The Door to Wonderland

Ash by Malinda Lo

2011-02-21T13:28:00.003-06:00

Synopsis: In the wake of her father's death, Ash is left at the mercy of her cruel stepmother. Consumed with grief, her only joy comes by the light of the dying hearth fire, rereading the fairy tales her mother once told her. In her dreams, someday the fairies will steal her away, as they are said to do. When she meets the dark and dangerous fairy Sidhean, she believes that her wish may be granted.
The day that Ash meets Kaisa, the King's Huntress, her heart begins to change. Instead of chasing fairies, Ash learns to hunt with Kaisa. Though their friendship is as delicate as a new bloom, it reawakens Ash's capacity for love-and her desire to live. But Sidhean has already claimed Ash for his own, and she must make a choice between fairy tale dreams and true love.

Specs: YA fiction, fantasy, published in 2009, 264 pages.

I don't post reviews much anymore, but for Ash I am making an exception because I feel that I need to express my opinion about it more widely than just on Goodreads.

As a retelling of Cinderella, one of my many favorite fairy tales, this one sucked. Not only is it dull, but it has disturbing qualities that are offensive to me. Ash spends a big part of the book mourning and moaning about her dead mother...over...and over...and over. I know it must be hard to lose your mother, but when it's in a book it gets really repetitive.

It took me more than 100 pages to finally figure out that this was a lesbian book, which I definitely feel that it is dishonoring to the original Cinderella story. Ash is a gross and disgusting rendition, and I would urge no one to read this book. A few of the reviews are tagging Ash as a "modern fairy tale." A fairy tale needs no modernization, especially when you modernize it to such degradation that there is barely an essence of what the beautiful story was originally.

Rating: 0/0 stars.

Excavation by James Rollins

2010-12-07T11:34:00.004-06:00

Synopsis: The South American Jungle Guards Many Secrets and a remarkable site nestled between two towering Andean peaks, hidden from human eyes for thousands years. Dig Deeper through layers of rock and mystery, through centuries of dark, forgotten legends. Into Ancient Catacombs where ingenious traps have been laid to ensnare the careless and unsuspecting; where earth shattering discoveries and wealth beyond imagining could be the reward for those with the courage to face the terrible unknown. Something is Waiting here where the perilous journey ends, in the cold, shrouded heart of a breathtaking necropolis; something created by Man, yet not humanly possible. Something wondrous. Something terrifying.

Specs: Adult fiction, action-adventure/thiller/science fiction, published in 2000, 416 pages.

I actually tried to get through this book two times before, but even though I got to the part with the exploding brain and "alive" corpse, I wasn't old enough to understand the science-fiction part of Excavation, so I stopped reading.

Now that I've finally finished it, I can say that I'm glad I did. I love the fast-paced, gun-toting, heart-thumping, bombs exploding, could-this-really-happen? style that Rollins' books have. But the thing that I don't like about Excavation is the excessive swearing, a gay character, and several evolution references. A lot of his books have these three things included in the writing, but I have to overlook those flaws because his books are too good not to read!

But my favorite so far is still Amazonia. WOW, that book is amazing! I definitely recommend that one to be the first Rollins' you read.

Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury

2010-12-07T11:13:00.004-06:00

Synopsis: Holden Harris is an autistic eighteen-year-old who is bullied at school. Laura Reynolds is the head cheerleader who befriends Holden but has problems of her own at home. In her trademark way, Kingsbury tackles real-life issues of high school bullying, autism, adultery, and ultimately ... acceptance.

Specs: Adult fiction, Christian inspirational/autism, published October 2010, 304 pages.

Unlocked is a story about a teenage boy who developed autism when he was a toddler. Before that, he was a perfectly normal boy. Holden pretty much never communicated with anyone except with his cards with words and pictures on them. But since he met and befriended his childhood playmate Laura, he improved greatly, catapulted by listening to (and eventually singing in) the high school's rendition of Beauty and the Beast.

This newest Kingsbury novel is a harrowing and very true example of how kids with autism (and other disabilities) are treated in schools. Some teenagers don't know how to act around people who are different than they are, so they tease them and sometimes physically abuse them. This is what happened to Holden Harris.

Unlocked starts out depressing because Holden's mother is reminiscing about the days when Holden was normal, and autism hadn't nearly destroyed their family. But later in the book, Holden actually improves greatly through the medium of music. It's an inspirational and hopeful look into the disorder. And although that definitely doesn't happen with all kids with autism, it's important to have hope and to always keep trying to reach into their trapped minds.

I'm reluctant to rate Unlocked because it's about a heartbreaking (and incurable) disorder. But since that's what this blog is about, I'm rating this one on the author's storytelling abilities about autism, not on the subject matter alone.

All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris

2010-12-07T11:08:00.003-06:00

Synopsis: Sookie is trying to put past failed relationships behind her and has a new man in her life: the handsome and mysterious shapeshifter Quinn. But in the wake of the devastation from Hurricane Katrina, and with the entire Louisiana supernatural community still reeling, Sookie is summoned by Sophie-Anne Leclerq (the Queen of Louisiana) to accompany her to a historic regional vampire summit. However, the conference -- where entire power bases could be gained or lost -- is filled with friction and ill will; and when delegates are found brutally murdered, Sookie finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy-ridden power play where the unlikeliest of suspects could be a cold-blooded killer.

Specs: Adult fiction, fantasy/mystery, published in 2006, 336 pages, Sookie Stackhouse #7.

I can't get over how much this series has changed for me. Reading it is less fun and more of a process to get to the end. I'm less fascinated by the characters, and most even seem boring to me. It might be that the standards of the books I read are very high, or it might be that Harris is losing her touch book to book.

Obsessed by Ted Dekker

2010-11-18T15:05:00.006-06:00

Synopsis: A deadly tale of ultimate obsession.

Stephen Friedman is making a good living in good times. He's just an ordinary guy. Or so he thinks. But one day an extraordinary piece of information tells him differently. It's a clue from the grave of a Holocaust survivor. A clue that makes him heir to an incredible fortune...a clue that only he and one other man can possibly understand. That man is Roth Braun, a serial killer who has been waiting for Stephen for thirty years. Roth was stopped once before. This time nothing will get in his way.

Specs: Adult fiction, thriller, published in 2004, 496 pgs.

Obsessed is AMAZING. I can't decide which Dekker book is better: Obsessed or Three. It took a while for me to get into it, but once I did I was hooked. The last 250 pages I just could not put the book down. It was physically impossible for me to get up off the couch and stop reading.

When orphan Stephen learns his supposed Jewish mom has just died, he becomes obsessed with learning about her history and getting into her house because he believes the Stones of David are hidden there. But it's difficult because now the house is owned by the son of a German Hitler-like sadist. So Stephen devises multiple and increasingly hilarious ways of gaining entrance to the house's basement.

I liked how every few chapters, the narrative switched back to his mother and her time in a Jewish concentration camp. It was horrific to experience these things with her and her friends, but it was even more horrific because it actually happened. What's amazing is that people are now saying this never happened, especially considering that there is physical proof. I know it's a bit lengthy, but this is a really good quote from Eisenhower Memorial Commission:

"During the camp inspections with his top commanders Eisenhower said that the atrocities were “beyond the American mind to comprehend.” He ordered that every citizen of the town of Gotha personally tour the camp and, after having done so, the mayor and his wife went home and hanged themselves. Later on Ike wrote to Mamie, “I never dreamed that such cruelty, bestiality, and savagery could really exist in this world.” He cabled General Marshall to suggest that he come to Germany and see these camps for himself. He encouraged Marshall to bring Congressmen and journalists with him. It would be many months before the world would know the full scope of the Holocaust — many months before they knew that the Nazi murder apparatus that was being discovered at Buchenwald and dozens of other death camps had slaughtered millions of innocent people.General Eisenhower understood that many people would be unable to comprehend the full scope of this horror. He also understood that any human deeds that were so utterly evil might eventually be challenged or even denied as being literally unbelievable. For these reasons he ordered that all the civilian news media and military combat camera units be required to visit the camps and record their observations in print, pictures and film. As he explained to General Marshall, “I made the visit deliberately, in order to be in a position to give first-hand evidence of these things if ever, in the future, there develops a tendency to charge these allegations merely to ‘propaganda.’”(http://www.eisenhowermemorial.org/stories/death-camps.htm)

Blink of an Eye by Ted Dekker

2010-11-18T14:48:00.003-06:00

Synopsis: The future changes in the BLINK of an eye...or does it?

Seth Borders isn't your average graduate student. For starters, he has one of the world's highest IQs. Now he's suddenly struck by an incredible power--the ability to see multiple potential futures.

Still reeling from this inexplicable gift, Seth stumbles upon a beautiful woman named Miriam. Unknown to Seth, Miriam is a Saudi Arabian princess who has fled her veiled existence to escape a forced marriage of unimaginable consequences. Cultures collide as they're thrown together and forced to run from an unstoppable force determined to kidnap or kill Miriam.

Seth's mysterious ability helps them avoid capture once, then twice. But with no sleep, a fugitive princess by his side, hit men a heartbeat away, and a massive manhunt steadily closing in, evasion becomes impossible.

An intoxicating tale set amidst the shifting sands of the Middle East and the back roads of America, Blink engages issues as ancient as the earth itself...and as current as today's headlines.

Specs: Adult fiction, thriller, published in 2002, 400 pgs.

There's actually two of these books: Blink and Blink of an Eye. They're the same book, but with slightly different changes. When I ordered the library book, I happened to get Blink of an Eye.

Dekker definitely delivers the heart-pumping, eyes-open-wide thriller in Blink of an Eye, which I really liked. There's barely a dull moment with the car chases, and running for their lives across the country. And I have to say "barely" because some of the Muslim scenes between the leaders (I can't for the life of me remember their names since they all sound the same) was dragging.

For personal and patriotic reasons, I felt the Muslim cult throughout this book was disturbing to say the least. I was especially confused by Miriam's view on her Muslim culture. She talked about love and how her god is a loving god, but yet she was a devout Muslim. That does not make sense because Muslims are hateful toward anyone who is not a Muslim, and the Koran tells them to kill those people who aren't a part of their cult.

Reivew: Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris

2010-11-18T14:40:00.003-06:00

Synopsis: After her only cousin, Hadley, is murdered by one of the undead, Sookie travels to New Orleans to close out the young woman's apartment and collect her things. The unsavory job gets complicated quickly; Hadley was the "honeybun" of the bisexual vampire Queen of Louisiana, the seemingly ageless bloodsucker Sophie-Anne Leclerq. The queen has recently married another powerful sovereign in an attempt to forge a formidable alliance, and tensions in the supernatural community are running high. But when Sookie and her new love interest, a were-tiger named Quinn, are inexplicably kidnapped, the mind-reading waitress must unravel the mysterious circumstances of her cousin's murder before she ends up dead as well.

Specs: Adult fiction, fantasy/mystery, published in 2006, 324 pgs, Sookie Stackhouse #6.

The series is going a little downhill for me. I don't know if it's because Bill and Sookie aren't together anymore or the plot lines in the recent books I've read don't interest me as much as the first books, or maybe it's both.

I don't think the vampire monarchy aspect is interesting either, so this book wasn't a whole bunch of fun, that's for sure. I'm not looking forward to the next book where all the vampires get together for their meeting.

But I'll still keep reading to see if Bill and Sookie patch things up, and no one tell me what happens in the books I haven't read yet!

Rant post about giveaways

2010-11-15T10:36:00.002-06:00

This past year I've been crazy about entering online giveaways, but lately I've slowed down because life caught up with me. So naturally, I won a lot of those giveaways. But, strange enough, I haven't received a lot of the prizes. In my email account, I keep track of my wins and which ones I've not received, so I know for sure which ones haven't arrived. So far, I'm waiting on 25 to arrive from MONTHS ago, the earliest being in May.

What is going on with bloggers and their sponsors not sending out the prizes? Are they just setting up the giveaways to get more followers and not planning from the first to award the winner?

I (and others) have invested a lot of time in entering online giveaways, so the least these people can do is actually DO what they said they would do: host a legitimate giveaway, choose a winner, and (a few weeks later) the prize appears in the mailbox. I don't live in some far off island where mail takes 6 months to get to me. I live in the United States and most of the bloggers live here too.

I have emailed (sometimes more than once) the blogger about it not arriving, and in every instance they said they would check up on it. More times than not I have not heard back from the blogger. And at other times they've said that they can't get in touch with the sender of the prize. I've done all I could and still nothing.

Thoughts? Opinions? Has this happened to anyone else?

Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris

2010-11-02T15:04:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: When Sookie sees her brother Jason's eyes start to change, she knows he's about to turn into a werepanther for the first time - a transformation he embraces more readily than most shapeshifters she's known. But her concern for her brother becomes cold fear when a sniper sets his deadly sights on the local changeling population - and Jason's new panther brethren suspect he may be the shooter.

Now, Sookie has until the next full moon to find out who's behind the attacks - unless the killer decides to find her first.

Specs: Adult fiction, fantasy/mystery, Southern Vampires #5, published in 2005, 295 pgs.

Better than the last one I read, for sure. The Jason-to-werepanther twist I liked. Now Sookie doesn't have to read every perverted thought that passes through her brother's mind! lol

Contrary to the cover, Bill is still not involved in the book as much as I would've liked (but more so than #4). I'm definitely Team Bill rather than Eric (or Alcide or Sam)!

It seems that whenever Sookie lets go of a guy, another one shows up...in this case a very tall, very big guy - Quinn. So I assume the next book explores Quinn and Sookie's relationship, while Sookie continues to be a little jealous of Bill's new relationship with a human.

The series continues to interest me, with the mysteries in Sookie's life, the fast-paced and quirky Southern writing, and the many love interests. I also like how Harris introduces a lot of new people in every book, yet still hosting the regulars. It beats having the same old characters and letting the series grow stale.

Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris

2010-11-02T14:56:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: When cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse sees a naked man on the side of the road, she doesn't just drive on by. Turns out the poor thing hasn't a clue who he is, but Sookie does. It's Eric the vampire--but now he's a kinder, gentler Eric. And a scared Eric, because whoever took his memory now wants his life.

Specs: Adult fiction, published in 2004, Southern Vampires #4, 291 pgs.

While I have to correct the synopsis on the back that the man was not naked, only half, the rest of it is right.

This is my least favorite of the Southern Vampires series. I actually had to convince myself to keep reading it to get to the end, when usually I'm drooling to get the next book. The plot didn't interest me, even though a plot that includes even more supes (witches this time) you would think would make it more eye-addicting.

