keeping up her cover and trying to get as much research done as possible. It turns out that she learns just as much about what girls are doing to repel guys as she does about what they are really thinking.

Like I said this book is not as original as some of the others I have read but it had me cracking up and sometimes that’s all you need. So if you are looking for something lite to read I recommend this book.

Jane by April Lindner

2011-04-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

Jane Eyre is a classic that is beloved by many. I have been meaning to read it for a while now but unfortunately, I haven’t gotten around to it yet. I have been procrastinating because I prefer more contemporary books. When I saw Jane on the shelves I was instantly interested. Now I can get the classic story with a modern edge. I will say that since I have not read the original I cannot attest to how they compare but I can say that I loved Jane. I figure if I read a book in less then 2 days I have to give it five stars.

Jane is also great for those YA fans that are like me and “a bit” older. Even though the story has everything we have come to love from a YA book, Jane Moore is older then your typical YA heroine. Jane Moore is a practical girl. She knows her place in the world and is content with her status. She was just happy to be on her own and attending an East Coast college but the sudden death of her parents took even that away. With no way to pay for school and no support from her siblings (who I came to loath), Jane does the only thing she can. Jane applies to work for a nanny service. Due to her plain appearance and her complete lack of interest in pop culture, Jane is selected to work for the rock star Nico Rathburn. Nico is making his comeback and he needs someone to look after his daughter. He has a sorted past filled with drugs, sex, and other various scandals (some yet to be revealed). Luckily Jane is not impressed by his bad boy persona.

As Nico tries to get Jane to open up to him, they begin spending more time together. I think that Nico’s interest in Jane becomes apparent to the reader way before it does for her; after all there is no way a rock star like Nico Rathburn could ever love a “plain Jane” like her, right? The build up to their relationship is nerve racking for the reader. I just wanted Jane to admit that she loved Nico and make a move already… Maybe that’s all he’s waiting for too ;-)

Jane knows that Nico has a complicated past but when a deception and a dangerous secret is revealed Jane does the only thing she can think of, she runs. Jane’s disappearance may be what she thinks she needs but what if she is leaving the only person who ever made her truly happy?

From what I hear, April Lindner held very true to the original story. The only major changes involve bringing it into a more realistic/relevant present day setting. So if you are looking for a way to enjoy a classic but get bored with the 19th century atmosphere then Jane might be just what you are looking for.

New Release Tuesday

2011-04-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

Strange things are happening in Maya's tiny Vancouver Island town. First, her friend Serena, the captain of the swim team, drowns mysteriously in the middle of a calm lake. Then, one year later, mountain lions are spotted rather frequently around Maya's home—and her reactions to them are somewhat . . . unexpected. Her best friend, Daniel, has also been experiencing unexplainable premonitions about certain people and situations.

It doesn't help that the new bad boy in town, Rafe, has a dangerous secret, and he's interested in one special part of Maya's anatomy—her paw-print birthmark.

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide by Stephenie Meyer

Fans of the #1 New York Times bestselling Twilight Saga will treasure this definitive official guide!

This must-have hardcover edition--the only official guide--is the definitive encyclopedic reference to the Twilight Saga and provides readers with everything they need to further explore the unforgettable world Stephenie Meyer created in Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn. With exclusive new material, character profiles, genealogical charts, maps, extensive cross-references, and much more, this comprehensive handbook is essential for every Twilight Saga fan.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2011-04-11T12:17:00.000-07:00

Seriously this book is amazing! I could not put it down. I almost didn’t buy this one because when reading the synopsis I was interested, but I thought that it was really similar to a few other books I had read recently. But I decided to pick it up anyway, mostly because I loved the cover art :-) I can honestly say that I fell in love with this book. It is unique and beautifully written.

Imagine love being thought of as a disease. Not just romantic love but all love, even the love of a mother for her children. That is the world that Lena Holoway lives in. Amor Deliria Nervosa had plagued our society before the scientists discovered a way to cure it. The procedure can only be done on those who have reached the age of eighteen. Lena is excited to be only a few months away from her procedure. She has seen first hand what the Delirium can do and she wants the threat behind her. Love is pain. She learned this from the loss of her mother, who was overcome by the disease despite repeated attempts to cure her.

All Lena has to do is coast through her evaluations and prepare for her cured life. Only problem is that Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love, and not with just any boy. Alex is from outside the walls of Portland. He is part of the resistance. Despite how dangerous it is to be together it doesn’t take long for them to realize they cant stand to be apart.

This is where the beauty of the story really takes shape, the fight to be together, the struggle to keep their secret, and the timer running out as Lena gets closer to her eighteenth birthday and her procedure. Lauren Oliver wrote an amazing story. The way she describes this world and the characters in it, brings the reader in immediately. I felt emotionally invested in the story very quickly. The poems used are perfectly placed and give even more depth to the story.

The end will leave you feeling relieved, devastated, and begging for more. I was daydreaming about this book and its characters for days after I finished it. I highly recommend it. Pandemonium (Delirium, #2) is scheduled for release Feb 2012!

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

2011-04-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

I have been anxiously awaiting Demonglass (Hex Hall #2) since I read Hex Hall last March. If you want to read my review of Hex Hall you can find it here. Demonglass picks up shortly after Hex Hall left off. Sophie Mercer attends Hecate Hall ,or Hex Hall as the students have come to call it; a school for delinquent Prodigium (witches, warlocks, vampires, werewolves, and faeries) who have had trouble controlling their powers.

In Demonglass, Sophie has decided to go through the Removal after discovering that she is a demon, not a witch like she always thought. The problem is that demons are rare (Sophie and her father are the only ones currently in existence) and volatile. Sophie has seen first hand what can happen if a demon goes rogue and she refuses to risk hurting anyone she loves. The Removal is the only guaranteed solution. It will strip her of all of her powers but it will leave her covered in purple tattoo like marks and could also end her life.

Now, Sophie is off to London, with Cal (who, I might add is delicious) and Jenna (her vampire best friend) in tow, to spend the summer with her Dad. He is determined to prove to her that the Removal is not her only option. If only that was her only dilemma. It turns out that Archer Cross, her former classmate and crush is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth. Sophie hasn’t seen him since she discovered his secret and he fled Hecate. But rumors say he has been spotted in London…

The Eye has always been a concern for Prodigium. But with the discovery that someone is raising new demons, the Eye have become more aggressive then ever. A war is brewing and the ones responsible may be closer then they think.

Demonglass was fantastic! This installment is packed with new information and new riddles. Some family secrets are unveiled as well. Although I will admit that Rachel Hawkins doesn’t actually come out and tell you the last big revelation but I think you’ll know. And what YA book is complete without a little love triangle action? Cal really starts to become a contender for Sophie’s affections in Demonglass. I’m still rooting for Archer though ;-) Hex Hall #3 should be out spring of 2012. It will be a long wait but will you can bet I will be picking it up as soon as it hits the shelves!

New Release Tuesday

2011-04-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Red Glove by Holly Black

Curses and cons. Magic and the mob. In Cassel Sharpe's world, they go together. Cassel always thought he was an ordinary guy, until he realized his memories were being manipulated by his brothers. Now he knows the truth—he’s the most powerful curse worker around. A touch of his hand can transform anything—or anyone—into something else.

That was how Lila, the girl he loved, became a white cat. Cassel was tricked into thinking he killed her, when actually he tried to save her. Now that she's human again, he should be overjoyed. Trouble is, Lila's been cursed to love him, a little gift from his emotion worker mom. And if Lila's love is as phony as Cassel's made-up memories, then he can't believe anything she says or does.

When Cassel's oldest brother is murdered, the Feds recruit Cassel to help make sense of the only clue—crime-scene images of a woman in red gloves. But the mob is after Cassel too—they know how valuable he could be to them. Cassel is going to have to stay one step ahead of both sides just to survive. But where can he turn when he can't trust anyone—least of all, himself?

Love is a curse and the con is the only answer in a game too dangerous to lose.

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

City of Fallen Angels is the fourth book in the bestselling series The Mortal Instruments.

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.

Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer

Sixteen-year-old Tansy Piper moves with her grandfather and her mother, a horror writer, to the setting of her mother's next book--a secluded house outside of a tiny, desolate West Texas town. Lonely and upset over the move, Tansy escapes into her photography and the dark, seductive poems she finds hidden in the cellar, both of which lure her into the mind and world of a mysterious, troubled young man who died sixty years earlier.

Drought by Pam Bachorz

2011-03-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

This story had me really intrigued once I read the synopsis but unfortunately I found it a little slow and also kind of frustrating. Ruby Prosser is a slave. She has lived her entire life (200 + years) among her Congregation on Darwin West’s compound in the woods. Escape has never been a true option. Ruby’s mother and the rest of the Elders feel that if they are just patient their savior, Otto (Ruby’s father) will return and save them. Darwin West is a cruel man, forcing Ruby and the rest of the community to harvest water under grueling conditions. Darwin has been made to believe that it is the Congregation’s act of harvesting the water in the woods that makes it special, little does he know that the secret to the healing powers of water lies in Ruby’s veins.

The beating inflicted by Dawin’s and his Overseers on members of the Congregation are enough to kill most but with life-prolonging Water they are able to endure. Then Ruby meets Ford, a new Overseer who appears barely older than her. The attraction between the two is instant and strong. Ford wants to take Ruby away from this life but will she be able to run away with him and leave everything she has ever known behind? And worse can she condemn the only family she has ever known by taking her blood away when she goes?

One thing that frustrated me about this story was that Ruby didn’t really have anyone to turn to. Ford was the only lifeline she had. Everyone else was shady, even her mother seemed more like a villain throughout the story. I felt like the story was a little unrealistic at times. The way that this community blindly followed orders seemingly accepted their circumstances seemed forced. The Congregation was more of a cult in their own right.

Ford was a character that I would have liked to see developed more. I feel like his mother’s illness could have been delved into more. Ruby and his relationship could also have been strengthened to the reader if they had more interaction/outings. I will say that I was pleased with the end of the story (and not just because it was over). The end gave my frustrations an outlet and brought a touch of hope for Ruby and Ford. The ending is what moved it from a 2 to a 3 star rating.

New Release Tuesday

2011-03-21T00:02:00.000-07:00

....ok its actually Monday but hey I gotta keep my tags consistant lol

Lemniscate (Angel Star #2) by Jennifer Murgia

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

Old Magic by Marianne Curley

2011-03-20T14:54:00.000-07:00

This was a great read. I finished it very quickly and was easily draw into the story. I have not read very many books that take place in the distant past. Kate is not your typical high school student. Kate is a witch...and from the moment Jarrod walks into her classroom she knows that he is different. There is something powerful and a little peculiar about the new kid. He is awkward, clumsy, and to tries to keep to himself, but the laws of high school prevail when a classmate targets him immediately. Jarrod’s reaction to the hazing shocks Kate. Before Kate’s eyes a storm begins brewing in the classroom only, Jarrod doesn’t seem to know that he is responsible.

When Kate approaches him he dismisses her assurances that he has powers. He has never believed in the paranormal and for good reason. His family has always had horrible luck. If he was a witch or had anything “supernatural” hiding up his sleeve he wouldn’t have had the life he’s had. Lucky for Kate his interest in her means he humors her.

After discovering that a curse is the cause of all of his family’s problems, Jarrod and Kate travel back to when the curse originated. But fitting in will prove to be difficult. This is where the story really takes off. Will they be able to break or prevent the curse? And if they do what will it do to the future they return to? This book is full of mystery, suspense, action, magic, self discovery, and of course a touch of romance. I highly recommend it!

New Release Tuesday

2011-03-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Afterlife by Claudia Gray

The fourth book in this electrifying vampire series has all the romance, suspense, and page-turning drama that have made Claudia Gray’s Evernight books runaway successes.

Having become what they feared most, Bianca and Lucas face a terrifying new reality. They must return to Evernight Academy, Lucas as a vampire and Bianca as a wraith. But Lucas is haunted by demons, both personal and supernatural. Bianca must help him fight the evil inside him, combat the forces determined to drive them apart—and find the power to claim her destiny at last.

Readers have fallen in love with Bianca and Lucas, and they will be thrilled to read this exciting conclusion to their romantic adventure.

New Release Tuesday

2011-03-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

Betrayal by Lee Nichols

Emma Vaile is the most powerful ghostkeeper in centuries. Which is great when she's battling the wraith-master Neos, but terrible when she's flirting with fellow ghostkeeper (and soul mate) Bennett. When ghostkeepers fall in love, the weaker one loses all power, and that's not something Bennett can handle. Heartbroken and alone, Emma tries to lose herself in school with fellow ghostkeeper, Natalie. When a new team of ghostkeepers arrive—one a snarky teen

boy, the other a British scholar—Emma finds solace in training for the battle against Neos. But as the team grows stronger, they are threatened by an unknown force. One they thought was good.

As chilling and page-turning as Deception, this sequel will grab readers and hold them to the last page. No one is safe from suspicion as Emma closes in on the traitor.

Clarity by Kim Harrington

When you can see things others can't, where do you look for the truth?

This paranormal murder mystery will have teens reading on the edge of their seats.

Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certain object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift.

And a curse.

When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case--but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother--who has supernatural gifts of his own--becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?

Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Archer to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she

Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul

New Release Tuesday

2011-02-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

This debut, the first novel in a trilogy, is achingly romantic, terrifying, and filled with blistering action.