And a very low point: Vampire Bill is hardly in it! Yeah, they sorta broke up, but Bill is a main reason why I read these books! So that sucked.

New McCafferty book: Bumped

2010-11-02T14:46:00.004-05:00

I just heard about a new Megan McCafferty book from The Story Siren: Bumped! It seems like forever since I devoured the last Jessica Darling book. And while I didn't like the last three as well as the first two in the series, they were still superb and filled with wordsmith writing. And despite the fact that McCafferty makes her liberal views known at times in her books, the series is worth it.

And that's why I will read this:

Synopsis: 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.

Doesn't sound like the typical McCafferty book, but I'm all for authors switching genres. Comes out April 26, 2011.

Kiss by Ted Dekker

2010-10-26T14:13:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: After a car accident puts Shauna McAllister in a coma and wipes out six months of her memory, she returns to her childhood home to recover, but her arrival is fraught with confusion. Her estranged father, a senator bidding on the White House, and her abusive stepmother blame Shauna for the tragedy, which has left her beloved brother severely brain damaged. Leaning on Wayne Spade, a forgotten but hopeful lover who stays by her side, Shauna tries to sort out what happened that night by jarring her memory to life. Instead, she acquires a mysterious mental ability that will either lead her to truth or get her killed by the people trying to hide it. In this blind game of cat and mouse that stares even the darkest memories in the face, Shauna is sure of only one thing: if she remembers, she dies.

Specs: Adult fiction, mystery/paranormal, published January 2009, 322 pages.

Yes, I realize I'm posting three book reviews in one day! :) And that's because I forget (aka: procrastinate) to write reviews after I finish books, so they pile up on me.

Kiss did not get me involved at all, not like most of Dekker's books (like Three). When I read the synopsis, this book sounded so cool. A woman who can steal people's memories by touching them? Sounds like a good storyline to me!...But not so much after I started reading it.

Without giving too much away, I didn't like the money business. I basically know nothing about money, so that side of this book really confused me, which is unfortunate since that's part of the mystery.

But I did get through it without throwing it down and saying "I'm not reading this anymore!" which is saying something, because I don't continue to read books I don't like.

Three by Ted Dekker

2010-10-26T12:11:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Enter a world where nothing is what it seems. Where your closest friend could be your greatest enemy.

Kevin Parson is driving his car late one summer day when, suddenly, his cell phone rings. A man who identifies himself as Slater speaks in a breathy voice: You have exactly three minutes to confess your sin to the world. Refuse, and the car you're driving will blow sky high.

Kevin panics. Who would make such a call? What sin? Kevin ditches the car. Precisely three minutes later, a massive explosion set his world on a collision course with madness.

Specs: Adult fiction, psychological/mystery/thriller, published December 2006, 432 pages.

As I've said before about one of Dekker's books: I love books that have psychology somehow tied into the story, and Three had that. I haven't seen the movie, so it was entirely new to me. And WOW: the ending! Totally didn't see that coming...but that's what Dekker does best. I really enjoyed Three and recommend it. Can't say more than that, otherwise I'd spoil it for you!

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto (ARC)

2010-10-26T12:01:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: 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.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, published August 2010, 496 pages, Halo #1.

I wasn't that impressed with this book, but considering it's written by a 17 year old, it's quite an accomplishment.

On some level, it reminded me of Twilight, what with Beth and Xavier being so involved with each other, to the exclusion of others. Their relationship made me a bit nauseous, to tell the truth. I realize these two are teenagers and that's usually what happens when they're in a relationship, but Beth is an angel who's been around since the beginning of time. Shouldn't she be more mature??

But Halo was addictive and a fast-read, even though it's a big book. (Another thing that's like Twilight.) There were so many mistakes in the ARC. I mean, I haven't yet read an ARC that had so many mistakes in it. It was distracting sometimes.

I also think the book could've had more development and action. I'm hoping the other two books in this series progress more in those areas.

Review: Murder on Lenox Hill by Victoria Thompson

2010-10-14T11:24:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: When the affluent Lintons of Lenox Hill summon Sarah Brandt to examine their teenage daughter, their worst fear is confirmed: She is with child. The pregnancy is a mystery, however, as the young woman - mentally still a child herself - is never left on her own and denies that any man has ever hurt her." "To help her discover who is responsible, Sarah, after much prodding, enlists the aid of her friend, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy, who is reluctant to get involved, since no crime has been reported. It's a delicate investigation, casting suspicion on those close to the Lintons, including members of their local congregation - with even their beloved minister, the Reverend Oliver Upchurch." But fate deals their inquiry a harsh blow when the reverend falls dead during a service - poisoned by cyanide-laced wine in his chalice. Now, Sarah and Frank must not only uncover the truth behind the Linton girl's pregnancy, they must track down Upchurch's killer before this entire sordid affair wreaks havoc on more innocent lives.

Specs: Adult fiction, published in 2005, 304 pages, Gaslight Mystery#7.

Murder on Lenox Hill isn't one of my favorite Gaslight Mysteries so far. For one thing, the murder doesn't happen until 200 or so pages in. I like my murders right away and completely confusing that I'll never be able to guess it. There was a mystery right away with the Linton girl, but the murder took a while.

It's a good book and mystery on it's own, but compared to Thompson's other books in the series, this one didn't bring it.

When I was reading, I was all "He did it! I knew it!"..."Wait, no, she did it. Aha!"..."OK, what now? I'm completely clueless."

But if you like mysteries (and even if you don't), you have to read the Gaslight Mysteries. Meg Cabot was the one who introduced me to them, and I'm glad she did!

Review: Even Now and Ever After by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-14T10:45:00.010-05:00

Even Now synopsis: Sometimes hope for the future is found in the ashes of yesterday.

Shane Galantera man ready to put down roots after years of searching. But is he making the right choice? Or is there a woman somewhere who even now remembers as does he those long-ago days . . . and a love that hasn't faded with time?

Lauren Gibbs a successful international war correspondent who gave up on happily-ever-after years ago when it was ripped away from her. Since then, shes never looked back. So how come she cant put to rest the one question that haunts her: Why is life so empty?

Emily Anderson a college freshman raised by her grandparents, and about to take her first internship as a journalist. But before she can move ahead, she discovers a love story whose tragic ending came with her birth. As a result, she is drawn to look back and search out the mother shes never met.

A young woman seeking answers to her hearts deep questions. A man and woman separated by lies and long years. . . yet who have never forgotten each other. With hallmark tenderness and power, Karen Kingsbury weaves a tapestry of lives, losses, love, and faith and the miracle of resurrection.

Ever After synopsis: Two couples torn apart—one by war between countries, one by a war within.

In this moving sequel to Even Now, Emily Anderson, now twenty, is attending college on a soccer scholarship. Then she meets the man who changes everything for her: Army reservist Justin Baker. Their tender relationship, founded on a mutual faith in God and nurtured by their trust and love for each other, proves to be a shining inspiration to everyone they know, especially Emily’s reunited birth parents, Lauren Gibbs and Shane Galanter.

Lauren and Shane still struggle to move past their opposing beliefs about war, politics, and faith. Shane believes it’s possible; Lauren doesn’t. So she says a painful goodbye to her long-ago love and returns to her job as a war correspondent in Afghanistan. Both Lauren and Shane are shattered, believing that this time their relationship ended forever.

Then tragedy sends shockwaves through all their lives. Can Lauren and Shane set aside their opposing views so that love—God’s love—might win, no matter how great the odds?

Specs: Adult Christian fiction, published in 2007 and 2008, Lost Love #1 and #2.

This series is really sad. I'll give you that right off in case you don't like tear-producing, heartrending books. Most of Karen Kingsbury's books are like that, but the Lost Love series involves characters who are in the military, which makes it even more real and sad.

I enjoyed how Kingsbury had characters that had opposite opinions about the war in Iraq. It actually helped me a little to understand people that didn't support it, which I thought would be impossible for me. There were many sections where Shane and Lauren discussed the war and their reasons for standing or not standing behind it.

Without giving anything away, the ending of Ever After is difficult to get through. I didn't like the author for writing the ending like she did, but then I realized that this kind of stuff happens everyday in the military. Of course, it's horrible and even more so when the family has to go through the suffering of losing their relative. But it's necessary because every day that person was in active duty, he was fighting to keep his country safe and he gave his life for us. And if he wasn't there the day he died, a civilian (and probably more than just one) would've died.

Every time I pick up a Kingsbury book, I'm thinking "What else can she come up with?" I mean, it's amazing how many storylines (with a few lessons woven in along the way) she can come up with in such a short amount of time!

Review: Take Four by Karen Kingsbury

2010-10-02T19:59:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Filmmakers Keith Ellison and Dayne Matthews have finally inked a deal to have the nation's top young actor star in their current film. But the actor takes a public fall that threatens his reputation. Now the producers must act as missionaries to save the film, their families, and the young movie star.

Specs: Adult Christian fiction, published July 2010, 352 pages, Above the Line #4.

I have to say this isn't one of my favorite series by Karen Kingsbury. They're obviously good, though. (I don't think anything written by her can't be good.) Kingsbury has so many stories in that head of hers: she's written one book after another after another, and I'm always overjoyed to hear another one is about to be published.

As I said about Above the Line before, I'm not that interested in the movie making technical whatsits, and a big part of this series is that. But being that I'm 19, I'm more interested in the college storyline about Bailey, Andy, Cody, and Tim.

*SPOILER* About Andy and her child...I'm glad that she didn't keep her son, and instead gave him to a great family to raise. Even though it was hard to do, she gave him up because it wasn't the right time for her to start a family. And because she decided to not have an abortion, a well-deserving couple had the opportunity to have another child and a brother for their two children. Yes, I know this is only fiction, but many real people could relate to this story. *END OF SPOILER*

I'm sort of glad that these books are over, and I can't wait to read Leaving, the first book in the Bailey Flanigan series! Finally, a series all to herself...including the Baxter family...I'm getting a little worried about Kingsbury's ability to say goodbye to her favorite fictional family. ;)

Review: The Van Alen Legacy by Melissa de la Cruz

2010-09-29T22:36:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss's true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamorous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival. Not to worry, love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Jack and Schuyler are over. Oliver's brokenhearted. And only the cunning Mimi seems to be happily engaged.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, published October 2009, 369 pages, Blue Bloods #4.

I wasn't impressed with this series to begin with, and The Van Alen Legacy hasn't changed my mind. They're still good enough to keep reading, though. It's sort of like sitting at a doctor's office and seeing a whole bunch of celeb gossip magazines. You can't help but pick it up and devour it, even though there's not much substance to the stories. And once you finish one, you have to read the next.

So, while I'm not praising Cruz for her storytelling abilities, I will commend her for hooking me in. I was confused sometimes while reading, and part of that was because I read Revelations last April and I had to familiarize myself with what was going on. For example, I totally didn't remember that Bliss was possessed by her father, I thought Bliss and Schuyler already knew they were sisters, and I don't remember anything that happened at Rio de Janiero.

Also, it seems like this series will never end. I just wish Cruz would wrap it up already.

I won't be reading Keys to the Repository, because honestly I'm not that interested in it. It doesn't have much to do with the series' story. It's just a bunch of the Blue Bloods' history, which I don't care about unless it has to with the storyline. But Misguided Angel, Blue Bloods #5 comes out in 27 days, so...yay!

Review: Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens

2010-09-24T16:55:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: This darkly satiric indictment of the social ills of Victorian London tells the story of a young orphan who becomes involved with a gang of criminals.

Specs: Adult fiction, published in 1837, 380 pages.

I'm a little wary of reviewing Oliver Twist since it's a timeless and classic book...but I will anyway. It was entertaining, and even very humorous at times (which surprised me). But Dickens tends to ramble on in quite a few paragraphs. And since it's such an old book, there were many words I didn't recognize and sentences were worded differently.

There were a lot of different characters from opposite ends of the spectrum, which I liked. Reading about people who all have almost the same personality gets boring. In Oliver Twist, there was the truly evil (Sikes and the Jew), the not-so-evil-but-still-pretty-bad (Artful Dodger), the ones who want to be good but in the wrong situation (Nancy, Charles Bates), and the good (Oliver, Mrs. Maylie and Rose, Mr. Brownlow). Oliver good have gotten in league with any of these people, but thankfully he chose the right crowd, which unfortunately doesn't happen very often in reality.

Oliver Twist is a devastating story of an orphan who wonders the streets, has no family, and to which catastrophes always seem to happen. But Oliver somehow manages to stay optimistic in his trial-filled life, and everything turns out well in the end, with Oliver finally living a normal life with family around him.

Review: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

2010-09-20T11:15:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: "My name is Katniss Everdeen. Why am I not dead? I should be dead."

Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plans -- except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay -- no matter what the personal cost.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published August 2010, 390 pages, The Hunger Games #3.

When Mockingjay FINALLY got to me at the library, I was so excited!! The last book of the Hunger Games trilogy! What will happen next?? Who will Katniss end up with?? How will they defeat the Capitol?? I couldn't wait to delve into the world of Panem, no matter how depressing it is.

I can't saw I LOVED it. In my opinion, the first two were definitely better. I don't know if it was just me, but Mockingjay moves a bit slower than the others (except for the last hundred pages, when there's some strong action). There's still surprises and twists that I could never expect to happen, but it just didn't reach the magnitude I thought it was going to be.

I didn't like the ending...*SPOILER* What happened to Gale? Why doesn't Collins tell us the whole story. I actually wanted her to end up with Gale, and I don't really know why she didn't. I guess their strong connection since childhood and all the time they spent together is no match for what Katniss only thinks might have happened (that Gale blew up her sister). *END OF SPOILER* The way it ended, there could be another book(s) after, but I kind of doubt the author will write more.

And I couldn't be more excited about the movie that's coming out based on the books (or is it just based on the first one?). Suzanne Collins is writing the screenplay, so it shouldn't be totally botched. I think it'll make a great movie though, because there's so much physical action and visual stuff that's going on. It would be awesome to see it on the big screen!

Review: Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

2010-09-07T14:06:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: On the north shore of Unlake Superior, a dystopian world is divided between those who live inside the wall, and those, like sixteen-year-old midwife Gaia Stone, who live outside. It’s Gaia’s job to “advance” a quota of infants from poverty into the walled Enclave, until the night one agonized mother objects, and Gaia’s parents are arrested.

Badly scarred since childhood, Gaia is a strong, resourceful loner who begins to question her society. As Gaia’s efforts to save her parents take her within the wall, she herself is arrested and imprisoned.

Fraught with difficult moral choices and rich with intricate layers of codes, BIRTHMARKED explores a colorful, cruel, eerily familiar world where one girl can make all the difference, and a real hero makes her own moral code.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published March 2010, 362 pages, 5/5 stars.

Wow. I can't think of anything this book is missing or anything the author could've written to make it better. Birthmarked has everything from the first page: excitement, intrigue and mystery, and a little romance. I loved the main character, Gaia, and following her adventures: getting past the wall, trying to find and rescue her parents, finding out that not everyone finds her face hideous, and learning to be independent and make her own choices.

One thing I've found through reviewing book after book on The Door to Wonderland is that if the author doesn't write great characters, the book is pretty much doomed from the start. Even if the plot is beyond awesome, I still don't get a connected sense to the book, and so I rate it down. But Birthmarked not only has evolving and self-aware characters, O'Brien wraps them up in an engaging world, which is most definitely oppressive, but yet the characters manage to find the good in their dismal situation.

*SPOILER* I didn't like the ending. Yes, it's probably more realistic, but hey, what's the good in a fictional book if you can't have a happy ending? What happened to Leon?? Is there really a Dead Forest or is it a myth? Is Gaia's grandmother alive, and if not why did her mother tell her to go to her in the note? I want to know Caragh O'Brien! There better be a sequel, that's all I'm saying. Birthmarked clearly ended at a point where there could be more to the book, so I'm DEMANDING a second one! *END OF SPOILER*

Review: Lies by Michael Grant

2010-09-07T13:48:00.005-05:00

Synopsis: It happens in one night: a girl who died now walks among the living, Zil and the Human Crew set fire to Perdido Beach, and amid the flames and smoke, Sam sees the figure of the boy he fears the most - Drake. But Sam and Caine defeated him along with the Darkness - or so they thought. As Perdido Beach burns, battles rage: Astrid against the Town Council; the Human Crew versus the mutants; and Sam against Drake. And the prophetess Orsay and her companion, Nerezza, are preaching that death will set them all free. As life in the FAYZ becomes more desperate, no one knows who they can trust.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published May 2010, 447 pages, Gone #3, 3.5/5 stars.

The series has gotten a bit stale for me. I'm not sure what it is that makes Lies this way, but all I can say is that the series isn't holding me in an iron grip and put-the-book-done-and-you-die captivation like the first Gone book. It's still good, don't get me wrong, but not in the TOTALLY-AWESOME-guys-you-HAVE-to-read-this way. (And now I'll stop talking in hyphens...)

Drake with his tentacle arm was getting annoying. He kept coming back and coming back and just when you think he's FINALLY gone (hallelujah!)...he comes back.

Even though this series has it's down points, I'll still be waiting for the next book (which I found out from Goodreads that there will be a next book), Plague, coming out on April 5th, 2011.

It's finally Fall!!

2010-09-07T11:22:00.003-05:00

It's definitely Fall weather here in my part of MN, and I love it! I love cold weather, and this summer has been very hot and long and I'm so glad it's over! Here are a few pictures I found on Deviant Art that are beautiful and will help to get you into the Fall mood:

Winter's just around the corner, and so is my favorite holiday: CHRISTMAS!!! :D

Dystopian Challenge is now over...and so are my hysterics in trying to finish on time

2010-09-02T20:02:00.004-05:00

I have read 20 dystopian novels from March to August! Unfortunately, I didn't win Mockingjay, the reason why I participated....*slow, sad violin music plays* But it was fun while it lasted, and these are definitely not the last dystopian books I'll read! There are plenty more where they came from, and if anyone reads a good one, let me know!

Here's a list of what I read:

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Dead and Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer
Incarceron by Catherine Fisher
Epitaph Road by David Patneaude
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Witch and Wizard by James Patterson
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Veracity by Laura Bynum
Genesis by Bernard Beckett
The Sky Inside by Clare B. Dunkle
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Gone by Michael Grant
This World We Live In by Susan Beth Pfeffer
I am Legend by Richard Matheson
The Unit by Ninni Holmqvist
The Children of Men by P.D. James
Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder
Hunger by Michael Grant
The Walls Have Eyes by Clare B. Dunkle

Some books I enjoyed very very much (The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, Gone), and some books I drudged through (The Children of Men, Animal Farm). But it was all worth it because the challenge opened my eyes to a genre I hadn't paid much attention to before. Sure, I read some random dystopian books in the past, but not as many as I read through Parajunkee's Dystopian Challenge. And look at the cool badge I got!:

Halo book trailer

2010-09-02T11:53:00.002-05:00

I was asked by Macmillan publishing to review Halo by Alexandra Adornetto, and I hurried and replied Yes!! I've been looking forward to this book (part of the reason is the cover!) for months.

Synopsis:

Three angels are sent down to bring good to the world: Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, a teenage girl who is the least experienced of the trio. But she is the most human, and when she is romantically drawn to a mortal boy, the angels fear she will not be strong enough to save anyone—especially herself—from the Dark Forces.

Trailer:

Review: The Walls have Eyes by Clare B. Dunkle

2010-08-24T20:32:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Martin Glass may have seen his baby sister Cassie to safety at the end of The Sky Inside, but his problems are far from over. There’s a totalitarian regime in place, murderous game shows on the air, and a host of government agents on Martin’s tail. And Martin and his Alldog, Chip, get more than they bargained for when they go back to Martin’s old suburb and have to rescue Martin’s parents. But spending time in the wilderness with Mom and Dad isn’t the worst of it. Because Martin learns that Cassie is still in danger—and to keep her and the other Wonder Babies safe, he’s going to have to risk the thing he loves most.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published August 2009, 225 pages, The Sky Inside #2.

I'm still not impressed with the series, but I have to say it's slightly better than the first. More excitement (but still slow moving), and less confusing. I enjoyed going through the experience of Martin Glass' parents going into the real world and leaving their "bubble" behind. Although his dad annoyed me many, many times. He was always acting superior and because Martin's a teenager, he must not have any common sense at all. At times, that superiority got him in trouble. (And that part I liked!)

This book concludes my participation in the dystopian challenge!

Review: Hunger by Michael Grant

2010-08-23T23:11:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: It's been three months since everyone under the age of fifteen became trapped in the bubble known as the FAYZ. Things have only gotten worse. Food is running out, and each day more kids are developing supernatural abilities. Soon tension rises between those with powers and those without, and when an unspeakable tragedy occurs, chaos erupts. It's the normals against the mutants, and the battle promises to turn bloody.

But something more dangerous lurks. A sinister creature known as the Darkness has begun to call to the survivors in the FAYZ. It needs their powers to sustain its own. When the Darkness calls, someone will answer -- with deadly results.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published May 2009, 590 pages, Gone #2.

I'm glad this book FINALLY got around to addressing the issue of the Mysterious Hungry Monster in the Cave that everyone's so freaked out about. lol

Mysteries are solved and some are still not in the second book of the Gone series, and leaves me "hunger"ing for more...ok, bad joke.

Minor things in the book I had issues with in Hunger: evolution references and one of the characters was gay.

Michael Grant writes with an addicting style. Never a good place to put the book down. "OK, at the end of this chapter I have to eat something....ooh, I wonder what the next chapter is going to be about...", etc.

Hunger was more darker and more depressing than the first book. Food is diminishing and everyone's ganging up on everyone. People are turning into freaks, and because of that, they're being ostracized by the normals.

Some of you may disagree, but I wish Astrid had a more exciting personality. I really like Diana, but I always like the snarky, spicy girl characters in books. I know Astrid's a brain and all, but smart girls have personality too!

So is Gone a trilogy or is there going to be another one after Lies?

Review: Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder

2010-08-20T20:08:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Keep Your Head Down. Don't Get Noticed. Or Else.

I'm Trella. I'm a scrub. A nobody. One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I've got one friend, do my job and try to avoid the Pop Cops. So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? The only neck at risk is my own…until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published April 2010, 315 pages, Inside Out #1.

Inside Out is a GOOD book, but not a GREAT book. A lot of imaginative thought and plotting went into it, but I still feel like it could've been deeper and the story more intricate.

*SPOILER* I should've guessed that the doctor was Trella's mom, but for some reason I didn't. I guess this is why I'm terrible at solving mysteries before the end of the book! *END OF SPOILER*

I will definitely be waiting to read Outside In, the sequel. I just hate to wait a whole year until its release. I know I'll forget everything that happened and be all "Huh??" when I'm reading the second book.

And now I'll retreat into my next dystopian book, Hunger....frantically paging through books trying to finish the dystopian challenge before next Tuesday. Two more books to go!

Review: The Children of Men by P.D. James

2010-08-10T11:39:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: In the year 2021, the world is a bleak place where all human males have become sterile, and no child can ever be born again. Civilization is giving way to cruelty and despair, and historian Theo Faron has nearly resigned himself to apathy. Then he is asked to join a band of revolutionaries--a move that may hold the key to humanity's survival. In the year 2021, the world is a bleak place where all human males have become sterile, and no child can ever be born again. Civilization is giving wa...m

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published in 1992, 256 pages, 0/5 stars.

I didn't enjoy The Children of Men, let's just put it at that. There are a few reasons that I could come up with, other than "I hated it!":

1. The writing. P.D. James can definitely put a person to sleep. If you have insomnia, check this one out from your library.

2. The "feel" of the book. I couldn't wrap my head around this book. A lot of things didn't make sense, and the way the author would word things, I was left up in the air saying "Huh? What did that paragraph I just read mean?"...Confusion.

The basic plot was a good idea: the women becoming infertile and no babies anywhere in the world. But other than that, The Children of Men was a dud. I haven't seen the movie, but I'm guessing it's better than the book. (Which is a rarity.)

While waiting for my other dystopia books to come in at the library, I picked a classic book at random in my personal stash: Oliver Twist. I started reading it years ago, and only got past 60 or so pages, so I thought I'd re-read the beginning and get through it this time! I only hope that Oliver proves to be a better read than my last two books!

Review: The Unit by Ninni Holmqvist

2010-08-10T11:25:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: One day in early spring, Dorrit Weger is checked into the Second Reserve Bank Unit for biological material. She is promised a nicely furnished apartment inside the Unit, where she will make new friends, enjoy the state-of-the-art recreation facilities, and live the remaining days of her life in comfort with people who are just like her. Here, women over the age of fifty and men over sixty - single, childless, and without jobs in progressive industries - are sequestered for their final years; they are considered outsiders." "In the Unit they are expected to contribute themselves for drug and psychological testing, and ultimately donate their organs, little by little, until the final donation. Despite the ruthless nature of this practice, the ethos of this near-future society and the Unit is to take care of others, and Dorrit finds herself living under very pleasant conditions: well-housed, well-fed, and well-attended. She is resigned to her fate and discovers her days there to be rather consoling and peaceful. But when she meets a man inside the Unit and falls in love, the extraordinary becomes a reality and life suddenly turns unbearable. Dorrit is faced with compliance or escape, and ... well, then what?

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published June 2009, 268 pages, 0/5 stars.

The Unit read more like a diary than a book, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I didn't like it. There wasn't a lot of excitement. It was a day-to-day record of what was happening to Dorrit in the Unit, her past that brought her to the Unit, and her love of her dog who she missed.

Experimenting on older people like gerbils in a lab is horrific, but rather than focus on that, Holmqvist focused more on the people in the Unit and their emotions and reactions to the experiments they're going through.

I was very confused at the end. Without spoiling the ending for anyone, I was wondering "Why did Dorrit decide to do that??" It didn't make sense to me.

Review: I am Legend by Richard Matheson

2010-08-03T23:25:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: A terrible plague has decimated the world, and those who were unfortunate enough to survive have been transformed into blood-thirsty creatures of the night. Except, that is, for Robert Neville. He alone appears to be immune to this disease, but the grim irony is that now he is the outsider. He is the legendary monster who must be destroyed because he is different from everyone else.

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published in 1954, 171 pages.

At the beginning, I wasn't so sure I'd enjoy it, but after sticking it out past 50 pages, I really started to get into it. I read it all at one time, taking very short breaks.

I didn't find it that horrifying, in spite of the misleading cover.

I have mixed feelings about the length of I am Legend. I would've liked to have gotten to know the characters more. It seemed right when I was getting to know them, the book ended. But on the other hand, a scary story like this one should be short and ... not so sweet.

I haven't seen the movie, so it didn't ruin the book for me (don't you hate it when that happens?). I heard the computer graphics aren't that great anyways, so I might not bother.

I find it hard to believe that this was written in 1954...weird.

Review: This World We Live In by Susan Beth Pfeffer

2010-08-03T23:15:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: It's been over a month since Miranda Evans has written in her diary, a month of relative calm for her and her family. It's springtime, and with warmer weather comes rain, and the melting of the winter's snow. The shad are running in a nearby river, and Miranda's brothers Matt and Jon leave home for a few days to see if they can catch some to supplement their food supply.

When they return, Matt brings with him a girl named Syl, who he introduces as his bride. But that's not the only shock Miranda and her family have to deal with. A few weeks later, Miranda's father, stepmother, and baby brother show up at her door. Accompanying them are three strangers, a man named Charlie Rutherford, and two teenagers, Alex and Julie Morales. These five people have crossed America together, becoming, in their own way, a family.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published April 1, 239 pages, Last Survivors #3.

Not the best in the series by far, but still a good read. In the Last Survivors series, there is no good stopping place! I feel like I need to read the books all in one sitting. Impossible to set it down.

The first book, though, is still my favorite. I think that's because it's the first dystopia I've ever read, and it just struck a cord with me. I remember how I felt when I was reading Life as We Knew It, and I was amazed and horrified at the same time. It's something that could actually happen (based on my limited science knowledge, of course), and that's really scary.

But this post is for This World We Live In, the last book in the series. It continued both of the previous stories, which I liked. I thought it was cool how the author incorporated both of the book's characters and collaborated them into one. But the book itself....not her best work.

Review: Gone by Michael Grant

2010-07-30T20:29:00.002-05:00

Synopsis:

In the blink of an eye. Everyone disappears. GONE.

Except for the young. Teens. Middle schoolers. Toddlers. But not one single adult. No teachers,

...more

In the blink of an eye. Everyone disappears. GONE.

Except for the young. Teens. Middle schoolers. Toddlers. But not one single adult. No teachers, no cops, no doctors, no parents. Just as suddenly, there are no phones, no internet, no television. No way to get help. And no way to figure out what's happened.

Hunger threatens. Bullies rule. A sinister creature lurks. Animals are mutating. And the teens themselves are changing, developing new talents—unimaginable, dangerous, deadly powers—that grow stronger by the day.

It's a terrifying new world. Sides are being chosen, a fight is shaping up. Townies against rich kids. Bullies against the weak. Powerful against powerless. And time is running out: On your birthday, you disappear just like everyone else..