When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.

A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.

While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.

Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting

The missing dead call to Violet. They want to be found.

Violet can sense the echoes of those who've been murdered—and the matching imprint that clings to their killers. Only those closest to her know what she is capable of, but when she discovers the body of a young boy she also draws the attention of the FBI, threatening her entire way of life.

As Violet works to keep her morbid ability a secret, she unwittingly becomes the object of a dangerous obsession. Normally she'd turn to her best friend, Jay, except now that they are officially a couple, the rules of their relationship seem to have changed. And with Jay spending more and more time with his new friend Mike, Violet is left with too much time on her hands as she wonders where things went wrong. But when she fills the void by digging into Mike's tragic family history, she stumbles upon a dark truth that could put everyone in danger.

Secrets and Shadows by Shannon Delany

Nothing's simple when you run with werewolves. Jess Gillmansen thinks she's seen it all but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she's suspected. With Jess' realization that the Rusakovas' mother is still alive and imprisoned, the group's choices become harder and trust more important. Lines are drawn and relationships change as the broken Rusakova family struggles to reunite to free their mother - and those who Jess thought to be normal people show themselves to be much, much more...

New Release Tuesday!

2011-02-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

Cloaked by Alex Flinn

I'm not your average hero. I actually wasn't your average anything. Just a poor guy working an after-school job at a South Beach shoe repair shop to help his mom make ends meet. But a little magic changed it all.

It all started with a curse. And a frognapping. And one hot-looking princess, who asked me to lead a rescue mission.

There wasn't a fairy godmother or any of that. And even though I fell in love along the way, what happened to me is unlike any fairy tale I've ever heard. Before I knew it, I was spying with a flock of enchanted swans, talking (yes, talking!) to a fox named Todd, and nearly trampled by giants in the Everglades.

Don't believe me? I didn't believe it either. But you'll see. Because I knew it all was true, the second I got cloaked.

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Kendall loves her life in small town Cryer¹s Cross, Montana, but she also longs for something more. She knows the chances of going to school in New York are small, but she's not the type to give up easily. Even though it will mean leaving Nico, the world's sweetest boyfriend, behind.

But when Cryer's Cross is rocked by unspeakable tragedy, Kendall shoves her dreams aside and focuses on just one goal: help find her missing friends. Even if it means spending time with the one boy she shouldn't get close to... the one boy who makes her question everything she feels for Nico.

Determined to help and to stay true to the boy she's always loved, Kendall keeps up the search--and stumbles upon some frightening local history. She knows she can't stop digging, but Kendall is about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried....

New Release Tuesday

2010-11-30T18:29:00.000-08:00

Matched by Ally Condie

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

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

New Release Tuesday

2010-11-23T18:08:00.000-08:00

Night Star by Alyson Noel

After fighting for centuries to be together, Ever and Damen’s future hinges on one final showdown that will leave readers gasping for breath. Don’t miss this explosive new installment of the #1 bestselling series that’s enchanted millions across the world!

Haven still blames Ever for the death of her boyfriend Roman, no matter how hard Ever’s tried to convince her it was an accident. Now she’s determined to take Ever down…and destroy Damen and Jude along the way. Her first step is to tear Ever and Damen apart—and she has just the ammunition to do it.

Hidden in one of Ever’s past lives is a terrible secret about Damen—a secret that illuminates new facts about her relationship with Jude, but that’s so dark and brutal it might be enough to drive her and Damen apart once and for all. As Ever faces her greatest fears about the guy she wants to spend eternity with, she’s thrust into a deadly clash with Haven that could destroy them all.

Now it’ll take everything she’s got—and bring out powers she never knew she had—to face down her most formidable enemy. But in order to win, she must first ask herself: is her own survival worth dooming Haven to an eternity of darkness in the Shadowland? And will learning the truth about Damen’s past hold the key to their future?

Love That Cover!

2010-11-05T19:47:00.000-07:00

Betrayal, loss, pain, fear. How many trials can love endure and still survive?

Not much of a synopsis yet but I am reading the first book in the series, Nightshade, right now and if book two is anything like book one I know it will be amazing! And staying true to the Awesomness that was the Nightshade Cover I think that the cover of Wolfsbane is pretty amazing as well :)

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

2010-11-04T18:27:00.000-07:00

Mackie Doyle is not human. He was a replacement, left in the crib of the real (human) Mackie Doyle when he was in infant. Now Mackie is sixteen and slowing dying. He is allergic to many of the elements that humans encounter on a daily basis. He becomes violently ill when he comes in contact with iron (and most metals), blood, or consecrated ground. Think about what that means for Mackie. Traveling in a car, using silverware, school blood drives, or even visiting his father at work (he is a pastor) is unbearable for him.

Mackie and his family have worked hard to keep his true identity as a replacement a secret. After Tate's little sister dies she approaches Mackie for answers. Tate thinks that Mackie knows more then he is letting on and she knows that the child her family buried was not her sister. Soon Mackie finds himself caught between doing whats right and saving himself from a slow painful death. He travels to the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem and meets the Morigan and the living dead creatures that dwell below the slag pile. They hold the key to Mackie being able to live in the human world but it will come at a price.

Mackie was a great character. I think that Brenna Yovanoff did an amazing job developing the characters and their relationship in the story. The reader is able to see exactly what motivates them and why Mackie has been able to survive as long as he has in the human world. I love the relationship that Mackie has with his sister. She is truly the reason he lived when all other replacements die. Tate and Mackie to begin to take their relationship to a more sexual level so keep that in mind for younger readers. I loved this book and I look forward to more books by Breena.

The DUFF by Kody Keplinger

2010-11-01T22:32:00.000-07:00

I heard about this book a few months ago and finally picked it up last week. I am so glad I did too because it was fantastic! I only wish I had picked it up months ago. I will say that this book is not for younger reads. I think that it has a lot of great messages about self esteem and coping with issues that younger YA reader could benefit from but the story has a lot of adult language and sex. So if you are easily offended my teens portrayed in these situations this may not be for you.

Bianca Piper knows she is not the prettiest girl out there and that has never bothered her. She has two great friends, a good head on her shoulders, and despite her absent mother, Bianca has loving parents. Being the loyal friend she is Bianca finds herself once again sitting at the local teen club watching her friends dance the night away. Just when Bianca thinks her night cant get any worse Wesley Rush sits down next to her. Wesley is the hands down hottest guy from school but he is also a man-whore. He has a reputation as a love 'em and leave 'em kind of guy. When Bianca refuses to give him the time of day he decides to break it down for her. She is the Duff (designated, ugly, fat, friend) and statistically girls are more willing to sleep with a guy who associated with their duff friends. Wesley is only asking for her to help him score with one of her friends. - Cue Bianca dumping Cherry Coke on Wesley's head.

Then Bianca's home life gets a little rough and Bianca needs a distraction. Wesley is as shocked as Bianca is when she finds her self kissing him to get that distraction. Even more shocking...he kisses her back. As life gets more complicated Bianca finds herself in a enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley. Let the sexy times begin ;) Just a much needed escape from her problems. No feelings involved. But Wesley is a surprisingly good listener and he may not have as perfect a life as she always imagined. But Wesley could never fall for the Duff right?

This is an amazing book so if you were on the fence about this book maybe this review could help push you over. It was definitely one of the best books I have read this year!

Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst

2010-10-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

This was a fun read for Halloween! It has all the “monsters” you can think of: dragons, unicorns, were-tigers, centaurs, gargoyles, faeries, goblins, the list goes on and on. Lily Carter has always wanted to follow in her grandfathers footsteps by attending Princeton University. She has done all the right things, good grades, lots of extracurricular activities, helped run her grandfathers flower shop, etc. Every year her grandfather attends Reunions Weekend at his Alma mater, only this year he is bring Lily and her mother along. Finally Lily will get to see her dream school first hand and her grandfather promises a big surprise is waiting for her there.

She has been selected to take the super secret Legacy Test. If she passes its automatic admision to Princeton. All she has to do is find the Ivy Key! Only....what is the Ivy Key? Shortly after she sets off on her hunt she is joined by Tye, who claims he is her guard. Soon the trail leads her to things she never imagined existed. There are two Princetons - one she has always known and a magical one. The Ivy Key opens the gate between the two. Just when she thinks she has lost her mind she discovers shocking secrets about her family and her destiny.

This book was full of twists and turns: family secrets, betrayals, and two hot college boys who have more in common then Lily's affections. I really enjoyed reading this and I recommend it to someone looking for a quick fun read.

New Release Tuesday

2010-10-19T00:35:00.000-07:00

I loved Tuesdays! These are the two books that are being released today that I cant wait to go out and buy. Are they on your to read list?? Happy Book Birthday to these amazing authors and happy reading fellow bloggers:)

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

Nora should have known her life was far from perfect. Despite starting a relationship with her guardian angel, Patch (who, title aside, can be described as anything but angelic), and surviving an attempt on her life, things are not looking up. Patch is starting to pull away, and Nora can't figure out if it's for her best interest or if his interest has shifted to her arch-enemy Marcie Millar. Not to mention that Nora is haunted by images of her father and she becomes obsessed with finding out what really happened to him that night he left for Portland and never came home.

The farther Nora delves into the mystery of her father's death, the more she comes to question if her Nephilim blood line has something to do with it as well as why she seems to be in danger more than the average girl. Since Patch isn't answering her questions and seems to be standing in her way, she has to start finding the answers on her own. Relying too heavily on the fact that she has a guardian angel puts Nora at risk again and again. But can she really count on Patch, or is he hiding secrets darker than she can even imagine?

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything--including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

The Candidates by Inara Scott

2010-10-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

What if every time someone you cared about was in danger or threatened strange things happened? What if people got hurt? This is Dancia Lewis's reality. The only way she can keep from hurting people is to avoid getting close to anyone. She gets average grades, has a drab wardrobe, and makes every attempt to blend into the background. So when a recruiter and a student from the prestigious Delcroix Academy come by her grandma's house and offer her a full ride she is left wondering why they chose her.

She does not fit in with the typical student. She is not rich, important, or a genius. In fact she is starting to think even her telekinesis is not all that special compared to some of the other students. Dancia tries to continue with her previous routine and stay under the radar but she cant seem to help making friends.

Then the guy she recently helped escape a persuer shows up at Delcroix, Jack the dark and mysterious trouble maker seems to gravitate to her. Jack was accepted to Delcroix under similar circumstances and unlike Dancia he refuses to let his questions go unanswered. And then there is Cam (her student recruiter) the hottest guy on campus who seems to be going out of his way to make sure Dancia is comfortable at Delcroix. Jack's suspicions are justified when he uncovers the secrets that the Delcroix faculty and even Cam are hiding. Who can Dancia trust? And who will Dancia choose Jack or Cam?

I thought that this book was good but it could have been better. The characters were interesting but they could have been explored more. I also think that despite the reveal of Delcroix's “secret” there is not much more to the story. I like when a story has many revelations along the way. This one really didnt. BUT....This is a series so I am sure that the next books will provide more background info and develop the characters more (at least I hope). I was torn on my rating but I decided to go with four stars because I was never bored reading it and I read it in a day so it must have kept me interested. I will pick up book 2 The Watchers when it comes out next year.

New Release Tuesday

2010-10-12T02:15:00.000-07:00

It is another big week for YA! These are some of the books that are being released today. Thay are all on my to-read list. Are they on yours?? Happy Book Birthday to these amazing authors and happy reading fellow bloggers:)

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Ethan Wate used to think of Gatlin, the small Southern town he had always called home, as a place where nothing ever changed. Then he met mysterious newcomer Lena Duchannes, who revealed a secret world that had been hidden in plain sight all along. A Gatlin that harbored ancient secrets beneath its moss-covered oaks and cracked sidewalks. A Gatlin where a curse has marked Lena's family of powerful supernaturals for generations. A Gatlin where impossible, magical, life-altering events happen.

Sometimes life-ending.

Together they can face anything Gatlin throws at them, but after suffering a tragic loss, Lena starts to pull away, keeping secrets that test their relationship. And now that Ethan's eyes have been opened to the darker side of Gatlin, there's no going back. Haunted by strange visions only he can see, Ethan is pulled deeper into his town's tangled history and finds himself caught up in the dangerous network of underground passageways endlessly crisscrossing the South, where nothing is as it seems.

Enchanted Ivy by Sarah Beth Durst

What Lily Carter wants most in the world is to attend Princeton University just like her grandfather. When she finally visits the campus, Grandpa surprises her: She has been selected to take the top-secret Legacy Test. Passing means automatic acceptance to Princeton. Sweet!Lily's test is to find the Ivy Key. But what is she looking for? Where does she start? As she searches, Lily is joined by Tye, a cute college boy with orange and black hair who says he's her guard. That's weird. But things get seriously strange when a gargoyle talks to her. He tells her that there are two Princetons—the ordinary one and a magical one—and the Key opens the gate between them. But there are more secrets that surround Lily. Worse secrets.

When Lily enters the magical Princeton, she uncovers old betrayals and new dangers, and a chance at her dream becomes a fight for her life. Soon Lily is caught in a power struggle between two worlds, with her family at its center. In a place where Knights slay monsters, boys are were-tigers, and dragons might be out for blood, Lily will need all of her ingenuity and courage—and a little magic—to unite the worlds and unlock the secrets of her past and her future.