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published July 2008, 558 pages, Gone #1.

I'm not sure how to review this book. I liked it, especially the plot of everyone 15 years and older disappearing. It set the road for intrigue. But Gone wasn't outstanding. I really enjoyed the beginning, but after the initial shock of the disappearance, the quality went slightly downhill from there.

Some things weren't surprising, like *SPOILER* Sam not disappearing when he turned 15. I was like "well, of course I knew that wasn't going to happen. It would've been cool if the author would've made him disappear, but then somehow fight his way back to the world of the living. *END OF SPOILER*

Review: Animal Farm by George Orwell

2010-07-21T11:45:00.005-05:00

Synopsis: A farm is taken over by its overworked, mistreated animals. With flaming idealism and stirring slogans, they set out to create a paradise of progress, justice, and equality. Thus the stage is set for one of the most telling satiric fables ever penned--a razor-edged fairy tale for grown-ups that records the evolution from revolution against tyranny to a totalitarianism just as terrible.

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published in 1945, 97 pages.

I'm not sure what happened to my review of Animal Farm on this blog, or if I forgot to write one or what...but I finished this about a month or more ago.

Here's my thoughts on it:

I'm into books with storylines that have double meanings, but I'm not so much into political books. Because I don't know much about politics, I didn't understand a lot of what was going on. I did get the communistic government that the pig Napoleon had going on. And I picked up on an abortion reference.

The beginning was cool, the whole section where the animals overthrew their farmer, but after that it got SO into politics.

Review: The Sky Inside by Clare B. Dunkle

2010-07-20T21:03:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Martin lives in a perfect world.

Every year a new generation of genetically-engineered children is shipped out to meet their parents. Every spring the residents of his town take down the snow they've stuck to their windows and put up flowers. Every morning his family gathers around their television and votes, like everyone else, for whatever matter of national importance the president has on the table. Today, it is the color of his drapes. It's business as usual under the protective dome of suburb HM1.

And it's all about to come crashing down.

Because a stranger has come to take away all the little children, including Martin's sister, Cassie, and no one wants to talk about where she has gone. The way Martin sees it, he has a choice. He can remain in the dubious safety of HM1, with danger that no one wants to talk about lurking just beneath the surface, or he can actually break out of the suburb, into the mysterious land outside, rumored to be nothing but blowing sand for miles upon miles.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published March 2008, 229 pages, The Sky Inside #1.

I loved the plot line where everyone in Martin's world lives under a bubble, with fake sky, no UV rays, no wind, no rain, and no flowers (real, that is). And since I love animals, I enjoyed having Chip (a German Shepherd...most of the time) as one of the main characters.

Those are the only positive things I have to say about The Sky Inside. Most of the book seemed like it had no direction. The author filled the pages with words that weren't going anywhere for the most part. I was confused at some parts, like toward the end of the book with the robot traveler who taught Martin outdoor skills...what was the point of having that plotline?

I think the author should've waited until she had more substance and heart, and then wrote the book. It could've been better.

Review: Genesis by Bernard Beckett

2010-07-16T10:04:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Set on a remote island in a post-apocalyptic, plague-ridden world, this electrifying novel is destined to become a modern classic.

Anax thinks she knows her history. She’d better. She’s now facing three Examiners, and her grueling all-day Examination has just begun. If she passes, she’ll be admitted into the Academy—the elite governing institution of her utopian society.

But Anax is about to discover that for all her learning, the history she’s been taught isn’t the whole story. And that the Academy isn’t what she believes it to be.

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published April 20, 2009, 150 pages.

It took me a while to get used to the way Genesis was written, with the formal speaking, question-and-answer sessions, and the story of their history right in the beginning.

For a dystopia, this one was disappointing. It wasn't what I expected, and not in a good way. I read it only because I wanted to see where on earth this story was going.

Whenever Art, the robot, opened his mouth, my mind went on a vacation. In a lot of paragraphs he kept on going on about something that made no sense to me. He was too technical and the science went right over my head (not my best subject for sure).

I of course didn't like the evolution aspect of it, and if I'd have known this book was going to go on about it, I wouldn't have read it.

I did, however, like the ending twist. It came completely as a surprise!

Library Loans (7)

2010-07-15T20:12:00.002-05:00

The Sky Inside by Clare B. Dunkle
Gone by Michael Grant
Genesis by Bernard Beckett

Waiting on Wednesday (13)

2010-07-15T10:38:00.002-05:00

Okay, so this is obviously not Wednesday, but I was swamped yesterday....ok fine, I forgot, ok?? You got me. ;)

The Replacement sounds cool. Here's the synopsis I got from Amazon:

Mackie Doyle is not one of us. Though he lives in the small town of Gentry, he comes from a world of tunnels and black murky water, a world of living dead girls ruled by a little tattooed princess. He is a ReplacementÑleft in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago. Now, because of fatal allergies to iron, blood, and consecrated ground, Mackie is fighting to survive in the human world.

Mackie would give anything to live among us, to practice on his bass or spend time with his crush, Tate. But when TateÕs baby sister goes missing, Mackie is drawn irrevocably into the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem. He must face the dark creatures of the Slag Heaps and find his rightful place, in our world, or theirs.

Edward Scissorhands meets The Catcher in the Rye in this wildly imaginative and frighteningly beautiful horror novel about an unusual boy and his search for a place to belong.

Pretty awesome, right? I love books about changelings. And if it's anything like Edward Scissorhands, it's got to be good.

Review: Veracity by Laura Bynum

2010-07-15T10:16:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Harper Adams was six years old in 2012 when an act of viral terrorism wiped out one-half of the country's population. Out of the ashes rose a new government, the Confederation of the Willing, dedicated to maintaining order at any cost. The populace is controlled via government-sanctioned sex and drugs, a brutal police force known as the Blue Coats, and a device called the slate, a mandatory implant that monitors every word a person speaks. To utter a Red-Listed, forbidden word is to risk physical punishment or even death.

But there are those who resist. Guided by the fabled "Book of Noah," they are determined to shake the people from their apathy and ignorance, and are prepared to start a war in the name of freedom. The newest member of this resistance is Harper -- a woman driven by memories of a daughter lost, a daughter whose very name was erased by the Red List. And she possesses a power that could make her the underground warriors' ultimate weapon -- or the instrument of their destruction.

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia, published January 5, 376 pages.

Veracity is a devastating book where citizens pretty much have no freedoms, and every day their freedoms become more limited. For example, Red Listed words are specific words that are announced which no one can use. If they do, they are either dead or tortured by Red Coats (police who are definitely not there for our safety).

I enjoyed the book because it was raw and could happen if the government turned all-controlling. Laura Bynum didn't sugar-coat anything to be more acceptable to readers.

After Harper Adams, the main character, went into the tunnel of the Resistance, it got dull compared with the previous half of the book. But after they started the war, it went back to exciting and can't-wait-to-flip-the-next-page action.

Also, I loved what the Book of Noah turned out to be! I wasn't expecting that.

I like what Greg Bear said about Veracity: "Too close for comfort."

Review: Ninth Grade Slays by Heather Brewer

2010-07-13T21:31:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: High school totally bites when you're half human, half vampire. Freshman year sucks for Vlad Tod. Bullies still harass him. The photographer from the school newspaper is tailing him. And failing his studies could be deadly. A trip to Siberia gives study abroad a whole new meaning as Vlad connects with other vampires and advances his mind-control abilities, but will he return home with the skills to recognize a vampire slayer when he sees one? In this thrilling sequel to Eighth Grade Bites, Vlad must confront the secrets of the past and battle forces that once again threaten his life.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, published April 17, 2008, 278 pages, The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod #2.

This is a pretty big step down from the first Chronicles of Vladimir Tod book. It wasn't as absorbing. It kept going and going. If the 2nd book was the 1st, I wouldn't continue reading the series. I'm just hoping it gets better after this.

I liked how Vlad met with a teacher in Siberia. It shows us how Vlad's progressing and learning as a teenage half-vampire. I'm interested in what other abilities Vlad will develop as the books continue, and what else he'll learn from his uncle.

Review: Insatiable by Meg Cabot

2010-07-13T21:19:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Sick of vampires? So is Meena Harper. But her boss is making her write about them anyway, even though Meena doesn’t believe in them. Not that Meena isn’t familiar with the supernatural. See, Meena Harper knows how you’re going to die (not that you’re going to believe her; no one ever does). But not even Meena’s precognition can prepare her for what happens when she meets—then makes the mistake of falling in love with—Lucien Antonescu, a modern-day prince with a bit of a dark side . . . a dark side a lot of people, like an ancient society of vampire-hunters, would prefer to see him dead for. The problem is, he already is dead. Maybe that’s why he’s the first guy Meena’s ever met that she could see herself having a future with. See, while Meena’s always been able to see everyone else’s future, she’s never been able look into her own. And while Lucien seems like everything Meena has ever dreamed of in a boyfriend, he might turn out to be more like a nightmare. Now might be a good time for Meena to start learning to predict her own future . . . If she even has one.

Specs: Adult fiction, supernatural, published June 8, 451 pages.

This is a huge step up from Cabot's recent releases. She seemed to have lost her fire for writing, but if Insatiable is any indication, she's baaaack!

A few problems I have with this book: the slight homosexual storyline and the evolution reference. I realize some of you wouldn't have a problem with these things, but I wouldn't be an honest book reviewer if I didn't include these as issues I had with this book (and some of Cabot's other books I've read).

While I don't think I could ever get sick of reading vampire books, the vampire media explosion has had a toll on my excitement for our fanged friends. But Insatiable was non-stop action, with the typical Meg Cabot humor and fluffy air we've come to expect. I enjoyed reading about vampires from her perspective.

Waiting on Wednesday (12)

2010-07-07T10:39:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has survived the Hunger Games twice. But now that she’s made it out of the bloody arena alive, she’s still not safe. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge. Who do they think should pay for the unrest? Katniss. And what’s worse, President Snow has made it clear that no one else is safe either. Not Katniss’s family, not her friends, not the people of District 12. Powerful and haunting, this thrilling final installment of Suzanne Collins’s groundbreaking The Hunger Games trilogy promises to be one of the most talked about books of the year.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, releases August 24, 2010, 400 pages, The Hunger Games #3.

It seems like forever since I've posted a WoW post. (The last one I did I just found out I accidentally posted an In My Mailbox as WoW....whoops.) But now since my mom and I are settled in and not completely living out of cardboard boxes anymore (and I got my first job), I'm getting back into the groove of book blogging. Yay!

Anywho, I can't wait for Mockingjay to be released. Catching Fire ended so up in the air that I want the third book now....right NOW, I tell you!!

Review: The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker

2010-07-05T14:39:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: FBI Special agent Brad Raines is facing his toughest case yet. A Denver serial killer has killed four beautiful young women, leaving a bridal veil at each crime scene, and he's picking up his pace. Unable to crack the case, Raines appeals for help from a most unusual source: residents of the Center for Wellness and Intelligence, a private psychiatric institution for mentally ill individuals whose are extraordinarily gifted.

It's there that he meets Paradise, a young woman who witnessed her father murder her family and barely escaped his hand. Diagnosed with schizophrenia, Paradise may also have an extrasensory gift: the ability to experience the final moments of a person's life when she touches the dead body.

In a desperate attempt to find the killer, Raines enlists Paradise's help. In an effort to win her trust, he befriends this strange young woman and begins to see in her qualities that most 'sane people' sorely lack. Gradually, he starts to question whether sanity resides outside the hospital walls...or inside.

As the Bride Collector picks up the pace-and volume-of his gruesome crucifixions, the case becomes even more personal to Raines when his friend and colleague, a beautiful young forensic psychologist, becomes the Bride Collector's next target.

The FBI believes that the killer plans to murder seven women. Can Paradise help before it's too late?

Specs: Adult fiction, published April 2010, 448 pages.

So I was going into this book thinking it was mystery, which I don't particularly like, and I was happy to find that it wasn't. We already know who the killer is, because it switches on and off to his POV.

One thing I really liked about this book was that it had a lot of psychological stuff in it. I love psychology and think a lot of it is extremely fascinating. Ted Dekker successfully linked mental illness into the story and made it more interesting than it otherwise would've been.

I've read a few of Dekker's other books, like the first two of The Circle series, and wasn't that impressed. But after reading The Bride Collector, I'm definitely going to read the third and his other books.

So what's your favorite Ted Dekker book??

Review: The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

2010-06-16T14:03:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: In Mary's world there are simple truths.

The Sisterhood always knows best.
The Guardians will protect and serve.
The Unconsecrated will never relent.
And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village; the fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth.

But, slowly, Mary's truths are failing her. She's learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power, and about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness. When the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, she must choose between her village and her future-between the one she loves and the one who loves her.

And she must face the truth about the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Could there be life outside a world surrounded in so much death?

Specs: YA fiction, dystopian, published February 2010, 320 pages, The Forest of Hands and Teeth #1.

I was looking forward to this one. The summary sounds really cool. But once I started it, I was not interested. I wasn't getting into the plot at all. Which is weird, because it has zombies (or "Unconsecrated") in it! How can it not be exciting? But somehow Carrie Ryan made it boring.

I'm confused as to why this series is popular.

Review: The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer

2010-06-08T14:52:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Fans of The Twilight Saga will be enthralled by this riveting story of Bree Tanner, a character first introduced in Eclipse, and the darker side of the newborn vampire world she inhabits. In another irresistible combination of danger, mystery, and romance, Stephenie Meyer tells the devastating story of Bree and the newborn army as they prepare to close in on Bella Swan and the Cullens, following their encounter to its unforgettable conclusion.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, published June 2010, 178 pages.

First of all, I don't think anything Stephenie Meyer writes can top the Twilight saga or The Host, and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner is one of them. It was nice to have a completely different narrative outside of the Twilight characters. It was more harsh and raw than Twilight, but it didn't have the magic and enchantment that I experienced when I read the saga.

Another thing I didn't like about this novella is that it had no chapters, so there was no good place to stop!

However, I like books that show something hidden from the reader that you didn't know was there before. In Bree Tanner, we get to go back and see a whole scene told from someone else who fits in the pieces and reveals the complete story.

Don't forget, you can read this book for free online until July 5, midnight EST. LINK.

Review: A Summer Secret by Kathleen Fuller

2010-06-07T20:05:00.003-05:00

With a twin brother and five younger brothers, Mary Beth Mullet's house is in constant chaos. Her parents don't seem to mind the noise, but she needs a break from all the pestering and babysitting.

It's the summer before eighth grade, and Mary Beth plans to escape to her secret place as much as possible. The old barn in the neighboring field is dangerous, and her parents have forbidden her to go there, but she escapes to it as often as she can.

Mary Beth soon discovers she is not alone in the barn. Someone is living there; someone who needs help. Can Mary Beth help the stranger without losing her secret place? And what if the barn is as dangerous as her parents say it is?

Specs: YA fiction, mystery, published May 2010, 288 pages, The Mysteries of Middlefield #1.

I have no idea why this book is labeled as "mystery." Only the first 50 or so pages were even remotely considered mystery. Just when Mary and Johnny were trying to figure out who was in the barn and eating their food, and even then it wasn't a mystery to the reader because it switched narratives, so I already knew who the boy was before the main characters did. I consider a "mystery" to be completely surprising and shocking to the reader, and A Summer Secret wasn't a secret at all. I think it should've been labeled as General Fiction or Drama.

I didn't like this book. It wasn't exciting enough for me and the writing was dull. I didn't like the Amish language throughout the book. I know that they don't speak like regular Americans and that there was a translator in the beginning, but I still didn't like it. I like to read through a book in English, not to have to refer back to a translator. I've read other Amish books where they don't do this.

I won't be continuing to read the series.

I received this book from Thomas Nelson via Book Sneeze.

Review: Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind

2010-06-04T13:44:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: To fight a magical plague cutting a deadly swath across the land and slaying thousands of innocent victims, Richard Rahl and his beloved Kahlan Amnell will risk everything to uncover its source--the magic sealed away for three millennia in the Temple of the Winds.

Specs: Adult fiction, fantasy, published in 1997, 822 pages, Sword of Truth #4.

Temple of the Winds is my least favorite so far of the series. It dragged on and on without the excitement I've come to expect from Terry Goodkind. However, the last 150 pages, the mystery, plot twists, and edge-of-seat excitement greatly picked up. I loved the ending! I can't say any more than that because I would ruin it for you if you're planning on reading it, but let's just say it's a happy ending!

I'm glad Cara came back in the fourth book, and I hope she continues to be one of the main characters in the rest of the series.

Perhaps one of Goodkind's greatest flaws is that he repeats words and phrases. Many of the paragraphs in this series aren't necessary because they were already explained before. If you don't get it the first time, don't worry because it'll be explained again not once, twice, but usually three times! It would've been better if the author cut out the repeated stuff to make it a shorter book.

If you've heard of the TV show Legend of the Seeker, this series is the basis of it. While it takes a lot of liberties with the books (like making Darken Rahl Richard's brother instead of his father), it still makes for an excellent entertainment experience. It just finished it's second season and I can't wait for the third!

Library Loans (6)

2010-06-03T21:04:00.002-05:00

Just got one this week. I'm trying to cut back on ordering books from the library because I have so many I own that I haven't read yet...I have an addiction to scouring my library's website and ordering every book I see that sounds good!

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Review: Ransom by Julie Garwood

2010-05-29T21:12:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: In the dark days after the death of Richard the Lionhearted, lives and lands would fall into upheaval at the hands of a power-hungry British ruler and his violent minions. One victim of the scourge is innocent Gillian, who is a mere child when the cruel and ambitious Baron Alford slaughters her father and tears her family apart. Alford, determined to recover a jeweled box for the despotic King John, is furious when the precious treasure slips through his fingers -- only to be lost for more than a decade.

Now a beautiful young woman, Gillian finds the key to resolving her past in handsome Scottish chieftains Ramsey Sinclair and Brodick Buchanan. With the cunning and courage of the daring Scotsmen, and with the friendship of a new ally, Bridgid KirkConnell, Gillian at last fights the unscrupulous Baron Alford, laying claim to her home, her family, and her father's reputation. But in the presence of the mighty warriors, Gillian and Bridgid discover that desire can be a weapon of conquest ... betrayal can slay trust in a heartbeat ... and the greatest risk of all is surrender -- to the deep emotions of unexpected love.

Specs: Adult fiction, historical romance, published in 1999, 546 pages, Medieval #2.

Okay, so that's a really long summary, but it's a long book! (That I finished in two and 1/2 days.) I loved, loved, LOVED this book! True, the romance sometimes was a bit stifling and eye-roll worthy, but despite that it was an endearing love story. As an added bonus, it was set in two of my favorite places (which I've never visited by the way): Scotland and England. The descriptions were so lush I could see myself there, the dialogue between the main characters was snarky and fun, and it had enough bloodshed to keep me happy.

I'm so glad my sister rescued this book, along with others, from her trash room. Because otherwise, I would have never picked up a Julie Garwood book. I've added some of her other books to my TBR pile and look forward to reading them, especially the historical ones set in England!

Oh, and don't worry about this being the second book in the series if you haven't read the first one yet. I didn't and I wasn't lost at all.

Review: The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

2010-05-29T21:02:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: Only two weeks ago, life was all too predictable. But that was before I saw my first ghost. Now, along with my supernatural friends Tori, Derek, and Simon, I’m on the run from the Edison Group, which genetically altered us as part of their sinister experiment. We’re hiding in a safe house that might not be as safe as it seems. We’ll be gone soon anyway, back to rescue those we’d left behind and to take out the Edison Group . . . or so we hope.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, published April 2010, 391 pages, Darkest Powers #3.

The last book in the Darkest Powers series is pretty much the same, in my opinion, as the last two. A bit predictable, but enough excitement to keep me going. Derek still annoyed me with his frequent mood changes, but I guess it's not his fault, right? He's a werewolf!

I guess I'm glad there's not more books to come in this series. It came to a good close, and I'm happy to leave the characters. I will be checking out Kelley Armstrong's new series though! Excited to see what else she brainstorms up.

Review: Witch and Wizard by James Patterson

2010-05-26T18:27:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: You are holding an urgent and vital narrative that reveals the forbidden truth about our perilous times....

This is the astonishing testimonial of Wisty and Whit Allgood, a sister and brother who were torn from their family in the middle of the night, slammed into prison, and accused of being a witch and a wizard. Thousands of young people have been kidnapped; some have been accused; many others remain missing. Their fate is unknown, and the worst is feared—for the ruling regime will stop at nothing to suppress life and liberty, music and books, art and magic...and the pursuit of being a normal teenager.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia and paranormal, published December 2009, 307 pages.

Witch and Wizard is the first book in a new series by James Patterson. I didn't like this book as well as his popular Maximum Ride series. The plot moved fast and it wasn't completely boring, but it just didn't have enough spark and oomph to push it over the line from "okay" to "great."

One thing I was wondering throughout the book was....why didn't Whit develop any powers? I think he might've had a few, I can't remember. But Wisty had so many and Whit had none compared to her.

Also, a chapter was every few pages. While I know this is typical James Patterson style because he wrote the same way in Maximum Ride, it's a little distracting.

Review: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

2010-05-26T18:09:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Nowadays firemen start fires. Fireman Guy Montag loves to rush to a fire and watch books burn up. Then he met a seventeen-year old girl who told him of a past when people were not afraid, and a professor who told him of a future where people could think. And Guy Montag knew what he had to do....

Specs: Adult fiction, dystopia and science fiction, published in 1953, 176 pages.

I did not enjoy this book at all. It was like a weird dream I couldn't wake up from. I only understood about 30% of it. I mostly got what was going on, but the characters were beyond strange, and for me, if I can't get into the characters, the book is probably going to end up on the reject pile. And that's what happened to this one.

But on a positive note, it got me thinking of how privileged we are to have the opportunity to read any book on any subject we want. I can't imagine my life without books! They've gotten me through tough times and provided me with distractions. They've given me a life-long joy that I know I'll never give up.

Review: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

2010-05-24T16:45:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published September 2009, 391 pages.

This is my new favorite series! Even though Catching Fire wasn't as fast-paced and heart-pumping as the first, it was still exciting compared to other books.

I don't know if it was just because I had a busy week and was forced to stop and start this book, but I was a little bored during some of the book. There were less plot twists, and I would've liked to have had more scenes with Gale. Peeta's great and all, but to have a full-on love triangle, she should have an equal amount of time with both guys to leave us guessing who she's going to end up with.

I loved the ending! But obviously I hated it because I can't read the third book till August! Ahhh!

Waiting on Wednesday (12) and some personal info

2010-05-22T16:06:00.003-05:00

From Twilight to Breaking Dawn: Religious Themes in the Twilight Saga by Sandra L. Gravett. This book should be interesting!
A Summer Secret by Kathleen Fuller. Received from BookSneeze for review.
The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

So here's the personal stuff of this blog post....My parents are getting a divorce, which I am thrilled about, and my mom and I are in the process of buying a town house. We've already started packing up a few things around the house. (You should see the cardboard boxes in our garage: packed up to the ceiling!) "Why should I care?" you say? Well, since the next month (or two, hopefully we get settled before then) is going to be extremely busy, some of my regular blog posts and perhaps some reviews aren't going to appear on my blog for a while. I will do my best to get back to the hang of things ASAP. Later on, I might even post up some pictures of our townhouse. It's so cute!

Thanks for reading! I love you guys! :)

Library Loans (5)

2010-05-20T19:10:00.003-05:00

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins. It's here!!! It's finally here! I've been waiting forever!! I'm more than halfway done with it. Gotta read quick because it's a 10 day book and my mom still has to get through it.

The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong.

Waiting on Wednesday (11)

2010-05-19T11:56:00.003-05:00

A 17-year-old girl, who has waited her entire life to be told by a group known as “the Society” who her soul mate is, has her world upended when she discovers she’s in love with someone other than the group’s pick. Don Weisberg, president of Penguin Young Readers Group, along with Lauri Hornik, president and publisher of Dutton Children’s Books, and Julie Strauss-Gabel, associate publisher of Dutton Children’s, all worked on the deal, which is for North American rights. Gabel, who will edit the book, said that it “will make readers crave the passion of uncertainty and cherish the power of the written word.” And Reamer, expectedly perhaps, drew the Meyer parallel, saying reading Matched reminded her of the first time she read Twilight.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, 369 pages, releases November 30, 2010.

Not much of a summary to go on, but that's all I could find out about it.

Who else is sick of seeing blurbs on the back of a book comparing it to Twilight?? First it was Harry Potter, now Twilight. Just seems like a big selling-books scheme to me. I mean, does that even work? Some of the books that are supposedly like Twilight aren't at all. Hope it all blows over soon...

Review: Epitaph Road by David Patneaude

2010-05-17T13:05:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Kellen Dent feels all alone. In 2097, he practically is.

Thirty years earlier, an airborne virus nearly caused man's extinction. Now women rule the world, and poverty, crime, war, and hunger have all disappeared. With tight restrictions on men's behavior, fourteen-year-old Kellen feels like he has no say in his future.

When a rumored outbreak of the virus threatens Kellen's outcast father, he knows that he must warn him of the coming danger no matter what the consequences. During his desperate race to find his dad, Kellen uncovers a secret so frightening that his life and the future of the world will never be the same.

Specs: YA fiction, dystopia, published March 2010, 266 pages.

I didn't like this book, to sum it up.

The world that the author created was intriguing: women ruling everything and men having no say. It's like the reverse of what society was actually like a century ago.

Having said that, that was the only thing I found interesting in Epitaph Road. I wasn't into the characters or the plot. Also, the story seemed rushed, which is probably why I felt no connection to the main characters. The only time when I was almost at the edge of my seat, was toward the end when they were at the lab. I think this book is one of those books where I won't remember anything about it a few months from now.

In My Mailbox (8)

2010-05-15T16:58:00.003-05:00

Start Here by Alex and Brett Harris
The Undervalued Self by Elaine N. Aron, PhD
The Cradle by Patrick Somerville
Slip of the Knife by Denise Mina
Morpheus Road: The Light by D.J. MacHale

So what did you get in your mailbox this week??

Review: Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

2010-05-13T22:16:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Incarceron is a prison unlike any other: Its inmates live not only in cells, but also in metal forests, dilapidated cities, and unbounded wilderness. The prison has been sealed for centuries, and only one man, legend says, has ever escaped.

Finn, a seventeen-year-old prisoner, can't remember his childhood and believes he came from Outside Incarceron. He's going to escape, even though most inmates don't believe that Outside even exists. And then Finn finds a crystal key and through it, a girl named Claudia.

Claudia claims to live Outside-her father is the Warden of Incarceron and she's doomed to an arranged marriage. If she helps Finn escape, she will need his help in return.

But they don't realize that there is more to Incarceron than meets the eye. Escape will take their greatest courage and cost far more than they know.

Because Incarceron is alive. (*Cue Frankenstein's voice* "It's aliiiiiive!")

Specs: YA fiction, dystopian, published January 2010, 442 pages.

Because I like this trailer so much, I had to post it.

Incarceron was...weird. But in a good way. It wasn't at all what I expected, and truth be told it didn't live up to the hype. I was a little let down after I started reading it.

The book was exciting, it just didn't WOW me like other dystopian books I've read. I thought Claudia was a really dull character. She needed more life in her. I did, however, like the character of Keiro, but then I always like the bad boys in books. ;)

Incarceron is like a robot gone bad, developing a mind of its own, which its creator didn't think could happen. Fisher wrote a fascinating world, and the twists kept the plot entertaining enough for me to continue reading till the end. *SPOILER* I loved the part in the book where Claudia finds out that the prisoners in Incarceron live in a tiny world. Reminds me of Horton Hears a Who! *END OF SPOILER*

Sapphique comes out December 2010. I hope I don't forget all about the first book before I finally get to read the second...Of course, I could travel to the UK and pick up a copy because it's already published there!

Waiting on Wednesday (10)

2010-05-12T13:07:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: "Thou art the Black Rider. Go thee out unto the world."

Lisabeth Lewis has a black steed, a set of scales, and a new job: she’s been appointed Famine. How will an anorexic seventeen-year-old girl from the suburbs fare as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse?

Traveling the world on her steed gives Lisa freedom from her troubles at home—her constant battle with hunger, and her struggle to hide it from the people who care about her. But being Famine forces her to go places where hunger is a painful part of everyday life, and to face the horrifying effects of her phenomenal power. Can Lisa find a way to harness that power—and the courage to fight her own inner demons?

A wildly original approach to the issue of eating disorders, Hunger is about the struggle to find balance in a world of extremes, and uses fantastic tropes to explore a difficult topic that touches the lives of many teens.

Specs: YA fiction, paranormal, releases October 18, 2010, 180 pages.

While this book doesn't sound terribly fascinating for me, I'm running out of WoW ideas! It would be a big help if you could link in the comments to your WoW posts. :)

Doesn't this cover remind you of Incarceron? With the background, colors, and the center focus, it seems to me that someone ran out of creative juice and just copied another cover.