Banished by Sophie Littlefield

There isn’t much worth living for in Gypsum, Missouri—or Trashtown, as the rich kids call the run-down neighborhood where sixteen-year-old Hailey Tarbell lives. Hailey figures she’ll never belong—not with the popular kids at school, not with the rejects, not even with her cruel, sickly grandmother, who deals drugs out of their basement. Hailey never knew her dead mother, and she has no idea who her father was, but at least she has her four-year-old foster brother, Chub. Once she turns eighteen, Hailey plans to take Chub far from Gypsum and start a new life where no one can find them.

But when a classmate is injured in gym class, Hailey discovers a gift for healing that she never knew she possessed—and that she cannot ignore. Not only can she heal, she can bring the dying back to life. Confused by her powers, Hailey searches for answers but finds only more questions, until a mysterious visitor shows up at Gram’s house, claiming to be Hailey’s aunt Prairie.

There are people who will stop at nothing to keep Hailey in Trashtown, living out a legacy of despair and suffering. But when Prairie saves both Hailey and Chub from armed attackers who invade Gram’s house in the middle of the night, Hailey must decide where to place her trust. Will Prairie’s past, and the long-buried secret that caused her to leave Gypsum years earlier, ruin them all? Because as Hailey will soon find out, their power to heal is just the beginning.

This gripping novel from thriller writer Sophie Littlefield blazes a trail from small-town Missouri to the big city as Hailey battles an evil greater than she ever imagined, while discovering strengths she never knew she had.

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

The Maze was only the beginning...

Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. No more Variables. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escape meant he and the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what sort of life they were going back to.

In the Maze, life was easy. They had food, and shelter, and safety... until Teresa triggered the end. In the world outside the Maze, however, the end was triggered long ago.

Burned by sun flares and baked by a new, brutal climate, much of the earth is a wasteland. Government has disintegrated--and with it, order--and now Cranks, people covered in festering wounds and driven to murderous insanity by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the crumbling cities hunting for their next victim... and meal.

The Gladers are far from done running. Instead of freedom, they find themselves faced with another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and arrive at a safe haven in two weeks. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them.

Thomas can only wonder--does he hold the secret of freedom somewhere in his mind? Or will he forever be at the mercy of WICKED?

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce

2010-10-09T22:26:00.000-07:00

I want to start this review by stating that Scarlett March (Lett) is completely bad ass! I loved her! Sisters Red starts off seven years ago when a Fenris (werewolf) attacks Scarlett and her sister. Scarlett may have defeated the Fenris and saved her sister Rosie's life but she was horribly scared and lost an eye in the process.

Now (seven years after the attack) Scarlett (18) and Rosie (16) have dedicated their lives to hunting down these monsters. Luring the Fenris in with their red cloaks and helpless girl routine. Rosie is deadly with her knives and Scarlett's weapon of choice? A razor-sharp hatchet. Scarlett lives for the hunt but Rosie dreams of a life not committed to eradicating the Fenris.

Silas (21) has returned home after a year in San Francisco with his uncle. Silas grew up with the March sisters and was Scarlett's hunting partner up until he left last year. Now that he is back Scarlett is determined jump right back into hunting with her old partner. And the first order of business? Figure out why the Fenris are converging on the surrounding area. Scarlett has one goal: find who the Fenris are after and use them as bait. Silas and Rosie have other things on their minds...each other.

This story has it all: mystery, romance, action, and even an awesome cover to wrap it up with. I will admit that I had the story figured out pretty early on, but that didn’t make it any less enjoyable. I finished this one in a day so I can safely say that it was well worth reading.

Torment by Lauren Kate

2010-10-06T17:49:00.000-07:00

How many lives do you need to live before you find someone worth dying for? I am in love with this catch phrase for this book. It simply screams “This book is amazing. You must read it!” and I must say that I agree. Plus it is one of the best covers I have seen this year! I mean I am in love with that dress! Anyways, Torment is the sequel to the New York Times Best Seller, Fallen. If you have not read Fallen, Torment may be hard to get into. Torment picks up right where Fallen left off. Luce has been removed from Sword and Cross and is going into hiding. Cam and Daniel (fallen angels on different sides of the line) have drawn up a truce lasting 18 days. In this time period both sides will work together toward a common goal, protecting Luce from the Outcasts.

For her own safety Daniel and Cam agree to keep Luce at Shoreline, a school filled with Nephilim, the offspring of fallen angels and humans. Here Luce begins to uncover the truth behind the Announcers (the shadows that have followed her all of her life) and her past lives. Luce is beginning to understand that it is not just her and Daniel who have been hurt by her many deaths. With each life there is a family that is left behind. Is it right for her to keep hurting those she loves? With this knew knowledge it is becoming harder for Luce to overlook Daniels half truths and his insistence that he can not stay with her now. Daniel may be her past and her present but is he really her future? Could Luce be happy with someone else?

Luce is a much stronger character in this book. She is not content with waiting around and just blindly taking orders anymore. More characters are introduced in Torment as well. Miles is a great addition to the series. He will have everyone questioning whether they should ditch their Team Daniel shirts for a shiny new Team Miles one. Shelby (Luce's new roommate) is brash, stubborn, and has a history of her own with Daniel and Luce, but she is also impossible not to love. Most of the characters from Fallen make an appearance in Torment but I was disappointed that there wasn't more Cam. I hope he plays a bigger role in future books.

The one thing that may seem frustrating is that like all series this is a cliffhanger. The next book will be Passion. It is set to release in Fall 2011. Passion will be a sort of prequel to the series. Once you finish Torment you may have a better idea of what exactly that could mean. I don’t want to spoil anything ;) Then Rapture will be released in 2012 to wrap up the series. So expect to be frustrated after turning that last page. :)

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

2010-10-04T21:27:00.000-07:00

Oh Bleep! I Bleeping loved this book! This was so cute. Evie is a lovably character, she even has a pink taser she named "Tasey" that she uses to neutralize or "neuter" paranormals. I felt drawn into the story more then some other recent reads. Evie is special, she can see past paranormal glamours (a sort of fake appearance that is projected to the world). It is this ability that has made her an asset to the International Paranormal Containment Agency (IPCA) in their attempt to regulate and contain paranormals. Since Evie is the only one of her kind she is kept on a tight leash by Raquel, her boss/guardian. Evie has always thought of herself as normal but it turns out she is more then she seems and she may be more dangerous then anyone thought possible.

Evie's best friend, Lish (a mermaid) added humor to the story with her computer generated vocabulary. Since she lives underwater she is unable to speak like a human so a computer does her talking for her. Swear words are not translated so anytime Lish uses one it just comes out as “bleep.” Evie picks this up and tends to bleep things a lot. lol

Reth, Evie's ex (a faerie) is alluring but dangerous. He seems to have a hidden agenda that Evie cant quite seem to figure out. On top of all her issues with Reth paranormals start turning up dead and no one can explain why. When a strange shape shifting boy breaks into the IPCA Evie is drawn to him. He has a life on the outside: a family, friends, and even a locker! I must admit it was a little weird to see the attraction of Lend when he is first introduced since she can see under his glamour to what he really looks like. He is described by Evie as looking like water and light.. But my hesitation faded as the story went on and I totally fell in love with Lend right along with Evie. They are perfect for each other. He knows that Evie loves him for who he really is since she can see who he really is and Lend warms Evie's heart (you'll understand that when you read it). Together Evie and Lend will have to uncover a dark faerie prophecy and save all paranormal creatures.

I highly recommend this book. And if you love at much as I do you will be happy to know it is a series!!! Yay!! Supernaturally (Paranormalcy #2) is scheduled to release September 2011!

Casting: The Dark Devine

2010-10-04T16:01:00.000-07:00

Bree Despain is holding a contest for casting The Dark Divine movie (just for fun) and giving away great prizes. She provide character descriptions in case you need a refresher. Here are my picks! Hurry over and submit your picks because the contest ends tonight!

Grace: Vanessa Hudgens

Daniel: Alex Pettyfer

Talbot: Jared Padalecki

April: Alyson Michalka

Mrs. Divine: Orla Brady

Pete: Zach Roerig

Jude: Penn Badgley

Pastor Divine: Judd Law

Orange County Children's Book Festival

2010-10-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Orange County Children's Book Festival was a hit in my book (pun only slightly intended lol). Even though their were a ton of Amazing authors at the event I was especially excited to finally meet Lauren Kate (Fallen Series) and Becca Fitzapatrick (Hush, Hush Series). Both of these authors know how to keep me glued to their pages.

Becca was so sweet and personable. She read the last two pages from Crescendo to the audience and let just say that Crescendo isnt even out yet and I am dying to read Tempest (Hush, Hush #3).

I also got a chance to meet Lisa Desrochers (Personal Demons), Heidi Kling (Sea) and Emma Michaels (The Thirteenth Chime).

New Release Tuesday

2010-09-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yeah I have been waiting for Torment since last Fall. Plus I will get to meet Lauren Kate on Sunday!!! Squee! I will be pacing in front of the mailbox until it arrives!

Torment

How many lives do you need to live before you find someone worth dying for? In the aftermath of what happened at Sword & Cross, Luce has been hidden away by her cursed angelic boyfriend, Daniel, in a new school filled with Nephilim, the offspring of fallen angels and humans. Daniel promises she will be safe here, protected from those who would kill her. At the school Luce discovers what the Shadows that have followed her all her life mean - and how to manipulate them to see into her other lives. Yet the more Luce learns about herself, the more she realizes that the past is her only key to unlocking her future...and that Daniel hasn't told her everything. What if his version of the past isn't actually the way things happened...what if Luce was really meant to be with someone else?

Ascendant

Now a fully trained unicorn hunter, Astrid Llewelyn is learning that she can’t solve all her problems with a bow and arrow. Her boyfriend has left Rome, the Cloisters is in dire financial straits, her best friend’s powers are mysteriously disintegrating, and her hope of becoming a scientist seems to be nothing but an impossible dream.
So when she’s given the opportunity to leave the Cloisters and use her skills as part of a scientific quest to discover the Remedy, Astrid leaps at the chance. Finally, she can have exactly what she wants—or can she? At Gordian headquarters deep in France, Astrid begins to question everything she had believed: her love for Giovanni, her loyalty to the Cloisters, and—most of all—her duty as a hunter. Should Astrid be saving the world from killer unicorns or saving unicorns from the world?

Cover Love

2010-09-27T14:04:00.000-07:00

So there have been a few cover releases in the last few weeks that I have been drooling over. Many of you might have already seen them but I figured I would post them all up here just in case :)

Fins Are Forever

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?

Slice of Cherry

Happiness is a bloody knife.
Kit and Fancy Cordelle are sisters of the best kind: best friends, best confidantes, and best accomplices. The daughters of the infamous Bonesaw Killer, Kit and Fancy are used to feeling like outsiders, and that’s just the way they like it. But in Portero, where the weird and wild run rampant, the Cordelle sisters are hardly the oddest or most dangerous creatures around.

It’s no surprise when Kit and Fancy start to give in to their deepest desire—the desire to kill. What starts as a fascination with slicing open and stitching up quickly spirals into a gratifying murder spree. Of course, the sisters aren’t killing just anyone, only the people who truly deserve it. But the girls have learned from the mistakes of their father, and know that a shred of evidence could get them caught. So when Fancy stumbles upon a mysterious and invisible doorway to another world, she opens a door to endless possibilities....

Blood Magic

For Nick Pardee and Silla Kennicot, the cemetery is the center of everything.

Nick is a city boy angry at being forced to move back to the nowhere town of Yaleylah, Missouri where he grew up. He can’t help remembering his mom and the blood magic she practiced – memories he’s tried for five years to escape. Silla, though, doesn’t want to forget; her parents’ apparent murder-suicide left her numb and needing answers. When a book of magic spells in her dad’s handwriting appears on her doorstep, she sees her chance to unravel the mystery of their deaths.

Together they plunge into the world of dark magic, but when a hundred-year-old blood witch comes hunting for the bones of Silla’s parents and the spell book, Nick and Silla will have to let go of everything they believe about who they are, the nature of life and death, and the deadly secrets that hide in blood.

Forever

No synopsis yet but lets be honest if you have read the first two in the series you already no the best way to introduce this book:

This book is made of AWESOME just like Shiver and Linger so just pick it up and read it!

Enough said??? lol

Love Sucks! by Melissa Francis

2010-09-25T22:54:00.000-07:00

This is the sequel to Bite Me! by Melissa Francis. I really enjoyed this book. I have to say that it was better then the first one. I felt like the story was better developed and of coarse I was much happier with the romantic developments in this one. Keep in mind if you have not read the first book this review will contain some spoilers for that book so reader beware.

Bite Me! Left off after A.J. and Ryan finally except that they are now brother and sister...well at least thats what they say ;) They decide this once they discover the truth about each other, AJ. and her family are vampires and Ryan and his family are warlocks. Plus their parents are going to have a baby, a baby that is prophesied to be the barer of the mark of both Frieceadan and the Serpentine clans. The baby would render the Serpentine's powerless because its blood will be the anti-serum to their venom. So they all must ban together to protect their family.