Late Mother's Day post

2010-05-11T15:03:00.005-05:00

On Sunday, my mom, sister, and I went over to my grandparents' house. We had a great time, laughing and just hanging out.

My mom means so much to me. We've been through so much together, especially during the last five months. We have our problems and disagreements, but we both love each other and have the best times together. She is hilarious and always knows how to make me laugh.

Here's a few pictures of her:

(She's 50 years old this year, can you believe it??)

My mom's always been there for me, even when I really didn't want her to be. She's been both a father and a mother to me and my sister, and I couldn't ask for more. She's taught me so much throughout the years.

Go give your mom a hug...she deserves it!

Review: Take Three by Karen Kingsbury

2010-05-11T00:18:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Chase Ryan and Keith Ellison set out to change the world with their films—and they are finally seeing their dreams come true. The dedicated producers are deep in negotiations with America’s top young movie star to play the lead in their next inspirational movie. But life takes a sudden turn for Chase, removing him from Jeremiah Productions permanently. In the process, Keith brings on one of the Baxter family members and the moviemaking continues. At the same time, a crisis hits Keith’s daughter, Andi, and Keith feels helpless to respond. Devastated by the consequences of her wrong actions, Andi ventures out on her own and decides on a course of action that could destroy her. Meanwhile, Bailey Flanigan is caught up in her own drama with Cody Coleman. A Campus Crusade retreat gives them time alone along the shores of Lake Monroe and lets them face a possibility they’ve avoided for years. Will Keith keep the passion he had at the start of his filmmaking—and will there be enough passion left over for his hurting daughter? Or has their quest to change American culture become nothing more than a quest for fame?

Details: Adult Christian fiction, published March 2010, 336 pages.

Here's a trailer for this book that I found at Karen Kingsbury's website:

After the amazingly long wait to get Take Three from the library, I couldn't wait to start reading it. This has to be my favorite of the Above the Line series. I think that has to do with the less movie-making information and filming scenes with Keith and Chase.

I loved Andi's story. *SPOILER* After making some mistakes, Andi gets pregnant and seriously considers getting an abortion. She thinks it's the easy way out and it will make everything better for everyone. It's a real-life issue that many women have or will experience in their lifetime, and I'm so glad Andi made the decision not to murder her baby and to find a loving home for him. Also, Bailey and Cody are finally together!! "Finally"! (inside joke) *END OF SPOILER*

I can't praise Kingsbury's books enough. It will be a sad, sad day when she decides to retire from writing. Her novels are like chocolate for me: so addictive! She announced in her author's note at the end of Take Three that she will be writing another series after Above the Line, and they will have some of the same characters! I'm so glad because I'm not ready to say goodbye! She will also be writing Unlocked, a book which is mentioned in her current series and is the book Keith and Dayne are making a movie out of. You can find more information about the book HERE.

Take Four, the last book in the series, comes out June 22. Not long to wait! I'll be stalking my library so I can order it ASAP!

In My Mailbox (7)

2010-05-08T17:22:00.006-05:00

Radiant Shadows by Melissa Marr. Still have to read Fragile Eternity first!
Kitty and the Midnight Hour by Carrie Vaughn. New author to me.
The Pack by L.M. Preston (ARC). Another new author. If you've read any books by Vaughn or Preston or any of the authors listed, tell me what you thought of them in the comments! I'd love to hear your opinions.

The Time Pirate by Ted Bell
The Way to Stillness by Anne Alexander Vincent and Gayle Alexander
In the Midnight Hour by Patti O'Shea
Supernatural: Heart of the Dragon by Keith R.A. DeCandido

Review: Operation Worship Holy Bible

2010-05-08T16:42:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Give the gift that matters most in the place it’s needed most. Last year CBA stores took up the challenge of sending 500,000 Bibles to our men and women in uniform. Now available for the general trade in pink camo, a special edition for the wives, mothers, sisters and friends that are supporting our American military around the world.

Publication date: March 2010.

I love this Bible! It's small, easy to stick in a purse and carry along, with a cool cover to boot. I'm also pleased with the New Living Translation. Even though the King James Version is the original Bible translation, I find it really hard to read and understand. No one talks like that anymore, so it's all Shakespeare to me! With the NLT, it's extremely easy to understand the verses and what's going on. I will enjoy reading and referencing back to Operation Worship Bible.

I appreciate the dedication in the beginning to "our men and women in uniform-and to your families." Most of us have no idea what our military sacrifices to keep us safe, and having God's words with them while they're fighting for our freedom is a huge comfort and reassurance. "As you continue to carry out the mission before you, we pledge our loving support to you and your families." (page A6)

I received a copy of this Bible from Tyndale House Publishers for review.

Review: The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer

2010-05-06T18:14:00.005-05:00

Synopsis: When life as Alex Morales had known it changed forever, he was working behind the counter at Joey's Pizza. He was worried about getting elected as senior class president and making the grades to land him in a good college. He never expected that an asteroid would hit the moon, knocking it closer in orbit to the earth and catastrophically altering the earth's climate. He never expected to be fighting just to stay alive.

Details: YA fiction, dystopia, published June 2008, 308 pages.

Wow. This book is awesome. Devastating, depressing, heartbreaking, and tear-worthy...but still awesome. It seems like it should be boring, because Alex and his sisters stay in one place the whole time and don't really do anything, but it's not. Pfeffer's writing is addictive and easy to speed through. I was never bored while reading The Dead and the Gone.

However, I didn't like this book as much as the first, Life as We Knew It. I didn't like the constant Catholic references and sporadic Spanish phrases (with no translation...I don't know Spanish and I'm planning on never learning it, so you're going to have to help me with this Susan). I'm not sure why the author decided to switch to different people and place rather than keep with the Life as We Knew It storyline. But thankfully, the third book in this trilogy is about Miranda and her family, and I'm exited to continue her journey after the asteroid hit the moon.

If you're looking for a good book to make you appreciate what you have and feel foolish for complaining about your situation, this book is for you.

Waiting on Wednesday (9)

2010-05-05T16:04:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything--the dark, heights, the ocean--but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is until Justine goes cliff diving one night near the family's vacation house in Winter Harbor, Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Vanessa's parents want to work through the tragedy by returning to their everyday lives back in Boston, but Vanessa can't help feeling that her sister's death was more than an accident. After discovering that Justine never applied to colleges, and that she was secretly in a relationship with longtime family friend Caleb Carmichael, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor to seek some answers.

But when Vanessa learns that Caleb has been missing since Justine's death, she and Caleb's older brother, Simon, join forces to try to find him, and in the process, their childhood friendship blossoms into something more.

Soon it's not just Vanessa who is afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes home to a string of fatal, water-related accidents . . . in which all the victims are found grinning from ear to ear.

As Vanessa and Simon probe further into the connections between Justine's death and the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance, and that will change her life forever.

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, 352 pages, releases July 13, 2010.

I think I would pick this book up for the cover alone! I love the colors. But the book description makes it even better. I don't think I've ever read a book about sirens, so I can't wait till this one.

Missing persons, drownings, and deadly water creatures: sounds like a good combo to me!

Review: Club Dead by Charlaine Harris

2010-05-03T18:08:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse is having man trouble. Her vampire boyfriend, Bill, has been distant and inattentive lately. Then he announces that he is going on a business trip, which clearly is more than it seems. After a werewolf tries to abduct Sookie at work, Bill's boss, Eric, tells her that Bill fell under the sway of his--Bill's, that is--ex, a sexy vamp named Lorena, and has been kidnapped. Eric wants Sookie's help in getting Bill back, and despite her hurt over Bill's betrayal, Sookie agrees to go to Jackson, Mississippi, to find her wayward lover. Eric has persuaded Alcide, a dashing werewolf, to get Sookie access to Josephine's, aka Club Dead, the local hangout of Jackson's supernatural element. In between dodging kidnappers, the advances of amorous Eric, and her growing feelings for Alcide, Sookie has to find out who kidnapped Bill and figure out a way to rescue him.

Details: Adult fiction, paranormal/romance/mystery, published 2003, 292 pages.

Every time I open another Sookie Stackhouse novel, I fall in love with her narrative. She's quirky, humorous, a little bit of a feminist, and has Word-A-Day calendars. She's not a perfect person: she makes mistakes just like the rest of us. But she's (mostly) loyal to her boyfriend Bill, and will stop at nothing to get him back, even if it means getting beat up several times to do it.

Bill's not a big part in this book, so that was a down point for me. But with the new character Alcide and Eric turning up around every corner, the book was still exciting. I'm torn between who I like better: Bill or Eric. I'm leaning toward Eric because he's not as serious as Bill always is. The triangle between the three of them is a big part of why I love this series.

I love how Charlaine Harris made Elvis a vampire. It took me a while to realize who Bubba really was, but when I did, I thought it was hilarious. Especially that all the Elvis "sightings" around the world are really true!

Review: One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

2010-05-01T21:49:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: You can run from the grave, but you can't hide . . .

Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She's still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help her is the vampire she left behind.

Being around him awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline kick of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head—wanted: dead or half-alive—means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard she tries to keep things professional between them, she'll find that desire lasts forever . . . and that Bones won't let her get away again.

Details: Adult fiction, paranormal romance, published April 2008, 357 pages.

Cat and Bones' connection and chemistry is electric in every one of their scenes. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the second book of Frost's Night Huntress series, and was pleased to find that it was every bit as exciting as the first. Her writing is top-notch, and kept me reading till the last page. I wanted more! I'm glad I started this series later, because she is already finished with the books and moved on to a spin-off series. I'm interested to see what happens next in Cat's world and in her adventures with Bones.

Nothing more to say except that this book was excellent, and if you haven't already read this series, get right on it!

In My Mailbox (6)

2010-05-01T12:44:00.005-05:00

This week was the motherload of all In My Mailboxes! At least it was for me. Here's the first:

How to Catch and Keep a Vampire by Diana Laurence
Love in Mid Air by Kim Wright
The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova
Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter (ARC)
The Cinderella Society by Kay Cassidy (ARC)
Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr
Tethered by Amy MacKinnon

Veracity by Laura Bynum
Poetry Speaks: Who I am edited by Elise Paschen
Summer of the Geek by Piper Banks
Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze
Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
The Highwayman by Michele Hauf

Alex Cross's Trial by James Patterson
The Autism Book by Robert W. Sears, MD, FAAP
Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs
Black Hills by Dan Simmons (audio book)

Review: White Cat by Holly Black (ARC)

2010-04-30T21:00:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Cassel comes from a family of curse workers -- people who have the power to change your emotions, your memories, your luck, by the slightest touch of their hands. And since curse work is illegal, they're all mobsters, or con artists. Except for Cassel. He hasn't got the magic touch, so he's an outsider, the straight kid in a crooked family. You just have to ignore one small detail -- he killed his best friend, Lila, three years ago.

Ever since, Cassel has carefully built up a façade of normalcy, blending into the crowd. But his façade starts crumbling when he starts sleepwalking, propelled into the night by terrifying dreams about a white cat that wants to tell him something. He's noticing other disturbing things, too, including the strange behavior of his two brothers. They are keeping secrets from him, caught up in a mysterious plot. As Cassel begins to suspect he's part of a huge con game, he also wonders what really happened to Lila. Could she still be alive? To find that out, Cassel will have to out-con the conmen.

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, to be published May 4, 310 pages.

For all my excitement about Holly Black's new series The Curseworkers, White Cat COMPLETELY disappointed me. I was let down by everything about this book, like the slow-moving plot and boring characters. Reading 20 pages felt like reading 100 pages. I can't even count how many times I yawned and almost fell asleep.

The beginning was strong, and I thought the book was going to be great. But then it just got slower and slower, and sloooower. I had only 70 pages left, but I couldn't put myself through anymore, so I quit reading.

I love the cover, but that's about the only thing I liked. I would advise anyone to not spend precious, hard-earned money for this book. You will regret it!

I loved Holly's book Tithe, wasn't happy with Valiant, and didn't bother picking up Ironside. After trudging through White Cat, I can only think that her writing is slipping.

Library Loans (4)

2010-04-29T13:12:00.006-05:00

This week, I got all dystopian books! First, because I love them so much. And second, because I'm aiming to read 20 books to enter into Parajunkee's Dystopian Challenge contest. The challenge ends August 24, so I better get a move on!

Birthmarked by Caraugh O'Brien
Epitaph Road by David Patneaude. Been hearing good things about this one.
The Dead and the Gone by Susan Beth Pfeffer. I loved Life as We Knew It so much, I had to order the next one.
Witch and Wizard by James Patterson, the author of the Maximum Ride series. I just recently saw the faces in this book cover. I don't know how I missed them before!
Fahrenheit 451

Waiting on Wednesday (8)

2010-04-28T21:31:00.003-05:00

Like half of the world, I am waiting for The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner by Stephenie Meyer to come out on June 5, 2010.

Although, I'm really not as excited as I would be if Midnight Sun were being published soon. Now THAT book, I would be jumping up and down, head-over-heels about. If that dumb person wouldn't have spoiled the storytelling for Stephenie, the book would probably be out now. Yeah, I know I can read the draft for free here, but I really like having an actual book with pages to turn in my hands. I don't like having to read books on the computer, and when Midnight Sun FINALLY releases, the wait will be that much sweeter.

P.S. I'm not sure if this is absolute fact, but I've heard that starting June 5, you can download it for free at the Bree Tanner website. I will definitely be on the lookout for that!

Review: Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris

2010-04-28T17:53:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: Waiting tables, sweeping floors, reading minds and solving mysteries for the undead. It's all in a day's work for Sookie...

Cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse is on a streak of real bad luck. First, her co-worker gets murdered and no one seems to care. Then Sookie is attacked - and poisoned - late one night by some weird and apparently mythical beast. She only survives because the local vampires roll up and graciously suck the poison from her veins (like they didn't enjoy it). But in return the blood-suckers need a favor.

Which is why Sookie ends up in Dallas, using her telepathic skills to search for a missing vampire, on the condition that her undead friends don't do anything, well, vampiric while she's there. Easier said than done. All it takes is one delicious blonde and one small mistake for things to turn deadly...

Details: Adult fiction, paranormal/romance/mystery, published in 2002, 291 pages.

As the second book in the Sookie Stackhouse/Southern Vampires series, I didn't think it was that good. For sure, I didn't enjoy it as much as Dead until Dark. It was less exciting for me, but it wasn't terrible. I love the characters: Bill, Sookie, and Eric (yet again, another love triangle! It never ends!).

I wasn't that interested in the whole Fellowship of the Sun plot. But I do like how Harris creates a new world in her books if vampires actually existed and everyone knew about them. I suppose if it were really happening, there might be a real Fellowship of the Sun, but from a reader's perspective...didn't blow me away.

Since I've heard that the series gets better with the third book, I'm looking forward to reading Club Dead.

Review: Revelations by Melissa de la Cruz

2010-04-27T22:02:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Have you ever wondered what secrets lurk behind the closed doors of New York City's wealthiest families? They're powerful, they're famous... they're undead. Schuyler Van Alen's blood legacy has just been called into question--is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force. When one of the Gates of Hell is breached by Silver Bloods in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods will need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high; the battle is bloody; and through it all, Carnavale rages on. And in the end, one vampire's secret identity will be exposed in a revelation that shocks everyone.

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, published July 2009, 288 pages.

This is my least favorite of the Blue Bloods series so far. But Revelations, like the previous books, is riddled with twists that you would never expect. Pretty much every turn in Revelations I didn't see coming and left me with my mouth hanging open, not believing that I just read that!

After reading the first Blue Bloods, I wasn't sure if I would continue reading the series, but after getting to know the characters and becoming more involved in their lives and their "revelations," I'm really glad I kept reading. Every book ends so perfectly, with some of the mysteries solved that have come up throughout, but there's still some mystery left to keep you drooling for the next.

This series, to sum it up in as few words as possible, is like The Luxe series by Anna Godberson with vampires. It has all the fashion sense of the elite, but with a little bite!

Review: Fang by James Patterson

2010-04-25T13:56:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Being a kid with wings--constantly on the run--has never been easy, and Max and her flock are getting tenser than ever. First, on a trip to Africa, they meet a mysterious billionaire whose intense scrutiny of the flock makes her fear the worst. Then, a cryptic message from a young girl arrives, warning them "The sky will fall." And as if an impending apocalypse weren't bad enough, canny birdkid Angel makes a dire prophecy about Max's soul mate: Fang will be the first to die.

Max's desperate desire to protect Fang brings the two closer than ever. But can the team weather the storm, or will the turmoil rip them apart for the last time?

Details: YA book, paranormal, published March 2010, 309 pages.

Fang is the continuation of the Maximum Ride series, and it's the sixth book. For me, the books have mostly gone downhill from the first. Max's narrative is sarcastic, and I liked it for the first few books, but after that it got annoying and a little immature. There were lots of cliches and repeated phrases, too. Whenever Jeb is in the scene, Max always rants against him. I get where she's coming from in her anger toward Jeb, but does she always have to go on about it whenever she talks to him?

However, in spite of that, Fang is a good book and I finished it in a day. The plot in the book is engaging, with a few twists to boot. I wasn't sure what to expect from Fang, because the previous book, Max, totally let me down. But don't let that stop you from reading Patterson's latest Maximum book, because it's better.

A bit of a sidenote here...A while ago, I read some of the comments on Goodreads about this book and so many girls were arguing about who's Fang's girlfriend and practically having fights over him. Um, listen, you know that Fang is a fictional character, right? Just wanted to clear that up.

In My Mailbox (5)

2010-04-24T21:21:00.005-05:00

Alice in Wonderland and Philosophy: Curiouser and Curiouser by William Irwin and Richard Brian Davis. Anyone who reads this blog knows I love Alice in Wonderland, so I'm very excited to delve into the "philosophy" of Alice!

Descent into Dust by Jacqueline Lepore. Another vampire series...hoping this one doesn't turn out to be another Vampire Academy.

Married on Mondays by HoneyB

The Crazy School by Cornelia Read

Review: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2010-04-24T12:01:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Katniss is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister in the poorest district of Panem, the remains of what used be the United States. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, "The Hunger Games." The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed. When Kat's sister is chosen by lottery, Kat steps up to go in her place.

Details: YA fiction, dystopia, 374 pages, published September 2008.

After hearing so much about The Hunger Games, I finally picked up a copy at my library, and I'm glad I did because this book rocked! I couldn't help but compare its government to our own, and how we're getting closer and closer to having our freedoms obliterated and having the government control everything we do. I loved Katniss' character. She is one girl who can take care of herself, even when she and everyone around her is oppressed.

Collins creates a world that is basically horrible. The Capital makes people play in a game to their deaths and forces everyone in the districts to watch as their loved ones die. I was reminded of The Giver by Lois Lowry (another must-read book), where the Elders choose what the younger people do as a living, and they are supposed to accept their job without complaint or rebellion.

I love reading dystopian books, even though they essentially are all depressing. It gives us a peek into what this world would be like if such-and-such actually happened.

The Hunger Games has excitement, and will keep you on the edge of your seat all the way through. It will be interesting to see what happens in Catching Fire, the second book in the trilogy, especially with the love triangle of Katniss, Gale, and Peeta.

Library Loans (3)

2010-04-22T18:31:00.002-05:00

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Yes, I am finally reading this book. I don't know why I've been putting it off...it's really good!

Fang by James Patterson. Is this the last book in the Maximum Ride series? I'm still unclear about that.

Temple of the Winds by Terry Goodkind. 4th in the Sword of Truth series. Enormous books, but worth reading.

Waiting on Wednesday (7)

2010-04-21T18:25:00.002-05:00

Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning. This is the fifth and last book of the Fever series, which I have immensely enjoyed! Moning's writing is fresh and fun, with lots of paranormal stuff thrown in. If you haven't read the Fever series, here's more information about it at her website: LINK.

Shadowfever comes out December 29, 2010...so looong! I can't wait that long for more Barrons!

Review: Wonders Never Cease by Tim Downs

2010-04-21T16:55:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: "It's true what they say, you know: If you talk to God, you're religious; but if you hear from God, you're schizophrenic."

When a car accident leaves a famous movie star in a coma, nurse Kemp McAvoy thinks he has found his ticket to the life he's always wanted. As a med school dropout who was on his way to becoming an anesthesiologist, Kemp has the knowledge to carry off the crazy plan he concocts: adjust the star's medication each night and pretend to be a heavenly visitor giving her messages. He recruits her agent and a down-and-out publisher to make sure the messages will become the next spiritual bestseller and make them all rich. But his girlfriend's daughter, Leah, keeps telling people that she is seeing angels, and her mother and her teachers are all afraid that something is wrong. Before it's all over, they'll all learn a few things about angels, love, and hope.

When I read the summary of Wonders Never Cease on Book Sneeze, I was intrigued. I couldn't put this book down! Each chapter flowed into the next, and every part was interesting (except when the criminal masterminds were talking about money...I am not a money person!).

This book would not have been as great if it wasn't for the constant humor and sarcasm. Many times I had to stop reading because I was laughing so hard!

Wonders Never Cease tackles a tough subject (are angels real?) and puts it in a modern context that we can relate to. Also, points for the uniqueness of the book. Kemp McAvoy is out to get money and he picks up a few money-snatchers on the way to dupe a celebrity...genius. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received this book from Thomas Nelson via Book Sneeze.

Review: Masquerade by Melissa de la Cruz

2010-04-17T21:01:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Schuyler Van Alen is starting to get more comfortable with her newfound vampire powers, but she still has many unanswered questions. A trip to Italy in search of her grandfather only serves to make things more confusing. What secrets are the leaders of The Committee hiding? Meanwhile, back in New York, preparations are feverishly underway for the famous Four Hundred Ball. In true Blue Blood fashion, the ball is totally fab, complete with masks—and hidden behind this masquerade is a revelation that will change the course of a young vampire’s destiny.

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, published May 2007, 320 pages.

This was a big step up from Blue Bloods #1. I really got more into Masquerade, and the many plot twists were fantastic (especially at the end...wow!).

Cruz's writing still isn't the best. I don't want to get any haters for saying this, but her writing reminds me of what I thought about Stephenie Meyer's style of writing in Twilight: not the best I've read.

But even though the author's writing isn't at the top of my list, she mostly makes up for it in the rest of the areas in Masquerade. I liked the characters (especially the new Blue Blood: Lawrence Van Alen), and how Cruz has many different stories going on at once, but somehow ties them all together.

I'm not crazy about the Blue Bloods history, the sort-of-religious part, and the politics of the series. A little too much for my taste, but I understand why she included them: there had to be some background and foundation for the Blue Blood clan.

In My Mailbox (4)

2010-04-17T20:28:00.003-05:00

Got this week:

Venetia Kelly's Traveling Show by Frank Delaney
The River Kings' Road by Liane Merciel. I'm really intrigued by this cover!
The Last Track by Sam Hilliard
Liar by Justine Larbalestier

Review: Take Two by Karen Kingsbury

2010-04-16T13:59:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Filmmakers Chase Ryan and Keith Ellison have completed their first feature film, and Hollywood is buzzing with the news. In the wake of that excitement, the producers acquire rights to a novel that has all the ingredients they want for their next project. At the same time they cross paths with a well-connected player who introduces them to the right people, and suddenly every studio in town wants to talk to Chase and Keith. The producers' dreams are on the verge of coming true, but Chase's marriage is strained and Keith's daughter --- Andi Ellison --- is making questionable choices in her quest for stardom. The producers are gaining respect and are on the verge of truly changing culture through the power of film --- but is the change worth the cost?

Details: Adult fiction, Christian, published June 2009, 298 pages.

This is the second book in the Above the Line series and it doesn't disappoint! I loved once again getting involved in the character's lives, and continuing getting to know her new characters in this series.

I know that Kingsbury is involved in the Christian movie making business, and this shows through in the Above the Line books. But I'm more interested in watching movies than reading about how they're made, so those sections of the book with Chase and Keith aren't as captivating as the rest of Take Two.

Take Three has a HUGE waiting list at my library, but I'll get it eventually! I can't wait to read it and share it with others.

Library Loans (2)

2010-04-15T17:45:00.003-05:00

Thanks for the enthusiastic response to my YA for Adults post! The verdict is unanimous: who cares about the YA sticker on the spine? If it sounds fun, read it! And I think that's the way it should be.

Didn't get too much this week from the library because my TBR pile of books I own is piling up! But I couldn't stop myself from ordering these:

Club Dead and Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris
One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

I'm so looking forward to reading all of these because the first books in the two series were so good!

YA for adults?

2010-04-15T13:28:00.002-05:00

This has been on my mind for a while, especially since I'll be turning 20 in a year and leaving my teenager days behind.

How old is too old to be reading young adult books? When I get YA books from the library, I feel a little embarrassed because it seems like I'm past the stage where I should be reading those kinds of books. But I still buy and borrow them because I love them so much! I know I'm not the only one out there because I see a lot of 20-30ish bloggers out there who are reviewing YA.

I've even given some great YA books to my mom to read, like the Inheritance and The Looking Glass Wars series. But she doesn't seem as thrilled with them as I was, so I'm wondering if the thrill of YA books lessens when you mature as an adult. I sure hope not! I'm already bored with a big chunk of books for young adults. Girl fights, fights over guys, and other petty things like that make me roll my eyes and throw the book across the room, refusing to read another page.

I haven't seen many adults reading YA books, other than the obvious: Harry Potter and Twilight. Maybe they're secretly reading them at home and too embarrassed to read them in public? I don't know, but I'm hoping to get your opinion on the matter.

I've been reading adult books since I was thirteen, so shouldn't it work the other way?

Waiting on Wednesday (6)

2010-04-14T15:25:00.002-05:00

I cannot wait for Christopher Paolini's fourth and last book in the Inheritance saga. (No picture available.) I was completely blown away by this series. Don't let the movie fool you into thinking these books suck because they totally don't! Paolini's writing is flawless. Plot twists and turns you would never expect, and excitement from cover to cover. The characters are amazing and complex, and I love Arya's character!

Even though these books are huge, what is taking Paolini so long to finish the last book? The third book, Brisingr, was published September 2008...

In My Mailbox (3)

2010-04-10T17:14:00.002-05:00

These were won by three contests.

Ash by Malinda Lo
Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers. This is a great book! You can find my review for it HERE.
Between Two Kingdoms by Joe Boyd
Down River by Karen Harper
Twice as Hot by Gena Showalter
Drive Time by Hank Phillippi Ryan. This one is in a series and I haven't read the other ones. I hope I can read this one as a stand-alone and not be totally confused.

I haven't read any of these authors before except for Courtney Summers, so they're all new to me.

Two of these books are retellings of famous stories. Ash is Cinderella, and Between Two Kingdoms is C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia.

Review: Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz

2010-04-09T21:26:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Within New York city's most elite families, there lurks a secret society of celebrated Americans whose ancestors sailed on the Mayflower. Its members are the powerful and the wealthy - and, in fact, they are not human. They are the Blue Bloods, an ancient group of vampires.

Schuyler Van Alen has never fit in at Duchesne, her prestigious New York City private school. She prefers baggy, vintage clothes instead of the Prada and pearls worn by her classmates, and she lives with her reclusive grandmother in a dilapidated mansion. Schuyler is a loner...and happy that way.

But when she turns fifteen, Schuyler's life changes dramatically. She discovers a mosaic of blue veins on her arms, and craves raw meat. The death of a popular girl from Duchesne is surrounded by a mystery that haunts her. And strangest of all, Jack Force, the most popular boy in school, is showing a sudden interest in her.

Schuyler wants to find out the secrets the Blue Bloods are keeping. But is she herself in danger?

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, published March 2007, 302 pages.

I'm not sure what to make of this book. I liked it. It drew my attention and kept me reading for hours and hours. But Blue Bloods went downhill from the beginning.

It's a unique take on the popular vampire trend, and one I haven't read before. There were multiple plot lines throughout the book, and I think I will enjoy the rest of the series. It was a fast, quick-paced read, which I appreciated.

Even though I liked reading the first book in the Blue Bloods series, I feel Cruz could have done better.

My First Blogger Interview!

2010-04-09T12:20:00.002-05:00

Jessica interviewed me at her blog, Jessica's Vision. Here's the LINK. She had great questions for me to answer. It was really fun!

Review: Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

2010-04-09T00:22:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father—the one responsible for ruining her mother's life. Then she's captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unholy partnership.

In exchange for finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She's amazed she doesn't end up as his dinner—are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn't have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her newfound status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side . . . and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat.

Details: Adult fiction, paranormal/romance, published October 2007, 384 pages.

Wow. This book is amazing. No wonder so many people are talking about this series. Judging from the first book in Night Huntress, I'm going to wolf down the next three. To say it bluntly, this series is Buffy, the Vampire Slayer for adults.