When Love Sucks! picks up, AJ is moving on, or at least that’s what she tells herself and Ryan decided to give his relationship with Lindsey a try. Despite their efforts, it is clear their feelings for each other are still nowhere close to that of a brother and sister. But a new vampire in town named Alexander Archer provides just the distraction A.J. needs. Only now she must choose beteew Sexy Lexy and her unwavering feelings for Ryan. Soon A.J.'s past catches back up and she is once again being hunted by the Serpentine's. Her mother is in intensive care and the evil father that abandoned her eight years ago maybe the only one who can save her. But what will he want in return? Just when you think that the story is all wrapped up Melissa Francis drops one more bombshell. You might see it coming (or at least be hopping for it) but you wont be disappointed ;)

Bite Me! by Melissa Francis

2010-09-24T22:15:00.000-07:00

Bite me was a quick read. It was fast paced and enjoyable. A.J. Ashe is a seventeen year old vampire trying to live a normal life in Mississippi. Her five month relationship with her boyfriend Ryan is cut short when her mother marries his father. Since dating her stepbrother has been forbidden my their parents A.J. reluctantly ends things. To tell you the truth the situation is very Brady Bunch (not meaning the story is cheesy or anything). Rick is the father of three dark haired boys: Ryan, Oz, and Rayden while A.J's mom has three blond girls (all vampires): A.J, Ana, and Ainsley. So you can see how very “Brady” it looks lol

Unfortunately Ryan and A.J's feelings for one another refuse to waver. Even pushing him away and his budding relationship with someone else cant snuff out the flame. As if her love life wasn't stressing her enough, things become complicated when a classmate begins stalking her. He is a vampire and A.J. may have been the one to turn him. Plus her best friends are fighting and dragging her along for the ride.

This was a cute book and definitely left me want more. The sequel is called Love Sucks!

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

2010-09-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

I love it when I come across a book that seems completely unique. It is hard to find a good paranormal YA book that is not about Vampires, Werewolves, or Faeries. Not that I am saying that I don’t love books on these subjects but I think we can all agree there are a lot out there right now. Nevermore is fresh and new. I also love books that pull in real historical events to serve as a backdrop for paranormal events. It makes the story seem more realistic.

Isobel Lanley: perky, blond, cheerleader
Varen Nethers: mysterious, dark, goth

The simple laws of the high school class system says that they can never be friends, but when they are paired up for an English project they are forced to work together. Varen and Isobel are not the only ones who are upset by their pairing. Brad, Isobel's boyfriend waists no time putting Varen in his place and Lacy is not to fond of Isobel spending time with her boyfriend either.

Despite their initial aversion to each other, both soon discover an attraction hiding beneath the surface. The closer that Isobel and Varen become the stranger their lives become. Soon Isobel is being followed, watched and visited by various beings who seem to be sending her a message, “Stay away from Varen Nethers.” Despite their warnings Isobel falls hard for Varen. When he vanishes before her eyes Isobel ventures into the dream world Varen created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life in order to save him from a fate that seems inevitable. Choices are made, lies are told, and Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined.

Be prepared for a cliffhanger ending this one is a series! I simply could not put this one down. Kelly Creagh's debut is enticing, exciting, and nerve racking. And it's all balled up into this fresh take on the mystery that surrounds America's first master of horror, Edgar Allen Poe.

Interesting tid bit: I love the cover art for this book but I was surrprised to find that when the book arrived Varen was missing the lip ring shown in this picture. He has one in the story and on most cover art you find online but on the actual book it has been removed. Weird!

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

2010-09-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

I cant even believe how much I loved this book. I have not had a book keep me up until dawn for a while but this book did it! I just loved it. Everything about it. Sophie Jordan has written a young adult book that is exciting, empowering, and enticing! The reader cant help but fall head over heals for Will (the sexy hunter) and empathize with Jacinda's situation.

Jacinda is Draki. She is the descendant of dragons. The Draki can shift between human and dragon form. Her pride has lived in the mountains, hidden by the mist. Jacinda is a fire-breather, the first one in hundreds of years. This makes her a precious commodity to her pride. Property. Jacinda is tired of being told what to do and having her path chosen for her (including her future mate, Cassian).

When Jacinda, in an act of rebellion, sneaks out to fly at dawn (they are forbidden to fly unless under the cover of nightfall) and is almost caught by hunters. Her mother forces her to flee the pride with her sister in tow before her punishment can be carried out. Adapting to the human world is difficult for Jacinda, she hates that her her draki spirit is fading. Then she sees a familiar face at school. The hunter who let her go. She knows that he is dangerous but he is the only thing that awakes the draki inside her. But dating a hunter is impossible. How can she ever let down her guard when it could not only cost her her own life but risk the only secret that has protected her kind.

This book is so amazing. The whole time Jacinda is torn between giving her mother and sister the normal human life they both crave and refusing to let her inner draki die. I think it is great to read about such a strong character. Jacinda is determined not to lose the only part of her that truly makes her happy. And on a lighter note could Sophie have written Will any hotter? I think NOT! He is probably the best male love interest I have read in a while. Oh and just to give those of you who have not read it yet another teaser. Will has a few secrets of his own....

Read it ASAP I promise you will love it. Warning it is a series so be prepared for a gut wrenching cliffhanger!!

Smart Chicks Kick It Tour

2010-09-20T20:41:00.002-07:00

So tonight was the Smart Chicks Kick It stop in Pasadena, CA! This is my first event since my relocation but it certainly wont be the last. I already have a few more planned in the next month. Which I will post here as well :) I had a great time. Here are some of my pics from the event!

Melissa Marr (Wicked Lovely series) and Kelley Armstrong (Darkest Powers series) kick of the event!

Alyson Noel (Immortal Series) announces NYT Best Seller status!

Rachel Cain (The Morganville Vampires series) talks about new book Ghost Town!

Rachel Vincent (Shifters and Soul Screamers series) introduces herself.

Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures series)

Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures series) laughs as Margaret Stohl jokes.

Margaret suggests that their contributions to the Beautiful Creatures series is represented by their respective sizes...lol Poor little Kami!!! hahaha

Turns out that Beautiful Creatures may be hitting the big screen!!!!

Who will play what roles? Margret ponders whether to let this slip...

ok......Margaret will be playing Ethan and Lena while Kami plays the roles of everyone else! lol You have to admit that it would be interesting lol

Mary Pearson talks about bringing "The Adoration of Jenna Fox" to the big screen!

Melissa Marr (Wicked Lovely series) talks about new book out soon!

Kelly Armsrtong announces her YA series has been signed on through book 9!!! I had only knew of 6!!! Woo Hoo!!!

Melissa de la Cruz (Blue Bloods series) tells us who she would Marry, Shag, and throw off a cliff from Alyson Noels' Immortal series

Margaret Stohl and Kami Garcia at the signing table :)

I freaking love Beautiful Creatures and I cant wait until Beautiful Darkness comes out Oct 12th!!! Meeting these two was a definate highlight!

Alyson and I laughed about our last signing together. The power outage situation in Chicago...safe to say things were much brighter this time. Cant wait for Night Star!!!

Rachel Caine and I. I brought the Ethernal Kiss anthology for her to sign!

Melissa de la Cruz and I. I have her series on my to Read list for sure :)

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

2010-09-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

Blue moon was a great follow up to Evermore. Now that Ever is an Immortal she is eager to learn everything she can about her new abilities. Ever turns to her beloved Damen to show her the way. But just as her powers are increasing, Damen’s are waning and then he begins to pull away from Ever. As if that wasn't strange enough, her best friends abandon her as well. The only one who seems to still be interested in her is Roman, the new guy, who Ever hasn’t quite figured out yet. Why is this happening?

Ever is determined to save Damen and Summerland may be her only hope for answers. Summerland can be difficult to navigate but luckily Ever has Rayne and Romy are there to guide her. Ever may not have known what she was looking for but she finds out much more then she planned, secrets that Damon never shared about his past.

Ever wants to set things back the way they were...but will that mean she has to go back to before the accident that killed her family? Ever discovers an ancient text that details the workings of time. Now Ever must chose between turning back the past and saving her family from the accident that claimed their lives or staying in the present and saving Damen.

This book was a lot more emotional then Evermore. I even cried at a few parts involving her sister...I won't give it away. The ending is not what I would have hoped for but that just makes Shadowland (book 3) that much more enticing. I would recommend this book to anyone who has read the first book

Evermore by Alyson Noel

2010-09-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this book. It has a similar aspect as the book Fallen (which I adored). Ever is dealing with the loss of everything she has ever known or cared about, her mom, dad, sister, dog, home, friends, boyfriend etc. Her life is turned upside down after a car accident kills her whole family. Now ever is living with her aunt in California. Despite her huge loss Ever does gain a gift (not that she sees it that way). Ever is now psychic. She can see auras (a colorful glow a person gives off that let her know how they are feeling), but that’s not the worst of it. Ever can hear peoples thoughts and even learn a person's life story simply by touching them. Ever is forced to shut herself away from everyone to quiet the noise in her head until Damen comes along. He somehow is able to break through the noise and silence it.

Damen is gorgeous, exotic, wealthy and Ever is immediately drawn to him despite his mysterious nature. She doesn’t know who he really is—or what he is. As the secrets come out Ever will discover just how close her and Damon are and what really happened the night of the accident that killed her family.

I was really glad that I didn't know what Damen was going into the book because I loved finding out when Ever did. I even found myself laughing out loud when Damen refutes her first guess. I finished this book in a little over a day. This series is worth a read!

Sophomore Switch by Abby McDonald

2010-09-11T21:43:00.000-07:00

Tasha, an American party girl is looking for a quick escape from her suddon fame over, "The Hot-Tub Incident," So when the the opportunity to participate in a study abroad program at Oxford presents itself she jumps at the chance. The only catch is that it has to be an even switch. Someone else will be taking her place at U.C. Santa Barbara. Not just location but classes as well. Lets just say Tasha was not prepared to dive headfirst into feminist theory.

The British half of the exchange, studious Emily, experiences her own culture shock when she reaches sunny California. Emily has never cut loose and it seems like that is all her exchange mate ever did. In order to get by in each others lives the girls begin talking. Giving each other tips on fitting in, finding love, and figuring out who they really are. Tasha and Emily not only find themselves but they also find each other.

I loved this book because it took a good look at all the standards that are placed on women. Some are placed there by society, men, even ourselves. Should we be the perfect, proper, modest woman or is it ok to act on passion....That is what I took away from this book. Ok, now this sounds like a self-help book review but seriously I really enjoyed it. The book was fun with a few empowering moments. Its also got plenty of boy drama and a little heat if you know what I mean...lol Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did!

W...W...W... Wednesdays

2010-09-08T08:39:00.004-07:00

WWW Wednesdays is hosted by MizB over at Should Be Reading.
To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

1. What are you currently reading?

2. What did you recently finish reading?

3. What do you think you’ll read next?

What are your answers?

New Release Tuesday

2010-09-07T08:49:00.001-07:00

I cant wait until this one arrives in my mailbox!!!

Happy Release Day Sophie!!

With her rare ability to breathe fire, Jacinda is special even among the draki—the descendants of dragons who can shift between human and dragon forms. But when Jacinda’s rebelliousness leads her family to flee into the human world, she struggles to adapt, even as her draki spirit fades. The one thing that revives it is Will, whose family hunts her kind. Jacinda can’t resist getting closer to him, even though she knows she’s risking not only her life but the draki’s most closely guarded secret.

Follow Friday

2010-09-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

It is Follow Friday again and I am participating from my new location in California!!!! I have been in the the process of moving to California this week so I have been very busy and therefore slacking on my posts. My stack of new to-read books is starting to over take my bookshelf. If you have any suggestions on which one I should read first let me know. Check out this post to see the books I am deciding between.

So if you are stopping by on your blog hop please Follow me. Then leave a comment somewhere in the blog with your blog info and let me know you are a new follower and I will return the follow! I cant wait to hop on over to your blog and check it out. Even if you are not a new follower please leave a comment somewhere on the site and I will be sure to return the favor ;) Have a great weekend!

New Release Tuesday

2010-08-30T22:16:00.003-07:00

This is an awesome week for YA novels! I will have to lock myself in my room in order to read all of these books. I cant decide which one to read first. Any sugesstions??

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: Jem, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa.

As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

Nevermore by Kelley Creagh

Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Unraveled by Gena Showalter

For once, sixteen-year-old Aden Stone has everything he’s ever wanted:

A home.

Friends.

The girl of his dreams.

Too bad he’s going to die...Since coming to Crossroads, Oklahoma, former outcast Aden Stone has been living the good life. Never mind that one of his best friends is a werewolf, his girlfriend is a vampire princess who hungers for his blood, and he’s supposed to be crowned Vampire King – while still a human! Well, kind of.

With four – oops, three now — human souls living inside his head, Aden has always been “different” himself. These souls can time travel, raise the dead, possess another’s mind, and, his least favorite these days, tell the future.

The forecast for Aden? A knife through the heart.

Because a war is brewing between the creatures of the dark, and Aden is somehow at the center of it all. But he isn’t about to lie down and accept his destiny without a fight. Not when his new friends have his back, not when Victoria has risked her own future to be with him, and not when he has a reason to live for the first time in his life...

The Haunted by Jessica Verday

After a summer spent reclaiming her sanity and trying to forget the boy she fell in love with by the bridge where her best friend drowned - the boy who must not exist, cannot exist, because she knows that he is dead - Abbey returns to Sleepy Hollow, determined to leave the ghosts of her past behind.

Abby throws herself into schoolwork, perfume-making and her friendship with Ben, her cute and funny lab partner, who just might be able to help her get over Caspian once and for all. But Abbey is never going to truly be able to move on from Caspian and Caspian has no choice but to return to her side: for Caspian is a Shade and Abbey is his destiny. The two are tied not only to each other, but also to the town of Sleepy Hollow and the famous legend that binds their fates - a legend whose true ending and dark truths they are only just beginning to guess...

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

Nothing much happens in the sleepy town of Venus Cove. But everything changes when three angels are sent from heaven to protect the town against the gathering forces of darkness: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, a teenage girl who is the least experienced of the trio. They work hard to conceal their true identity and, most of all, their wings. But the mission is threatened when the youngest angel, Bethany, is sent to high school and falls in love with the handsome school captain, Xavier Woods.

Will she defy the laws of Heaven by loving him? Things come to a head when the angels realize they are not the only supernatural power in Venus Cove. There′s a new kid in town and he′s charming, seductive and deadly. Worst of all, he′s after Beth.

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Wierd as it is working for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, Evie's always thought of herself as normal. Sure, her best friend is a mermaid, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals' glamours, but still. Normal.

Only now paranormals are dying, and Evie's dreams are filled with haunting voices and mysterious prophecies. She soon realizes that there may be a link between her abilities and the sudden rash of deaths. Not only that, but she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

Cover Love!

2010-08-25T22:05:00.001-07:00

I just came across this cover and I was immediately drawn to the book. Unfortunately is not out until July 12th 2011. After reading the synopsis I immediately added this to my to-read list and placed in on my calendar so that I wont miss this book when it comes out next year :)

Bad Taste in Boys by Carrie Harris

Someone’s been a very bad zombie.

Super-smartie Kate Grable gets to play doctor, helping out her high school football team. Not only will the experience look good on her college apps, she gets to be this close to her quarterback crush, Aaron. Then something disturbing happens. Kate finds out that the coach has given the team steroids. Except . . . the vials she finds don’t exactly contain steroids. Whatever’s in them is turning hot gridiron hunks into mindless, flesh-eating . . . zombies.

Unless she finds an antidote, no one is safe. Not Aaron, not Kate’s brother, not her best friend . . . not even Kate . . .

It’s scary. It’s twisted. It’s sick. It’s high school.

Shadow Hills eBook Release, Blog Tour, and Street Team Update!

2010-08-24T08:39:00.010-07:00

Shadow Hills is available on eBook today!! So for all of you Kindle and Nook owners (ebook readers) now you can grab your eBook of Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus! Let me say that if you have been waiting to read this book you are missing out. I loved it. See my review Here. To purchase your ebook of Shadow Hills visit Barnes and Noble or Amazon. Happy Reading!!!

And speaking of Shadow Hills…..the Shadow Hills Street Team website is still under construction. BUT the anticipation is starting to drive us all crazy so Anastasia has decided to post the first challenge. If you haven’t already filled out the form on her website to be a part of the street team then head on over and do it now. There is a link in her most recent post here.

Once you are all signed up you should receive your first mission via email. I will be heading over to my mailbox soon to check for mine. I hope to be at Adriana status soon and then I will be moving up to Toy…wondering what I am talking about? Visit Anastasia’s site and read Shadow Hills ;)

Also...
Dont miss the Shadow Hills Blog Tour
(As the dates pass I will try to update to direct links)

1. August 23rd - The Undercover Book Lover
2. August 24th - I Just Wanna Sit Here & Read
3. August 25th - I Heart Monster
4. August 26th - Aaron's Books
5. August 27th - Brooke Reviews
6. August 28th - Karin's Book Nook
7. August 29th - Tinas Book Reviews
8. August 30th - Anna's Book Blog
9. August 31st - Ellz Readz
10. September 1st - The Serpentine Library
11. September 2nd - The Book Vixen
12. September 3rd - Mundie Moms
13. September 4th - Notes in the Margin
14. September 5th - The True Book Addict
15. September 6th - The Story Siren
16. September 7th - Reading with Tequila
17. September 8th - A Fanatics Book Blog
18. September 9th - Only Sexy Books Allowed
19. September 10th - Tales of a Teenage Book Lover
20. September 11th - ReaderGirls
21. September 12th - Daisy Chain Book Reviews
22. September 13th - Confessions of Bookaholic
23. September 14th - The Fiction Enthusiast
24. September 15th - Presenting Lenore
25. September 16th- DJ’s Life in Fiction
26. September 17th - Red House Books
27. September 18th - Shut Up! I'm Reading
28. September 19th - Chick Lit Teens

Mockingjay is Here!!!

2010-08-24T06:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Mockingjay Day! It is finally here! I know what most of you will be doing for the next couple of days. I had mine shipped to my new address in California so I wont even get mine until next week so dont tell me who ends up with Katniss. *oh please let it be Peeta* Happy Reading!

Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis

2010-08-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

Heather Davis’s debut was not disappointing. I thought it was entertaining and fast paced. I would have liked some more relationship development between the main character Shelby and her love interest Austin but I still enjoyed the story.

Sixteen-year-old Shelby has had her fair share of boy troubles recently and it is her most recent tryst that has lead to her Father and step-monster totally overreacting and banishing her to a brat camp for the summer. Luckily she at least gets to select the camp but if she screws it up she will be sent to Red Canyon—aka boot camp from hell! So Shelby is off to the artsy Camp Crescent. The level of cheesiness is off the charts at this camp but Shelby starts to overlook that when Austin Bridges appears on the scene.

Austin is cute, charming, mysterious, and the son of a rock star….who could ask for more? Shelby soon starts to realize that Austin may be hiding a secret that she never dreamed possible. Even worse is that Shelby is the only person he trusts to help him keep his secret which means Shelby’s history of getting into compromising situations is far from over.

Heather Davis delivered a great debut novel. Things don’t wrap up as well as the reader usually expects but that just makes it more realistic (well as realistic as a werewolf book can be). I also think that a certain scratch could leave room for a second book which I would defiantly pick up but I have not heard if there is another one planed. If anyone knows, leave me a comment with details so I can add it to my to-read list. Happy reading!

Fairest of All: A Tale of the Wicked Queen by Serena Valentino

2010-08-19T08:02:00.005-07:00

While this book was very well written I found it hard to get through. I am usually pretty good at picking books that I will enjoy which is why most of the books I read/review get such high star ratings but this one was simply a bad choice for me. Don’t misunderstand, I think that the story was well thought out and interesting enough it was just not my taste. I don't have anything negative to say about the book. I was just kind of bored reading it.

The story focuses on the life of the Wicked Queen from the Snow White fairy tale. What could have made the Wicked Queen “wicked”? Where did the mirror come from and who is the man in the mirror who speaks to the Queen? These are the questions that will draw the reader into this book. The story takes place hundreds of years ago, it is not a modern retelling of the story. This is literally another side of the Snow White story that Disney produced in 1937. The characters were good and it held pretty true to the classic story near the end. I recommend that anyone who is thinking about this one pick it up and read the first few chapters in the store just to make sure you are going to like it. It is very "Disney" I hope that explains it.

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

2010-08-17T09:02:00.002-07:00

I finished City of Glass and I have to say that The Mortal Instruments is one of the best series I have ever read. City of Bones crushed me a little with the news that Clary and Jace were really brother and sister. I was stubborn though and I refused to believe it. I immediately ran over to pick up City of Ashes. City of Ashes was even more exciting then the first book in the series. It was in that book that I realized why everybody is always raving about Magnus Bane. He is a very….sparkly character. I of course was also driven crazy by the end of that book when Jace “lies” to Clary and says he will just be her brother from now on…You are killing me Cassandra Clare!

City of Glass picks up right after City of Ashes. Clary’s mother is still in her magically induced coma but now, thanks to Madeline, Clary knows how to save her and the only one who can help her is in Idris. The reader hears a lot about Idris in the previous books but we are never really introduces to it until this book. Despite Clary’s reasons for wanting to go to Idris Jace is determined to prevent her from going. Jace fears that Clary’s heightened Shadowhunter abilities will make her desired by the Clave. After an unexpected demon attack Jace manages to succeed in leaving Clary behind but ends up bringing Simon with instead. Let’s just say that the new Inquisitor is not too pleased to see a vampire come through the portal and he has some plans for Simon.

Jace may have succeeded initially but Clary being the determined person she is creates her own portal and ends up in Idris with Luke anyways. Shortly after arriving in Idris Clary meets a new tall dark haired boy who seems strangely familiar. Sebastian quickly offers to help Clary in her pursuit for the warlock who can help her cure her mother. Valentine is still moving forward with his plans to attack the Clave and Idris. He has the sword and the cup and now he just needs the mirror. The only way to defeat his demon army may be for Shadowhunters and Downworlders to work together. Putting aside there differences and petty jealousies may prove to be impossible. Only Clary seems to hold the key to uniting them against Valentine.

City of Glass is action packed and laced with declarations of love *squeal*. I can’t wait to continue this series with City of Fallen Angels which is scheduled to release April 5, 2011. At least I will have Clockwork Angel to tide me over in the meantime and I only have to wait 2 more weeks for it!

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

2010-08-13T07:00:00.002-07:00

As I mentioned when I reviewed City of Bones, I am officially hooked. After reading the first book in the Mortal Instruments Series I was compelled to walk right over to my bookshelf and pluck the next one to devour and the situation is no different this time around. I have already started City of Glass this morning. I also thought that City of Bones was really well written but Cassandra’s writing style became even more fluid in her second book. Cassandra Clare has a way of making you feel like you are truly watching the story unfold in front of you. It’s like when you are watching TV and the killer corners the damsel in distress, she screams and then…..it flips to another story line/commercial. I felt like she did this to me a lot (and no I am not saying that there are commercials in the book lol). I was left going “Wait! What happened to *insert character here*?” and anxiously reading on to find out. The suspense is intense at times.

After the devastating realization that the guy she loves is her long lost brother, Clary is left feeling like the rug has been ripped out from under her. Everything has changed. Clary is a Shadowhunter, her best friend Simon is in love with her, her mother is in a magically induced coma, her biological father is a evil mastermind, and her mom’s best friend (her father figure) is a werewolf. Yep, I think we can say that Clary has her hands full at the moment.

Jace is also crushed to learn that the girl he loves is really his sister and he is not who he always thought he was. Now the second of the Mortal Instruments is stolen and the Clave thinks that Jace may be aiding his father, Valentine, in his pursuit. Now Downworlder children are turning up dead, drained of blood. Can they clear Jace’s name and stop Valentine before he can execute his plan?

Cassandra Clare really ups the stakes with this one and I love her for it. But Can I just say that in life when ever you want to tell someone something and they say “No, me first” DON’T LISTEN! Jace and Clary, you are killing me! I never thought I would be saying, “Who cares if you are brother and sister, you are clearly meant to be!” I know I am one sick puppy….lol Don’t be like me and put this book off any longer. If you have not picked it up run, don’t walk to your nearest bookstore/library and grab the series. You will not regret it. I know that I don’t!

Follow Friday

2010-08-12T22:01:00.010-07:00

It is Follow Friday again! So if you are stopping by on your blog hop please Follow me. Then leave a comment somewhere in the blog with your blog info and let me know you are a new follower and I will return the follow! I cant wait to hop on over to your blog and check it out. Even if you are not a new follower please leave a comment somewhere on the site and I will be sure to return the favor ;) Have a great weekend!

Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

2010-08-12T07:45:00.002-07:00

I love road trip books and in honor of my upcoming road trip across the country I decided to post my review of Amy and Roger’s Epic Detour. This is Morgan Matson’s debut novel and it is fabulous. The attention to detail in this book is what makes it a five star read for me. The playlists, pictures, receipts, locations, and even the people they meet along the way all fit flawlessly into the story and make it that much richer.

Amy Curry has been dealing with the sudden death of her father. Amy feels responsible for his death and refuses to get behind the wheel. Her life in California has been tough since the accident, but it is also her home. Now Amy’s mother has decided to move the family to Connecticut. Her mother has left early to get there new place set up so Amy will be forced to make the trip across the country with the son of a family friend.

Roger has his own set of baggage he is bringing along on this road trip. A recent breakup has him all torn up and felt with issues of his own. He knows that he is making this trip because Amy can’t do it herself and he needs the ride to Philadelphia, but he is still not thrilled about it. Amy’s mother has planned out the trip down to the last detail but where is the fun in that? Roger and Amy agree to make a few unplanned stops along the way and soon Amy and Roger realize that life is lived in the detours we take. This book is about finding yourself and as they make their way across the country they are able to face their pasts and even find each other in the process.

I read this book a little while ago and I still find myself picking it up to reread some favorite passages. I can honestly say that this book is a keeper and I recommend that if you like a feel good book with twists and turns and a touch of romance this is a great book to pick up.

Versatile Blogger Award

2010-08-11T21:51:00.000-07:00

I am very excited to have been given the Versatile Blogger Award not once but twice. The first was from The Book Bee. The second award is from About Books Blog. Thank you so much for the award! I love your blogs as well!

How this award works:

1. Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic for whatever reason! (In no particular order...)

4. Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.