Halfway to the Grave has very strong characters. I always get crushes on fictional bad-boy types and Bones is one of them. I really liked Cat. She's confident, spunky, and won't let anyone pull a fast one on her. In comparison to Bella in Twilight, Cat can take care of herself and doesn't need her big, strong vampire boyfriend to rescue her. I'm glad Frost wrote Cat's character like this because that's one thing that always bugged me about the Twilight series. I love when the girl kicks butt in books/movies. It's so much more exciting and fresh than seeing the same old boy-rescues-girl-from-imminent-danger scenario.

The conclusion of the book ended perfectly for the beginning of a series. It's not all happy ever after...and it shouldn't be, because it has us begging for the next book! I ordered One Foot in the Grave from the library right after I finished this one. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Kelley Armstrong's New Series

2010-04-08T21:04:00.004-05:00

Kelley Armstrong revealed that she will be writing another YA trilogy loosely based on her Darkest Powers series called The Gathering. There will be different characters, so it'll be refreshing to read about some new people!

I'm not that excited about her new series. I liked the first two of the Darkest Powers (haven't read the third yet), and I'll definitely be reading her next books. But it's not like I'm jumping-off-chairs excited.

Here's a peek:

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.

Waiting on Wednesday (5)

2010-04-07T15:30:00.002-05:00

Synopsis: Fourteen-year-old Trey Laporte is not a kid anymore. Not after the day he wakes up in agony—retina-splitting, vomit-inducing agony. His clothes are torn. His room is trashed.

Enter Lucien Charron, the mysterious, long-lost “uncle” with freakish fire-flecked eyes and skin that blisters in the sun. Suddenly, Trey finds himself living in a luxury penthouse at the heart of a strange and sinister empire built on the powers of the Netherworld—vampires, demons, sorcerers, and djinn.
And there is a girl—Alexa Charron—who is half vampire, half human, and insanely pretty, with powers all of her own. Trey is falling for her.

Trey is training night and day to control the newly discovered power lurking inside him. Now, demons are closing in on every side, and the most psychopathic bloodsucker to rock the Netherworld wants to destroy him. Above all, he must face one terrifying question:

Is he a boy . . . or is he a beast?

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, releases April 27, 2010.

I love vampires and werewolves, so I can't wait for this one to come out! Also, the cover is very sweet.

Review: Will the World End in 2012? by Raymond C. Hundley, Ph.D.

2010-04-07T12:46:00.005-05:00

Synopsis: In the first millennia after the birth of Christ, nestled in the mountains of South America, the Mayan people gazed up at the stars and calculated days, months, years, and even the future. Their calendar, more sophisticated than any the world had known, anticipated an abrupt end of time, December 21, 2012. The future they predicted is now upon us.

"There have been 149 apocalypse predictions between AD 44 and 2009," says Dr. Raymond Hundley. But will it really happen? In this stirring, balanced, and well-researched book, he evaluates the ten most prominent apocalypse theories offered as proof of the world's end and gives a surprising answer to the question everyone is asking.

His knowledge and insights lead to compelling conclusions . . . and a heartfelt call for all of humanity to look upon Christ as it seeks clarity and peace.

I enjoyed reading about the 2012 predictions from different cultures and people. I especially liked the epilogue, which included a plan of salvation to make yourself ready when the world is destroyed. I also liked how the author included Bible verses in some of the text, but not overwhelming the book.

I usually don't read non-fiction because I think it's boring and too much like a history class, but Will the World End in 2012? relates to what is going through so many people's minds today, including myself. At times, the dialogue was a little dull, and I had to skim read over some sections, but for the most part I was interested.

Hundley mentions people who have made predictions of the world ending in 2012 because of aliens. I think it's laughable that people would actually believe in aliens, but the author presents their cases and others with an unbiased view. When I was in college for two years, I had to read many textbooks that were definitely biased toward one side or the other, which I didn't like. In my opinion, non-fiction authors should write the truth and only the truth, and Hundley successfully accomplished that.

Contest #27, cont.

2010-04-07T11:16:00.002-05:00

Heidi Kling, Author of Sea wrote a blog post for week 2 of her contest. Here it is:

***

*with bonus GOSSIP GIRL ranting. Warning: Contains spoiler's from Monday's episode

Hey all!

Week Two has arrived!
Thanks for all your entries last week.

This week we have a couple new things to do in order to consider yourself "entered" into my contest.

ONE: Copy this blog post in your blog, link it back here, voila!
TWO: Change your Twitter icon to SEA --what can I say? I like Blue People! RT'ing the contest also counts if you have an avatar you are SO in love with (like Damon) and cannot possible change. ;) )
THREE: Add SEA to your Goodreads list and/or Vote for SEA in a debut/blue book etc. "list"
FOUR: And this is where things get interesting.

Everyone knows I like teen TV. Love the CW. Love Life Unexpected, Gossip Girl and The Vampire Diaries.

But I *hear* that Life Unexpected might be getting cancelled because of lack of viewers (gasp!) This is one of the sweetest, funniest, full-of-heart shows on TV and I love it. If it get cancelled I will cry. SO.

OPTION 4 is SIGNING THE PETITION TO THE CW encouraging renewal for LIFE UNEXPECTED.

http://www.petitiononline.com/s3781/petition.html

Please. Thank you.

FIVE: Did you see last night's Gossip Girl where Chuck went totally out of character and basically broke all character development (I'm guessing) for ratings and/or shock value? Not only did they reuse a tired (and pro-prostitution) plot of this movie:

They go on to suggest Chuck was in full support of his uncle's—with the character range of a shark— wicked plan.

LAME LAME AND MORE LAME.

YA author Kody Keplinger (THE DUFF) and I were so appalled by this that we decided to write new endings to save Chuck's reputation and to keep from throwing left-over Easter eggs at the TV.

As writers, we NEED TO STAY CONSISTENT with character development. Especially for a character like Chuck who has developed SO much and it has taken SO long. The fans have been rooting for him to change and when he finally does (and is completely believable and happy) to resort back to awful behavior is a cop-out. As fans, we are not happy.

If you are also unhappy, please send your thoughts here:

http://www.cwtv.com/feedback/comments

If you are happy don't pick option 5

SIX: Make a VLOG! Be creative. Just mention SEA somewhere. Bonus points for a SAVE LIFE UNEXPECTED or RANTING about character consistency. ANd singing. (Bonus points are in my heart. ;D )

OKAY, that's it!
Leave in comments what you chose to do.
Pick three!

Check back later this afternoon for a *new and improved ending* right here. :D

Contest ends at MIDNIGHT FRIDAY PST!

Thanks for playing!

Save me! I'm so awesome, my character development is consistent, and I have a boy named Bug.

***

Link to post HERE.

Review: The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

2010-04-05T15:43:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: If you had met me a few weeks ago, you probably would have described me as an average teenage girl - someone normal. Now my life has changed forever and I'm as far away from normal as it gets. A living science experiment- not only can I see ghosts, but I was genetically altered by a sinister organization called the Edison Group. What does that mean? For starters, I'm a teenage necromancer whose powers are out of control; I raise the dead without even trying. Trust me, that is not a power you want to have. Ever. Now I'm running for my life with three of my supernatural friends - a charming sorcerer, a cynical werewolf, and a disgruntled witch - and we have to find someone who can help us before the Edison Group finds us first. Or die trying.

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, published March 2010, 360 pages.

I read the first book, The Summoning, last summer, so I barely remember what was going on. So the beginning of this book was a bit confusing. I wish Armstrong would include a summary of the previous book like Christopher Paolini in his Inheritance series. But eventually, I understood the gist of what was happening. Thankfully, I won't have to wait long for The Reckoning to be published, as it comes out tomorrow!

I enjoyed continuing the Darkest Powers series with The Awakening. It was captivating, and moved along swiftly with almost no slow sections. At times, I was annoyed at Derrek for his fast-changing moods. He was unreasonable in his tempers toward Chloe. I almost wish that she would end up with Simon, because he seems a much better match for her: he can calm her down with humor, he's always kind to her, he's a gentleman, and he doesn't have mood swings. But I know with the way the series is going, that Derrek most likely will become her boyfriend.

Also, I found that I appreciated Tori's sarcastic personality. It brought more life to the book than it otherwise would've had.

Review: Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

2010-04-03T16:08:00.004-05:00

Synopsis: Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in Bon Temps, Louisiana. She's quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn't get out much. Not because she's not pretty. She is. It's just that, well, Sookie has this sort of "disability." She can read minds. And that doesn't make her too datable. Then along comes Bill. He's tall, dark, handsome - and Sookie can't hear a word he's thinking. He's exactly the type of guy she's been waiting for all her life...

But Bill has a disability of his own: he's a vampire with a bad reputation. But he is an interesting addition to the town, and Sookie can't help but listen to what everyone else thinks about Bill...especially since she's starting to fall for the buff bloodsucker. But when a string of murders hits town-along with a gang of truly nasty vampires looking for Bill-Sookie wonders if having an undead boyfriend is such a bright idea.

And when one of her coworkers is killed, Sookie realizes that Bill and his friends may have some special plans for a woman who can read minds...

Details: Adult fiction, paranormal/mystery, published May 2001, 312 pages.

Totally un-book related, but I just had a huge spider crawling on my back. (According to me, any spider is a HUGE spider.) I killed it with some toilet paper and had my mom flush it down the toilet. Ewww....now I'm all creeped out with my legs curled under me looking at the floors and ceiling, watching out for more creepy crawlies.

Anywho, I really enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about reading it. The plot was engaging, the characters were lovable. It took me a while to get used to the southern way of talking, with all the "honeys" and "darlings," etc.

I don't normally like reading mysteries, and the Sookie Stackhouse series is, in part, mystery. But with all the other plot lines in Dead Until Dark, mystery was only one part. The other things going on kept me entertained, and it didn't bore me like most mysteries do. So if you're a person like me who doesn't like mysteries, don't let that stop you from picking up this one!

I mentioned before that vampire fiction is my book of choice, and Dead Until Dark is a great addition to its genre. I was hoping to like Dead Until Dark, because I have watched some True Blood episodes and I wanted to get the bigger picture by reading the books. And I'm glad I started this series: I wasn't disappointed! I'll be reading more of the Sookie Stackhouse books in the months to come.

In My Mailbox (2)

2010-04-03T14:43:00.004-05:00

My cat Raymie decided to step into the picture of this weeks In My Mailbox. He has an insatiable desire to be famous!

For Review

Will the World End in 2012? by Raymond C. Hundley
Received from Book Sneeze.
I normally don't review nonfiction books, but I'm really excited to read this one and share my opinion about it. Especially since it's from a Christian perspective.

Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey
Received from Windmill Books.

From Contests

My So-Called Death by Stacey Jay

Num8ers by Rachel Ward

Library Loans (1)

2010-04-02T00:18:00.005-05:00

Since I rarely get enough books in my mail to do an In My Mailbox meme, I thought I'd make up one of my own to make up for it. I'll do a Library Loans post on Thursdays (if I get library books that week). I was meaning to post this yesterday, but things piled up and I didn't have time.

Take a look at my books for the next week or so:

I got the first book in the Sookie Stackhouse series (or is it the Southern Vampires series? Confusion...) because I've been hearing so many good things about this series. I normally don't enjoy mysteries, but so far, Dead Until Dark has more than just mystery so it keeps my attention. I also saw a few episodes of True Blood, the show that's based on the series. Bill is perfect for the vampire Bill Compton character. I didn't really like the girl who played Sookie, though. She looks so much like Claire Danes, it's freaky. (And I don't like Claire Danes at all, which is probably why I didn't like True Blood's Sookie.)

I loved the first Darkest Powers book: The Summoning, and I can't wait to see if The Awakening is even better.

In my In My Mailbox post last week, I mentioned I won the fourth Blue Bloods book in a blog contest. I've had this series on my to-reads list for a while now, and owning one of the books pushed me to order the beginning of the series. I actually read the first one a long time ago, and I barely remember it, so I figured I'd better order that one too! Can't wait to delve into this series!

Rampant is about killer unicorns. Need I say more?

Take Two is the second book in Kingsbury's Above the Line series. Take Three just came out and has a massive waiting list in the library, so I put myself on the list and snatched up a copy of the second book.

Strange Angels was recommended to me by Bella over at Obsessed!. She said there's a goth guy in it, so of course I'm interested!

Halfway to the Grave is the first of the Night Huntress series, of which I've also heard many many great things. Vampires are my weakness...

Have a good Friday everyone!

Review: My Soul to Save by Rachel Vincent

2010-03-31T17:02:00.003-05:00

Synopsis: When Kaylee Cavanaugh screams, someone dies.

So when teen pop star Eden croaks onstage and Kaylee doesn't wail, she knows something is dead wrong. She can't cry for someone who has no soul.

The last thing Kaylee needs right now is to be skipping school, breaking her dad's ironclad curfew and putting her too-hot-to-be-real boyfriend's loyalty to the test. But starry-eyed teens are trading their souls: a flickering lifetime of fame and fortune in exchange for eternity in the Netherworld—a consequence they can't possibly understand.

Kaylee can't let that happen, even if trying to save their souls means putting her own at risk….

Details: YA fiction, paranormal, published December 29, 2009, 288 pages.

Most movie sequels are not as good as the first (especially true for Disney sequels, like those for Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Bambi, etc.), and unfortunately this was the case with My Soul to Save. When I read My Soul to Take last week, I was captivated and thrown into Kaylee's banshee adventures. But with the second book in the Soul Screamers trilogy, I wasn't that impressed with the plot or the characters. It all seemed a bit dull to me.

But I did keep reading it. And that's saying something, because when I really don't like the book, I don't torture my brain by continuing.

I also wasn't interested in Nash's character in both of the books. I thought that Tod was way more intriguing, with his sharp comebacks and sarcastic wit. Nash was a bit of a flat character.

Kaylee brings back memories of Bella in the Twilight saga. She is not confident in herself. Yeah, I realize she's a teenage girl and is self-conscious, but in a book it gets rather annoying when she's always putting herself down. Kaylee was also wondering numerous times why Nash would want to be with her when he's so much better looking and can have any girl he wants. (Ring any bells?)

I will, however, look out for My Soul to Steal, the third (and last?) book of the series, which comes out June 1, 2010. I can only hope that the series gets better rather than worse.

Waiting on Wednesday (4)

2010-03-31T16:47:00.003-05:00

Synopsis:
Magic is dangerous—but love is more dangerous still.

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: James, 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.

Details: YA fiction, fantasy, releases August 31, 2010.

If you haven't yet read The Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare, I suggest you do that right now! They are three of my favorite books. I was blown away by Clare's writing ability and plot directions and twists. Clockwork Angel, the prequel to this series, should be an excellent addition to my overflowing bookshelf!

August 31 is so far away, but since I currently have 67 books in my Goodreads' To Read bookshelf, I should be kept busy till then!