7 More Things About Me

1. I am writing my first book...bit by bit

2. I have and MBA with a Marketing focus....yet my passion is reading/writing

3. I am moving from Illinois to California with no more then my dogs and a packed car in 2 weeks!!

4. I dont watch much TV but I refuse to miss The Vampire Diaries or Supernatural

5. I could not whistle until I was in my twenties...I guess it's just hard for some people lol

6. I have been to 9 different countries (I <3 traveling) but I have a fear of flying - Go figure *shrug*

7. I think that life is meaningless without passion. So please be passionate about something!

15 Bloggers I Will Award

1. Thesaleigh Truth Walker

2. Ronni' s Reviews

3. Must Love Books

4. Missy's Reads & Reviews.

6. Lu's Book Blog

7. Holes In My Brain

8. From the TBR Pile

9. Bree's Books

10. Book Lover's Review

11. Book Infinity

12. A Book Obsession

13. The Unread Reader

14. The Young Adult Literature Review

15. End of Story Next Book

Join the Street Team for Shadow Hills

2010-08-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Anastasia Hopcus has an amazing debut novel that if you havent read yet I highly recommend it. You can read my review of Shadow Hills here. She is putting together a Street Team for Shadow Hills and if you are interested in joining here is your chance. Just click here and fill out the form. Happy Monday everyone!

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2010-08-09T12:26:00.001-07:00

Clarissa Fray “Clary” is expecting a typical night out with her best friend Simon when she heads to the Pandemonium Club. Clary certainly was not expecting to witness a murder, but she can’t deny that the strangest part about the situation is that no one else can see them but her. Clary is quickly thrown into a world that she never knew existed, where Shadowhunters are responsible for ridding the earth of demons. Jace, Isabelle, and Alec are Shadowhunters and they are just as surprised as Clary that she can see them. After all Clary is just a mundane human right?

When Clary’s mother is taken and Clary is attacked by a Ravener demon it is Jace who saves her and brings her back to the Institute. It becomes evident that Clary is not a “mundie” and her mother has been hiding more then she could have imagined. Now Clary, Jace, Isabelle, Alec, and Simon all have there part to play in the search for the Mortal Cup, Jocelyn Fray, and the truth.

I must admit that I was not happy about how a few things turned out (If you have read this you know exactly what I am referring to), but I am confident that it will turn out to be false. *clasps hands and prays “Dear God don’t let it be true”* Other then that little glitch I absolutely loved this book. It has a lot going on so it is almost impossible to put down. In fact as soon as I finished the last page I headed straight to the bookshelf to grab “City of Ashes.” I think my favorite character is Jace and not just because he is gorgeous. You can tell that he cares about Clary a lot as the story progresses but based on the hints to his background it is apparent that he has been conditioned to view love as a weakness. He fights his feelings and hides behind is cocky attitude to keep from being hurt (think about the falcon story).

To be honest I think that all the characters are really well developed within this series. The reader is really able to climb into their heads and understand why they are the way they are. Like so many other books this one was recommended to me a long time ago and I kept pushing it back. I really regret not reading this sooner. Sorry Ollie I should have listened to you!

Feel free to tell me who your favorite character is and why? I would love to discuss. Also no spoilers but if you can tell me if the “situation” gets better in book 2 I can stop mourning it…. lol

Oh and BTW – Most of you will laugh at me but now I get the whole MundieMoms blog name…I know I am not the sharpest tool in the shed lol

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2010-08-07T07:23:00.001-07:00

Warning if you have not read the first book in this series, The Hunger Games, this review will contain a spoiler or two. I started this book the same night I finished The Hunger Games. After much crying over Rue I was nervous for what the second book in this series had in store. Catching Fire was just as amazing as the first book even though I once again cried my eyes out about Rue when Katniss and Peeta toured District 11.

The Hunger games are now officially behind them. Now Katniss can move on with life right? Wrong. Her perceived act of defiance (that kept Peeta alive) has made her the catalyst for an uprising against the Capital. Katniss, "The girl who was on fire" has created a spark and now she will have to face the consequences. Suddenly Katniss has much bigger problems then her conflicting feels for Peeta and her best friend Gale.

On top of everything, it is the 75th anniversary of the Hunger Games which means that it is the year of the Quarter Quill. The Quarter Quill is a Hunger Games with a twist, which no one knows about until it is announced just before the reaping. This year the twist is worse then Katniss could have imagined.

I can’t wait for the third and final book in this series, “Mockingjay.” Like I mentioned in my review for The Hunger Games, I am glad in a way that I waited to start this series for so long because I only have to wait two more weeks to read the conclusion. I am a little worried about Peeta and Katniss. I really like Gale but he is no Peeta. Once again Suzanne Collins has written a story that pulls the reader in and creates a permanent connection with the characters.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2010-08-05T06:57:00.002-07:00

So after putting this series off for far too long I finally decided it was time to read The Hunger Games. Let me tell you I am kicking myself for not starting it sooner. The bright side is that the second book is already out and the third is close at hand so I won’t have to wait to finish this series. If you are looking for a book with a strong female heroin, edge of your seat suspense, or an emotional rollercoaster then this is the book for you. I have not cried from reading a book in a while (mostly because I steer clear of the tear jerker genre in general) but this one had me turning on the waterworks.

Katniss Everdeen is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister (Prim) in the poorest district of Panem, District 12. Panem is what remains of the United States. Panem was once thirteen districts and a capital, but after an uprising nearly 75 years ago only 12 districts remain. The war that the district raged on the capital all those years ago is how the Capital has justified the creation of “The Hunger Games.” Each year, ever one of the remaining twelve districts must send one boy and one girl to compete in the televised event where they are forced to fight to the death. Only one will be allowed to survive.

The reaping (like a lottery) is a dreaded event by everyone in the district but it is especially troubling for Katniss because this is the first year that her little sister’s name will be in the running. When Prim is chosen, Katniss steps forward to take her place. Now Katniss along with Peeta are swept away to represent District 12 in the 74th annual Hunger Games.

I am a twilight fan so in the spirit of the Twilight mania going on in the world I am totally team Peeta! I <3 Gale but Peeta…swoon! ;)

Win it Wednesday

2010-08-04T08:06:00.012-07:00

Extension! Now running until 8/11!

Enter to win one of these awesome ARCs

Carol's 7 ARC Giveaway

Enter to Win one of these awesome books ends 8/9

Win a Motal Instruments Prize Pack

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

2010-08-03T21:50:00.001-07:00

This book was very cute. I have to admit that I found the fish slang to be a little hokey but other then that I enjoyed the story. The main character, Princess Waterlilly "Lily" is strong, loyal, and extremely stubborn, all good qualities depending on the situation. The only thing I found frustrating was her persistent denial regarding how she feels about Quince/Brody and how they feel about her. But I won't spoil the story for you by diving into that anymore. Quince was amazing! He is the other main focus of the story and I figure if Lily doesn't want him I'll take him :) The rest of the supporting characters were very well developed and really added to the atmosphere of the world Lily lives in and the situation she is faced with.

Lily is seventeen and quickly approaching her eighteenth birthday. It is on that birthday that she must be bonded "kind of like marriage" or she will lose her rights to the thrown. Lily is the only daughter to the King of Thalassinia, a mer-kingdom located about 45 miles east, off the coast of Florida. Lily has spent the last three years on land living with her mother's sister. After discovering that her mother was a human she wanted to learn more about that world. From the first time she saw Brody Bennett she was hooked (pun totally intended). Brody is hot (bonus), and at home in the water so he would make the perfect mer-mate as far as Lily is concerned.

Quince is Lily's next door neighbor and he drives her crazy. He has done everything in his power to make Lily miserable for the last three years. But through a cruel twist of fate she ends up being bonded to him instead of her crush. Now she has to convince everyone that they should be separated before the bond becomes permanent and Quince becomes a merman forever.

This was my first book by Tera Lynn Childs but I have heard good things about her other series, "Oh. My. Gods." If "Forgive my Fins" is any indication then I will have to pick them up. "Forgive my Fins," was a fun summer read and I recommend it to all. If you do enjoy this book you will be happy to learn that there is a sequel, "Fins are Forever" is set to release summer of 2011!

Deception by Lee Nichols

2010-08-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

I was very pleased with this book. Lee Nichols delivered an excited page turner. Emma was a heroine that I could relate to and root for. Some of the best aspects of this story are center around the relationships that Emma has cultivated and even lost. Her best friend who no longer speaks to her, her brother who is also not returning her calls, the ghosts she befriends, and her complicated relationship with Bennett all add to Emma as a character and the plot of the story.

Emma Vaile's parents have left on a business trip which gives her the perfect excuse to cut loose. She gives into pressure from her new friends and throws a huge party at her museum of a home. And everything is great….until the cops show up. Her parents have been out of communication for weeks and Emma is not the only one who has noticed. So now Emma is handed over to Bennett Stone, a former friend of her brothers who her parents recently named as her legal guardian. Emma finds herself uprooted and moving to New England to live in Bennett’s home. Why is Bennett Stone, who is only a few years older (a long time crush of Emma’s), the one taking her in?

As soon as she arrives, Emma is enrolled at Thatcher Academy. She quickly settles into a new group of friends and then the visions start. Emma suddenly finds herself taken back in time to experience things she can’t explain. How can this town feel so familiar when she has never been here before? Why does Bennett seem to steer clear of her as much as possible? Murders similar to one from her past keep happening and she may hold the key to the mystery surrounding them. There is so much that Emma has yet to learn about herself, her past, and her future. With everything going on in her life, being a ghostkeeper is the least of her problems.

I think that the Haunting Emma series is going to be fantastic. I definitely recommend Deception! The next books in the series are Betrayal which is set to release March 2011 and Possession, which will be published late 2011.

Clarity Cover Reveal

2010-08-02T10:53:00.001-07:00

I am very excited to post the newly revealed cover of Clarity by Kim Harrington! Clarity is set to release March 1, 2011. Make sure to add this to your to-read lists, if you haven't already. Have a great week everyone!

Synopsis: Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long-buried secrets. All she has to do is touch an object and the visions come to her. It's a gift.

And a curse.

When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case — but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother — who has supernatural gifts of his own — becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?

Sleepless by Cyn Balog

2010-08-01T19:20:00.005-07:00

My Sandman must be a little too good at his job. I have to be his best charge. I love sleep and he has no problem dowsing me with sand each night (too the point where I struggle to get out of bed each morning)….wait, doesn’t that mean he’s not good at his job? Darn it! I bet Griffin is my Sandman! lol

As you can see, this story stuck with me. It was fun and sweet. I had a little trouble getting started with this book, but I will blame that on my busy schedule and not the story itself. Sleepless is about Sandmen (incase you couldn’t tell from my tangent above. Eron De Marchelle is a Sandman and he has been one for 100 years. This is the term that each Sandman must fulfill his duties before he (or she) can return to a human life and complete their unfinished business. Eron has always followed the rules, been a model employee. That is all about to change when he starts to train his replacement.

Griffin Colburn is dead, leaving behind his girlfriend, Julia. He was offered a chance to return to his human life after he completes 100 years as a Sandman. He is to be Eron’s replacement. Griffin is having a difficult time letting go of his life and Julia. When his best friend Bret sets his sights on Julia, Griffin is determined to prevent his advances. Eron now has bigger problems then inserting his 1910 experience2010 world. Eron will have to make sure than Griffin fulfills his duties as a Sandman so that Eron can become human while protecting his charge, Julia (whom he loves) from Griffin’s tirade. But spending time in both worlds is difficult and Eron never knows when or for how long he will be able to exist in human form.

Julia is dealing with the death of her boyfriend. She is once again in the spotlight. Her boyfriend’s best friend is suddenly making passes at her and now an incredibly hot stranger has popped into her life. Why is it that Eron seems so familiar to her? As her curiosity and attraction grows for Eron her life becomes more confusing and more dangerous.

The story is told from two points of view, Eron and Julia. I really liked this book, but I wish it had been a little longer. As I mentioned before I have been a little busy lately, but I had a hard time getting through the first 70 pages or so, which is a third of the book. After those first 70 pages I was hooked, but some might lose interest before then. Cyn Balog had a great plot for this book and I feel like in the end it turned out to be a great read, but she could have bulked this story up.

Follow Friday

2010-07-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

It is Follow Friday! So if you are stopping by on your blog hop please Follow me. Then leave a comment somewhere in the blog with your blog info and let me know you are a new follower and I will return the follow! I have already had visited (and follwed) some great blog this morning. Yours could be next :) Have a great weekend!

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

2010-07-30T07:17:00.003-07:00

I really enjoyed this book. After reading it I have become a big fan of Rachel Hawkins. She is hysterical! You should all follow her on twitter @LadyHawkins and her blog here. But back to Hex Hall and All of its Hexyness!

Sophie Mercer has been moved around her whole life. After an unfortunate incident at her prom, Sophie is once again headed to a new school only this one is very different from the others. Hecate Hall is a reformatory school for witches, shapeshifters, faeries, and even a lone vampire. Apparently, Sophie is not the only one who has a habit of getting into trouble.

Sophie lands a room with Jenna, who has a tiny obsession with pink (by tiny I mean this girl has a fixation bordering on crazy-lol). Jenna is at Hex Hall (what Hecate is commonly referred as) on scholarship, which in it of itself is reason for most of the rich snobs to hate her, but it also doesn’t help that Jenna is a vampire. Being the only vampire in Hex Hall creates some problems for Jenna when her best friend Holly is killed and she becomes the prime suspect. Holly’s coven blames Jenna for Holly’s death and they are determined to recruit Sophie to replace Holly. Unfortunately for them, Sophie likes Jenna and she can already tell that Elodie and the others are not people that she wants to associate with. Jenna and Sophie become fast friends. Then the body count starts to rise. Sophie knows that Jenna is innocent but can she prove it in time?

Enter Archer Cross! Can we take a moment and marvel at the simple hotness of the name “Archer Cross”……ok moving on. Archer is a warlock who is indisputably, the hottest guy at Hecate. Archer is also dating Sophie’s new nemesis, Elodie (despite her viciousness I do covet her awesome name). Getting sentenced to string of detentions literally locked in a room with Archer to catalog random junk seems like a blessing and a curse. Sophie can’t seem to shake her growing attraction to Archer. Could he feel the same? Sophie begins to learn things about herself that she never imagined. There are so many questions that unfold throughout the book. Who is Sophie really? And why are people being attacked at Hecate? Is Archer hiding more then his sudden feelings for Sophie?

Demonglass (Hex Hall #2) is due out March 1st 2011. I can’t wait! I can tell that this is going to be a great series.

Forgive me!

2010-07-29T19:49:00.005-07:00

I have not posted a review in a week. This is just not good. I plead....Busy! In case I have not mentioned this, I am moving from Illinois to California in 30 *squeal* days. So I have been very busy, packing, shipping, planning, updating mailing info, and (extra important) spending time with family and friends here in Illinois. As you can see this has limited my blog time in the last week. BUT enough with the excuses I plan to post a couple of reviews tomorrow so stay tuned for that.

Among the boxes that I have already shipped is most of my book collection *sigh*. At least I was smart enough to leave a great selection with me. As you can see most of my reviews over the next month will be from these books (or one of the books I have read in my 100 book challenge). I am half way through Catching Fire and Sleepless so you can expect those in the near future. I will also be hosting my first contest soon. Details to come.

So bare with me fellow bloggers, if you can stick with me I promise to deliver ;) and thanks for reading!

Oh and if you are having trouble excusing by absence just let my dog Kasey convince you. How can you stay angry at that face?

Lemniscate Cover Reveal

2010-07-28T20:40:00.017-07:00

The cover of Jennifer Murgia's second novel Lemniscate has been revealed! Very exciting! Lemniscate is the follow up to her debut novel Angel Star (review here).

Synopsis

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.

Set to release March 21st 2011!

Win it Wednesday!

2010-07-28T17:22:00.003-07:00

In addition to the contest I posted last Wednesday that are still running (See Sidebar) there are some new contests I found that are going on out there. Here are some more cool contests to check out.

Enter to the Fantastic Trilogy

Enter to Win 13 to Life and some Awesome Swag

Win Torment ARC

Win Radiant Shadows

I cant wait...

2010-07-26T20:58:00.000-07:00

I was creating a new background for my computer and decided to use some of my favorite new covers. Most of these are book that have not yet been released but a few are just some personal favs that I have already read and reviewed on this blog. You can bet that all of the "to be released" books will be reviewed here at some point because I cant wait to read them all!

Win it Wednesday!

2010-07-21T17:58:00.003-07:00

Ok it looks like a lot of contests are going on out there. Here are some cool contests to check out.

Dark Fantasy Contest

Enter to Win one of these awesome books

Summer Saradise 7 ARC Giveaway

Enter to Win one of these awesome books

Carol's 7 ARC Giveaway

Enter to Win one of these awesome books

Win Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

Good Luck!

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

2010-07-20T20:08:00.005-07:00

Persephone “Phe” Archer is having dreams about a place she has never been and a guy she has never met. She accepts that they are just her mind playing tricks on her until she discovers her sister was having the same dreams before her death. What's drawing Phe to Shadow Hills Massachusetts and Devenish Prep is bigger then she ever imagined.

A graveyard filled with headstones displaying death dates from the same year in the 1700's, a town full of geniuses, unexpected electrical surges, and literally the boy of Phe's dreams all add up to one thing. Shadow Hills is hiding a secret and unlocking it could cost Phe her life.

10 Reasons why ShadowHills was all kinds of awesome!

1) Phe is bad ass!

2) Zach is simply swoon worthy

3) Creepy graveyards always Rock!
4) Brody is an underdog you cant help but root for.
5) How can you not love a town called Shadow Hills?
6) Villain you can have a love/hate relationship with.
7) Mystery and suspense are never in short supply
8) Romance is enticing (did I mention Zach was swoon worthy?)
9) Mythology mixed with medical mystery = unique plot
10) Anastasia Hopcus is awesome so of course her debut novel is!

In case you couldn't tell, I loved this book! This is Anastasia Hopcus's debut novel and let just say that she is here to stay. Her characters are genuine and relateable. The story is fast paced without feeling rushed and the romance is enticing. I am hoping that this becomes a series because Anastasia has created a wold that has plenty left to explore. If you haven't put Shadow Hills on your to-read list yet, do it now. I promise you wont regret it!

The Lost Saint Cover Revealed!

2010-07-20T10:44:00.002-07:00

The Lost Saint Cover is here and it is spectacular! The Lost Saint is the highly anticipated follow up to Bree Despain’s debut novel, The Dark Divine. You can read a review of The Dark Divine here. In celebration of the cover reveal and the countdown until it’s release, (December 28th 2010) Bree is holding a contest every month until The Lost Saint hits shelves. For more contest information click here

Synopsis of The Lost Saint:
A family destroyed. A love threatened. An enemy returns.

Grace Divine made the ultimate sacrifice to cure Daniel Kalbi. She was infected with the werewolf curse while trying to save him, and lost her beloved brother in the process. When Grace receives a haunting phone call from Jude, she knows what she must do. She must become a Hound of Heaven.

Desperate to find Jude, Grace befriends Talbot—a newcomer to town who promises her that he can help her be a hero. But as the two grow closer, the wolf grows in Grace, and her relationship with Daniel is put in danger—in more ways than one.

Unaware of the dark path she is walking, Grace begins to give into the wolf inside of her—not realizing that an enemy has returned and a deadly trap is about to be sprung.

P.S. If you loved the “The Dark Divine” themed nail polish (purple) you will be excited to know that there will also be “The Lost Saint” themed nail polish (blue). Bree will be giving more details in the weeks to come!

Shadow Hills Spotted....

2010-07-15T15:53:00.002-07:00

What a great week for releases! As of this Tuesday (13th) Siren, Linger, Sleepless, and Shadow Hills are all available! I was able to get my hands on Linger and Siren a little early. You can see my reviews for these amazing books here (Linger & Siren). Shadow Hills can be difficult to find in stores but we can fix that by requesting it!. I had to request it from my local B&N.If you dont want to wait for it to come in or to be delivered just head to the backyard. Shadow Hills has been known to appear in wooded areas and near ponds. This is how I found my copy (see pic)....hahaha ok....... I actually got mine online.

So now, I am almost done reading Shadow Hills, only about 100 pages left and lets just say that it is fantastic! AnastasiaHopcus has proven that she has a great career ahead of her. I was able to chat with her a bit last night and she says that she cant "officially" confirm that Shadow Hills will be a series but I know that I am keeping my fingers crossed. I will be first in line for a sequel. I will be sure to post a review as soon as I finish. oh and dont forget Anastasia's contest.

Siren by Tricia Rayburn

2010-07-12T19:51:00.002-07:00

I was excited to discover that Siren had hit the shelves a little early. Siren which is set to release tomorrow July 13th made it to my local Borders a little early so I snatched it up immediately and devoured it this weekend. Siren was a welcome change from my usual paranormal topics. It seems like a lot of books I have been reading lately are about vampires, werewolves/shape shifters/immortals etc… so murderous mermaids was definitely a change.

Tricia Rayburn has delivered a great story with characters you can really connect with. The heroine of the story is Vanessa Sands. Vanessa is your typical seventeen year old girl except that she is afraid of everything. Even the water that she used to love now terrifies her. Vanessa seeks comfort from her older sister who has always looked out for her. Justine is beautiful and fearless, everything that Vanessa wishes she could be. When Justine’s body is discovered, the authorities determine that Justine is the victim of a tragic cliff-diving accident. Vanessa is not convinced because while Justine is fearless she is not stupid. Something happened that night and Vanessa is determined to find out. Her only lead is Caleb, Justine’s boyfriend. But when Vanessa seeks Caleb out, she soon discovers that he disappeared right after Justine’s death.

Caleb and Justine were crazy about each other. Is it his grief over losing the love of his life that drove him to run away or is it someone/something else that he is running from. Vanessa teams up with Simon, Caleb’s older brother so get to the bottom of what is happening in Winter Harbor. The bodies of men keep washing up on the shores of Winter Harbor grinning from ear to ear. Simon is looking into the strange weather conditions and Vanessa is looking into an even stranger family. As they get closer to the truth, Simon and Vanessa also get closer to each other. Sometimes when you are seeking answers you discover things you never expected and never wanted to know.

I loved the romance in this book. The attraction between Simon and Vanessa is intense at times (which I love). I will say that there are some things that are left unexplained in the story, but I hope that means that there will be another book on the way. Siren was a quick read. I lost some sleep last night because I refused to put it down until I had read every last word. I highly recommend it!

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

2010-07-09T07:45:00.001-07:00

If you have not read Shiver….first of all, shame on you (lol) and second of all, this might spoil that book for you. I promise not to give spoilers for Linger here because Maggie might come after me. We all know how she feels about reading the last page first so giving you spoilers might provoke her lol.

At the end of Shiver we were left with the warm and fuzzies. Sam is human again! Yay! Grace and Sam can be together and take care of the wolves and just keep looking for a way to cure the others in between all of their happy times. But this is a series so Maggie Stiefvater decided to crush our dreams by disrupting Sam and Grace’s perfect little future…it is so worth it though!

I was able to get my hands on a copy of Linger early this week and I just finished last night and holy crap it was good! Linger made by laugh, cry and even yell at the book at one point. No joke I was sitting next to my roommate on the couch and I suddenly screamed “NOOOOO!” That damn Tom Culpeper! My roommate defiantly thinks I have lost my mind but oh well.

As for Linger, the story picks up pretty much were we left off in Shiver. Sam is human and it is late winter/early spring in Mercy Falls. The new wolves will be falling out of their coats and into their human skins soon. The new wolves may be shifting already due to their unstable nature. This is where Cole comes in. Shiver was told from Sam and Grace’s point of views but Linger adds Isabel and Cole to the mix. I love getting into Cole’s head. He is all dark and twisty and oh did I mention Hot yet? I love Sam but Cole is giving him a run for his money. I mean he is simply swoon worthy. I think that a big part of Linger is focused on everyone trying to figure out where they fit. Grace feels not quite right in her skin, Sam is having trouble accepting that he actually has a future now, Isabel is raked with guilt over Jack’s death, and Cole is trying to escape his past by losing his humanity to the wolf inside him.

A testament to Maggie’s awesomeness: Linger starts to dive into what causes the change from human to wolf and vice versa. There may be more to it then temperature. While I was reading the book and Cole was musing about this issue I found myself nodding and thinking “Good point Cole, why did I never think of that?” I feel like I want to research how to cure the wolves. Like I can find the answer to the fictional enigma that Maggie has presented. I know I am crazy but it is that good and I feel so invested in the story now. Keep in mind that this is a three book series so the ending will literally make you scream in agony, “Why, oh why must I wait a whole year for Forever to come out!?” I thought waiting for Linger was bad but waiting for Forever is going to be almost unbearable! As I mentioned in my previous post Linger will be released officially on the 13th so you must pick it up you will not be disappointed!

Linger's New Release Date!

2010-07-09T06:48:00.000-07:00

Update for all of you Shiver fans! Like most of you I have bee (not so patiently) awaiting the second book in the Wolves of Mercy Falls series, Linger since I finished the last page of Shiver last year. Maggie Stiefvater is like some kind of mad generous when it comes to creating a series worth drooling over. But Good News! Linger’s release date has been moved up one week. That right, Linger will be officially released on July 13th! Some of you lucky readers have been able to find the book already because some stores shelved their copies before the July 20th release date. I was able to find my copy on the shelf of a Border’s on the 6th. So I was actually able to finish the book last night and let me just say that if I thought waiting for Linger was difficult, waiting for Forever is going to be almost unbearable. I will post my review shortly until then do a little happy dance like I am because Linger is here!!!!

FYI: On top of Linger here are some other YA Supernatural Goodies to rush to the store for on Tuesday!

Another chance to Win Shadow Hills

2010-07-08T06:48:00.000-07:00

Like me you are probably said if you didn't win Shadow Hills in Anastasia's contest that ended this week. Anastasia closed her first contest early so that the winners could get their copies by the 13th (Release Day!). BUT good news is....she is rolling over all entries into a new contest!

There will be three winners, but the winners will NOT be chosen totally at random. The top ten point holders will be pulled out and three winners will be chosen from that pool. This truely is a contest based on your enthusiasm, so have fun with it! This contest isinternational and it ends July 20th at 11:59 pm CST.so hurry up and get to work.

Click on the link bellow for more info about the prizes up for grabs and to enter. Good Luck!

http://www.hopcusblog.com/news-and-events/

Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves

2010-07-06T06:45:00.003-07:00

Bleeding Violet is the most bizarre and amazing book I have read this year. I am not exaggerating when I say that you will literally be reading this book and suddenly say “WTF?!” out loud. This town that Dia has created (Portero, Texas) is full of monsters (too many to even mention), a suicide door, portals to other locations, and a very shady history. This town has enough crazy to go around….enter Hanna.

Hanna is crazy….no literally she is crazy. She is a little strange and hallucinating about her dead father is just the icing on the cake. Hanna is obsessed with purple (hence the title). She even makes her own purple dresses and never goes out in anything but one of her dresses and a pair of heels. Hanna comes to Portero to keep from being sent to an institution. When Hanna shows up on her Rosalie’s (her mother’s) door step it is clear that Hanna is not welcome. But Hanna is stubborn and will not take no for an answer.

When Hanna starts school she immediately realizes that there is defiantly something strange about this town. Why does everybody wear black? Why does everyone wear earplugs in class? Oh but wait, not everybody is in all black. Wyatt appears on the scene in all of his gorgeousness wearing a lovely shade of green and kicking some major monster ass. Hanna is immediately determined to become a fixture in his life.

Turns out, Wyatt is a member of a group called the Mortmaine, a group of hunters that protects Portero. Despite all of the killing, fighting, and literally being eaten going on it is amazing that Hanna and Wyatt find time to fit romance into the mix. I feel the need to once again say how incredibly insane this book is (wait until you read the naked by the lake scene) but it is also amazing once you finish it. Oh and the cover art is fantastic! How can you not pick it up off the shelf? FYI – this book is more mature then your average YA book. Hanna and Wyatt have a sexual relationship and some scenes are a little bloody/graphic. If you love it as much as I did you will be happy to know that Dia Reeves is releasing another book set in the crazy town of Portero, Texas. Slice of Cherry will be out January 2011! New characters same crazy town! I cant wait!

Swoon by Nina Malkin

2010-07-05T15:53:00.003-07:00

I love the catch phrase for this book. “What do you do when the boy of your dreams is too bad to be true?” I think that it was that and the cover that drew me in in the first place. This book took me a long time to read. I tend to like books that are different and this one definitely fits the bill, but I just found myself loosing interest about half way through. When it was all said and done I did enjoy this book, it just took me 2 months to officially finish it.

Another thing to note is that all of the characters are given abbreviated names (Duck, Con, Marsh, Wick, etc...) in the story and that can make it difficult to remember who is who and whether or not they are male or female. You might not understand until you read it but I figured I would warn you. Swoon is definitely geared toward older teens. There are some rather explicit scenes involving sex and drugs in the book and it may not be suitable for readers under 16 or so.

Swoon is the name of the town that the story is set in. Candice (Dice) has recently moved to Swoon because of “recent events” - Don't want to give away spoilers :) Swoon is a town full of wealthy families who have lived there for generations. Dice spends most of her time with her cousin Pen and her group of friends.

Things start to get a little strange after Pen falls from a tree and becomes possessed by Sinclair (Sin), a boy who died more then 200 years ago. This is bad enough but it turns out Sin has plans for Swoon. Revenge. Pen seems to be oblivious to her possession but Dice has heightened psychic abilities that allow her to draw Sin out. Dice tries to fight the attraction she feels for this boy especially after realizing his plans. Dice decides that for the good of the town and Pen she must banish Sin from her cousin's body. Only Dice makes a mistake and now Sin is flesh and blood and is free to reek havoc on Swoon.

The majority of the rest of the book focuses on how sin is terrorizing the town and how Dice plans to stop him. Sin's brand of justice is not what you might think, he does not go on a murderous rampage or anything he simply manipulates those around him. Taking them down a few pegs if you know what I mean. Dice has a lot of damage control to do but how do you stand against the boy you love? And can their love overcome his vengeance?

White Cat by Holly Black

2010-07-02T11:56:00.007-07:00

This was my first book by Holly Black but it definitely won’t be my last. White Cat is an exciting read that you will not be able to put down until you hit the last page. Imagine living in a world where an ungloved hand is like holding a loaded gun. That is the world that Holly Black has created in her new series (The Curse Workers). Curse working is illegal and some may say that it is for good reason. Curse workers can change your emotions, your memories, your luck, and more with only the slightest touch of their hands.

White Cat is the first in the series and follows Cassel Sharpe. Cassel comes from a family of curse workers; unfortunately he is a non curse worker. Cassel has learned to survive in their world by becoming a talented conman. He has come to love everything about the con until he starts to suspect that he is the one who has been conned all along.

Three years ago Cassel murdered his best friend Lila. He can’t remember the details of that night but he does remember standing over her dead body with the bloody knife in his hand. He is haunted by that night and what it means. The only way that he knows hoe to cope is to blend into the crown and be as “normal” as possible.

His careful façade comes crashing down when he almost sleepwalks off the roof of his dorm following a white cat. Why is this white cat haunting his dreams? What is the cat trying to tell him? Sent home to deal with his sleepwalking problem, Cassel first objective is to get back to school and his routine (away from his family). Cassel knows that his brothers work people but waking up to their whispered conversation leads him to believe they are hiding something more. Cassel is determined to figure out what is going on. What are they up to? How is Cassel involved? Is everything that Cassel thinks he knows a lie? Could his whole life be a con? What really happened to Lila? Could she still be alive? Finding the answers to these questions will change everything…..but will it be for the better.

Talk about cliffhanger ending. All I am going to say is that I am very pissed at Cassel’s mother. Very very pissed! I mean why does Cassel always get the shaft?! Read it and you will know what I mean. I can’t wait for Red Glove which is due out May 2011.

Win a copy of Shadow Hills!

2010-07-01T21:17:00.004-07:00

Well the countdown is officially on. Only 12 more day until Anastasia Hopcus's novel Shadow Hills hits shelves. I have preordered mine but I would love the chance to win a signed copy and other goodies. Wouldn't you? Well Anastasia has been nice enough to host a contest giving us all a chance. For more information vistit her blog here!

If you are looking for a sneek peak at the first chapter you can read it here! It is amazing...makes the next 12 days seem far too long ;) You can also listen to the first chapter on Audible.com. The audiobook will release July 13th as well!

Here is the trailer for your visual enjoyment! Good luck and dont forget to enter!

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

2010-07-01T11:57:00.003-07:00

I think that I must have a fixation with books involving wolves. I just love the idea of shape shifting into a wolf. There is just something so sexy about a werewolf…yum! Jennifer Lynn Barnes has delivered a book that has it all: suspense, humor, mystery, action, romance, and hot wolfity goodness! Oh and BTW…how can you not pick this up? The cover alone is phenomenal!

Raised by wolves is about Bryn, a fifteen-year-old living amongst a pack of werewolves. Her family was attacked and killed by a Rabid (loner/killer werewolf) when she was four and she was saved by Callum (the alpha of the pack). Having a human around is risky and so Callum “Marked” Bryn to show the rest of the pack that she belonged to him and she was not to be harmed. Bryn was also legally adopted by Callum but raised by the only other human in the pack, Alie.

Suddenly Bryn is being given bodyguards (babysitters as far as she is concerned) and no one will tell her why. Alie is pregnant with a werewolf baby and most humans don't survive the birth so Bryn agrees to go with it. But during Alie’s labor Bryn can’t take it anymore so she sneaks out to head to Callum’s.

What she finds at Callum’s is anything then what she expected. When she heads downstairs she finds Chase locked in a cage. He says he was bitten and then shifts into a wolf (uncontrollably), bring back the memories of her parent’s murder. Where did this boy come from? Why was he kept a secret from her? Who bit him? All of these questions seem to draw Bryn to Chase because he may be the only one who can provide the information she needs. But in order to be granted permission to see Chase she must accept a few conditions.

Soon Chase and Bryn begin to form an intense bond, one that may even overshadow their bonds to the pack. After Bryn is punished (understatement) Alie takes Bryn and the twins and leaves the pack but not even the distance can truly separate Bryn and Chase. Soon Bryn, Chase, Lake, and Devon (her two best friends – both werewolves) set out to track down the Rabid and kill him once and for all.

Trial By Fire (the next book in the series) will be out next year and once you read Raised by Wolves I am very confident that you will be as anxious as me to get your hands on it. I loved this book and I know you will too!

New Trailer for The Dark Divine!

2010-07-01T07:18:00.001-07:00

The official THE DARK DIVINE teaser trailer is finally here. The trailer is playing this week (a.k.a. the Eclipse premier week) on 37 movie screens at the top 2 ranking theaters in all of North America for the Twilight movies.

Bree Despain is also hosting a BIG giveaway to encourage people to watch and share the video. Click here for more details.
Here it is The Official THE DARK DIVINE Teaser Trailer:

Angel Star Inspired Jewelry

2010-06-30T20:59:00.001-07:00

So one of the best debut novels of the year now has its own jewelry. Check out the Angel Star inspired jewelry. I might have to pick up the Angel Star Charm Bracelet! This way you can wear the symbols that remind you of the beautiful story that author Jennifer Murgia created in her popular novel Angel Star!

Make sure you check it out! They are all awesome!

Divided by Kelley Armstrong

2010-06-29T07:37:00.008-07:00

Very excited! I just discovered Kelley Armstrongs new Darkest Powers Blog. As an added bonus, it turns out that Kelley has been posting a side story to The Awakening book. So, if you are wondering what happened when Derek and Simon were seperated from Chloe after their escape from Lyle House you can find Derek's view of the events we missed in The Awakening. The story is titled Divided you can read the first four chapters now and chater five is due to be posted tomorrow. Just click here to read the story: http://www.darkestpowers.com/blog/

AND... You can read how Simon and Derek came to be at Lyle House in the first place. http://www.darkestpowers.com/Dangerous.pdf

Enjoy! I know I did!

AND....it just keeps getting better. Kelley just released the cover of The Gathering which is her next YA series. Isn't it great??? I love it! As I mentioned in my review of The Darkest Powers series, The Gathering is the first book in a new series that is set in the same "world" so to speak. It focuses on a different bunch of kids who have been experimented on. In The Darkest Powers the characters were part of an experiment called Project Genesis. The next series Darkness Rising follows the characters who were part of the experiment called Project Phoenix.

Quick synopsis of the book:
Maya lives in a small medical-research town on Vancouver Island. How small? You can’t find it on the map. It has less than two-hundred people, and her school has only sixty-eight students—for every grade from kindergarten to twelve.
Now, strange things are happening in this claustrophobic town, and Maya's determined to get to the bottom of them. First, the captain of the swim team drowns mysteriously in the middle of a calm lake. A year later, mountain lions start appearing around Maya's home, and they won’t go away. Her best friend, Daniel, starts getting negative vibes from certain people and things. It doesn't help that the new bad boy in town, Rafe, has a dangerous secret—and he's interested in one special part of Maya's anatomy: Her paw-print birthmark.

Win an ARC of Shadow Hills

2010-06-24T09:57:00.002-07:00

Click here to read a review of Shadow Hills. This book is set to release on July 13th but you could win it early by stopping by http://youngadultlitreviewblog.blogspot.com/ and following the entry rules at the bottom of the review! Good Luck!!

Dark Flame Reading and Signing in Chi-town!

2010-06-24T08:16:00.006-07:00

I ventured into the Chicago area to meet Alyson Noel author of the Immortals series. It was a strangely surreal experience. I left Bloomington around 4pm and was about 10 miles from my exit when I got a text (via Twitter) from Alyson saying how bad the storm was. I didn’t think it was that bad. I mean the skies were dark but there wasn’t even any rain where I was. Then all of a sudden BAM! I am talking torrential downpour. It was so bad that many people pulled onto the shoulder because it was so had to see 10 feet in front of the car. I was determined to make it to the event so I powered through (may seem silly but I was confident I would be fine – which I was since I am writing this post :). Then I missed my turn and got lost in the madness. There were flooded street and almost all street lights were out near the Border I was heading to. So I finally got there (20 minutes early even) and I was able to snag a front row seat! Sweet!

They announced Alyson had made it and …ok you really have to visualize this to get the full impact. Alyson walks up and says “Hi, well thanks for…” cue power outage and emergency lights. No joke I had barely even turned my head to see her walk to the front when suddenly I could see anything. Lol Alyson being the good sport she is continued on and did a reading from Dark Flame (she read the first Summerland scene in chapter 9) by flash light.

Then we did Q & A and found out about lots of cool up and coming things Alyson is working on. Even a new series about a girl who will be the next shaman! This series has not even been started but Alyson hopes to have it out by early 2012. I know I will be in line to buy that if it is even ½ as good as The Immortals Series! After Q&A I got all four of the books in the series signed and chatted with Alyson about the fact that I will be moving to California in Oct so I will be attending her “Night Star” signing there. I was one of the first to get my stuff signed so I was out of the darkness early. It was an event to remember for sure. The funny thing is that the power outage was almost fitting considering she was here to promote “Dark Flame,” all that was missing was the candle and we would have been all set :).

Enter to Win at Supernatural Underground

2010-06-23T09:16:00.001-07:00

To win a signed copy of THE BODY FINDER, along with a swag pack, including a TBF totebag, bracelets, stickers, and signed bookmarks. click here

Contest on the Supernatural Underground!

Who do you prefer? The sweet, endearing Nice Guy (Jay from The Body Finder) or the down-and-dirty Bad Boy (Patch from Hush, Hush)?

Leave a comment on Kimberly Dertings post and enter to win the goodies list above.